System

Abstract

A system is provided.SOLUTION: A system for a user to cultivate a seed of a plant and observe a growth process thereof, comprising: means for the user to take a photograph of the plant and acquire image data thereof; means for recognizing a state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating the plant as a virtual character; means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character; means for providing an observation diary function for the user to record the growth process of the plant; and communication means for enabling information exchange with other users.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

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] This shows the "problem to be solved by the invention" and "means for solving the problem" of the patent specification related to the "WELL" system.

[0005] In today's society, nutritional education and environmental education are increasingly important, but there are not enough easy and fun ways to achieve this. Furthermore, while many people desire to connect with nature, opportunities to grow plants are limited in urban areas. Furthermore, while observing the growth process of plants is clearly highly educational for a wide range of users, from children to adults, there is a lack of ways to bring out this appeal. Given this background, there is a demand for a system that allows people to learn about plant growth while having fun. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention relates to a system that allows users to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth. The system includes a means for users to take photos of plants and acquire image data, a means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating a virtual character for the plant, a means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character, a means for providing an observation diary function for users to record the plant's growth process, and a communication means for enabling information exchange with other users. This system allows users to easily grow plants and learn about their growth process while having fun, making it possible to naturally realize nutritional and environmental education.

[0007] "User" refers to a person who uses the System to grow plants.

[0008] "Plants" refers to crops grown from seeds, such as kaiware daikon radish.

[0009] "Means for taking photos" refers to the function that allows users to obtain images of plants using a smartphone, camera, etc.

[0010] "Image data" refers to the digital data of a photograph.

[0011] "Means of recognition" refers to algorithms and technologies that analyze the condition of plants from acquired image data and identify the plants.

[0012] "Virtual character" refers to a digital character generated based on recognized plants.

[0013] "Augmented reality function" refers to the function of overlaying virtual characters onto real-world footage or images.

[0014] The "observation diary function" refers to a feature that allows users to record the growth of plants and view them at a later date.

[0015] "Means of communication" refers to communication technologies, such as the Internet, that users use to exchange information.

[0016] The "growing process of a plant" refers to the entire process from seed germination, growth, and harvesting.

[0017] "Cultivation" refers to the general act of growing plants.

[0018] "Means for generating virtual characters" refers to algorithms and technologies that create digital characters based on plant recognition results.

[0019] An "observation diary" is a digital memo in which users record their observations and comments about plant growth.

[0020] "Information exchange" refers to the act of users sending and receiving messages and data. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0029] [First embodiment]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0042] The present invention relates to a system for allowing a user to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth process. The system includes means for allowing a user to take a photo of the plant and acquire image data thereof, means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating a virtual character of the plant, means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character, means for providing an observation diary function for allowing the user to record the growth process of the plant, and means for communication that enables information exchange with other users.

[0043] A means for users to take photos of plants and obtain image data

[0044] The user takes a photo of a plant using a smartphone. The device acquires and saves the photo as image data, which is used for subsequent processing.

[0045] A method for recognizing the state of a plant from acquired image data and generating that plant as a virtual character

[0046] The image data stored on the device is sent to a server. The server analyzes the image data and uses an algorithm to recognize the plant's condition to identify the plant's type and growth stage. Once identification is complete, the server generates a virtual character based on the plant's condition. This virtual character has the appearance and personality of the plant, allowing users to enjoy growing it.

[0047] Augmented reality functionality for viewing generated virtual characters

[0048] The device receives the virtual character information sent from the server and displays it using augmented reality. Users can see the virtual character appear in the real world through their smartphone camera, allowing them to visually enjoy the growth of their plants.

[0049] Observation diary function for users to record plant growth process

[0050] Users can record observation diaries within the app. The observation diary includes text entered by the user, photos taken, and plant condition information obtained from the server. Users can record the growth process of plants and the results of their observations and look back on them later.

[0051] A means of communication that allows you to exchange information with other users

[0052] Users can exchange information with other users through the app. Using communication tools, users can share their observation diaries and growth progress, and receive comments and advice from other users. This allows users to learn about plant cultivation through communication.

[0053] Specific examples

[0054] For example, suppose user A plants kaiware daikon seeds and takes a photo a few days later. User A launches the app and uploads the photo. The device sends the photo to the server, which analyzes the photo and identifies the current growth stage of the kaiware daikon. The server then generates a virtual character corresponding to the kaiware daikon and sends that information to the device. User A enjoys watching the virtual kaiware daikon character appear in the real world through the smartphone camera.

[0055] When User A records an observation diary, he or she takes photos and enters text describing the growth of the plants, saving the data. Later, User A can look back at past observation records and reconfirm the growth of the kaiware daikon. Furthermore, by sharing information with another user, User B, and comparing each other's observation diaries, User A can gain new knowledge and ideas about cultivation.

[0056] In this way, the system of the present invention allows users to easily learn while enjoying the growth of plants.

[0057] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0058] Program processing flow

[0059] User Registration

[0060] Step 1:

[0061] The user downloads the app and launches it. After launching, the user accesses the new registration screen.

[0062] Step 2:

[0063] The user enters a username, email address, and password.

[0064] Step 3:

[0065] The terminal sends the input information to the server.

[0066] Step 4:

[0067] Based on the information received by the server, new user information is added to the user database and a user ID is generated.

[0068] Step 5:

[0069] The server sends a successful registration response to the terminal.

[0070] Step 6:

[0071] The device displays a registration success message to the user.

[0072] Observation of Kaiware Daikon begins

[0073] Step 1:

[0074] Users sow daikon radish seeds and take photos to record their initial state.

[0075] Step 2:

[0076] The device acquires the photograph and saves it as image data.

[0077] Step 3:

[0078] The terminal transmits the image data to the server.

[0079] Step 4:

[0080] The server analyzes the image data and applies an algorithm to recognize the condition of the radish.

[0081] Step 5:

[0082] The server generates a virtual character based on the recognized data.

[0083] Step 6:

[0084] The server transmits the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[0085] Step 7:

[0086] The device displays the virtual character using augmented reality.

[0087] Observation diary records

[0088] Step 1:

[0089] The user observes the daikon radish and opens the observation diary screen.

[0090] Step 2:

[0091] Users enter their observations and photographs in text and image format.

[0092] Step 3:

[0093] The user submits the observation diary entry by pressing the "Save" button.

[0094] Step 4:

[0095] The terminal sends the entry contents to the server.

[0096] Step 5:

[0097] The server stores the received entry in the user database.

[0098] Step 6:

[0099] The server sends a response to the terminal indicating that the save was successful.

[0100] Step 7:

[0101] The device displays a successful save message to the user.

[0102] Looking back on the observation diary

[0103] Step 1:

[0104] If the user wants to look back on past observation records, they open the observation diary screen.

[0105] Step 2:

[0106] The terminal sends a request for observation diary data to the server.

[0107] Step 3:

[0108] The server retrieves the observation diary data from the user database.

[0109] Step 4:

[0110] The server transmits the acquired observation diary data to the terminal.

[0111] Step 5:

[0112] The terminal displays the received observation diary data.

[0113] Exchange information with other users

[0114] Step 1:

[0115] If a user wishes to exchange information with other users, the communication screen is opened.

[0116] Step 2:

[0117] The device sends the user's observation diary and photos to the server and shares them.

[0118] Step 3:

[0119] The server prepares the shared data for display to other users.

[0120] Step 4:

[0121] Other users can view the shared data on their own devices and enter comments and advice.

[0122] Step 5:

[0123] The server notifies the original user of the comment or advice.

[0124] Step 6:

[0125] The original user will review the comments and advice and respond if necessary.

[0126] In this way, each process in this system works in conjunction with the user, terminal, and server, allowing users to easily grow plants, enjoy the process of their growth, observe and record it in detail, and exchange information with other users.

[0127] Example 1

[0128] 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."

[0129] Currently, many people cultivate plants and enjoy watching them grow. However, observing and recording their growth is time-consuming and often difficult, especially for beginners. Furthermore, there are limited ways to share information about plant growth with other users, leaving few opportunities to share knowledge and experiences. Furthermore, there are few ways to enjoy the growth of real plants, as well as the visual enjoyment of virtual characters. There is a need for a system that solves these issues, makes plant growth observation and communication easier, and also provides visual enjoyment.

[0130] 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.

[0131] In this invention, the server includes a means for a user to take a photo of a plant using an image capture device and acquire the image data, an analysis means for transmitting the acquired image data to a processing device and recognizing the state of the plant, and a means for generating the plant as a virtual character based on the analysis results. This makes it possible to easily observe, record, and share the growth process of the plant, and furthermore, to visually enjoy the growth of the plant as a virtual character.

[0132] "User" means an individual or group that grows plants and observes, records, and shares their growth.

[0133] A "photograph of a plant" is image data of a plant under cultivation that is taken by a user using an image capture device.

[0134] The "means for acquiring image data" refers to a method for saving a photograph of a plant taken by a user with an image acquisition device as data in a terminal.

[0135] The "processing device" is a computer system that transmits the acquired image data to a server, analyzes it, and generates a virtual character.

[0136] The "analysis means" refers to machine learning algorithms and image analysis software that recognize the type and growth stage of plants based on image data of the plants.

[0137] A "virtual character" is a digital character that is generated based on the recognized state of the plant, and can be visually enjoyed by users.

[0138] "Augmented reality" is a technology that displays generated virtual characters superimposed on real scenery.

[0139] The "recording device" is a software function that allows users to record the plant growth process as an observation diary.

[0140] "Communication means" refers to network communication technologies that allow users to exchange information with other users.

[0141] The "Observation Diary" is a digital notebook that records the growth process of plants, including text and image data entered by the user.

[0142] This system allows users to cultivate plant seeds, observe and record their growth, and share information with other users. To implement this system, the following hardware and software are required:

[0143] Hardware and Software

[0144] Image capture device: A device with a camera, such as a smartphone or tablet

[0145] Processing equipment: Cloud server or local server

[0146] Communication method: Internet connection, WiFi network

[0147] Implementation details

[0148] The user takes a photo of the plant using their smartphone, which captures the image data and stores it in the device's local storage. The image data is then sent to a cloud server for further processing.

[0149] The server analyzes the received image data using a machine learning algorithm for image recognition. This algorithm is trained on a large number of plant image data and can identify the plant species and growth stage.

[0150] Once the analysis is complete, the server generates a virtual character based on the recognition results. This virtual character has different designs and characteristics depending on the plant's appearance and growth stage. The character information (3D model and animation data) is sent to the device.

[0151] The device uses the received character information to display the virtual character using augmented reality (AR) technology, allowing users to visually enjoy the virtual character appearing in the real world through their smartphone camera.

[0152] In addition, users can record observation diaries within the app, which include photos taken, textual growth records, and plant status information obtained from the server. Diaries are saved with timestamps and can be referenced later.

[0153] In order to exchange information, users can connect to other users on the network using communication means and share their observation diaries. It is also possible to receive comments and advice from other users, allowing them to share their knowledge and experiences about plant cultivation.

[0154] Specific examples

[0155] For example, suppose User A plants tomato seeds and takes a photo of the tomato with their smartphone a few days later. User A launches the app and uploads the photo. The device sends the image data to the server, which analyzes the image and identifies the tomato's current growth stage. The server then generates a virtual character corresponding to the tomato and sends that information to the device. User A can then enjoy watching the virtual tomato character appear in the real world through the smartphone camera.

[0156] When recording an observation diary, User A takes photos and enters text describing the growth of the plants, and saves the data. Later, User A can look back at past observation records and reconfirm the growth of the tomatoes. User A can also share information with another user, User B, and compare their observation diaries to gain new knowledge and ideas.

[0157] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0158] "Design a system that recognizes the growth stage of a plant based on a photo taken by the user and generates a corresponding virtual character."

[0159] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0160] Step 1:

[0161] The user takes a photo of a plant.

[0162] Input: A user takes an image of a plant using their smartphone camera.

[0163] How it works: The user launches the app and uses their smartphone's camera to take a photo of the plant, adjusting the camera's position and angle to obtain a clear image.

[0164] Output: Image data of the photographed plants is generated.

[0165] Step 2:

[0166] The device acquires and stores the image data.

[0167] Input: Image data of a plant taken by the user.

[0168] Specific operation: The device will automatically save the captured image to local storage. After saving is complete, a notification "Image saved" will be displayed to the user.

[0169] Output: Plant image data saved in local storage.

[0170] Step 3:

[0171] The terminal transmits the image data to the server.

[0172] Input: Plant image data stored in local storage.

[0173] How it works: The device compresses the stored image data and uploads it to the server in the background, displaying a progress bar so the user can see the progress of the upload.

[0174] Output: Plant image data uploaded to the server.

[0175] Step 4:

[0176] The server analyzes the image data and recognizes the condition of the plants.

[0177] Input: Plant image data uploaded to the server.

[0178] How it works: The server analyzes the image data using a machine learning algorithm. The algorithm uses the image data as input to identify the plant species and growth stage. During the analysis, the status "Identifying plant species..." is displayed.

[0179] Output: Plant type and growth stage recognition results.

[0180] Step 5:

[0181] The server generates a virtual character based on the recognition results.

[0182] Input: Plant type and growth stage recognition results.

[0183] Specific operation: Based on the recognition results, the server determines the design and characteristics of the corresponding virtual character and generates the virtual character. During this time, a preview screen of the virtual character is generated.

[0184] Output: Generated virtual character information (3D model data and animation data).

[0185] Step 6:

[0186] The server transmits the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[0187] Input: Generated virtual character information.

[0188] Specific operation: The server sends the virtual character information to the terminal. After the transmission is complete, the server notifies the terminal that "the virtual character has been generated."

[0189] Output: Virtual character information received by the device.

[0190] Step 7:

[0191] The device uses augmented reality to display a virtual character.

[0192] Input: Virtual character information received by the terminal.

[0193] Specific operation: Based on the received character information, the device uses augmented reality (AR) to display the virtual character in the real world. The user can see the virtual character appearing in the real world through the smartphone camera.

[0194] Output: A video of a virtual character displayed on a smartphone screen.

[0195] Step 8:

[0196] Users record their observation diary within the app.

[0197] Input: Images taken or text entered by the user using their smartphone.

[0198] How it works: Users use the app's observation diary function to record photos they have taken and their observations as text. Once recording is complete, a confirmation message appears saying, "Observation diary saved."

[0199] Output: Archived observation diary.

[0200] Step 9:

[0201] Users exchange information with other users.

[0202] Input: Observation journals and comments shared by users.

[0203] Specific operation: Users use the app's communication function to share their observation diaries with other users. Other users can comment on the shared diaries and provide advice, facilitating the exchange of information.

[0204] Output: Feedback and comments from other users.

[0205] (Application example 1)

[0206] 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."

[0207] Conventional plant growing systems have limited functionality to provide visual enjoyment when users observe the growth of plants, resulting in a monotonous user experience. Furthermore, there are issues with the lack of smooth information exchange with other users, limiting opportunities to gain knowledge about plant growing through communication. This makes it difficult to maintain users' interest, resulting in a lack of effectiveness in plant growing.

[0208] 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.

[0209] In this invention, the server includes means for a user to take an image of a plant and acquire the image data, means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating a virtual character for the plant, means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character, means for providing an observation diary function for the user to record the plant's growth process, means for communication that enables information exchange with other users, and means for visually displaying the virtual character according to the plant's growth stage and providing an interactive experience in physical space. This allows users to enjoy the visual experience of plant growth and further enables them to share knowledge and ideas about plant cultivation through communication with other users.

[0210] "Means for taking images of plants" refers to a method in which a user takes a photo of a plant using a device (e.g., a smartphone or tablet) and obtains the image data.

[0211] The "means for acquiring image data" refers to a method for storing photographs of plants as digital data within a device.

[0212] The "means for recognizing the state of a plant" is a method that uses an algorithm to determine the growth stage and type of a plant based on the acquired image data.

[0213] The "means for generating a virtual character" is a method for digitally creating a character that reflects the appearance and characteristics of a plant based on the recognized state of the plant.

[0214] "Means for providing augmented reality functionality" refers to a method for making a generated virtual character appear in real space, allowing a user to visually experience the character through a device.

[0215] The "means for providing an observation diary function" is a system that allows users to input text and photos to record and save the growth process of plants.

[0216] "Communications means" are network facilities and protocols that enable users to exchange information with other users.

[0217] A "means for visually displaying a virtual character" is a method for displaying a virtual character on the screen of a user's device, enabling an interactive experience.

[0218] "Means for providing interactive experiences in physical space" refers to a feature that uses augmented reality technology to allow users to interact with virtual characters in their real environment.

[0219] The present invention relates to a system that allows a user to take images of plants and observe their growth process. Specific embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described below.

[0220] The system includes a means for users to take images of plants using a device such as a smartphone or tablet, and acquire the image data, which is then stored in the device and used for subsequent processing.

[0221] The device then sends the acquired image data to a server. The server receives the image data and analyzes it using a generative AI model such as TensorFlow. This analysis runs an algorithm that recognizes the plant's condition and generates a virtual character based on that plant. Specifically, the server identifies the plant's type and growth stage and generates corresponding virtual character information.

[0222] The generated virtual character information is displayed on the device using the augmented reality (AR) function. Users can visually experience the virtual character in real space through the camera of their smartphone or tablet, allowing them to visually enjoy the daily growth of their plants.

[0223] The system also includes an observation diary function, allowing users to record the growth process of their plants by entering text and images. The data entered by the user is saved in the observation diary, allowing users to review it at a later date. Furthermore, users can use communication tools that enable information exchange with other users to share information about their observation diary and plant growth, and receive comments and advice from other users.

[0224] This allows users to enjoy the visual experience of growing plants, and also allows them to share their knowledge and ideas about growing plants through communication with other users.

[0225] (Example)

[0226] For example, suppose User A grows tomato seedlings and takes a picture of the tomato with their smartphone a few days later. User A uploads the image through the app. The server receives the image data and uses TensorFlow to analyze the tomato's growth stage. A corresponding virtual tomato character is then generated and sent to User A's device. User A can then enjoy watching the virtual tomato character appear in real space through their smartphone's camera.

[0227] In addition, User A can use the observation diary function to record the growth of the plant along with the photos he or she has taken, and save the data. Furthermore, by sharing the observation diary with other users and exchanging comments, they can deepen their knowledge of plant cultivation.

[0228] Example prompts to input to the generative AI model:

[0229] "Users upload images of plants taken with their smartphones, and the AI ​​model analyzes them to recognize the state of the plant (e.g., a tomato seedling). The AI ​​model then generates a virtual character to be displayed in augmented reality based on the recognition results."

[0230] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0231] Step 1:

[0232] A user takes an image of a plant using a device such as a smartphone or tablet, and acquires the image data.

[0233] Input: Plant image

[0234] Output: Captured image data

[0235] Data processing and calculation: The user takes a picture of the plant using the device's camera app, and the image data is stored on the device.

[0236] Step 2:

[0237] The terminal transmits the acquired image data to the server.

[0238] Input: Photographed image data

[0239] Output: Sending image data to the server

[0240] Data processing and calculation: The terminal uploads image data to the server via the network. The data is converted into a specific format (e.g., JPEG, PNG) and then sent.

[0241] Step 3:

[0242] The server receives the image data and analyzes it using a generative AI model such as TensorFlow.

[0243] Input: Image data uploaded to the server

[0244] Output: What type of plant is it and its stage of development?

[0245] Data processing and calculation: After receiving the image data, the server performs image analysis using open source libraries (e.g., TensorFlow). Algorithms are applied to recognize the plant species and growth stage, and the results are obtained.

[0246] Step 4:

[0247] The server generates an appropriate virtual character based on the analysis results.

[0248] Input: Plant type and growth stage information

[0249] Output: Virtual character data

[0250] Data processing and calculation: The server generates a virtual character that reflects the plant's appearance and personality based on the plant's condition information. The generated character data is saved as a 3D model or animation data.

[0251] Step 5:

[0252] The server transmits the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[0253] Input: Virtual character data

[0254] Output: Sending character data to the terminal

[0255] Data processing and calculation: The server formats the data of the generated virtual character and sends it to the user's device via the network.

[0256] Step 6:

[0257] The virtual character information received by the terminal is displayed using an augmented reality function.

[0258] Input: Virtual character data

[0259] Output: Virtual character displayed on the screen through Augmented Reality (AR)

[0260] Data processing and calculation: The device uses an AR library (e.g., ARKit, ARCore) to overlay the received character data onto real-world images, allowing the user to visually experience the virtual character through the device's camera.

[0261] Step 7:

[0262] Users can use the observation diary function to record the growth process of plants.

[0263] Input: User-entered text and images

[0264] Output: Observation diary data

[0265] Data processing and calculation: Users can input text and images into the app and save them as an observation diary. The data is formatted and saved so that it can be viewed again at a later date.

[0266] Step 8:

[0267] A user uses a communication means to exchange information with other users.

[0268] Input: Observation diary and plant growth information

[0269] Output: Exchange information with other users, receive comments and advice

[0270] Data processing and calculation: Users can share their observation diaries and growth information with other users through the app, and information is exchanged via the network function, allowing them to receive comments and advice from other users.

[0271] 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.

[0272] The present invention relates to a system for allowing a user to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth process. The system includes means for allowing a user to take a photo of the plant and acquire image data thereof, means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating a virtual character of the plant, means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character, means for providing an observation diary function for the user to record the growth process of the plant, means for communication that enables information exchange with other users, and an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions.

[0273] A means for users to take photos of plants and obtain image data

[0274] The user takes a photo of the plant using their smartphone, which then captures and stores the image data for subsequent processing.

[0275] A method for recognizing the state of a plant from acquired image data and generating that plant as a virtual character

[0276] The image data stored on the device is sent to a server. The server analyzes the image data and uses an algorithm to recognize the plant's condition to identify the plant's type and growth stage. Once identification is complete, the server generates a virtual character based on the plant's condition. This virtual character has the appearance and personality of the plant, allowing users to enjoy growing it.

[0277] Augmented reality functionality for viewing generated virtual characters

[0278] The device receives the virtual character information sent from the server and displays it using augmented reality. Users can see the virtual character appear in the real world through their smartphone camera, allowing them to visually enjoy the growth of their plants.

[0279] Observation diary function for users to record plant growth process

[0280] Users can record observation diaries within the app. The observation diary includes text entered by the user, photos taken, and plant condition information obtained from the server. Users can record the growth process of plants and the results of their observations and look back on them later.

[0281] A means of communication that allows you to exchange information with other users

[0282] Users can exchange information with other users through the app. Using communication tools, users can share their observation diaries and growth progress, and receive comments and advice from other users. This allows users to learn about plant cultivation through communication.

[0283] Emotion engine that recognizes user emotions

[0284] The emotion engine recognizes emotions from the user's facial expressions and inputs and uses that data to adjust the system's overall response. For example, if the user is sad or happy, the virtual character's facial expression and behavior will change accordingly. This allows users to grow plants with a stronger emotional connection.

[0285] Specific examples of program processing

[0286] Step 1 (example of user registration):

[0287] The user downloads and launches the app. They access the new registration screen and enter the required information (username, email address, password). The device sends the entered information to the server. The server creates a new user record in the database based on the received information and sends a registration success response to the device. The device then displays a registration success message to the user.

[0288] Step 2 (Example of starting observation of Kaiware Daikon):

[0289] After the user plants the kaiware daikon, they take a photo of the daikon with their smartphone a few days later. The device acquires the image and sends it to the server. The server analyzes the image and recognizes the daikon's growth stage. The server generates a virtual character based on the recognition results and sends the information to the device. The device then displays the virtual character in augmented reality based on the received information.

[0290] Step 3 (Example of observation diary entry):

[0291] The user observes the growing daikon radish and records the observations in the app's observation diary with text and photos. When the user presses the save button, the device sends the recorded data to the server. The server receives the data and stores it in the user database. The server returns a notification of successful saving to the device, and the device displays a message that saving was successful.

[0292] Step 4 (Example of using the Emotion Engine):

[0293] While the user is taking a picture of the daikon radish with their smartphone camera, the emotion engine recognizes the user's facial expressions. For example, if the user is smiling, the emotion engine will capture that emotional data and make the virtual character show a happy expression accordingly. This kind of response makes the user feel more connected to the experience.

[0294] In this way, the functions of this system work together among the user, device, and server, allowing users to easily grow plants, enjoy the process of growing, observe and record in detail, and exchange information with other users. Furthermore, by utilizing an emotion engine, the system can respond to the user's emotions, providing a more personalized experience.

[0295] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0296] User Registration

[0297] Step 1:

[0298] The user downloads and launches the app.

[0299] Step 2:

[0300] The user accesses the new registration screen.

[0301] Step 3:

[0302] The user enters their username, email address, and password.

[0303] Step 4:

[0304] The terminal sends the input information to the server.

[0305] Step 5:

[0306] The server adds new user information to the user database based on the received information.

[0307] Step 6:

[0308] The server generates a user ID and sends a successful registration response to the terminal.

[0309] Step 7:

[0310] The device displays a registration success message to the user.

[0311] Observation of Kaiware Daikon begins

[0312] Step 1:

[0313] Users sow daikon radish seeds.

[0314] Step 2:

[0315] The user takes a photo to record the initial state of the radish.

[0316] Step 3:

[0317] The device acquires the photograph and saves it as image data.

[0318] Step 4:

[0319] The terminal transmits the image data to the server.

[0320] Step 5:

[0321] The server analyzes the image data and applies an algorithm to recognize the condition of the radish.

[0322] Step 6:

[0323] The server generates a virtual character based on the recognized data.

[0324] Step 7:

[0325] The server transmits the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[0326] Step 8:

[0327] The device displays the virtual character using augmented reality.

[0328] Observation diary records

[0329] Step 1:

[0330] Users observe the growth of the radish.

[0331] Step 2:

[0332] The user opens the observation diary screen.

[0333] Step 3:

[0334] Users input their observations and photos.

[0335] Step 4:

[0336] The user presses the "Save" button to save the observation diary entry.

[0337] Step 5:

[0338] The terminal sends the entry contents to the server.

[0339] Step 6:

[0340] The server stores the received entry in the user database.

[0341] Step 7:

[0342] The server sends a response to the terminal indicating that the save was successful.

[0343] Step 8:

[0344] The device displays a successful save message to the user.

[0345] Looking back on the observation diary

[0346] Step 1:

[0347] If the user wants to look back on past observation records, they open the observation diary screen.

[0348] Step 2:

[0349] The terminal sends a request for observation diary data to the server.

[0350] Step 3:

[0351] The server retrieves the observation diary data from the user database.

[0352] Step 4:

[0353] The server transmits the acquired observation diary data to the terminal.

[0354] Step 5:

[0355] The terminal displays the received observation diary data.

[0356] Exchange information with other users

[0357] Step 1:

[0358] If a user wishes to exchange information with other users, the communication screen is opened.

[0359] Step 2:

[0360] The device sends the user's observation diary and photos to the server and shares them.

[0361] Step 3:

[0362] The server prepares the shared data for display to other users.

[0363] Step 4:

[0364] Other users can view the shared data on their own devices and enter comments and advice.

[0365] Step 5:

[0366] The server notifies the original user of the comment or advice.

[0367] Step 6:

[0368] The original user will review the comments and advice and respond if necessary.

[0369] Use of emotion engine

[0370] Step 1:

[0371] The user takes a photo of the daikon radish using their smartphone camera.

[0372] Step 2:

[0373] The device recognizes the user's facial expressions in real time.

[0374] Step 3:

[0375] The device transmits the recognized emotion data to the server.

[0376] Step 4:

[0377] The server analyzes the received emotional data and adjusts the virtual character's response.

[0378] Step 5:

[0379] The server transmits the adjusted virtual character information to the terminal.

[0380] Step 6:

[0381] The device displays the virtual character's facial expressions and actions according to the emotion.

[0382] This concrete process allows users to easily manage, observe, record, and share information about the plant's growth process with other users, and utilizes an emotion engine to provide a more personal experience.

[0383] Example 2

[0384] 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."

[0385] While conventional plant cultivation systems allow users to observe the growth process of plants, it is difficult for them to visually enjoy the process or exchange information with other users. Furthermore, there is a lack of a way for users to feel an emotional connection to the growth of their plants. This limits the satisfaction and educational benefits users can get from plant cultivation.

[0386] 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.

[0387] In this invention, the server includes means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating the plant as a virtual character, means for transmitting information about the virtual character generated by the server to the terminal, and an emotion engine for recognizing the user's emotions and adjusting the facial expressions and behavior of the virtual character. This allows the user to visually enjoy the growth process of the plant, facilitates information exchange with other users, and enables responses according to the user's emotions.

[0388] "User" refers to an individual who uses the system to cultivate and observe plants.

[0389] A "server" is a computer system that receives image data sent by users, analyzes it, and generates virtual characters.

[0390] "Terminal" refers to a device that the user directly operates to take photos of plants, enter observation diaries, display virtual characters, etc.

[0391] "Image data" refers to photographic information of plants taken by a user using the device's camera and stored in digital format.

[0392] A "virtual character" is a digital avatar generated by the server that reflects the state of the plant.

[0393] "Augmented reality function" refers to technology that blends the real world and the virtual world through a device to display virtual characters.

[0394] The "Observation Diary Function" allows users to record the growth process of plants, save text and images, and view them at a later date.

[0395] "Communication Method" means a network-based mechanism used by users to exchange information with one another.

[0396] The "emotion engine" is an artificial intelligence technology that recognizes emotions from the user's facial expressions and inputs and reflects them in the virtual character's responses.

[0397] The present invention relates to a system that allows users to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth process. Users can take photos of plants using a device such as a smartphone and send the image data to a server, allowing them to analyze the plant's growth and enjoy its visuals.

[0398] Hardware and software used

[0399] This system is implemented using the following hardware and software:

[0400] Smartphone (terminal): A device that allows users to take photos of plants, record observation diaries, display virtual characters, etc.

[0401] Server: A computer system that receives and analyzes image data, generates virtual characters, and manages the database.

[0402] Computer vision algorithms: used to analyze image data and recognize plant species and growth stages (e.g., TensorFlow, OpenCV).

[0403] Augmented reality (AR) technology: Used to display virtual characters in the real world (e.g., ARKit, ARCore).

[0404] Emotion recognition engine: Used to analyze the user's emotions and reflect them in the virtual character's responses (e.g., IBM Watson, Google Cloud Vision API).

[0405] Process Overview

[0406] 1. The user takes a photo of a plant and acquires the image data.

[0407] Users take photos of plants using their smartphone camera.

[0408] The device acquires the photo as image data and stores it in its internal storage.

[0409] 2. Image data analysis and virtual character generation

[0410] The terminal transmits the stored image data to the server.

[0411] The server uses computer vision algorithms to analyze the image data and identify the plant species and growth stage.

[0412] The server generates a virtual character based on the recognition result and transmits virtual character information to the terminal.

[0413] 3. Virtual character display in augmented reality

[0414] The terminal receives the virtual character information transmitted from the server.

[0415] The device uses augmented reality technology to display virtual characters on the camera image.

[0416] Users watch as virtual characters appear in the real world through their smartphone screens.

[0417] 4. Recording an observation diary

[0418] Users can use the app's observation diary function to record their observations in text and photos.

[0419] The terminal sends the recorded content to the server, which stores it in a database.

[0420] A notification of successful save will be sent to the device and displayed to the user.

[0421] 5. Exchange of information with other users

[0422] Users can share their observation diaries and plant growth progress with other users.

[0423] The server receives comments and advice from other users and sends them to the terminal.

[0424] 6. Use of Emotion Engines

[0425] While the user takes a picture of the plant with their smartphone camera, the emotion engine recognizes the user's facial expressions.

[0426] The server obtains the user's emotional data and adjusts the virtual character's facial expressions and behavior based on that data.

[0427] This allows users to have a more emotional connection with growing their plants.

[0428] Examples of prompt statements

[0429] "After taking photos of your plants, share them with other users and add them to your observation journal."

[0430] In this way, the system provides a series of processes for visually and emotionally enjoying the cultivation and observation of the growth process of plants through collaboration between users, devices, and the server. Furthermore, by utilizing the emotion engine, it is possible to realize a personalized experience and increase user satisfaction.

[0431] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0432] Step 1:

[0433] The user takes a photo of the plant

[0434] Input: The physical action of the user taking a photo of the plant they are growing.

[0435] Process: The user launches the camera app on their device (smartphone) and takes a photo of a plant.

[0436] Output: High-resolution image data is acquired and stored on the device.

[0437] Specific action: The user launches the camera app, focuses on a plant, and presses the shutter button.

[0438] Step 2:

[0439] The device sends the image data to the server.

[0440] Input: Image data captured and saved by the user.

[0441] Processing: The device identifies the stored image data and uses a data transfer protocol to send it to the server, in this case HTTP POST.

[0442] Output: Image data is sent to and received from the server.

[0443] Specific operation: The terminal program generates an HTTP POST request and sends it to the server's image receiving API.

[0444] Step 3:

[0445] The server analyzes the image data and recognizes the condition of the plants.

[0446] Input: Image data sent from the device.

[0447] Processing: The server applies computer vision algorithms (e.g., TensorFlow, OpenCV) to the received image data to identify the plant species and growth stage.

[0448] Output: Plant type information and growth stage information.

[0449] What it does: The server passes the image data to the algorithm, which applies a trained model to extract plant features, which are then used to identify the species and developmental stage.

[0450] Step 4:

[0451] The server generates a virtual character

[0452] Input: Plant type information and growth stage information.

[0453] Processing: The server creates a character using a virtual character generation algorithm that corresponds to the type of plant and its growth stage.

[0454] Output: Virtual character information (3D model, animation data, etc.).

[0455] What it does: The server uses 3D model generation software to render a virtual character based on the identified plant information.

[0456] Step 5:

[0457] The server sends virtual character information to the device.

[0458] Input: Generated virtual character information.

[0459] Processing: The server converts the virtual character information into packets and uses a data transmission protocol to send them to the terminal.

[0460] Output: The device receives the virtual character information.

[0461] Specific operation: The server sends data to the device's dedicated API endpoint using a protocol such as HTTP POST or WebSocket.

[0462] Step 6:

[0463] The device displays a virtual character using the augmented reality (AR) function

[0464] Input: Virtual character information received from the server.

[0465] Processing: The device passes the received virtual character information to an AR library (e.g., ARKit, ARCore) and displays it as an overlay on the real world.

[0466] Output: Augmented reality virtual character displayed on a smartphone screen.

[0467] What it does: The device renders a virtual character in the camera view, adjusting its position and scale accordingly.

[0468] Step 7:

[0469] Users record observation diaries

[0470] Input: User observations (text, images, etc.).

[0471] Processing: The user enters text and photos for the observation diary and presses the save button. The device then sends this data to the server.

[0472] Output: Observation diary data stored on the server.

[0473] Specific operation: The user fills in the observation details using an input form on the device and sends the data to the server, which then stores the received data in a database.

[0474] Step 8:

[0475] Exchange information with other users

[0476] Input: User observation diary, comments, feedback, etc.

[0477] Processing: In order for you to share information with other users through the app, your device sends the data to the server, which processes it and shares it with other users.

[0478] Output: Comments and feedback from other users.

[0479] How it works: The device sends the user's observation diary and comments to the server, which distributes them to other users' devices, receives feedback, and returns it to the original user.

[0480] Step 9:

[0481] Uses an emotion engine to recognize user emotions and adjust the virtual character's response

[0482] Input: User facial expression data and input text.

[0483] Processing: The device captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and sends them to the emotion engine. The emotion engine analyzes them and sends the emotional data to the server. The server then adjusts the virtual character's response based on the emotional data.

[0484] Output: Coordinated facial expressions and behaviors of the virtual character.

[0485] How it works: The facial expression data captured by the device is analyzed by the emotion engine. The server updates the virtual character's facial expressions and behavior in real time based on the results.

[0486] (Application example 2)

[0487] 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."

[0488] Conventional plant cultivation systems have limited functionality for users to visually enjoy the growth process of their plants, resulting in a lack of interactive experiences with the plants. They also lack the functionality to share plant cultivation records with other users and promote communication. Furthermore, they lack the ability to recognize users' emotions and respond accordingly, preventing a more personalized experience. To solve these problems, a system is needed that allows users to enjoy growing plants while also exchanging information with other users and receiving responses based on their emotions.

[0489] 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 a user to take a photo of a plant and acquire the image data, means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating a virtual character for the plant, means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character, means for providing an observation diary function for a user to record the plant's growth process, communication means for enabling information exchange with other users, and an emotion recognition engine for recognizing the user's emotions and using that data to adjust the virtual character's responses. This allows a user to visually enjoy the plant's cultivation process, exchange information with other users, and further enable interaction according to the user's emotions.

[0490] "User" means an individual or entity that uses the Service or System.

[0491] A "plant" is a living organism that grows in soil or other medium and is intended for cultivation or observation.

[0492] "Image data" refers to digitally saved photographs and videos of plants taken by users.

[0493] "Virtual Characters" are digital objects generated based on the state of plants photographed by the user, providing an interactive experience.

[0494] "Augmented reality" is a technology that displays virtual characters and information overlaid on images of the real world.

[0495] The "observation diary function" allows users to record the growth process of plants and their observations, and view them at a later date.

[0496] "Communication tools" are digital communication facilities that allow users to exchange information with other users.

[0497] An "emotion recognition engine" is a function that analyzes a user's facial expressions and behavior to identify their emotions and adjust the system's response accordingly.

[0498] This invention relates to a system that allows users to visually and interactively enjoy the cultivation and growth process of plants. This system features the use of smartphones, cloud servers, AR technology, image analysis algorithms, and emotion recognition engines.

[0499] Hardware and Software Use

[0500] 1. Smartphone

[0501] Users take photos of plants using their smartphone camera and send the data to the system via the application.

[0502] The application, which runs on smartphones, is developed using React Native, and Firebase handles data synchronization and authentication.

[0503] 2. Cloud Server

[0504] The server uses Node.js and MySQL to manage user data and plant growth information.

[0505] OpenCV and TensorFlow are used for image analysis, which allows the system to identify the type of plant and its growth stage, and generate a virtual character.

[0506] 3. Augmented Reality (AR) Technology

[0507] The augmented reality feature is realized using Unity and ARKit. Virtual character information sent from the server is overlaid on the real world on the smartphone.

[0508] 4. Emotion Recognition Engine

[0509] The emotion recognition engine uses the Facial Expression Library and PyTorch to acquire user facial expression data and adjust the virtual character's response based on the analysis results.

[0510] System processing flow

[0511] 1. User Registration

[0512] The user downloads the app, enters the required information (username, email address, password), and sends it to the server. The server saves the registered information in a MySQL database and sends a receipt confirmation message to the device.

[0513] 2. Plant photography and image analysis

[0514] When a user takes a photo of a plant, the image data is sent to a server. The server analyzes the image using OpenCV and TensorFlow to identify the plant's type and growth stage. Based on the results of the analysis, a virtual character is generated and the information is sent to the device.

[0515] 3. Augmented reality display

[0516] The device then uses its AR functionality to display the received virtual character information in real space, allowing users to visually enjoy the virtual character appearing in the real world.

[0517] 4. Recording an observation diary

[0518] Users record their observation diary in the app. The recorded data, in text and photos, is sent to the server and saved in a MySQL database. A notification of successful saving is returned to the device, and a message is displayed on the smartphone.

[0519] 5. Applications of Emotion Recognition Engines

[0520] While the user is taking a photo, the emotion recognition engine works to analyze the user's facial expression data. For example, if the user smiles, the emotion recognition engine will detect this and the system will respond by making the virtual character show a happy expression.

[0521] Examples and prompts

[0522] Examples:

[0523] Users take a photo of the basil they have been growing for a week with their smartphone and record it in the Virtual Botanical Garden 3D app. The emotion engine recognizes the user's smile, and the virtual basil sways happily in response.

[0524] Example prompt sentence:

[0525] "I took a photo of my basil growing after a week. Add it to the Virtual Botanical Garden 3D app and record your observations in your journal. And make sure my virtual basil is happy when I smile."

[0526] This system allows users to visually enjoy the growth process of their plants while cultivating them, exchange information with other users, and even receive emotional responses, making the cultivation experience more personal and interactive.

[0527] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0528] The specific processing steps of the invention are described below.

[0529] Step 1: User Registration

[0530] Input: The user enters their name, email address, and password on the new registration screen.

[0531] Operation: The device sends this information to the server.

[0532] Data processing: The server creates a new user record in the database based on the received information.

[0533] Output: A successful registration response is sent to the terminal, and the terminal displays a successful registration message to the user.

[0534] Step 2: Photograph and submit your plant

[0535] Input: User takes a photo of a plant with their smartphone camera.

[0536] Operation: The device sends the captured image data to the server.

[0537] Data processing: The server stores the received image data.

[0538] Output: The server notifies you that the data was saved successfully.

[0539] Step 3: Image analysis and virtual character generation

[0540] Input: The image data received by the server in step 2.

[0541] How it works: The server uses OpenCV and TensorFlow to analyze images and identify plant species and growth stages.

[0542] Data processing: Generate a virtual character based on the recognition results.

[0543] Output: Send the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[0544] Step 4: Augmented reality display

[0545] Input: Virtual character information received by the device from the server.

[0546] How it works: The device uses Unity and ARKit to power its augmented reality features, overlaying virtual characters onto the real world.

[0547] Data calculation: Adapting the position and movement of virtual characters to real space.

[0548] Output: The user can see the virtual character through their smartphone.

[0549] Step 5: Record your observation diary

[0550] Input: The user enters text and photos into the observation diary within the app.

[0551] Operation: The terminal sends the entered information to the server.

[0552] Data processing: The server stores the received data in a MySQL database.

[0553] Output: A successful save notification is returned to the device, which displays it to the user.

[0554] Step 6: Applying the Emotion Recognition Engine

[0555] Input: Facial expression data while the user is photographing a plant.

[0556] How it works: The device camera captures the user's facial expressions and analyzes their emotions using the Facial Expression Library and PyTorch.

[0557] Data calculation: Adjust the facial expressions and behavior of the virtual character based on the user's emotional data.

[0558] Output: The virtual character's response corresponding to the user's emotion is displayed on the terminal.

[0559] The system is realized through the above steps. The purpose of this program's processing flow is to allow users to grow plants and enjoy the process visually and interactively. It also provides a more fulfilling cultivation experience by enabling information exchange with other users and responding to the user's emotions.

[0560] 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.

[0561] 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.

[0562] 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.

[0563] [Second embodiment]

[0564] FIG. 3 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 210 according to the second embodiment.

[0565] 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.

[0566] 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).

[0567] 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.

[0568] 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.

[0569] 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).

[0570] 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.

[0571] 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.

[0572] 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.

[0573] 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.

[0574] In the smart glasses 214, the reception output process is performed by the processor 46. A reception output program 60 is stored in the storage 50. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output process is realized by the processor 46 operating as the control unit 46A in accordance with the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.

[0575] 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."

[0576] The present invention relates to a system for allowing a user to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth process. The system includes means for allowing a user to take a photo of the plant and acquire image data thereof, means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating a virtual character of the plant, means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character, means for providing an observation diary function for allowing the user to record the growth process of the plant, and means for communication that enables information exchange with other users.

[0577] A means for users to take photos of plants and obtain image data

[0578] The user takes a photo of a plant using a smartphone. The device acquires and saves the photo as image data, which is used for subsequent processing.

[0579] A method for recognizing the state of a plant from acquired image data and generating that plant as a virtual character

[0580] The image data stored on the device is sent to a server. The server analyzes the image data and uses an algorithm to recognize the plant's condition to identify the plant's type and growth stage. Once identification is complete, the server generates a virtual character based on the plant's condition. This virtual character has the appearance and personality of the plant, allowing users to enjoy growing it.

[0581] Augmented reality functionality for viewing generated virtual characters

[0582] The device receives the virtual character information sent from the server and displays it using augmented reality. Users can see the virtual character appear in the real world through their smartphone camera, allowing them to visually enjoy the growth of their plants.

[0583] Observation diary function for users to record plant growth process

[0584] Users can record observation diaries within the app. The observation diary includes text entered by the user, photos taken, and plant condition information obtained from the server. Users can record the growth process of plants and the results of their observations and look back on them later.

[0585] A means of communication that allows you to exchange information with other users

[0586] Users can exchange information with other users through the app. Using communication tools, users can share their observation diaries and growth progress, and receive comments and advice from other users. This allows users to learn about plant cultivation through communication.

[0587] Specific examples

[0588] For example, suppose user A plants kaiware daikon seeds and takes a photo a few days later. User A launches the app and uploads the photo. The device sends the photo to the server, which analyzes the photo and identifies the current growth stage of the kaiware daikon. The server then generates a virtual character corresponding to the kaiware daikon and sends that information to the device. User A enjoys watching the virtual kaiware daikon character appear in the real world through the smartphone camera.

[0589] When User A records an observation diary, he or she takes photos and enters text describing the growth of the plants, saving the data. Later, User A can look back at past observation records and reconfirm the growth of the kaiware daikon. Furthermore, by sharing information with another user, User B, and comparing each other's observation diaries, User A can gain new knowledge and ideas about cultivation.

[0590] In this way, the system of the present invention allows users to easily learn while enjoying the growth of plants.

[0591] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0592] Program processing flow

[0593] User Registration

[0594] Step 1:

[0595] The user downloads the app and launches it. After launching, the user accesses the new registration screen.

[0596] Step 2:

[0597] The user enters a username, email address, and password.

[0598] Step 3:

[0599] The terminal sends the input information to the server.

[0600] Step 4:

[0601] Based on the information received by the server, new user information is added to the user database and a user ID is generated.

[0602] Step 5:

[0603] The server sends a successful registration response to the terminal.

[0604] Step 6:

[0605] The device displays a registration success message to the user.

[0606] Observation of Kaiware Daikon begins

[0607] Step 1:

[0608] Users sow daikon radish seeds and take photos to record their initial state.

[0609] Step 2:

[0610] The device acquires the photograph and saves it as image data.

[0611] Step 3:

[0612] The terminal transmits the image data to the server.

[0613] Step 4:

[0614] The server analyzes the image data and applies an algorithm to recognize the condition of the radish.

[0615] Step 5:

[0616] The server generates a virtual character based on the recognized data.

[0617] Step 6:

[0618] The server transmits the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[0619] Step 7:

[0620] The device displays the virtual character using augmented reality.

[0621] Observation diary records

[0622] Step 1:

[0623] The user observes the daikon radish and opens the observation diary screen.

[0624] Step 2:

[0625] Users enter their observations and photographs in text and image format.

[0626] Step 3:

[0627] The user submits the observation diary entry by pressing the "Save" button.

[0628] Step 4:

[0629] The terminal sends the entry contents to the server.

[0630] Step 5:

[0631] The server stores the received entry in the user database.

[0632] Step 6:

[0633] The server sends a response to the terminal indicating that the save was successful.

[0634] Step 7:

[0635] The device displays a successful save message to the user.

[0636] Looking back on the observation diary

[0637] Step 1:

[0638] If the user wants to look back on past observation records, they open the observation diary screen.

[0639] Step 2:

[0640] The terminal sends a request for observation diary data to the server.

[0641] Step 3:

[0642] The server retrieves the observation diary data from the user database.

[0643] Step 4:

[0644] The server transmits the acquired observation diary data to the terminal.

[0645] Step 5:

[0646] The terminal displays the received observation diary data.

[0647] Exchange information with other users

[0648] Step 1:

[0649] If a user wishes to exchange information with other users, the communication screen is opened.

[0650] Step 2:

[0651] The device sends the user's observation diary and photos to the server and shares them.

[0652] Step 3:

[0653] The server prepares the shared data for display to other users.

[0654] Step 4:

[0655] Other users can view the shared data on their own devices and enter comments and advice.

[0656] Step 5:

[0657] The server notifies the original user of the comment or advice.

[0658] Step 6:

[0659] The original user will review the comments and advice and respond if necessary.

[0660] In this way, each process in this system works in conjunction with the user, terminal, and server, allowing users to easily grow plants, enjoy the process of their growth, observe and record it in detail, and exchange information with other users.

[0661] Example 1

[0662] 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."

[0663] Currently, many people cultivate plants and enjoy watching them grow. However, observing and recording their growth is time-consuming and often difficult, especially for beginners. Furthermore, there are limited ways to share information about plant growth with other users, leaving few opportunities to share knowledge and experiences. Furthermore, there are few ways to enjoy the growth of real plants, as well as the visual enjoyment of virtual characters. There is a need for a system that solves these issues, makes plant growth observation and communication easier, and also provides visual enjoyment.

[0664] 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.

[0665] In this invention, the server includes a means for a user to take a photo of a plant using an image capture device and acquire the image data, an analysis means for transmitting the acquired image data to a processing device and recognizing the state of the plant, and a means for generating the plant as a virtual character based on the analysis results. This makes it possible to easily observe, record, and share the growth process of the plant, and furthermore, to visually enjoy the growth of the plant as a virtual character.

[0666] "User" means an individual or group that grows plants and observes, records, and shares their growth.

[0667] A "photograph of a plant" is image data of a plant under cultivation that is taken by a user using an image capture device.

[0668] The "means for acquiring image data" refers to a method for saving a photograph of a plant taken by a user with an image acquisition device as data in a terminal.

[0669] The "processing device" is a computer system that transmits the acquired image data to a server, analyzes it, and generates a virtual character.

[0670] The "analysis means" refers to machine learning algorithms and image analysis software that recognize the type and growth stage of plants based on image data of the plants.

[0671] A "virtual character" is a digital character that is generated based on the recognized state of the plant, and can be visually enjoyed by users.

[0672] "Augmented reality" is a technology that displays generated virtual characters superimposed on real scenery.

[0673] The "recording device" is a software function that allows users to record the plant growth process as an observation diary.

[0674] "Communication means" refers to network communication technologies that allow users to exchange information with other users.

[0675] The "Observation Diary" is a digital notebook that records the growth process of plants, including text and image data entered by the user.

[0676] This system allows users to cultivate plant seeds, observe and record their growth, and share information with other users. To implement this system, the following hardware and software are required:

[0677] Hardware and Software

[0678] Image capture device: A device with a camera, such as a smartphone or tablet

[0679] Processing equipment: Cloud server or local server

[0680] Communication method: Internet connection, WiFi network

[0681] Implementation details

[0682] The user takes a photo of the plant using their smartphone, which captures the image data and stores it in the device's local storage. The image data is then sent to a cloud server for further processing.

[0683] The server analyzes the received image data using a machine learning algorithm for image recognition. This algorithm is trained on a large number of plant image data and can identify the plant species and growth stage.

[0684] Once the analysis is complete, the server generates a virtual character based on the recognition results. This virtual character has different designs and characteristics depending on the plant's appearance and growth stage. The character information (3D model and animation data) is sent to the device.

[0685] The device uses the received character information to display the virtual character using augmented reality (AR) technology, allowing users to visually enjoy the virtual character appearing in the real world through their smartphone camera.

[0686] In addition, users can record observation diaries within the app, which include photos taken, textual growth records, and plant status information obtained from the server. Diaries are saved with timestamps and can be referenced later.

[0687] In order to exchange information, users can connect to other users on the network using communication means and share their observation diaries. It is also possible to receive comments and advice from other users, allowing them to share their knowledge and experiences about plant cultivation.

[0688] Specific examples

[0689] For example, suppose User A plants tomato seeds and takes a photo of the tomato with their smartphone a few days later. User A launches the app and uploads the photo. The device sends the image data to the server, which analyzes the image and identifies the tomato's current growth stage. The server then generates a virtual character corresponding to the tomato and sends that information to the device. User A can then enjoy watching the virtual tomato character appear in the real world through the smartphone camera.

[0690] When recording an observation diary, User A takes photos and enters text describing the growth of the plants, and saves the data. Later, User A can look back at past observation records and reconfirm the growth of the tomatoes. User A can also share information with another user, User B, and compare their observation diaries to gain new knowledge and ideas.

[0691] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0692] "Design a system that recognizes the growth stage of a plant based on a photo taken by the user and generates a corresponding virtual character."

[0693] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0694] Step 1:

[0695] The user takes a photo of a plant.

[0696] Input: A user takes an image of a plant using their smartphone camera.

[0697] How it works: The user launches the app and uses their smartphone's camera to take a photo of the plant, adjusting the camera's position and angle to obtain a clear image.

[0698] Output: Image data of the photographed plants is generated.

[0699] Step 2:

[0700] The device acquires and stores the image data.

[0701] Input: Image data of a plant taken by the user.

[0702] Specific operation: The device will automatically save the captured image to local storage. After saving is complete, a notification "Image saved" will be displayed to the user.

[0703] Output: Plant image data saved in local storage.

[0704] Step 3:

[0705] The terminal transmits the image data to the server.

[0706] Input: Plant image data stored in local storage.

[0707] How it works: The device compresses the stored image data and uploads it to the server in the background, displaying a progress bar so the user can see the progress of the upload.

[0708] Output: Plant image data uploaded to the server.

[0709] Step 4:

[0710] The server analyzes the image data and recognizes the condition of the plants.

[0711] Input: Plant image data uploaded to the server.

[0712] How it works: The server analyzes the image data using a machine learning algorithm. The algorithm uses the image data as input to identify the plant species and growth stage. During the analysis, the status "Identifying plant species..." is displayed.

[0713] Output: Plant type and growth stage recognition results.

[0714] Step 5:

[0715] The server generates a virtual character based on the recognition results.

[0716] Input: Plant type and growth stage recognition results.

[0717] Specific operation: Based on the recognition results, the server determines the design and characteristics of the corresponding virtual character and generates the virtual character. During this time, a preview screen of the virtual character is generated.

[0718] Output: Generated virtual character information (3D model data and animation data).

[0719] Step 6:

[0720] The server transmits the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[0721] Input: Generated virtual character information.

[0722] Specific operation: The server sends the virtual character information to the terminal. After the transmission is complete, the server notifies the terminal that "the virtual character has been generated."

[0723] Output: Virtual character information received by the device.

[0724] Step 7:

[0725] The device uses augmented reality to display a virtual character.

[0726] Input: Virtual character information received by the terminal.

[0727] Specific operation: Based on the received character information, the device uses augmented reality (AR) to display the virtual character in the real world. The user can see the virtual character appearing in the real world through the smartphone camera.

[0728] Output: A video of a virtual character displayed on a smartphone screen.

[0729] Step 8:

[0730] Users record their observation diary within the app.

[0731] Input: Images taken or text entered by the user using their smartphone.

[0732] How it works: Users use the app's observation diary function to record photos they have taken and their observations as text. Once recording is complete, a confirmation message appears saying, "Observation diary saved."

[0733] Output: Archived observation diary.

[0734] Step 9:

[0735] Users exchange information with other users.

[0736] Input: Observation journals and comments shared by users.

[0737] Specific operation: Users use the app's communication function to share their observation diaries with other users. Other users can comment on the shared diaries and provide advice, facilitating the exchange of information.

[0738] Output: Feedback and comments from other users.

[0739] (Application example 1)

[0740] 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."

[0741] Conventional plant growing systems have limited functionality to provide visual enjoyment when users observe the growth of plants, resulting in a monotonous user experience. Furthermore, there are issues with the lack of smooth information exchange with other users, limiting opportunities to gain knowledge about plant growing through communication. This makes it difficult to maintain users' interest, resulting in a lack of effectiveness in plant growing.

[0742] 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.

[0743] In this invention, the server includes means for a user to take an image of a plant and acquire the image data, means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating a virtual character for the plant, means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character, means for providing an observation diary function for the user to record the plant's growth process, means for communication that enables information exchange with other users, and means for visually displaying the virtual character according to the plant's growth stage and providing an interactive experience in physical space. This allows users to enjoy the visual experience of plant growth and further enables them to share knowledge and ideas about plant cultivation through communication with other users.

[0744] "Means for taking images of plants" refers to a method in which a user takes a photo of a plant using a device (e.g., a smartphone or tablet) and obtains the image data.

[0745] The "means for acquiring image data" refers to a method for storing photographs of plants as digital data within a device.

[0746] The "means for recognizing the state of a plant" is a method that uses an algorithm to determine the growth stage and type of a plant based on the acquired image data.

[0747] The "means for generating a virtual character" is a method for digitally creating a character that reflects the appearance and characteristics of a plant based on the recognized state of the plant.

[0748] "Means for providing augmented reality functionality" refers to a method for making a generated virtual character appear in real space, allowing a user to visually experience the character through a device.

[0749] The "means for providing an observation diary function" is a system that allows users to input text and photos to record and save the growth process of plants.

[0750] "Communications means" are network facilities and protocols that enable users to exchange information with other users.

[0751] A "means for visually displaying a virtual character" is a method for displaying a virtual character on the screen of a user's device, enabling an interactive experience.

[0752] "Means for providing interactive experiences in physical space" refers to a feature that uses augmented reality technology to allow users to interact with virtual characters in their real environment.

[0753] The present invention relates to a system that allows a user to take images of plants and observe their growth process. Specific embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described below.

[0754] The system includes a means for users to take images of plants using a device such as a smartphone or tablet, and acquire the image data, which is then stored in the device and used for subsequent processing.

[0755] The device then sends the acquired image data to a server. The server receives the image data and analyzes it using a generative AI model such as TensorFlow. This analysis runs an algorithm that recognizes the plant's condition and generates a virtual character based on that plant. Specifically, the server identifies the plant's type and growth stage and generates corresponding virtual character information.

[0756] The generated virtual character information is displayed on the device using the augmented reality (AR) function. Users can visually experience the virtual character in real space through the camera of their smartphone or tablet, allowing them to visually enjoy the daily growth of their plants.

[0757] The system also includes an observation diary function, allowing users to record the growth process of their plants by entering text and images. The data entered by the user is saved in the observation diary, allowing users to review it at a later date. Furthermore, users can use communication tools that enable information exchange with other users to share information about their observation diary and plant growth, and receive comments and advice from other users.

[0758] This allows users to enjoy the visual experience of growing plants, and also allows them to share their knowledge and ideas about growing plants through communication with other users.

[0759] (Example)

[0760] For example, suppose User A grows tomato seedlings and takes a picture of the tomato with their smartphone a few days later. User A uploads the image through the app. The server receives the image data and uses TensorFlow to analyze the tomato's growth stage. A corresponding virtual tomato character is then generated and sent to User A's device. User A can then enjoy watching the virtual tomato character appear in real space through their smartphone's camera.

[0761] In addition, User A can use the observation diary function to record the growth of the plant along with the photos he or she has taken, and save the data. Furthermore, by sharing the observation diary with other users and exchanging comments, they can deepen their knowledge of plant cultivation.

[0762] Example prompts to input to the generative AI model:

[0763] "Users upload images of plants taken with their smartphones, and the AI ​​model analyzes them to recognize the state of the plant (e.g., a tomato seedling). The AI ​​model then generates a virtual character to be displayed in augmented reality based on the recognition results."

[0764] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0765] Step 1:

[0766] A user takes an image of a plant using a device such as a smartphone or tablet, and acquires the image data.

[0767] Input: Plant image

[0768] Output: Captured image data

[0769] Data processing and calculation: The user takes a picture of the plant using the device's camera app, and the image data is stored on the device.

[0770] Step 2:

[0771] The terminal transmits the acquired image data to the server.

[0772] Input: Photographed image data

[0773] Output: Sending image data to the server

[0774] Data processing and calculation: The terminal uploads image data to the server via the network. The data is converted into a specific format (e.g., JPEG, PNG) and then sent.

[0775] Step 3:

[0776] The server receives the image data and analyzes it using a generative AI model such as TensorFlow.

[0777] Input: Image data uploaded to the server

[0778] Output: What type of plant is it and its stage of development?

[0779] Data processing and calculation: After receiving the image data, the server performs image analysis using open source libraries (e.g., TensorFlow). Algorithms are applied to recognize the plant species and growth stage, and the results are obtained.

[0780] Step 4:

[0781] The server generates an appropriate virtual character based on the analysis results.

[0782] Input: Plant type and growth stage information

[0783] Output: Virtual character data

[0784] Data processing and calculation: The server generates a virtual character that reflects the plant's appearance and personality based on the plant's condition information. The generated character data is saved as a 3D model or animation data.

[0785] Step 5:

[0786] The server transmits the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[0787] Input: Virtual character data

[0788] Output: Sending character data to the terminal

[0789] Data processing and calculation: The server formats the data of the generated virtual character and sends it to the user's device via the network.

[0790] Step 6:

[0791] The virtual character information received by the terminal is displayed using an augmented reality function.

[0792] Input: Virtual character data

[0793] Output: Virtual character displayed on the screen through Augmented Reality (AR)

[0794] Data processing and calculation: The device uses an AR library (e.g., ARKit, ARCore) to overlay the received character data onto real-world images, allowing the user to visually experience the virtual character through the device's camera.

[0795] Step 7:

[0796] Users can use the observation diary function to record the growth process of plants.

[0797] Input: User-entered text and images

[0798] Output: Observation diary data

[0799] Data processing and calculation: Users can input text and images into the app and save them as an observation diary. The data is formatted and saved so that it can be viewed again at a later date.

[0800] Step 8:

[0801] A user uses a communication means to exchange information with other users.

[0802] Input: Observation diary and plant growth information

[0803] Output: Exchange information with other users, receive comments and advice

[0804] Data processing and calculation: Users can share their observation diaries and growth information with other users through the app, and information is exchanged via the network function, allowing them to receive comments and advice from other users.

[0805] 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.

[0806] The present invention relates to a system for allowing a user to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth process. The system includes means for allowing a user to take a photo of the plant and acquire image data thereof, means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating a virtual character of the plant, means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character, means for providing an observation diary function for the user to record the growth process of the plant, means for communication that enables information exchange with other users, and an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions.

[0807] A means for users to take photos of plants and obtain image data

[0808] The user takes a photo of the plant using their smartphone, which then captures and stores the image data for subsequent processing.

[0809] A method for recognizing the state of a plant from acquired image data and generating that plant as a virtual character

[0810] The image data stored on the device is sent to a server. The server analyzes the image data and uses an algorithm to recognize the plant's condition to identify the plant's type and growth stage. Once identification is complete, the server generates a virtual character based on the plant's condition. This virtual character has the appearance and personality of the plant, allowing users to enjoy growing it.

[0811] Augmented reality functionality for viewing generated virtual characters

[0812] The device receives the virtual character information sent from the server and displays it using augmented reality. Users can see the virtual character appear in the real world through their smartphone camera, allowing them to visually enjoy the growth of their plants.

[0813] Observation diary function for users to record plant growth process

[0814] Users can record observation diaries within the app. The observation diary includes text entered by the user, photos taken, and plant condition information obtained from the server. Users can record the growth process of plants and the results of their observations and look back on them later.

[0815] A means of communication that allows you to exchange information with other users

[0816] Users can exchange information with other users through the app. Using communication tools, users can share their observation diaries and growth progress, and receive comments and advice from other users. This allows users to learn about plant cultivation through communication.

[0817] Emotion engine that recognizes user emotions

[0818] The emotion engine recognizes emotions from the user's facial expressions and inputs and uses that data to adjust the system's overall response. For example, if the user is sad or happy, the virtual character's facial expression and behavior will change accordingly. This allows users to grow plants with a stronger emotional connection.

[0819] Specific examples of program processing

[0820] Step 1 (example of user registration):

[0821] The user downloads and launches the app. They access the new registration screen and enter the required information (username, email address, password). The device sends the entered information to the server. The server creates a new user record in the database based on the received information and sends a registration success response to the device. The device then displays a registration success message to the user.

[0822] Step 2 (Example of starting observation of Kaiware Daikon):

[0823] After the user plants the kaiware daikon, they take a photo of the daikon with their smartphone a few days later. The device acquires the image and sends it to the server. The server analyzes the image and recognizes the daikon's growth stage. The server generates a virtual character based on the recognition results and sends the information to the device. The device then displays the virtual character in augmented reality based on the received information.

[0824] Step 3 (Example of observation diary entry):

[0825] The user observes the growing daikon radish and records the observations in the app's observation diary with text and photos. When the user presses the save button, the device sends the recorded data to the server. The server receives the data and stores it in the user database. The server returns a notification of successful saving to the device, and the device displays a message that saving was successful.

[0826] Step 4 (Example of using the Emotion Engine):

[0827] While the user is taking a picture of the daikon radish with their smartphone camera, the emotion engine recognizes the user's facial expressions. For example, if the user is smiling, the emotion engine will capture that emotional data and make the virtual character show a happy expression accordingly. This kind of response makes the user feel more connected to the experience.

[0828] In this way, the functions of this system work together among the user, device, and server, allowing users to easily grow plants, enjoy the process of growing, observe and record in detail, and exchange information with other users. Furthermore, by utilizing an emotion engine, the system can respond to the user's emotions, providing a more personalized experience.

[0829] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0830] User Registration

[0831] Step 1:

[0832] The user downloads and launches the app.

[0833] Step 2:

[0834] The user accesses the new registration screen.

[0835] Step 3:

[0836] The user enters their username, email address, and password.

[0837] Step 4:

[0838] The terminal sends the input information to the server.

[0839] Step 5:

[0840] The server adds new user information to the user database based on the received information.

[0841] Step 6:

[0842] The server generates a user ID and sends a successful registration response to the terminal.

[0843] Step 7:

[0844] The device displays a registration success message to the user.

[0845] Observation of Kaiware Daikon begins

[0846] Step 1:

[0847] Users sow daikon radish seeds.

[0848] Step 2:

[0849] The user takes a photo to record the initial state of the radish.

[0850] Step 3:

[0851] The device acquires the photograph and saves it as image data.

[0852] Step 4:

[0853] The terminal transmits the image data to the server.

[0854] Step 5:

[0855] The server analyzes the image data and applies an algorithm to recognize the condition of the radish.

[0856] Step 6:

[0857] The server generates a virtual character based on the recognized data.

[0858] Step 7:

[0859] The server transmits the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[0860] Step 8:

[0861] The device displays the virtual character using augmented reality.

[0862] Observation diary records

[0863] Step 1:

[0864] Users observe the growth of the radish.

[0865] Step 2:

[0866] The user opens the observation diary screen.

[0867] Step 3:

[0868] Users input their observations and photos.

[0869] Step 4:

[0870] The user presses the "Save" button to save the observation diary entry.

[0871] Step 5:

[0872] The terminal sends the entry contents to the server.

[0873] Step 6:

[0874] The server stores the received entry in the user database.

[0875] Step 7:

[0876] The server sends a response to the terminal indicating that the save was successful.

[0877] Step 8:

[0878] The device displays a successful save message to the user.

[0879] Looking back on the observation diary

[0880] Step 1:

[0881] If the user wants to look back on past observation records, they open the observation diary screen.

[0882] Step 2:

[0883] The terminal sends a request for observation diary data to the server.

[0884] Step 3:

[0885] The server retrieves the observation diary data from the user database.

[0886] Step 4:

[0887] The server transmits the acquired observation diary data to the terminal.

[0888] Step 5:

[0889] The terminal displays the received observation diary data.

[0890] Exchange information with other users

[0891] Step 1:

[0892] If a user wishes to exchange information with other users, the communication screen is opened.

[0893] Step 2:

[0894] The device sends the user's observation diary and photos to the server and shares them.

[0895] Step 3:

[0896] The server prepares the shared data for display to other users.

[0897] Step 4:

[0898] Other users can view the shared data on their own devices and enter comments and advice.

[0899] Step 5:

[0900] The server notifies the original user of the comment or advice.

[0901] Step 6:

[0902] The original user will review the comments and advice and respond if necessary.

[0903] Use of emotion engine

[0904] Step 1:

[0905] The user takes a photo of the daikon radish using their smartphone camera.

[0906] Step 2:

[0907] The device recognizes the user's facial expressions in real time.

[0908] Step 3:

[0909] The device transmits the recognized emotion data to the server.

[0910] Step 4:

[0911] The server analyzes the received emotional data and adjusts the virtual character's response.

[0912] Step 5:

[0913] The server transmits the adjusted virtual character information to the terminal.

[0914] Step 6:

[0915] The device displays the virtual character's facial expressions and actions according to the emotion.

[0916] This concrete process allows users to easily manage, observe, record, and share information about the plant's growth process with other users, and utilizes an emotion engine to provide a more personal experience.

[0917] Example 2

[0918] 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."

[0919] While conventional plant cultivation systems allow users to observe the growth process of plants, it is difficult for them to visually enjoy the process or exchange information with other users. Furthermore, there is a lack of a way for users to feel an emotional connection to the growth of their plants. This limits the satisfaction and educational benefits users can get from plant cultivation.

[0920] 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.

[0921] In this invention, the server includes means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating the plant as a virtual character, means for transmitting information about the virtual character generated by the server to the terminal, and an emotion engine for recognizing the user's emotions and adjusting the facial expressions and behavior of the virtual character. This allows the user to visually enjoy the growth process of the plant, facilitates information exchange with other users, and enables responses according to the user's emotions.

[0922] "User" refers to an individual who uses the system to cultivate and observe plants.

[0923] A "server" is a computer system that receives image data sent by users, analyzes it, and generates virtual characters.

[0924] "Terminal" refers to a device that the user directly operates to take photos of plants, enter observation diaries, display virtual characters, etc.

[0925] "Image data" refers to photographic information of plants taken by a user using the device's camera and stored in digital format.

[0926] A "virtual character" is a digital avatar generated by the server that reflects the state of the plant.

[0927] "Augmented reality function" refers to technology that blends the real world and the virtual world through a device to display virtual characters.

[0928] The "Observation Diary Function" allows users to record the growth process of plants, save text and images, and view them at a later date.

[0929] "Communication Method" means a network-based mechanism used by users to exchange information with one another.

[0930] The "emotion engine" is an artificial intelligence technology that recognizes emotions from the user's facial expressions and inputs and reflects them in the virtual character's responses.

[0931] The present invention relates to a system that allows users to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth process. Users can take photos of plants using a device such as a smartphone and send the image data to a server, allowing them to analyze the plant's growth and enjoy its visuals.

[0932] Hardware and software used

[0933] This system is implemented using the following hardware and software:

[0934] Smartphone (terminal): A device that allows users to take photos of plants, record observation diaries, display virtual characters, etc.

[0935] Server: A computer system that receives and analyzes image data, generates virtual characters, and manages the database.

[0936] Computer vision algorithms: used to analyze image data and recognize plant species and growth stages (e.g., TensorFlow, OpenCV).

[0937] Augmented reality (AR) technology: Used to display virtual characters in the real world (e.g., ARKit, ARCore).

[0938] Emotion recognition engine: Used to analyze the user's emotions and reflect them in the virtual character's responses (e.g., IBM Watson, Google Cloud Vision API).

[0939] Process Overview

[0940] 1. The user takes a photo of a plant and acquires the image data.

[0941] Users take photos of plants using their smartphone camera.

[0942] The device acquires the photo as image data and stores it in its internal storage.

[0943] 2. Image data analysis and virtual character generation

[0944] The terminal transmits the stored image data to the server.

[0945] The server uses computer vision algorithms to analyze the image data and identify the plant species and growth stage.

[0946] The server generates a virtual character based on the recognition result and transmits virtual character information to the terminal.

[0947] 3. Virtual character display in augmented reality

[0948] The terminal receives the virtual character information transmitted from the server.

[0949] The device uses augmented reality technology to display virtual characters on the camera image.

[0950] Users watch as virtual characters appear in the real world through their smartphone screens.

[0951] 4. Recording an observation diary

[0952] Users can use the app's observation diary function to record their observations in text and photos.

[0953] The terminal sends the recorded content to the server, which stores it in a database.

[0954] A notification of successful save will be sent to the device and displayed to the user.

[0955] 5. Exchange of information with other users

[0956] Users can share their observation diaries and plant growth progress with other users.

[0957] The server receives comments and advice from other users and sends them to the terminal.

[0958] 6. Use of Emotion Engines

[0959] While the user takes a picture of the plant with their smartphone camera, the emotion engine recognizes the user's facial expressions.

[0960] The server obtains the user's emotional data and adjusts the virtual character's facial expressions and behavior based on that data.

[0961] This allows users to have a more emotional connection with growing their plants.

[0962] Examples of prompt statements

[0963] "After taking photos of your plants, share them with other users and add them to your observation journal."

[0964] In this way, the system provides a series of processes for visually and emotionally enjoying the cultivation and observation of the growth process of plants through collaboration between users, devices, and the server. Furthermore, by utilizing the emotion engine, it is possible to realize a personalized experience and increase user satisfaction.

[0965] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0966] Step 1:

[0967] The user takes a photo of the plant

[0968] Input: The physical action of the user taking a photo of the plant they are growing.

[0969] Process: The user launches the camera app on their device (smartphone) and takes a photo of a plant.

[0970] Output: High-resolution image data is acquired and stored on the device.

[0971] Specific action: The user launches the camera app, focuses on a plant, and presses the shutter button.

[0972] Step 2:

[0973] The device sends the image data to the server.

[0974] Input: Image data captured and saved by the user.

[0975] Processing: The device identifies the stored image data and uses a data transfer protocol to send it to the server, in this case HTTP POST.

[0976] Output: Image data is sent to and received from the server.

[0977] Specific operation: The terminal program generates an HTTP POST request and sends it to the server's image receiving API.

[0978] Step 3:

[0979] The server analyzes the image data and recognizes the condition of the plants.

[0980] Input: Image data sent from the device.

[0981] Processing: The server applies computer vision algorithms (e.g., TensorFlow, OpenCV) to the received image data to identify the plant species and growth stage.

[0982] Output: Plant type information and growth stage information.

[0983] What it does: The server passes the image data to the algorithm, which applies a trained model to extract plant features, which are then used to identify the species and developmental stage.

[0984] Step 4:

[0985] The server generates a virtual character

[0986] Input: Plant type information and growth stage information.

[0987] Processing: The server creates a character using a virtual character generation algorithm that corresponds to the type of plant and its growth stage.

[0988] Output: Virtual character information (3D model, animation data, etc.).

[0989] What it does: The server uses 3D model generation software to render a virtual character based on the identified plant information.

[0990] Step 5:

[0991] The server sends virtual character information to the device.

[0992] Input: Generated virtual character information.

[0993] Processing: The server converts the virtual character information into packets and uses a data transmission protocol to send them to the terminal.

[0994] Output: The device receives the virtual character information.

[0995] Specific operation: The server sends data to the device's dedicated API endpoint using a protocol such as HTTP POST or WebSocket.

[0996] Step 6:

[0997] The device displays a virtual character using the augmented reality (AR) function

[0998] Input: Virtual character information received from the server.

[0999] Processing: The device passes the received virtual character information to an AR library (e.g., ARKit, ARCore) and displays it as an overlay on the real world.

[1000] Output: Augmented reality virtual character displayed on a smartphone screen.

[1001] What it does: The device renders a virtual character in the camera view, adjusting its position and scale accordingly.

[1002] Step 7:

[1003] Users record observation diaries

[1004] Input: User observations (text, images, etc.).

[1005] Processing: The user enters text and photos for the observation diary and presses the save button. The device then sends this data to the server.

[1006] Output: Observation diary data stored on the server.

[1007] Specific operation: The user fills in the observation details using an input form on the device and sends the data to the server, which then stores the received data in a database.

[1008] Step 8:

[1009] Exchange information with other users

[1010] Input: User observation diary, comments, feedback, etc.

[1011] Processing: In order for you to share information with other users through the app, your device sends the data to the server, which processes it and shares it with other users.

[1012] Output: Comments and feedback from other users.

[1013] How it works: The device sends the user's observation diary and comments to the server, which distributes them to other users' devices, receives feedback, and returns it to the original user.

[1014] Step 9:

[1015] Uses an emotion engine to recognize user emotions and adjust the virtual character's response

[1016] Input: User facial expression data and input text.

[1017] Processing: The device captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and sends them to the emotion engine. The emotion engine analyzes them and sends the emotional data to the server. The server then adjusts the virtual character's response based on the emotional data.

[1018] Output: Coordinated facial expressions and behaviors of the virtual character.

[1019] How it works: The facial expression data captured by the device is analyzed by the emotion engine. The server updates the virtual character's facial expressions and behavior in real time based on the results.

[1020] (Application example 2)

[1021] 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."

[1022] Conventional plant cultivation systems have limited functionality for users to visually enjoy the growth process of their plants, resulting in a lack of interactive experiences with the plants. They also lack the functionality to share plant cultivation records with other users and promote communication. Furthermore, they lack the ability to recognize users' emotions and respond accordingly, preventing a more personalized experience. To solve these problems, a system is needed that allows users to enjoy growing plants while also exchanging information with other users and receiving responses based on their emotions.

[1023] 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 a user to take a photo of a plant and acquire the image data, means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating a virtual character for the plant, means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character, means for providing an observation diary function for a user to record the plant's growth process, communication means for enabling information exchange with other users, and an emotion recognition engine for recognizing the user's emotions and using that data to adjust the virtual character's responses. This allows a user to visually enjoy the plant's cultivation process, exchange information with other users, and further enable interaction according to the user's emotions.

[1024] "User" means an individual or entity that uses the Service or System.

[1025] A "plant" is a living organism that grows in soil or other medium and is intended for cultivation or observation.

[1026] "Image data" refers to digitally saved photographs and videos of plants taken by users.

[1027] "Virtual Characters" are digital objects generated based on the state of plants photographed by the user, providing an interactive experience.

[1028] "Augmented reality" is a technology that displays virtual characters and information overlaid on images of the real world.

[1029] The "observation diary function" allows users to record the growth process of plants and their observations, and view them at a later date.

[1030] "Communication tools" are digital communication facilities that allow users to exchange information with other users.

[1031] An "emotion recognition engine" is a function that analyzes a user's facial expressions and behavior to identify their emotions and adjust the system's response accordingly.

[1032] This invention relates to a system that allows users to visually and interactively enjoy the cultivation and growth process of plants. This system features the use of smartphones, cloud servers, AR technology, image analysis algorithms, and emotion recognition engines.

[1033] Hardware and Software Use

[1034] 1. Smartphone

[1035] Users take photos of plants using their smartphone camera and send the data to the system via the application.

[1036] The application, which runs on smartphones, is developed using React Native, and Firebase handles data synchronization and authentication.

[1037] 2. Cloud Server

[1038] The server uses Node.js and MySQL to manage user data and plant growth information.

[1039] OpenCV and TensorFlow are used for image analysis, which allows the system to identify the type of plant and its growth stage, and generate a virtual character.

[1040] 3. Augmented Reality (AR) Technology

[1041] The augmented reality feature is realized using Unity and ARKit. Virtual character information sent from the server is overlaid on the real world on the smartphone.

[1042] 4. Emotion Recognition Engine

[1043] The emotion recognition engine uses the Facial Expression Library and PyTorch to acquire user facial expression data and adjust the virtual character's response based on the analysis results.

[1044] System processing flow

[1045] 1. User Registration

[1046] The user downloads the app, enters the required information (username, email address, password), and sends it to the server. The server saves the registered information in a MySQL database and sends a receipt confirmation message to the device.

[1047] 2. Plant photography and image analysis

[1048] When a user takes a photo of a plant, the image data is sent to a server. The server analyzes the image using OpenCV and TensorFlow to identify the plant's type and growth stage. Based on the results of the analysis, a virtual character is generated and the information is sent to the device.

[1049] 3. Augmented reality display

[1050] The device then uses its AR functionality to display the received virtual character information in real space, allowing users to visually enjoy the virtual character appearing in the real world.

[1051] 4. Recording an observation diary

[1052] Users record their observation diary in the app. The recorded data, in text and photos, is sent to the server and saved in a MySQL database. A notification of successful saving is returned to the device, and a message is displayed on the smartphone.

[1053] 5. Applications of Emotion Recognition Engines

[1054] While the user is taking a photo, the emotion recognition engine works to analyze the user's facial expression data. For example, if the user smiles, the emotion recognition engine will detect this and the system will respond by making the virtual character show a happy expression.

[1055] Examples and prompts

[1056] Examples:

[1057] Users take a photo of the basil they have been growing for a week with their smartphone and record it in the Virtual Botanical Garden 3D app. The emotion engine recognizes the user's smile, and the virtual basil sways happily in response.

[1058] Example prompt sentence:

[1059] "I took a photo of my basil growing after a week. Add it to the Virtual Botanical Garden 3D app and record your observations in your journal. And make sure my virtual basil is happy when I smile."

[1060] This system allows users to visually enjoy the growth process of their plants while cultivating them, exchange information with other users, and even receive emotional responses, making the cultivation experience more personal and interactive.

[1061] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1062] The specific processing steps of the invention are described below.

[1063] Step 1: User Registration

[1064] Input: The user enters their name, email address, and password on the new registration screen.

[1065] Operation: The device sends this information to the server.

[1066] Data processing: The server creates a new user record in the database based on the received information.

[1067] Output: A successful registration response is sent to the terminal, and the terminal displays a successful registration message to the user.

[1068] Step 2: Photograph and submit your plant

[1069] Input: User takes a photo of a plant with their smartphone camera.

[1070] Operation: The device sends the captured image data to the server.

[1071] Data processing: The server stores the received image data.

[1072] Output: The server notifies you that the data was saved successfully.

[1073] Step 3: Image analysis and virtual character generation

[1074] Input: The image data received by the server in step 2.

[1075] How it works: The server uses OpenCV and TensorFlow to analyze images and identify plant species and growth stages.

[1076] Data processing: Generate a virtual character based on the recognition results.

[1077] Output: Send the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[1078] Step 4: Augmented reality display

[1079] Input: Virtual character information received by the device from the server.

[1080] How it works: The device uses Unity and ARKit to power its augmented reality features, overlaying virtual characters onto the real world.

[1081] Data calculation: Adapting the position and movement of virtual characters to real space.

[1082] Output: The user can see the virtual character through their smartphone.

[1083] Step 5: Record your observation diary

[1084] Input: The user enters text and photos into the observation diary within the app.

[1085] Operation: The terminal sends the entered information to the server.

[1086] Data processing: The server stores the received data in a MySQL database.

[1087] Output: A successful save notification is returned to the device, which displays it to the user.

[1088] Step 6: Applying the Emotion Recognition Engine

[1089] Input: Facial expression data while the user is photographing a plant.

[1090] How it works: The device camera captures the user's facial expressions and analyzes their emotions using the Facial Expression Library and PyTorch.

[1091] Data calculation: Adjust the facial expressions and behavior of the virtual character based on the user's emotional data.

[1092] Output: The virtual character's response corresponding to the user's emotion is displayed on the terminal.

[1093] The system is realized through the above steps. The purpose of this program's processing flow is to allow users to grow plants and enjoy the process visually and interactively. It also provides a more fulfilling cultivation experience by enabling information exchange with other users and responding to the user's emotions.

[1094] 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.

[1095] 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.

[1096] 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.

[1097] [Third embodiment]

[1098] FIG. 5 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 310 according to the third embodiment.

[1099] 5, the data processing system 310 includes the data processing device 12 and a headset type terminal 314. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[1100] 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).

[1101] 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.

[1102] 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.

[1103] 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).

[1104] 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.

[1105] 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.

[1106] 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.

[1107] 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.

[1108] 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.

[1109] 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."

[1110] The present invention relates to a system for allowing a user to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth process. The system includes means for allowing a user to take a photo of the plant and acquire image data thereof, means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating a virtual character of the plant, means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character, means for providing an observation diary function for allowing the user to record the growth process of the plant, and means for communication that enables information exchange with other users.

[1111] A means for users to take photos of plants and obtain image data

[1112] The user takes a photo of a plant using a smartphone. The device acquires and saves the photo as image data, which is used for subsequent processing.

[1113] A method for recognizing the state of a plant from acquired image data and generating that plant as a virtual character

[1114] The image data stored on the device is sent to a server. The server analyzes the image data and uses an algorithm to recognize the plant's condition to identify the plant's type and growth stage. Once identification is complete, the server generates a virtual character based on the plant's condition. This virtual character has the appearance and personality of the plant, allowing users to enjoy growing it.

[1115] Augmented reality functionality for viewing generated virtual characters

[1116] The device receives the virtual character information sent from the server and displays it using augmented reality. Users can see the virtual character appear in the real world through their smartphone camera, allowing them to visually enjoy the growth of their plants.

[1117] Observation diary function for users to record plant growth process

[1118] Users can record observation diaries within the app. The observation diary includes text entered by the user, photos taken, and plant condition information obtained from the server. Users can record the growth process of plants and the results of their observations and look back on them later.

[1119] A means of communication that allows you to exchange information with other users

[1120] Users can exchange information with other users through the app. Using communication tools, users can share their observation diaries and growth progress, and receive comments and advice from other users. This allows users to learn about plant cultivation through communication.

[1121] Specific examples

[1122] For example, suppose user A plants kaiware daikon seeds and takes a photo a few days later. User A launches the app and uploads the photo. The device sends the photo to the server, which analyzes the photo and identifies the current growth stage of the kaiware daikon. The server then generates a virtual character corresponding to the kaiware daikon and sends that information to the device. User A enjoys watching the virtual kaiware daikon character appear in the real world through the smartphone camera.

[1123] When User A records an observation diary, he or she takes photos and enters text describing the growth of the plants, saving the data. Later, User A can look back at past observation records and reconfirm the growth of the kaiware daikon. Furthermore, by sharing information with another user, User B, and comparing each other's observation diaries, User A can gain new knowledge and ideas about cultivation.

[1124] In this way, the system of the present invention allows users to easily learn while enjoying the growth of plants.

[1125] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1126] Program processing flow

[1127] User Registration

[1128] Step 1:

[1129] The user downloads the app and launches it. After launching, the user accesses the new registration screen.

[1130] Step 2:

[1131] The user enters a username, email address, and password.

[1132] Step 3:

[1133] The terminal sends the input information to the server.

[1134] Step 4:

[1135] Based on the information received by the server, new user information is added to the user database and a user ID is generated.

[1136] Step 5:

[1137] The server sends a successful registration response to the terminal.

[1138] Step 6:

[1139] The device displays a registration success message to the user.

[1140] Observation of Kaiware Daikon begins

[1141] Step 1:

[1142] Users sow daikon radish seeds and take photos to record their initial state.

[1143] Step 2:

[1144] The device acquires the photograph and saves it as image data.

[1145] Step 3:

[1146] The terminal transmits the image data to the server.

[1147] Step 4:

[1148] The server analyzes the image data and applies an algorithm to recognize the condition of the radish.

[1149] Step 5:

[1150] The server generates a virtual character based on the recognized data.

[1151] Step 6:

[1152] The server transmits the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[1153] Step 7:

[1154] The device displays the virtual character using augmented reality.

[1155] Observation diary records

[1156] Step 1:

[1157] The user observes the daikon radish and opens the observation diary screen.

[1158] Step 2:

[1159] Users enter their observations and photographs in text and image format.

[1160] Step 3:

[1161] The user submits the observation diary entry by pressing the "Save" button.

[1162] Step 4:

[1163] The terminal sends the entry contents to the server.

[1164] Step 5:

[1165] The server stores the received entry in the user database.

[1166] Step 6:

[1167] The server sends a response to the terminal indicating that the save was successful.

[1168] Step 7:

[1169] The device displays a successful save message to the user.

[1170] Looking back on the observation diary

[1171] Step 1:

[1172] If the user wants to look back on past observation records, they open the observation diary screen.

[1173] Step 2:

[1174] The terminal sends a request for observation diary data to the server.

[1175] Step 3:

[1176] The server retrieves the observation diary data from the user database.

[1177] Step 4:

[1178] The server transmits the acquired observation diary data to the terminal.

[1179] Step 5:

[1180] The terminal displays the received observation diary data.

[1181] Exchange information with other users

[1182] Step 1:

[1183] If a user wishes to exchange information with other users, the communication screen is opened.

[1184] Step 2:

[1185] The device sends the user's observation diary and photos to the server and shares them.

[1186] Step 3:

[1187] The server prepares the shared data for display to other users.

[1188] Step 4:

[1189] Other users can view the shared data on their own devices and enter comments and advice.

[1190] Step 5:

[1191] The server notifies the original user of the comment or advice.

[1192] Step 6:

[1193] The original user will review the comments and advice and respond if necessary.

[1194] In this way, each process in this system works in conjunction with the user, terminal, and server, allowing users to easily grow plants, enjoy the process of their growth, observe and record it in detail, and exchange information with other users.

[1195] Example 1

[1196] 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."

[1197] Currently, many people cultivate plants and enjoy watching them grow. However, observing and recording their growth is time-consuming and often difficult, especially for beginners. Furthermore, there are limited ways to share information about plant growth with other users, leaving few opportunities to share knowledge and experiences. Furthermore, there are few ways to enjoy the growth of real plants, as well as the visual enjoyment of virtual characters. There is a need for a system that solves these issues, makes plant growth observation and communication easier, and also provides visual enjoyment.

[1198] 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.

[1199] In this invention, the server includes a means for a user to take a photo of a plant using an image capture device and acquire the image data, an analysis means for transmitting the acquired image data to a processing device and recognizing the state of the plant, and a means for generating the plant as a virtual character based on the analysis results. This makes it possible to easily observe, record, and share the growth process of the plant, and furthermore, to visually enjoy the growth of the plant as a virtual character.

[1200] "User" means an individual or group that grows plants and observes, records, and shares their growth.

[1201] A "photograph of a plant" is image data of a plant under cultivation that is taken by a user using an image capture device.

[1202] The "means for acquiring image data" refers to a method for saving a photograph of a plant taken by a user with an image acquisition device as data in a terminal.

[1203] The "processing device" is a computer system that transmits the acquired image data to a server, analyzes it, and generates a virtual character.

[1204] The "analysis means" refers to machine learning algorithms and image analysis software that recognize the type and growth stage of plants based on image data of the plants.

[1205] A "virtual character" is a digital character that is generated based on the recognized state of the plant, and can be visually enjoyed by users.

[1206] "Augmented reality" is a technology that displays generated virtual characters superimposed on real scenery.

[1207] The "recording device" is a software function that allows users to record the plant growth process as an observation diary.

[1208] "Communication means" refers to network communication technologies that allow users to exchange information with other users.

[1209] The "Observation Diary" is a digital notebook that records the growth process of plants, including text and image data entered by the user.

[1210] This system allows users to cultivate plant seeds, observe and record their growth, and share information with other users. To implement this system, the following hardware and software are required:

[1211] Hardware and Software

[1212] Image capture device: A device with a camera, such as a smartphone or tablet

[1213] Processing equipment: Cloud server or local server

[1214] Communication method: Internet connection, WiFi network

[1215] Implementation details

[1216] The user takes a photo of the plant using their smartphone, which captures the image data and stores it in the device's local storage. The image data is then sent to a cloud server for further processing.

[1217] The server analyzes the received image data using a machine learning algorithm for image recognition. This algorithm is trained on a large number of plant image data and can identify the plant species and growth stage.

[1218] Once the analysis is complete, the server generates a virtual character based on the recognition results. This virtual character has different designs and characteristics depending on the plant's appearance and growth stage. The character information (3D model and animation data) is sent to the device.

[1219] The device uses the received character information to display the virtual character using augmented reality (AR) technology, allowing users to visually enjoy the virtual character appearing in the real world through their smartphone camera.

[1220] In addition, users can record observation diaries within the app, which include photos taken, textual growth records, and plant status information obtained from the server. Diaries are saved with timestamps and can be referenced later.

[1221] In order to exchange information, users can connect to other users on the network using communication means and share their observation diaries. It is also possible to receive comments and advice from other users, allowing them to share their knowledge and experiences about plant cultivation.

[1222] Specific examples

[1223] For example, suppose User A plants tomato seeds and takes a photo of the tomato with their smartphone a few days later. User A launches the app and uploads the photo. The device sends the image data to the server, which analyzes the image and identifies the tomato's current growth stage. The server then generates a virtual character corresponding to the tomato and sends that information to the device. User A can then enjoy watching the virtual tomato character appear in the real world through the smartphone camera.

[1224] When recording an observation diary, User A takes photos and enters text describing the growth of the plants, and saves the data. Later, User A can look back at past observation records and reconfirm the growth of the tomatoes. User A can also share information with another user, User B, and compare their observation diaries to gain new knowledge and ideas.

[1225] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1226] "Design a system that recognizes the growth stage of a plant based on a photo taken by the user and generates a corresponding virtual character."

[1227] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1228] Step 1:

[1229] The user takes a photo of a plant.

[1230] Input: A user takes an image of a plant using their smartphone camera.

[1231] How it works: The user launches the app and uses their smartphone's camera to take a photo of the plant, adjusting the camera's position and angle to obtain a clear image.

[1232] Output: Image data of the photographed plants is generated.

[1233] Step 2:

[1234] The device acquires and stores the image data.

[1235] Input: Image data of a plant taken by the user.

[1236] Specific operation: The device will automatically save the captured image to local storage. After saving is complete, a notification "Image saved" will be displayed to the user.

[1237] Output: Plant image data saved in local storage.

[1238] Step 3:

[1239] The terminal transmits the image data to the server.

[1240] Input: Plant image data stored in local storage.

[1241] How it works: The device compresses the stored image data and uploads it to the server in the background, displaying a progress bar so the user can see the progress of the upload.

[1242] Output: Plant image data uploaded to the server.

[1243] Step 4:

[1244] The server analyzes the image data and recognizes the condition of the plants.

[1245] Input: Plant image data uploaded to the server.

[1246] How it works: The server analyzes the image data using a machine learning algorithm. The algorithm uses the image data as input to identify the plant species and growth stage. During the analysis, the status "Identifying plant species..." is displayed.

[1247] Output: Plant type and growth stage recognition results.

[1248] Step 5:

[1249] The server generates a virtual character based on the recognition results.

[1250] Input: Plant type and growth stage recognition results.

[1251] Specific operation: Based on the recognition results, the server determines the design and characteristics of the corresponding virtual character and generates the virtual character. During this time, a preview screen of the virtual character is generated.

[1252] Output: Generated virtual character information (3D model data and animation data).

[1253] Step 6:

[1254] The server transmits the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[1255] Input: Generated virtual character information.

[1256] Specific operation: The server sends the virtual character information to the terminal. After the transmission is complete, the server notifies the terminal that "the virtual character has been generated."

[1257] Output: Virtual character information received by the device.

[1258] Step 7:

[1259] The device uses augmented reality to display a virtual character.

[1260] Input: Virtual character information received by the terminal.

[1261] Specific operation: Based on the received character information, the device uses augmented reality (AR) to display the virtual character in the real world. The user can see the virtual character appearing in the real world through the smartphone camera.

[1262] Output: A video of a virtual character displayed on a smartphone screen.

[1263] Step 8:

[1264] Users record their observation diary within the app.

[1265] Input: Images taken or text entered by the user using their smartphone.

[1266] How it works: Users use the app's observation diary function to record photos they have taken and their observations as text. Once recording is complete, a confirmation message appears saying, "Observation diary saved."

[1267] Output: Archived observation diary.

[1268] Step 9:

[1269] Users exchange information with other users.

[1270] Input: Observation journals and comments shared by users.

[1271] Specific operation: Users use the app's communication function to share their observation diaries with other users. Other users can comment on the shared diaries and provide advice, facilitating the exchange of information.

[1272] Output: Feedback and comments from other users.

[1273] (Application example 1)

[1274] 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."

[1275] Conventional plant growing systems have limited functionality to provide visual enjoyment when users observe the growth of plants, resulting in a monotonous user experience. Furthermore, there are issues with the lack of smooth information exchange with other users, limiting opportunities to gain knowledge about plant growing through communication. This makes it difficult to maintain users' interest, resulting in a lack of effectiveness in plant growing.

[1276] 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.

[1277] In this invention, the server includes means for a user to take an image of a plant and acquire the image data, means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating a virtual character for the plant, means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character, means for providing an observation diary function for the user to record the plant's growth process, means for communication that enables information exchange with other users, and means for visually displaying the virtual character according to the plant's growth stage and providing an interactive experience in physical space. This allows users to enjoy the visual experience of plant growth and further enables them to share knowledge and ideas about plant cultivation through communication with other users.

[1278] "Means for taking images of plants" refers to a method in which a user takes a photo of a plant using a device (e.g., a smartphone or tablet) and obtains the image data.

[1279] The "means for acquiring image data" refers to a method for storing photographs of plants as digital data within a device.

[1280] The "means for recognizing the state of a plant" is a method that uses an algorithm to determine the growth stage and type of a plant based on the acquired image data.

[1281] The "means for generating a virtual character" is a method for digitally creating a character that reflects the appearance and characteristics of a plant based on the recognized state of the plant.

[1282] "Means for providing augmented reality functionality" refers to a method for making a generated virtual character appear in real space, allowing a user to visually experience the character through a device.

[1283] The "means for providing an observation diary function" is a system that allows users to input text and photos to record and save the growth process of plants.

[1284] "Communications means" are network facilities and protocols that enable users to exchange information with other users.

[1285] A "means for visually displaying a virtual character" is a method for displaying a virtual character on the screen of a user's device, enabling an interactive experience.

[1286] "Means for providing interactive experiences in physical space" refers to a feature that uses augmented reality technology to allow users to interact with virtual characters in their real environment.

[1287] The present invention relates to a system that allows a user to take images of plants and observe their growth process. Specific embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described below.

[1288] The system includes a means for users to take images of plants using a device such as a smartphone or tablet, and acquire the image data, which is then stored in the device and used for subsequent processing.

[1289] The device then sends the acquired image data to a server. The server receives the image data and analyzes it using a generative AI model such as TensorFlow. This analysis runs an algorithm that recognizes the plant's condition and generates a virtual character based on that plant. Specifically, the server identifies the plant's type and growth stage and generates corresponding virtual character information.

[1290] The generated virtual character information is displayed on the device using the augmented reality (AR) function. Users can visually experience the virtual character in real space through the camera of their smartphone or tablet, allowing them to visually enjoy the daily growth of their plants.

[1291] The system also includes an observation diary function, allowing users to record the growth process of their plants by entering text and images. The data entered by the user is saved in the observation diary, allowing users to review it at a later date. Furthermore, users can use communication tools that enable information exchange with other users to share information about their observation diary and plant growth, and receive comments and advice from other users.

[1292] This allows users to enjoy the visual experience of growing plants, and also allows them to share their knowledge and ideas about growing plants through communication with other users.

[1293] (Example)

[1294] For example, suppose User A grows tomato seedlings and takes a picture of the tomato with their smartphone a few days later. User A uploads the image through the app. The server receives the image data and uses TensorFlow to analyze the tomato's growth stage. A corresponding virtual tomato character is then generated and sent to User A's device. User A can then enjoy watching the virtual tomato character appear in real space through their smartphone's camera.

[1295] In addition, User A can use the observation diary function to record the growth of the plant along with the photos he or she has taken, and save the data. Furthermore, by sharing the observation diary with other users and exchanging comments, they can deepen their knowledge of plant cultivation.

[1296] Example prompts to input to the generative AI model:

[1297] "Users upload images of plants taken with their smartphones, and the AI ​​model analyzes them to recognize the state of the plant (e.g., a tomato seedling). The AI ​​model then generates a virtual character to be displayed in augmented reality based on the recognition results."

[1298] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1299] Step 1:

[1300] A user takes an image of a plant using a device such as a smartphone or tablet, and acquires the image data.

[1301] Input: Plant image

[1302] Output: Captured image data

[1303] Data processing and calculation: The user takes a picture of the plant using the device's camera app, and the image data is stored on the device.

[1304] Step 2:

[1305] The terminal transmits the acquired image data to the server.

[1306] Input: Photographed image data

[1307] Output: Sending image data to the server

[1308] Data processing and calculation: The terminal uploads image data to the server via the network. The data is converted into a specific format (e.g., JPEG, PNG) and then sent.

[1309] Step 3:

[1310] The server receives the image data and analyzes it using a generative AI model such as TensorFlow.

[1311] Input: Image data uploaded to the server

[1312] Output: What type of plant is it and its stage of development?

[1313] Data processing and calculation: After receiving the image data, the server performs image analysis using open source libraries (e.g., TensorFlow). Algorithms are applied to recognize the plant species and growth stage, and the results are obtained.

[1314] Step 4:

[1315] The server generates an appropriate virtual character based on the analysis results.

[1316] Input: Plant type and growth stage information

[1317] Output: Virtual character data

[1318] Data processing and calculation: The server generates a virtual character that reflects the plant's appearance and personality based on the plant's condition information. The generated character data is saved as a 3D model or animation data.

[1319] Step 5:

[1320] The server transmits the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[1321] Input: Virtual character data

[1322] Output: Sending character data to the terminal

[1323] Data processing and calculation: The server formats the data of the generated virtual character and sends it to the user's device via the network.

[1324] Step 6:

[1325] The virtual character information received by the terminal is displayed using an augmented reality function.

[1326] Input: Virtual character data

[1327] Output: Virtual character displayed on the screen through Augmented Reality (AR)

[1328] Data processing and calculation: The device uses an AR library (e.g., ARKit, ARCore) to overlay the received character data onto real-world images, allowing the user to visually experience the virtual character through the device's camera.

[1329] Step 7:

[1330] Users can use the observation diary function to record the growth process of plants.

[1331] Input: User-entered text and images

[1332] Output: Observation diary data

[1333] Data processing and calculation: Users can input text and images into the app and save them as an observation diary. The data is formatted and saved so that it can be viewed again at a later date.

[1334] Step 8:

[1335] A user uses a communication means to exchange information with other users.

[1336] Input: Observation diary and plant growth information

[1337] Output: Exchange information with other users, receive comments and advice

[1338] Data processing and calculation: Users can share their observation diaries and growth information with other users through the app, and information is exchanged via the network function, allowing them to receive comments and advice from other users.

[1339] 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.

[1340] The present invention relates to a system for allowing a user to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth process. The system includes means for allowing a user to take a photo of the plant and acquire image data thereof, means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating a virtual character of the plant, means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character, means for providing an observation diary function for the user to record the growth process of the plant, means for communication that enables information exchange with other users, and an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions.

[1341] A means for users to take photos of plants and obtain image data

[1342] The user takes a photo of the plant using their smartphone, which then captures and stores the image data for subsequent processing.

[1343] A method for recognizing the state of a plant from acquired image data and generating that plant as a virtual character

[1344] The image data stored on the device is sent to a server. The server analyzes the image data and uses an algorithm to recognize the plant's condition to identify the plant's type and growth stage. Once identification is complete, the server generates a virtual character based on the plant's condition. This virtual character has the appearance and personality of the plant, allowing users to enjoy growing it.

[1345] Augmented reality functionality for viewing generated virtual characters

[1346] The device receives the virtual character information sent from the server and displays it using augmented reality. Users can see the virtual character appear in the real world through their smartphone camera, allowing them to visually enjoy the growth of their plants.

[1347] Observation diary function for users to record plant growth process

[1348] Users can record observation diaries within the app. The observation diary includes text entered by the user, photos taken, and plant condition information obtained from the server. Users can record the growth process of plants and the results of their observations and look back on them later.

[1349] A means of communication that allows you to exchange information with other users

[1350] Users can exchange information with other users through the app. Using communication tools, users can share their observation diaries and growth progress, and receive comments and advice from other users. This allows users to learn about plant cultivation through communication.

[1351] Emotion engine that recognizes user emotions

[1352] The emotion engine recognizes emotions from the user's facial expressions and inputs and uses that data to adjust the system's overall response. For example, if the user is sad or happy, the virtual character's facial expression and behavior will change accordingly. This allows users to grow plants with a stronger emotional connection.

[1353] Specific examples of program processing

[1354] Step 1 (example of user registration):

[1355] The user downloads and launches the app. They access the new registration screen and enter the required information (username, email address, password). The device sends the entered information to the server. The server creates a new user record in the database based on the received information and sends a registration success response to the device. The device then displays a registration success message to the user.

[1356] Step 2 (Example of starting observation of Kaiware Daikon):

[1357] After the user plants the kaiware daikon, they take a photo of the daikon with their smartphone a few days later. The device acquires the image and sends it to the server. The server analyzes the image and recognizes the daikon's growth stage. The server generates a virtual character based on the recognition results and sends the information to the device. The device then displays the virtual character in augmented reality based on the received information.

[1358] Step 3 (Example of observation diary entry):

[1359] The user observes the growing daikon radish and records the observations in the app's observation diary with text and photos. When the user presses the save button, the device sends the recorded data to the server. The server receives the data and stores it in the user database. The server returns a notification of successful saving to the device, and the device displays a message that saving was successful.

[1360] Step 4 (Example of using the Emotion Engine):

[1361] While the user is taking a picture of the daikon radish with their smartphone camera, the emotion engine recognizes the user's facial expressions. For example, if the user is smiling, the emotion engine will capture that emotional data and make the virtual character show a happy expression accordingly. This kind of response makes the user feel more connected to the experience.

[1362] In this way, the functions of this system work together among the user, device, and server, allowing users to easily grow plants, enjoy the process of growing, observe and record in detail, and exchange information with other users. Furthermore, by utilizing an emotion engine, the system can respond to the user's emotions, providing a more personalized experience.

[1363] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1364] User Registration

[1365] Step 1:

[1366] The user downloads and launches the app.

[1367] Step 2:

[1368] The user accesses the new registration screen.

[1369] Step 3:

[1370] The user enters their username, email address, and password.

[1371] Step 4:

[1372] The terminal sends the input information to the server.

[1373] Step 5:

[1374] The server adds new user information to the user database based on the received information.

[1375] Step 6:

[1376] The server generates a user ID and sends a successful registration response to the terminal.

[1377] Step 7:

[1378] The device displays a registration success message to the user.

[1379] Observation of Kaiware Daikon begins

[1380] Step 1:

[1381] Users sow daikon radish seeds.

[1382] Step 2:

[1383] The user takes a photo to record the initial state of the radish.

[1384] Step 3:

[1385] The device acquires the photograph and saves it as image data.

[1386] Step 4:

[1387] The terminal transmits the image data to the server.

[1388] Step 5:

[1389] The server analyzes the image data and applies an algorithm to recognize the condition of the radish.

[1390] Step 6:

[1391] The server generates a virtual character based on the recognized data.

[1392] Step 7:

[1393] The server transmits the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[1394] Step 8:

[1395] The device displays the virtual character using augmented reality.

[1396] Observation diary records

[1397] Step 1:

[1398] Users observe the growth of the radish.

[1399] Step 2:

[1400] The user opens the observation diary screen.

[1401] Step 3:

[1402] Users input their observations and photos.

[1403] Step 4:

[1404] The user presses the "Save" button to save the observation diary entry.

[1405] Step 5:

[1406] The terminal sends the entry contents to the server.

[1407] Step 6:

[1408] The server stores the received entry in the user database.

[1409] Step 7:

[1410] The server sends a response to the terminal indicating that the save was successful.

[1411] Step 8:

[1412] The device displays a successful save message to the user.

[1413] Looking back on the observation diary

[1414] Step 1:

[1415] If the user wants to look back on past observation records, they open the observation diary screen.

[1416] Step 2:

[1417] The terminal sends a request for observation diary data to the server.

[1418] Step 3:

[1419] The server retrieves the observation diary data from the user database.

[1420] Step 4:

[1421] The server transmits the acquired observation diary data to the terminal.

[1422] Step 5:

[1423] The terminal displays the received observation diary data.

[1424] Exchange information with other users

[1425] Step 1:

[1426] If a user wishes to exchange information with other users, the communication screen is opened.

[1427] Step 2:

[1428] The device sends the user's observation diary and photos to the server and shares them.

[1429] Step 3:

[1430] The server prepares the shared data for display to other users.

[1431] Step 4:

[1432] Other users can view the shared data on their own devices and enter comments and advice.

[1433] Step 5:

[1434] The server notifies the original user of the comment or advice.

[1435] Step 6:

[1436] The original user will review the comments and advice and respond if necessary.

[1437] Use of emotion engine

[1438] Step 1:

[1439] The user takes a photo of the daikon radish using their smartphone camera.

[1440] Step 2:

[1441] The device recognizes the user's facial expressions in real time.

[1442] Step 3:

[1443] The device transmits the recognized emotion data to the server.

[1444] Step 4:

[1445] The server analyzes the received emotional data and adjusts the virtual character's response.

[1446] Step 5:

[1447] The server transmits the adjusted virtual character information to the terminal.

[1448] Step 6:

[1449] The device displays the virtual character's facial expressions and actions according to the emotion.

[1450] This concrete process allows users to easily manage, observe, record, and share information about the plant's growth process with other users, and utilizes an emotion engine to provide a more personal experience.

[1451] Example 2

[1452] 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."

[1453] While conventional plant cultivation systems allow users to observe the growth process of plants, it is difficult for them to visually enjoy the process or exchange information with other users. Furthermore, there is a lack of a way for users to feel an emotional connection to the growth of their plants. This limits the satisfaction and educational benefits users can get from plant cultivation.

[1454] 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.

[1455] In this invention, the server includes means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating the plant as a virtual character, means for transmitting information about the virtual character generated by the server to the terminal, and an emotion engine for recognizing the user's emotions and adjusting the facial expressions and behavior of the virtual character. This allows the user to visually enjoy the growth process of the plant, facilitates information exchange with other users, and enables responses according to the user's emotions.

[1456] "User" refers to an individual who uses the system to cultivate and observe plants.

[1457] A "server" is a computer system that receives image data sent by users, analyzes it, and generates virtual characters.

[1458] "Terminal" refers to a device that the user directly operates to take photos of plants, enter observation diaries, display virtual characters, etc.

[1459] "Image data" refers to photographic information of plants taken by a user using the device's camera and stored in digital format.

[1460] A "virtual character" is a digital avatar generated by the server that reflects the state of the plant.

[1461] "Augmented reality function" refers to technology that blends the real world and the virtual world through a device to display virtual characters.

[1462] The "Observation Diary Function" allows users to record the growth process of plants, save text and images, and view them at a later date.

[1463] "Communication Method" means a network-based mechanism used by users to exchange information with one another.

[1464] The "emotion engine" is an artificial intelligence technology that recognizes emotions from the user's facial expressions and inputs and reflects them in the virtual character's responses.

[1465] The present invention relates to a system that allows users to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth process. Users can take photos of plants using a device such as a smartphone and send the image data to a server, allowing them to analyze the plant's growth and enjoy its visuals.

[1466] Hardware and software used

[1467] This system is implemented using the following hardware and software:

[1468] Smartphone (terminal): A device that allows users to take photos of plants, record observation diaries, display virtual characters, etc.

[1469] Server: A computer system that receives and analyzes image data, generates virtual characters, and manages the database.

[1470] Computer vision algorithms: used to analyze image data and recognize plant species and growth stages (e.g., TensorFlow, OpenCV).

[1471] Augmented reality (AR) technology: Used to display virtual characters in the real world (e.g., ARKit, ARCore).

[1472] Emotion recognition engine: Used to analyze the user's emotions and reflect them in the virtual character's responses (e.g., IBM Watson, Google Cloud Vision API).

[1473] Process Overview

[1474] 1. The user takes a photo of a plant and acquires the image data.

[1475] Users take photos of plants using their smartphone camera.

[1476] The device acquires the photo as image data and stores it in its internal storage.

[1477] 2. Image data analysis and virtual character generation

[1478] The terminal transmits the stored image data to the server.

[1479] The server uses computer vision algorithms to analyze the image data and identify the plant species and growth stage.

[1480] The server generates a virtual character based on the recognition result and transmits virtual character information to the terminal.

[1481] 3. Virtual character display in augmented reality

[1482] The terminal receives the virtual character information transmitted from the server.

[1483] The device uses augmented reality technology to display virtual characters on the camera image.

[1484] Users watch as virtual characters appear in the real world through their smartphone screens.

[1485] 4. Recording an observation diary

[1486] Users can use the app's observation diary function to record their observations in text and photos.

[1487] The terminal sends the recorded content to the server, which stores it in a database.

[1488] A notification of successful save will be sent to the device and displayed to the user.

[1489] 5. Exchange of information with other users

[1490] Users can share their observation diaries and plant growth progress with other users.

[1491] The server receives comments and advice from other users and sends them to the terminal.

[1492] 6. Use of Emotion Engines

[1493] While the user takes a picture of the plant with their smartphone camera, the emotion engine recognizes the user's facial expressions.

[1494] The server obtains the user's emotional data and adjusts the virtual character's facial expressions and behavior based on that data.

[1495] This allows users to have a more emotional connection with growing their plants.

[1496] Examples of prompt statements

[1497] "After taking photos of your plants, share them with other users and add them to your observation journal."

[1498] In this way, the system provides a series of processes for visually and emotionally enjoying the cultivation and observation of the growth process of plants through collaboration between users, devices, and the server. Furthermore, by utilizing the emotion engine, it is possible to realize a personalized experience and increase user satisfaction.

[1499] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1500] Step 1:

[1501] The user takes a photo of the plant

[1502] Input: The physical action of the user taking a photo of the plant they are growing.

[1503] Process: The user launches the camera app on their device (smartphone) and takes a photo of a plant.

[1504] Output: High-resolution image data is acquired and stored on the device.

[1505] Specific action: The user launches the camera app, focuses on a plant, and presses the shutter button.

[1506] Step 2:

[1507] The device sends the image data to the server.

[1508] Input: Image data captured and saved by the user.

[1509] Processing: The device identifies the stored image data and uses a data transfer protocol to send it to the server, in this case HTTP POST.

[1510] Output: Image data is sent to and received from the server.

[1511] Specific operation: The terminal program generates an HTTP POST request and sends it to the server's image receiving API.

[1512] Step 3:

[1513] The server analyzes the image data and recognizes the condition of the plants.

[1514] Input: Image data sent from the device.

[1515] Processing: The server applies computer vision algorithms (e.g., TensorFlow, OpenCV) to the received image data to identify the plant species and growth stage.

[1516] Output: Plant type information and growth stage information.

[1517] What it does: The server passes the image data to the algorithm, which applies a trained model to extract plant features, which are then used to identify the species and developmental stage.

[1518] Step 4:

[1519] The server generates a virtual character

[1520] Input: Plant type information and growth stage information.

[1521] Processing: The server creates a character using a virtual character generation algorithm that corresponds to the type of plant and its growth stage.

[1522] Output: Virtual character information (3D model, animation data, etc.).

[1523] What it does: The server uses 3D model generation software to render a virtual character based on the identified plant information.

[1524] Step 5:

[1525] The server sends virtual character information to the device.

[1526] Input: Generated virtual character information.

[1527] Processing: The server converts the virtual character information into packets and uses a data transmission protocol to send them to the terminal.

[1528] Output: The device receives the virtual character information.

[1529] Specific operation: The server sends data to the device's dedicated API endpoint using a protocol such as HTTP POST or WebSocket.

[1530] Step 6:

[1531] The device displays a virtual character using the augmented reality (AR) function

[1532] Input: Virtual character information received from the server.

[1533] Processing: The device passes the received virtual character information to an AR library (e.g., ARKit, ARCore) and displays it as an overlay on the real world.

[1534] Output: Augmented reality virtual character displayed on a smartphone screen.

[1535] What it does: The device renders a virtual character in the camera view, adjusting its position and scale accordingly.

[1536] Step 7:

[1537] Users record observation diaries

[1538] Input: User observations (text, images, etc.).

[1539] Processing: The user enters text and photos for the observation diary and presses the save button. The device then sends this data to the server.

[1540] Output: Observation diary data stored on the server.

[1541] Specific operation: The user fills in the observation details using an input form on the device and sends the data to the server, which then stores the received data in a database.

[1542] Step 8:

[1543] Exchange information with other users

[1544] Input: User observation diary, comments, feedback, etc.

[1545] Processing: In order for you to share information with other users through the app, your device sends the data to the server, which processes it and shares it with other users.

[1546] Output: Comments and feedback from other users.

[1547] How it works: The device sends the user's observation diary and comments to the server, which distributes them to other users' devices, receives feedback, and returns it to the original user.

[1548] Step 9:

[1549] Uses an emotion engine to recognize user emotions and adjust the virtual character's response

[1550] Input: User facial expression data and input text.

[1551] Processing: The device captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and sends them to the emotion engine. The emotion engine analyzes them and sends the emotional data to the server. The server then adjusts the virtual character's response based on the emotional data.

[1552] Output: Coordinated facial expressions and behaviors of the virtual character.

[1553] How it works: The facial expression data captured by the device is analyzed by the emotion engine. The server updates the virtual character's facial expressions and behavior in real time based on the results.

[1554] (Application example 2)

[1555] 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."

[1556] Conventional plant cultivation systems have limited functionality for users to visually enjoy the growth process of their plants, resulting in a lack of interactive experiences with the plants. They also lack the functionality to share plant cultivation records with other users and promote communication. Furthermore, they lack the ability to recognize users' emotions and respond accordingly, preventing a more personalized experience. To solve these problems, a system is needed that allows users to enjoy growing plants while also exchanging information with other users and receiving responses based on their emotions.

[1557] 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 a user to take a photo of a plant and acquire the image data, means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating a virtual character for the plant, means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character, means for providing an observation diary function for a user to record the plant's growth process, communication means for enabling information exchange with other users, and an emotion recognition engine for recognizing the user's emotions and using that data to adjust the virtual character's responses. This allows a user to visually enjoy the plant's cultivation process, exchange information with other users, and further enable interaction according to the user's emotions.

[1558] "User" means an individual or entity that uses the Service or System.

[1559] A "plant" is a living organism that grows in soil or other medium and is intended for cultivation or observation.

[1560] "Image data" refers to digitally saved photographs and videos of plants taken by users.

[1561] "Virtual Characters" are digital objects generated based on the state of plants photographed by the user, providing an interactive experience.

[1562] "Augmented reality" is a technology that displays virtual characters and information overlaid on images of the real world.

[1563] The "observation diary function" allows users to record the growth process of plants and their observations, and view them at a later date.

[1564] "Communication tools" are digital communication facilities that allow users to exchange information with other users.

[1565] An "emotion recognition engine" is a function that analyzes a user's facial expressions and behavior to identify their emotions and adjust the system's response accordingly.

[1566] This invention relates to a system that allows users to visually and interactively enjoy the cultivation and growth process of plants. This system features the use of smartphones, cloud servers, AR technology, image analysis algorithms, and emotion recognition engines.

[1567] Hardware and Software Use

[1568] 1. Smartphone

[1569] Users take photos of plants using their smartphone camera and send the data to the system via the application.

[1570] The application, which runs on smartphones, is developed using React Native, and Firebase handles data synchronization and authentication.

[1571] 2. Cloud Server

[1572] The server uses Node.js and MySQL to manage user data and plant growth information.

[1573] OpenCV and TensorFlow are used for image analysis, which allows the system to identify the type of plant and its growth stage, and generate a virtual character.

[1574] 3. Augmented Reality (AR) Technology

[1575] The augmented reality feature is realized using Unity and ARKit. Virtual character information sent from the server is overlaid on the real world on the smartphone.

[1576] 4. Emotion Recognition Engine

[1577] The emotion recognition engine uses the Facial Expression Library and PyTorch to acquire user facial expression data and adjust the virtual character's response based on the analysis results.

[1578] System processing flow

[1579] 1. User Registration

[1580] The user downloads the app, enters the required information (username, email address, password), and sends it to the server. The server saves the registered information in a MySQL database and sends a receipt confirmation message to the device.

[1581] 2. Plant photography and image analysis

[1582] When a user takes a photo of a plant, the image data is sent to a server. The server analyzes the image using OpenCV and TensorFlow to identify the plant's type and growth stage. Based on the results of the analysis, a virtual character is generated and the information is sent to the device.

[1583] 3. Augmented reality display

[1584] The device then uses its AR functionality to display the received virtual character information in real space, allowing users to visually enjoy the virtual character appearing in the real world.

[1585] 4. Recording an observation diary

[1586] Users record their observation diary in the app. The recorded data, in text and photos, is sent to the server and saved in a MySQL database. A notification of successful saving is returned to the device, and a message is displayed on the smartphone.

[1587] 5. Applications of Emotion Recognition Engines

[1588] While the user is taking a photo, the emotion recognition engine works to analyze the user's facial expression data. For example, if the user smiles, the emotion recognition engine will detect this and the system will respond by making the virtual character show a happy expression.

[1589] Examples and prompts

[1590] Examples:

[1591] Users take a photo of the basil they have been growing for a week with their smartphone and record it in the Virtual Botanical Garden 3D app. The emotion engine recognizes the user's smile, and the virtual basil sways happily in response.

[1592] Example prompt sentence:

[1593] "I took a photo of my basil growing after a week. Add it to the Virtual Botanical Garden 3D app and record your observations in your journal. And make sure my virtual basil is happy when I smile."

[1594] This system allows users to visually enjoy the growth process of their plants while cultivating them, exchange information with other users, and even receive emotional responses, making the cultivation experience more personal and interactive.

[1595] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1596] The specific processing steps of the invention are described below.

[1597] Step 1: User Registration

[1598] Input: The user enters their name, email address, and password on the new registration screen.

[1599] Operation: The device sends this information to the server.

[1600] Data processing: The server creates a new user record in the database based on the received information.

[1601] Output: A successful registration response is sent to the terminal, and the terminal displays a successful registration message to the user.

[1602] Step 2: Photograph and submit your plant

[1603] Input: User takes a photo of a plant with their smartphone camera.

[1604] Operation: The device sends the captured image data to the server.

[1605] Data processing: The server stores the received image data.

[1606] Output: The server notifies you that the data was saved successfully.

[1607] Step 3: Image analysis and virtual character generation

[1608] Input: The image data received by the server in step 2.

[1609] How it works: The server uses OpenCV and TensorFlow to analyze images and identify plant species and growth stages.

[1610] Data processing: Generate a virtual character based on the recognition results.

[1611] Output: Send the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[1612] Step 4: Augmented reality display

[1613] Input: Virtual character information received by the device from the server.

[1614] How it works: The device uses Unity and ARKit to power its augmented reality features, overlaying virtual characters onto the real world.

[1615] Data calculation: Adapting the position and movement of virtual characters to real space.

[1616] Output: The user can see the virtual character through their smartphone.

[1617] Step 5: Record your observation diary

[1618] Input: The user enters text and photos into the observation diary within the app.

[1619] Operation: The terminal sends the entered information to the server.

[1620] Data processing: The server stores the received data in a MySQL database.

[1621] Output: A successful save notification is returned to the device, which displays it to the user.

[1622] Step 6: Applying the Emotion Recognition Engine

[1623] Input: Facial expression data while the user is photographing a plant.

[1624] How it works: The device camera captures the user's facial expressions and analyzes their emotions using the Facial Expression Library and PyTorch.

[1625] Data calculation: Adjust the facial expressions and behavior of the virtual character based on the user's emotional data.

[1626] Output: The virtual character's response corresponding to the user's emotion is displayed on the terminal.

[1627] The system is realized through the above steps. The purpose of this program's processing flow is to allow users to grow plants and enjoy the process visually and interactively. It also provides a more fulfilling cultivation experience by enabling information exchange with other users and responding to the user's emotions.

[1628] 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.

[1629] 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.

[1630] 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.

[1631] [Fourth embodiment]

[1632] FIG. 7 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 410 according to the fourth embodiment.

[1633] 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.

[1634] 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).

[1635] 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.

[1636] 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.

[1637] 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).

[1638] 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.

[1639] 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.

[1640] 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.

[1641] 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.

[1642] 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.

[1643] 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.

[1644] 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."

[1645] The present invention relates to a system for allowing a user to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth process. The system includes means for allowing a user to take a photo of the plant and acquire image data thereof, means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating a virtual character of the plant, means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character, means for providing an observation diary function for allowing the user to record the growth process of the plant, and means for communication that enables information exchange with other users.

[1646] A means for users to take photos of plants and obtain image data

[1647] The user takes a photo of a plant using a smartphone. The device acquires and saves the photo as image data, which is used for subsequent processing.

[1648] A method for recognizing the state of a plant from acquired image data and generating that plant as a virtual character

[1649] The image data stored on the device is sent to a server. The server analyzes the image data and uses an algorithm to recognize the plant's condition to identify the plant's type and growth stage. Once identification is complete, the server generates a virtual character based on the plant's condition. This virtual character has the appearance and personality of the plant, allowing users to enjoy growing it.

[1650] Augmented reality functionality for viewing generated virtual characters

[1651] The device receives the virtual character information sent from the server and displays it using augmented reality. Users can see the virtual character appear in the real world through their smartphone camera, allowing them to visually enjoy the growth of their plants.

[1652] Observation diary function for users to record plant growth process

[1653] Users can record observation diaries within the app. The observation diary includes text entered by the user, photos taken, and plant condition information obtained from the server. Users can record the growth process of plants and the results of their observations and look back on them later.

[1654] A means of communication that allows you to exchange information with other users

[1655] Users can exchange information with other users through the app. Using communication tools, users can share their observation diaries and growth progress, and receive comments and advice from other users. This allows users to learn about plant cultivation through communication.

[1656] Specific examples

[1657] For example, suppose user A plants kaiware daikon seeds and takes a photo a few days later. User A launches the app and uploads the photo. The device sends the photo to the server, which analyzes the photo and identifies the current growth stage of the kaiware daikon. The server then generates a virtual character corresponding to the kaiware daikon and sends that information to the device. User A enjoys watching the virtual kaiware daikon character appear in the real world through the smartphone camera.

[1658] When User A records an observation diary, he or she takes photos and enters text describing the growth of the plants, saving the data. Later, User A can look back at past observation records and reconfirm the growth of the kaiware daikon. Furthermore, by sharing information with another user, User B, and comparing each other's observation diaries, User A can gain new knowledge and ideas about cultivation.

[1659] In this way, the system of the present invention allows users to easily learn while enjoying the growth of plants.

[1660] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1661] Program processing flow

[1662] User Registration

[1663] Step 1:

[1664] The user downloads the app and launches it. After launching, the user accesses the new registration screen.

[1665] Step 2:

[1666] The user enters a username, email address, and password.

[1667] Step 3:

[1668] The terminal sends the input information to the server.

[1669] Step 4:

[1670] Based on the information received by the server, new user information is added to the user database and a user ID is generated.

[1671] Step 5:

[1672] The server sends a successful registration response to the terminal.

[1673] Step 6:

[1674] The device displays a registration success message to the user.

[1675] Observation of Kaiware Daikon begins

[1676] Step 1:

[1677] Users sow daikon radish seeds and take photos to record their initial state.

[1678] Step 2:

[1679] The device acquires the photograph and saves it as image data.

[1680] Step 3:

[1681] The terminal transmits the image data to the server.

[1682] Step 4:

[1683] The server analyzes the image data and applies an algorithm to recognize the condition of the radish.

[1684] Step 5:

[1685] The server generates a virtual character based on the recognized data.

[1686] Step 6:

[1687] The server transmits the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[1688] Step 7:

[1689] The device displays the virtual character using augmented reality.

[1690] Observation diary records

[1691] Step 1:

[1692] The user observes the daikon radish and opens the observation diary screen.

[1693] Step 2:

[1694] Users enter their observations and photographs in text and image format.

[1695] Step 3:

[1696] The user submits the observation diary entry by pressing the "Save" button.

[1697] Step 4:

[1698] The terminal sends the entry contents to the server.

[1699] Step 5:

[1700] The server stores the received entry in the user database.

[1701] Step 6:

[1702] The server sends a response to the terminal indicating that the save was successful.

[1703] Step 7:

[1704] The device displays a successful save message to the user.

[1705] Looking back on the observation diary

[1706] Step 1:

[1707] If the user wants to look back on past observation records, they open the observation diary screen.

[1708] Step 2:

[1709] The terminal sends a request for observation diary data to the server.

[1710] Step 3:

[1711] The server retrieves the observation diary data from the user database.

[1712] Step 4:

[1713] The server transmits the acquired observation diary data to the terminal.

[1714] Step 5:

[1715] The terminal displays the received observation diary data.

[1716] Exchange information with other users

[1717] Step 1:

[1718] If a user wishes to exchange information with other users, the communication screen is opened.

[1719] Step 2:

[1720] The device sends the user's observation diary and photos to the server and shares them.

[1721] Step 3:

[1722] The server prepares the shared data for display to other users.

[1723] Step 4:

[1724] Other users can view the shared data on their own devices and enter comments and advice.

[1725] Step 5:

[1726] The server notifies the original user of the comment or advice.

[1727] Step 6:

[1728] The original user will review the comments and advice and respond if necessary.

[1729] In this way, each process in this system works in conjunction with the user, terminal, and server, allowing users to easily grow plants, enjoy the process of their growth, observe and record it in detail, and exchange information with other users.

[1730] Example 1

[1731] 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."

[1732] Currently, many people cultivate plants and enjoy watching them grow. However, observing and recording their growth is time-consuming and often difficult, especially for beginners. Furthermore, there are limited ways to share information about plant growth with other users, leaving few opportunities to share knowledge and experiences. Furthermore, there are few ways to enjoy the growth of real plants, as well as the visual enjoyment of virtual characters. There is a need for a system that solves these issues, makes plant growth observation and communication easier, and also provides visual enjoyment.

[1733] 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.

[1734] In this invention, the server includes a means for a user to take a photo of a plant using an image capture device and acquire the image data, an analysis means for transmitting the acquired image data to a processing device and recognizing the state of the plant, and a means for generating the plant as a virtual character based on the analysis results. This makes it possible to easily observe, record, and share the growth process of the plant, and furthermore, to visually enjoy the growth of the plant as a virtual character.

[1735] "User" means an individual or group that grows plants and observes, records, and shares their growth.

[1736] A "photograph of a plant" is image data of a plant under cultivation that is taken by a user using an image capture device.

[1737] The "means for acquiring image data" refers to a method for saving a photograph of a plant taken by a user with an image acquisition device as data in a terminal.

[1738] The "processing device" is a computer system that transmits the acquired image data to a server, analyzes it, and generates a virtual character.

[1739] The "analysis means" refers to machine learning algorithms and image analysis software that recognize the type and growth stage of plants based on image data of the plants.

[1740] A "virtual character" is a digital character that is generated based on the recognized state of the plant, and can be visually enjoyed by users.

[1741] "Augmented reality" is a technology that displays generated virtual characters superimposed on real scenery.

[1742] The "recording device" is a software function that allows users to record the plant growth process as an observation diary.

[1743] "Communication means" refers to network communication technologies that allow users to exchange information with other users.

[1744] The "Observation Diary" is a digital notebook that records the growth process of plants, including text and image data entered by the user.

[1745] This system allows users to cultivate plant seeds, observe and record their growth, and share information with other users. To implement this system, the following hardware and software are required:

[1746] Hardware and Software

[1747] Image capture device: A device with a camera, such as a smartphone or tablet

[1748] Processing equipment: Cloud server or local server

[1749] Communication method: Internet connection, WiFi network

[1750] Implementation details

[1751] The user takes a photo of the plant using their smartphone, which captures the image data and stores it in the device's local storage. The image data is then sent to a cloud server for further processing.

[1752] The server analyzes the received image data using a machine learning algorithm for image recognition. This algorithm is trained on a large number of plant image data and can identify the plant species and growth stage.

[1753] Once the analysis is complete, the server generates a virtual character based on the recognition results. This virtual character has different designs and characteristics depending on the plant's appearance and growth stage. The character information (3D model and animation data) is sent to the device.

[1754] The device uses the received character information to display the virtual character using augmented reality (AR) technology, allowing users to visually enjoy the virtual character appearing in the real world through their smartphone camera.

[1755] In addition, users can record observation diaries within the app, which include photos taken, textual growth records, and plant status information obtained from the server. Diaries are saved with timestamps and can be referenced later.

[1756] In order to exchange information, users can connect to other users on the network using communication means and share their observation diaries. It is also possible to receive comments and advice from other users, allowing them to share their knowledge and experiences about plant cultivation.

[1757] Specific examples

[1758] For example, suppose User A plants tomato seeds and takes a photo of the tomato with their smartphone a few days later. User A launches the app and uploads the photo. The device sends the image data to the server, which analyzes the image and identifies the tomato's current growth stage. The server then generates a virtual character corresponding to the tomato and sends that information to the device. User A can then enjoy watching the virtual tomato character appear in the real world through the smartphone camera.

[1759] When recording an observation diary, User A takes photos and enters text describing the growth of the plants, and saves the data. Later, User A can look back at past observation records and reconfirm the growth of the tomatoes. User A can also share information with another user, User B, and compare their observation diaries to gain new knowledge and ideas.

[1760] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1761] "Design a system that recognizes the growth stage of a plant based on a photo taken by the user and generates a corresponding virtual character."

[1762] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1763] Step 1:

[1764] The user takes a photo of a plant.

[1765] Input: A user takes an image of a plant using their smartphone camera.

[1766] How it works: The user launches the app and uses their smartphone's camera to take a photo of the plant, adjusting the camera's position and angle to obtain a clear image.

[1767] Output: Image data of the photographed plants is generated.

[1768] Step 2:

[1769] The device acquires and stores the image data.

[1770] Input: Image data of a plant taken by the user.

[1771] Specific operation: The device will automatically save the captured image to local storage. After saving is complete, a notification "Image saved" will be displayed to the user.

[1772] Output: Plant image data saved in local storage.

[1773] Step 3:

[1774] The terminal transmits the image data to the server.

[1775] Input: Plant image data stored in local storage.

[1776] How it works: The device compresses the stored image data and uploads it to the server in the background, displaying a progress bar so the user can see the progress of the upload.

[1777] Output: Plant image data uploaded to the server.

[1778] Step 4:

[1779] The server analyzes the image data and recognizes the condition of the plants.

[1780] Input: Plant image data uploaded to the server.

[1781] How it works: The server analyzes the image data using a machine learning algorithm. The algorithm uses the image data as input to identify the plant species and growth stage. During the analysis, the status "Identifying plant species..." is displayed.

[1782] Output: Plant type and growth stage recognition results.

[1783] Step 5:

[1784] The server generates a virtual character based on the recognition results.

[1785] Input: Plant type and growth stage recognition results.

[1786] Specific operation: Based on the recognition results, the server determines the design and characteristics of the corresponding virtual character and generates the virtual character. During this time, a preview screen of the virtual character is generated.

[1787] Output: Generated virtual character information (3D model data and animation data).

[1788] Step 6:

[1789] The server transmits the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[1790] Input: Generated virtual character information.

[1791] Specific operation: The server sends the virtual character information to the terminal. After the transmission is complete, the server notifies the terminal that "the virtual character has been generated."

[1792] Output: Virtual character information received by the device.

[1793] Step 7:

[1794] The device uses augmented reality to display a virtual character.

[1795] Input: Virtual character information received by the terminal.

[1796] Specific operation: Based on the received character information, the device uses augmented reality (AR) to display the virtual character in the real world. The user can see the virtual character appearing in the real world through the smartphone camera.

[1797] Output: A video of a virtual character displayed on a smartphone screen.

[1798] Step 8:

[1799] Users record their observation diary within the app.

[1800] Input: Images taken or text entered by the user using their smartphone.

[1801] How it works: Users use the app's observation diary function to record photos they have taken and their observations as text. Once recording is complete, a confirmation message appears saying, "Observation diary saved."

[1802] Output: Archived observation diary.

[1803] Step 9:

[1804] Users exchange information with other users.

[1805] Input: Observation journals and comments shared by users.

[1806] Specific operation: Users use the app's communication function to share their observation diaries with other users. Other users can comment on the shared diaries and provide advice, facilitating the exchange of information.

[1807] Output: Feedback and comments from other users.

[1808] (Application example 1)

[1809] 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."

[1810] Conventional plant growing systems have limited functionality to provide visual enjoyment when users observe the growth of plants, resulting in a monotonous user experience. Furthermore, there are issues with the lack of smooth information exchange with other users, limiting opportunities to gain knowledge about plant growing through communication. This makes it difficult to maintain users' interest, resulting in a lack of effectiveness in plant growing.

[1811] 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.

[1812] In this invention, the server includes means for a user to take an image of a plant and acquire the image data, means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating a virtual character for the plant, means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character, means for providing an observation diary function for the user to record the plant's growth process, means for communication that enables information exchange with other users, and means for visually displaying the virtual character according to the plant's growth stage and providing an interactive experience in physical space. This allows users to enjoy the visual experience of plant growth and further enables them to share knowledge and ideas about plant cultivation through communication with other users.

[1813] "Means for taking images of plants" refers to a method in which a user takes a photo of a plant using a device (e.g., a smartphone or tablet) and obtains the image data.

[1814] The "means for acquiring image data" refers to a method for storing photographs of plants as digital data within a device.

[1815] The "means for recognizing the state of a plant" is a method that uses an algorithm to determine the growth stage and type of a plant based on the acquired image data.

[1816] The "means for generating a virtual character" is a method for digitally creating a character that reflects the appearance and characteristics of a plant based on the recognized state of the plant.

[1817] "Means for providing augmented reality functionality" refers to a method for making a generated virtual character appear in real space, allowing a user to visually experience the character through a device.

[1818] The "means for providing an observation diary function" is a system that allows users to input text and photos to record and save the growth process of plants.

[1819] "Communications means" are network facilities and protocols that enable users to exchange information with other users.

[1820] A "means for visually displaying a virtual character" is a method for displaying a virtual character on the screen of a user's device, enabling an interactive experience.

[1821] "Means for providing interactive experiences in physical space" refers to a feature that uses augmented reality technology to allow users to interact with virtual characters in their real environment.

[1822] The present invention relates to a system that allows a user to take images of plants and observe their growth process. Specific embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described below.

[1823] The system includes a means for users to take images of plants using a device such as a smartphone or tablet, and acquire the image data, which is then stored in the device and used for subsequent processing.

[1824] The device then sends the acquired image data to a server. The server receives the image data and analyzes it using a generative AI model such as TensorFlow. This analysis runs an algorithm that recognizes the plant's condition and generates a virtual character based on that plant. Specifically, the server identifies the plant's type and growth stage and generates corresponding virtual character information.

[1825] The generated virtual character information is displayed on the device using the augmented reality (AR) function. Users can visually experience the virtual character in real space through the camera of their smartphone or tablet, allowing them to visually enjoy the daily growth of their plants.

[1826] The system also includes an observation diary function, allowing users to record the growth process of their plants by entering text and images. The data entered by the user is saved in the observation diary, allowing users to review it at a later date. Furthermore, users can use communication tools that enable information exchange with other users to share information about their observation diary and plant growth, and receive comments and advice from other users.

[1827] This allows users to enjoy the visual experience of growing plants, and also allows them to share their knowledge and ideas about growing plants through communication with other users.

[1828] (Example)

[1829] For example, suppose User A grows tomato seedlings and takes a picture of the tomato with their smartphone a few days later. User A uploads the image through the app. The server receives the image data and uses TensorFlow to analyze the tomato's growth stage. A corresponding virtual tomato character is then generated and sent to User A's device. User A can then enjoy watching the virtual tomato character appear in real space through their smartphone's camera.

[1830] In addition, User A can use the observation diary function to record the growth of the plant along with the photos he or she has taken, and save the data. Furthermore, by sharing the observation diary with other users and exchanging comments, they can deepen their knowledge of plant cultivation.

[1831] Example prompts to input to the generative AI model:

[1832] "Users upload images of plants taken with their smartphones, and the AI ​​model analyzes them to recognize the state of the plant (e.g., a tomato seedling). The AI ​​model then generates a virtual character to be displayed in augmented reality based on the recognition results."

[1833] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1834] Step 1:

[1835] A user takes an image of a plant using a device such as a smartphone or tablet, and acquires the image data.

[1836] Input: Plant image

[1837] Output: Captured image data

[1838] Data processing and calculation: The user takes a picture of the plant using the device's camera app, and the image data is stored on the device.

[1839] Step 2:

[1840] The terminal transmits the acquired image data to the server.

[1841] Input: Photographed image data

[1842] Output: Sending image data to the server

[1843] Data processing and calculation: The terminal uploads image data to the server via the network. The data is converted into a specific format (e.g., JPEG, PNG) and then sent.

[1844] Step 3:

[1845] The server receives the image data and analyzes it using a generative AI model such as TensorFlow.

[1846] Input: Image data uploaded to the server

[1847] Output: What type of plant is it and its stage of development?

[1848] Data processing and calculation: After receiving the image data, the server performs image analysis using open source libraries (e.g., TensorFlow). Algorithms are applied to recognize the plant species and growth stage, and the results are obtained.

[1849] Step 4:

[1850] The server generates an appropriate virtual character based on the analysis results.

[1851] Input: Plant type and growth stage information

[1852] Output: Virtual character data

[1853] Data processing and calculation: The server generates a virtual character that reflects the plant's appearance and personality based on the plant's condition information. The generated character data is saved as a 3D model or animation data.

[1854] Step 5:

[1855] The server transmits the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[1856] Input: Virtual character data

[1857] Output: Sending character data to the terminal

[1858] Data processing and calculation: The server formats the data of the generated virtual character and sends it to the user's device via the network.

[1859] Step 6:

[1860] The virtual character information received by the terminal is displayed using an augmented reality function.

[1861] Input: Virtual character data

[1862] Output: Virtual character displayed on the screen through Augmented Reality (AR)

[1863] Data processing and calculation: The device uses an AR library (e.g., ARKit, ARCore) to overlay the received character data onto real-world images, allowing the user to visually experience the virtual character through the device's camera.

[1864] Step 7:

[1865] Users can use the observation diary function to record the growth process of plants.

[1866] Input: User-entered text and images

[1867] Output: Observation diary data

[1868] Data processing and calculation: Users can input text and images into the app and save them as an observation diary. The data is formatted and saved so that it can be viewed again at a later date.

[1869] Step 8:

[1870] A user uses a communication means to exchange information with other users.

[1871] Input: Observation diary and plant growth information

[1872] Output: Exchange information with other users, receive comments and advice

[1873] Data processing and calculation: Users can share their observation diaries and growth information with other users through the app, and information is exchanged via the network function, allowing them to receive comments and advice from other users.

[1874] 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.

[1875] The present invention relates to a system for allowing a user to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth process. The system includes means for allowing a user to take a photo of the plant and acquire image data thereof, means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating a virtual character of the plant, means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character, means for providing an observation diary function for the user to record the growth process of the plant, means for communication that enables information exchange with other users, and an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions.

[1876] A means for users to take photos of plants and obtain image data

[1877] The user takes a photo of the plant using their smartphone, which then captures and stores the image data for subsequent processing.

[1878] A method for recognizing the state of a plant from acquired image data and generating that plant as a virtual character

[1879] The image data stored on the device is sent to a server. The server analyzes the image data and uses an algorithm to recognize the plant's condition to identify the plant's type and growth stage. Once identification is complete, the server generates a virtual character based on the plant's condition. This virtual character has the appearance and personality of the plant, allowing users to enjoy growing it.

[1880] Augmented reality functionality for viewing generated virtual characters

[1881] The device receives the virtual character information sent from the server and displays it using augmented reality. Users can see the virtual character appear in the real world through their smartphone camera, allowing them to visually enjoy the growth of their plants.

[1882] Observation diary function for users to record plant growth process

[1883] Users can record observation diaries within the app. The observation diary includes text entered by the user, photos taken, and plant condition information obtained from the server. Users can record the growth process of plants and the results of their observations and look back on them later.

[1884] A means of communication that allows you to exchange information with other users

[1885] Users can exchange information with other users through the app. Using communication tools, users can share their observation diaries and growth progress, and receive comments and advice from other users. This allows users to learn about plant cultivation through communication.

[1886] Emotion engine that recognizes user emotions

[1887] The emotion engine recognizes emotions from the user's facial expressions and inputs and uses that data to adjust the system's overall response. For example, if the user is sad or happy, the virtual character's facial expression and behavior will change accordingly. This allows users to grow plants with a stronger emotional connection.

[1888] Specific examples of program processing

[1889] Step 1 (example of user registration):

[1890] The user downloads and launches the app. They access the new registration screen and enter the required information (username, email address, password). The device sends the entered information to the server. The server creates a new user record in the database based on the received information and sends a registration success response to the device. The device then displays a registration success message to the user.

[1891] Step 2 (Example of starting observation of Kaiware Daikon):

[1892] After the user plants the kaiware daikon, they take a photo of the daikon with their smartphone a few days later. The device acquires the image and sends it to the server. The server analyzes the image and recognizes the daikon's growth stage. The server generates a virtual character based on the recognition results and sends the information to the device. The device then displays the virtual character in augmented reality based on the received information.

[1893] Step 3 (Example of observation diary entry):

[1894] The user observes the growing daikon radish and records the observations in the app's observation diary with text and photos. When the user presses the save button, the device sends the recorded data to the server. The server receives the data and stores it in the user database. The server returns a notification of successful saving to the device, and the device displays a message that saving was successful.

[1895] Step 4 (Example of using the Emotion Engine):

[1896] While the user is taking a picture of the daikon radish with their smartphone camera, the emotion engine recognizes the user's facial expressions. For example, if the user is smiling, the emotion engine will capture that emotional data and make the virtual character show a happy expression accordingly. This kind of response makes the user feel more connected to the experience.

[1897] In this way, the functions of this system work together among the user, device, and server, allowing users to easily grow plants, enjoy the process of growing, observe and record in detail, and exchange information with other users. Furthermore, by utilizing an emotion engine, the system can respond to the user's emotions, providing a more personalized experience.

[1898] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1899] User Registration

[1900] Step 1:

[1901] The user downloads and launches the app.

[1902] Step 2:

[1903] The user accesses the new registration screen.

[1904] Step 3:

[1905] The user enters their username, email address, and password.

[1906] Step 4:

[1907] The terminal sends the input information to the server.

[1908] Step 5:

[1909] The server adds new user information to the user database based on the received information.

[1910] Step 6:

[1911] The server generates a user ID and sends a successful registration response to the terminal.

[1912] Step 7:

[1913] The device displays a registration success message to the user.

[1914] Observation of Kaiware Daikon begins

[1915] Step 1:

[1916] Users sow daikon radish seeds.

[1917] Step 2:

[1918] The user takes a photo to record the initial state of the radish.

[1919] Step 3:

[1920] The device acquires the photograph and saves it as image data.

[1921] Step 4:

[1922] The terminal transmits the image data to the server.

[1923] Step 5:

[1924] The server analyzes the image data and applies an algorithm to recognize the condition of the radish.

[1925] Step 6:

[1926] The server generates a virtual character based on the recognized data.

[1927] Step 7:

[1928] The server transmits the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[1929] Step 8:

[1930] The device displays the virtual character using augmented reality.

[1931] Observation diary records

[1932] Step 1:

[1933] Users observe the growth of the radish.

[1934] Step 2:

[1935] The user opens the observation diary screen.

[1936] Step 3:

[1937] Users input their observations and photos.

[1938] Step 4:

[1939] The user presses the "Save" button to save the observation diary entry.

[1940] Step 5:

[1941] The terminal sends the entry contents to the server.

[1942] Step 6:

[1943] The server stores the received entry in the user database.

[1944] Step 7:

[1945] The server sends a response to the terminal indicating that the save was successful.

[1946] Step 8:

[1947] The device displays a successful save message to the user.

[1948] Looking back on the observation diary

[1949] Step 1:

[1950] If the user wants to look back on past observation records, they open the observation diary screen.

[1951] Step 2:

[1952] The terminal sends a request for observation diary data to the server.

[1953] Step 3:

[1954] The server retrieves the observation diary data from the user database.

[1955] Step 4:

[1956] The server transmits the acquired observation diary data to the terminal.

[1957] Step 5:

[1958] The terminal displays the received observation diary data.

[1959] Exchange information with other users

[1960] Step 1:

[1961] If a user wishes to exchange information with other users, the communication screen is opened.

[1962] Step 2:

[1963] The device sends the user's observation diary and photos to the server and shares them.

[1964] Step 3:

[1965] The server prepares the shared data for display to other users.

[1966] Step 4:

[1967] Other users can view the shared data on their own devices and enter comments and advice.

[1968] Step 5:

[1969] The server notifies the original user of the comment or advice.

[1970] Step 6:

[1971] The original user will review the comments and advice and respond if necessary.

[1972] Use of emotion engine

[1973] Step 1:

[1974] The user takes a photo of the daikon radish using their smartphone camera.

[1975] Step 2:

[1976] The device recognizes the user's facial expressions in real time.

[1977] Step 3:

[1978] The device transmits the recognized emotion data to the server.

[1979] Step 4:

[1980] The server analyzes the received emotional data and adjusts the virtual character's response.

[1981] Step 5:

[1982] The server transmits the adjusted virtual character information to the terminal.

[1983] Step 6:

[1984] The device displays the virtual character's facial expressions and actions according to the emotion.

[1985] This concrete process allows users to easily manage, observe, record, and share information about the plant's growth process with other users, and utilizes an emotion engine to provide a more personal experience.

[1986] Example 2

[1987] 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."

[1988] While conventional plant cultivation systems allow users to observe the growth process of plants, it is difficult for them to visually enjoy the process or exchange information with other users. Furthermore, there is a lack of a way for users to feel an emotional connection to the growth of their plants. This limits the satisfaction and educational benefits users can get from plant cultivation.

[1989] 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.

[1990] In this invention, the server includes means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating the plant as a virtual character, means for transmitting information about the virtual character generated by the server to the terminal, and an emotion engine for recognizing the user's emotions and adjusting the facial expressions and behavior of the virtual character. This allows the user to visually enjoy the growth process of the plant, facilitates information exchange with other users, and enables responses according to the user's emotions.

[1991] "User" refers to an individual who uses the system to cultivate and observe plants.

[1992] A "server" is a computer system that receives image data sent by users, analyzes it, and generates virtual characters.

[1993] "Terminal" refers to a device that the user directly operates to take photos of plants, enter observation diaries, display virtual characters, etc.

[1994] "Image data" refers to photographic information of plants taken by a user using the device's camera and stored in digital format.

[1995] A "virtual character" is a digital avatar generated by the server that reflects the state of the plant.

[1996] "Augmented reality function" refers to technology that blends the real world and the virtual world through a device to display virtual characters.

[1997] The "Observation Diary Function" allows users to record the growth process of plants, save text and images, and view them at a later date.

[1998] "Communication Method" means a network-based mechanism used by users to exchange information with one another.

[1999] The "emotion engine" is an artificial intelligence technology that recognizes emotions from the user's facial expressions and inputs and reflects them in the virtual character's responses.

[2000] The present invention relates to a system that allows users to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth process. Users can take photos of plants using a device such as a smartphone and send the image data to a server, allowing them to analyze the plant's growth and enjoy its visuals.

[2001] Hardware and software used

[2002] This system is implemented using the following hardware and software:

[2003] Smartphone (terminal): A device that allows users to take photos of plants, record observation diaries, display virtual characters, etc.

[2004] Server: A computer system that receives and analyzes image data, generates virtual characters, and manages the database.

[2005] Computer vision algorithms: used to analyze image data and recognize plant species and growth stages (e.g., TensorFlow, OpenCV).

[2006] Augmented reality (AR) technology: Used to display virtual characters in the real world (e.g., ARKit, ARCore).

[2007] Emotion recognition engine: Used to analyze the user's emotions and reflect them in the virtual character's responses (e.g., IBM Watson, Google Cloud Vision API).

[2008] Process Overview

[2009] 1. The user takes a photo of a plant and acquires the image data.

[2010] Users take photos of plants using their smartphone camera.

[2011] The device acquires the photo as image data and stores it in its internal storage.

[2012] 2. Image data analysis and virtual character generation

[2013] The terminal transmits the stored image data to the server.

[2014] The server uses computer vision algorithms to analyze the image data and identify the plant species and growth stage.

[2015] The server generates a virtual character based on the recognition result and transmits virtual character information to the terminal.

[2016] 3. Virtual character display in augmented reality

[2017] The terminal receives the virtual character information transmitted from the server.

[2018] The device uses augmented reality technology to display virtual characters on the camera image.

[2019] Users watch as virtual characters appear in the real world through their smartphone screens.

[2020] 4. Recording an observation diary

[2021] Users can use the app's observation diary function to record their observations in text and photos.

[2022] The terminal sends the recorded content to the server, which stores it in a database.

[2023] A notification of successful save will be sent to the device and displayed to the user.

[2024] 5. Exchange of information with other users

[2025] Users can share their observation diaries and plant growth progress with other users.

[2026] The server receives comments and advice from other users and sends them to the terminal.

[2027] 6. Use of Emotion Engines

[2028] While the user takes a picture of the plant with their smartphone camera, the emotion engine recognizes the user's facial expressions.

[2029] The server obtains the user's emotional data and adjusts the virtual character's facial expressions and behavior based on that data.

[2030] This allows users to have a more emotional connection with growing their plants.

[2031] Examples of prompt statements

[2032] "After taking photos of your plants, share them with other users and add them to your observation journal."

[2033] In this way, the system provides a series of processes for visually and emotionally enjoying the cultivation and observation of the growth process of plants through collaboration between users, devices, and the server. Furthermore, by utilizing the emotion engine, it is possible to realize a personalized experience and increase user satisfaction.

[2034] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[2035] Step 1:

[2036] The user takes a photo of the plant

[2037] Input: The physical action of the user taking a photo of the plant they are growing.

[2038] Process: The user launches the camera app on their device (smartphone) and takes a photo of a plant.

[2039] Output: High-resolution image data is acquired and stored on the device.

[2040] Specific action: The user launches the camera app, focuses on a plant, and presses the shutter button.

[2041] Step 2:

[2042] The device sends the image data to the server.

[2043] Input: Image data captured and saved by the user.

[2044] Processing: The device identifies the stored image data and uses a data transfer protocol to send it to the server, in this case HTTP POST.

[2045] Output: Image data is sent to and received from the server.

[2046] Specific operation: The terminal program generates an HTTP POST request and sends it to the server's image receiving API.

[2047] Step 3:

[2048] The server analyzes the image data and recognizes the condition of the plants.

[2049] Input: Image data sent from the device.

[2050] Processing: The server applies computer vision algorithms (e.g., TensorFlow, OpenCV) to the received image data to identify the plant species and growth stage.

[2051] Output: Plant type information and growth stage information.

[2052] What it does: The server passes the image data to the algorithm, which applies a trained model to extract plant features, which are then used to identify the species and developmental stage.

[2053] Step 4:

[2054] The server generates a virtual character

[2055] Input: Plant type information and growth stage information.

[2056] Processing: The server creates a character using a virtual character generation algorithm that corresponds to the type of plant and its growth stage.

[2057] Output: Virtual character information (3D model, animation data, etc.).

[2058] What it does: The server uses 3D model generation software to render a virtual character based on the identified plant information.

[2059] Step 5:

[2060] The server sends virtual character information to the device.

[2061] Input: Generated virtual character information.

[2062] Processing: The server converts the virtual character information into packets and uses a data transmission protocol to send them to the terminal.

[2063] Output: The device receives the virtual character information.

[2064] Specific operation: The server sends data to the device's dedicated API endpoint using a protocol such as HTTP POST or WebSocket.

[2065] Step 6:

[2066] The device displays a virtual character using the augmented reality (AR) function

[2067] Input: Virtual character information received from the server.

[2068] Processing: The device passes the received virtual character information to an AR library (e.g., ARKit, ARCore) and displays it as an overlay on the real world.

[2069] Output: Augmented reality virtual character displayed on a smartphone screen.

[2070] What it does: The device renders a virtual character in the camera view, adjusting its position and scale accordingly.

[2071] Step 7:

[2072] Users record observation diaries

[2073] Input: User observations (text, images, etc.).

[2074] Processing: The user enters text and photos for the observation diary and presses the save button. The device then sends this data to the server.

[2075] Output: Observation diary data stored on the server.

[2076] Specific operation: The user fills in the observation details using an input form on the device and sends the data to the server, which then stores the received data in a database.

[2077] Step 8:

[2078] Exchange information with other users

[2079] Input: User observation diary, comments, feedback, etc.

[2080] Processing: In order for you to share information with other users through the app, your device sends the data to the server, which processes it and shares it with other users.

[2081] Output: Comments and feedback from other users.

[2082] How it works: The device sends the user's observation diary and comments to the server, which distributes them to other users' devices, receives feedback, and returns it to the original user.

[2083] Step 9:

[2084] Uses an emotion engine to recognize user emotions and adjust the virtual character's response

[2085] Input: User facial expression data and input text.

[2086] Processing: The device captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and sends them to the emotion engine. The emotion engine analyzes them and sends the emotional data to the server. The server then adjusts the virtual character's response based on the emotional data.

[2087] Output: Coordinated facial expressions and behaviors of the virtual character.

[2088] How it works: The facial expression data captured by the device is analyzed by the emotion engine. The server updates the virtual character's facial expressions and behavior in real time based on the results.

[2089] (Application example 2)

[2090] 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."

[2091] Conventional plant cultivation systems have limited functionality for users to visually enjoy the growth process of their plants, resulting in a lack of interactive experiences with the plants. They also lack the functionality to share plant cultivation records with other users and promote communication. Furthermore, they lack the ability to recognize users' emotions and respond accordingly, preventing a more personalized experience. To solve these problems, a system is needed that allows users to enjoy growing plants while also exchanging information with other users and receiving responses based on their emotions.

[2092] 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 a user to take a photo of a plant and acquire the image data, means for recognizing the state of the plant from the acquired image data and generating a virtual character for the plant, means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character, means for providing an observation diary function for a user to record the plant's growth process, communication means for enabling information exchange with other users, and an emotion recognition engine for recognizing the user's emotions and using that data to adjust the virtual character's responses. This allows a user to visually enjoy the plant's cultivation process, exchange information with other users, and further enable interaction according to the user's emotions.

[2093] "User" means an individual or entity that uses the Service or System.

[2094] A "plant" is a living organism that grows in soil or other medium and is intended for cultivation or observation.

[2095] "Image data" refers to digitally saved photographs and videos of plants taken by users.

[2096] "Virtual Characters" are digital objects generated based on the state of plants photographed by the user, providing an interactive experience.

[2097] "Augmented reality" is a technology that displays virtual characters and information overlaid on images of the real world.

[2098] The "observation diary function" allows users to record the growth process of plants and their observations, and view them at a later date.

[2099] "Communication tools" are digital communication facilities that allow users to exchange information with other users.

[2100] An "emotion recognition engine" is a function that analyzes a user's facial expressions and behavior to identify their emotions and adjust the system's response accordingly.

[2101] This invention relates to a system that allows users to visually and interactively enjoy the cultivation and growth process of plants. This system features the use of smartphones, cloud servers, AR technology, image analysis algorithms, and emotion recognition engines.

[2102] Hardware and Software Use

[2103] 1. Smartphone

[2104] Users take photos of plants using their smartphone camera and send the data to the system via the application.

[2105] The application, which runs on smartphones, is developed using React Native, and Firebase handles data synchronization and authentication.

[2106] 2. Cloud Server

[2107] The server uses Node.js and MySQL to manage user data and plant growth information.

[2108] OpenCV and TensorFlow are used for image analysis, which allows the system to identify the type of plant and its growth stage, and generate a virtual character.

[2109] 3. Augmented Reality (AR) Technology

[2110] The augmented reality feature is realized using Unity and ARKit. Virtual character information sent from the server is overlaid on the real world on the smartphone.

[2111] 4. Emotion Recognition Engine

[2112] The emotion recognition engine uses the Facial Expression Library and PyTorch to acquire user facial expression data and adjust the virtual character's response based on the analysis results.

[2113] System processing flow

[2114] 1. User Registration

[2115] The user downloads the app, enters the required information (username, email address, password), and sends it to the server. The server saves the registered information in a MySQL database and sends a receipt confirmation message to the device.

[2116] 2. Plant photography and image analysis

[2117] When a user takes a photo of a plant, the image data is sent to a server. The server analyzes the image using OpenCV and TensorFlow to identify the plant's type and growth stage. Based on the results of the analysis, a virtual character is generated and the information is sent to the device.

[2118] 3. Augmented reality display

[2119] The device then uses its AR functionality to display the received virtual character information in real space, allowing users to visually enjoy the virtual character appearing in the real world.

[2120] 4. Recording an observation diary

[2121] Users record their observation diary in the app. The recorded data, in text and photos, is sent to the server and saved in a MySQL database. A notification of successful saving is returned to the device, and a message is displayed on the smartphone.

[2122] 5. Applications of Emotion Recognition Engines

[2123] While the user is taking a photo, the emotion recognition engine works to analyze the user's facial expression data. For example, if the user smiles, the emotion recognition engine will detect this and the system will respond by making the virtual character show a happy expression.

[2124] Examples and prompts

[2125] Examples:

[2126] Users take a photo of the basil they have been growing for a week with their smartphone and record it in the Virtual Botanical Garden 3D app. The emotion engine recognizes the user's smile, and the virtual basil sways happily in response.

[2127] Example prompt sentence:

[2128] "I took a photo of my basil growing after a week. Add it to the Virtual Botanical Garden 3D app and record your observations in your journal. And make sure my virtual basil is happy when I smile."

[2129] This system allows users to visually enjoy the growth process of their plants while cultivating them, exchange information with other users, and even receive emotional responses, making the cultivation experience more personal and interactive.

[2130] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[2131] The specific processing steps of the invention are described below.

[2132] Step 1: User Registration

[2133] Input: The user enters their name, email address, and password on the new registration screen.

[2134] Operation: The device sends this information to the server.

[2135] Data processing: The server creates a new user record in the database based on the received information.

[2136] Output: A successful registration response is sent to the terminal, and the terminal displays a successful registration message to the user.

[2137] Step 2: Photograph and submit your plant

[2138] Input: User takes a photo of a plant with their smartphone camera.

[2139] Operation: The device sends the captured image data to the server.

[2140] Data processing: The server stores the received image data.

[2141] Output: The server notifies you that the data was saved successfully.

[2142] Step 3: Image analysis and virtual character generation

[2143] Input: The image data received by the server in step 2.

[2144] How it works: The server uses OpenCV and TensorFlow to analyze images and identify plant species and growth stages.

[2145] Data processing: Generate a virtual character based on the recognition results.

[2146] Output: Send the generated virtual character information to the terminal.

[2147] Step 4: Augmented reality display

[2148] Input: Virtual character information received by the device from the server.

[2149] How it works: The device uses Unity and ARKit to power its augmented reality features, overlaying virtual characters onto the real world.

[2150] Data calculation: Adapting the position and movement of virtual characters to real space.

[2151] Output: The user can see the virtual character through their smartphone.

[2152] Step 5: Record your observation diary

[2153] Input: The user enters text and photos into the observation diary within the app.

[2154] Operation: The terminal sends the entered information to the server.

[2155] Data processing: The server stores the received data in a MySQL database.

[2156] Output: A successful save notification is returned to the device, which displays it to the user.

[2157] Step 6: Applying the Emotion Recognition Engine

[2158] Input: Facial expression data while the user is photographing a plant.

[2159] How it works: The device camera captures the user's facial expressions and analyzes their emotions using the Facial Expression Library and PyTorch.

[2160] Data calculation: Adjust the facial expressions and behavior of the virtual character based on the user's emotional data.

[2161] Output: The virtual character's response corresponding to the user's emotion is displayed on the terminal.

[2162] The system is realized through the above steps. The purpose of this program's processing flow is to allow users to grow plants and enjoy the process visually and interactively. It also provides a more fulfilling cultivation experience by enabling information exchange with other users and responding to the user's emotions.

[2163] 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.

[2164] 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.

[2165] 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.

[2166] 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.

[2167] 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.

[2168] 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.

[2169] 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).

[2170] 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.

[2171] 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."

[2172] 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.

[2173] 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).

[2174] 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.

[2175] 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.

[2176] 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.

[2177] 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.

[2178] 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.

[2179] 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.

[2180] 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.

[2181] 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.

[2182] 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.

[2183] 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.

[2184] The following is further disclosed regarding the above embodiment.

[2185] (Claim 1)

[2186] A system for allowing a user to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth, comprising:

[2187] A means for a user to take a photo of a plant and acquire image data thereof;

[2188] a means for recognizing the state of a plant from the acquired image data and generating the plant as a virtual character;

[2189] means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character;

[2190] a means for providing an observation diary function for a user to record the growth process of a plant;

[2191] A means of communication that allows you to exchange information with other users;

[2192] A system including:

[2193] (Claim 2)

[2194] The observation diary function includes a function to save the text and images entered by the user and make them available for viewing at a later date.

[2195] 10. The system of claim 1.

[2196] (Claim 3)

[2197] The augmented reality function includes a function of generating a virtual character based on an image taken by the user and changing the appearance of the character as the character grows.

[2198] 10. The system of claim 1.

[2199] "Example 1"

[2200] (Claim 1)

[2201] A system for allowing a user to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth, comprising:

[2202] A means for a user to take a photograph of a plant using an image capture device and acquire image data thereof;

[2203] an analysis means for transmitting the acquired image data to a processing device and recognizing the state of the plant;

[2204] A means for generating a plant as a virtual character based on the analysis result;

[2205] means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character;

[2206] means for providing a recording device for a user to record the growth process;

[2207] A means of communication that allows you to exchange information with other users;

[2208] A system including:

[2209] (Claim 2)

[2210] 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the recording device includes a function for storing text and image data entered by the user for later viewing.

[2211] (Claim 3)

[2212] The system of claim 1 , wherein the augmented reality function includes a function for generating a virtual character based on image data captured by a user and changing the character's appearance as the character grows.

[2213] "Application Example 1"

[2214] (Claim 1)

[2215] A system for allowing a user to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth, comprising:

[2216] A means for a user to take an image of a plant and acquire image data thereof;

[2217] a means for recognizing the state of a plant from the acquired image data and generating the plant as a virtual character;

[2218] means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character;

[2219] a means for providing an observation diary function for a user to record the growth process of a plant;

[2220] A means of communication that allows you to exchange information with other users;

[2221] A means for visually displaying virtual characters according to the growth stages of plants and providing an interactive experience in physical space;

[2222] A system including:

[2223] (Claim 2)

[2224] The observation diary function includes a function to save the text and images entered by the user and make them available for viewing at a later date.

[2225] 10. The system of claim 1.

[2226] (Claim 3)

[2227] The augmented reality function includes a function of generating a virtual character based on an image taken by the user and changing the appearance of the character as the character grows.

[2228] 10. The system of claim 1.

[2229] "Example 2: Combining Emotion Engines"

[2230] (Claim 1)

[2231] A system for allowing a user to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth, comprising:

[2232] A means for a user to take a photo of a plant and acquire image data thereof;

[2233] means for transmitting the acquired image data to a server;

[2234] a means for recognizing the state of a plant from image data acquired by the server and generating the plant as a virtual character;

[2235] means for transmitting the virtual character information generated by the server to the terminal;

[2236] a means for receiving the virtual character information in the terminal and displaying the virtual character using an augmented reality function;

[2237] A means for users to record the plant's growth and keep an observation diary;

[2238] A means of communication that allows you to exchange information with other users;

[2239] The system includes an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and adjusts the facial expressions and behavior of the virtual character.

[2240] (Claim 2)

[2241] 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the observation diary function includes a function for saving text and images entered by the user and making them available for viewing at a later date.

[2242] (Claim 3)

[2243] The system of claim 1 , wherein the augmented reality functionality includes the functionality of generating a virtual character based on an image taken by a user and changing the character's appearance as the character grows.

[2244] "Application example 2 when combining emotion engines"

[2245] (Claim 1)

[2246] A system for allowing a user to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth, comprising:

[2247] A means for a user to take a photo of a plant and acquire image data thereof;

[2248] a means for recognizing the state of a plant from the acquired image data and generating the plant as a virtual character;

[2249] means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character;

[2250] a means for providing an observation diary function for a user to record the growth process of a plant;

[2251] A means of communication that allows you to exchange information with other users;

[2252] an emotion recognition engine that recognizes the user's emotions and uses that data to adjust the virtual character's responses;

[2253] A system including:

[2254] (Claim 2)

[2255] 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the observation diary function includes a function for saving text and images entered by the user and making them available for viewing at a later date.

[2256] (Claim 3)

[2257] The system of claim 1 , wherein the augmented reality functionality includes the functionality of generating a virtual character based on an image taken by a user and changing the character's appearance as the character grows.

[2258] (Claim 4)

[2259] The system of claim 1 , wherein the emotion recognition engine includes a function for changing the facial expression and behavior of the virtual character according to the user's emotions. [Explanation of symbols]

[2260] 10, 210, 310, 410 Data Processing Systems 12 Data Processing Device 14 Smart Devices 214 Smart Glasses 314 Headset-type terminal 414 Robot< / url:> < / url:> < / url:> < / url:>

Claims

1. A system for allowing a user to cultivate plant seeds and observe their growth, comprising: A means for a user to take a photo of a plant and acquire image data thereof; a means for recognizing the state of a plant from the acquired image data and generating the plant as a virtual character; means for providing an augmented reality function for displaying the generated virtual character; a means for providing an observation diary function for a user to record the growth process of a plant; A means of communication that allows you to exchange information with other users; A system including:

2. The observation diary function includes a function to save the text and images entered by the user and make them available for viewing at a later date. The system of claim 1 .

3. The augmented reality function includes a function of generating a virtual character based on an image taken by the user and changing the appearance of the character as the character grows. The system of claim 1 .

Images