System

Abstract

A system is provided.SOLUTION: A system comprising: means for collecting position information; means for transmitting the position information to a server; means for searching for coupon information of a peripheral affiliated store on the basis of the position information; means for selecting a highly relevant coupon on the basis of a purchase history of a user and the coupon information; means for notifying a terminal of the user of the selected coupon information; and means for automatically applying a usable coupon at the time of settlement.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] The "Problem that the invention aims to solve" and "Means for solving the problem" of the document are described below.

[0005] In the past, when consumers tried to use coupons effectively, many coupons were overlooked and not used. This resulted in consumers missing out on savings opportunities and stores failing to maximize the effectiveness of the coupons they offered. Furthermore, consumers had to manually apply coupons, which was inconvenient. The objective of the present invention is to provide a system that solves these problems and allows consumers to use coupons effectively. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention features a system including: means for collecting location information, means for transmitting the location information to a server, means for the server to search for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on the location information, means for the server to select highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and the coupon information, means for notifying the user's terminal of the selected coupon information, and means for automatically applying coupons that can be used at the time of payment. This system allows consumers to use coupons without missing them, and allows stores to maximize the effectiveness of coupons.

[0007] Furthermore, the system further comprises means for analyzing the user's purchasing history and preferences, and means for recommending coupons based on the results of the analysis, thereby providing more relevant coupons.

[0008] Furthermore, by providing a means for collating the coupon information of the user and automatically applying available coupons to calculate the final amount at the time of cashless payment, and a means for notifying the user of the final amount, the user can receive coupon discounts without any hassle.

[0009] "Location information" is data indicating the user's current latitude and longitude.

[0010] "Server" means a computer system that functions as a central processing unit, receives location information and purchase history sent by users, and searches and selects coupon information.

[0011] "Affiliate stores" are stores or service providers that provide coupon information and distribute coupons to users in cooperation with this system.

[0012] "Coupon information" is data on discounts and benefits offered by specific stores or service providers, and includes information that can be used by users.

[0013] "Purchase history" is a record of products and services purchased by a user in the past, and is data used to select and recommend coupons.

[0014] A "highly relevant coupon" refers to a coupon that is determined to be highly useful to the user based on the user's purchasing history and location information.

[0015] "Cashless payment" refers to a payment method that does not involve cash, such as credit cards, debit cards, or mobile payment apps.

[0016] "Automatic application" refers to the process by which the system automatically applies applicable coupons and reflects discounts without the user having to manually select them.

[0017] "Final Amount" refers to the amount due after any coupons have been applied. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and a smart device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and smart glasses according to a second embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and a headset-type terminal according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and a robot according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] 1 shows an emotion map onto which multiple emotions are mapped. [Figure 10] 1 shows an emotion map onto which multiple emotions are mapped. [Figure 11] FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram showing a processing flow of the data processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the data processing system in Application Example 1. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the data processing system according to the second embodiment when an emotion engine is combined. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the data processing system in Application Example 2 when an emotion engine is combined. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] 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.

[0020] First, the terms used in the following description will be explained.

[0021] 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).

[0022] 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.

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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."

[0026] [First embodiment]

[0027] FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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).

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] FIG. 2 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart device 14.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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."

[0039] ---

[0040] This invention is a system that improves convenience for both consumers and stores by allowing users to obtain coupon information in real time based on their location information and automatically applying coupons when making cashless payments. Below, the program and processing of this system are explained in natural language.

[0041] First, a user uses a device such as a smartphone. The device is equipped with a GPS function to acquire location information, and as the user moves, the location information is updated in real time. The user's current location is identified through the location information acquisition method.

[0042] The acquired location information is sent from the device to the server. The server searches for coupon information for affiliated stores around the user's current location based on the received location information. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated stores and stored in a database.

[0043] The server compares the coupon search results with the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to select coupons that are highly relevant to the user. The user's purchase history and preferences are analyzed based on, for example, the types of products purchased in the past and the services used.

[0044] The server then notifies the user of the selected coupon information. The user's device then displays detailed coupon information, allowing them to immediately check which coupons are available. For example, a 10% off coupon that can be used at a cafe in the shopping mall where the user is currently located is displayed.

[0045] When a user purchases a product or service at a store, they launch the cashless payment app and begin payment. The device then queries the server at the start of the payment to obtain available coupon information. The server then compares the user's current payment information with previously recommended coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons.

[0046] The discounted price is calculated based on the applied coupon and sent from the server to the terminal. This price is displayed on the payment app, and the user can check the final price after the discount is applied. For example, if a 10% off coupon is applied at a cafe, a product that normally costs 1,000 yen will cost 900 yen.

[0047] In this way, users can make the most of coupons and not miss them, and stores can improve customer satisfaction and run effective promotions. Furthermore, the server can analyze the collected usage data and use it to help with future coupon distribution and marketing strategies.

[0048] The above is a specific embodiment of the present invention. It is expected that this system will dramatically improve the effective use of coupons and the convenience of cashless payments.

[0049] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0050] ---

[0051] Step 1:

[0052] Device: The GPS sensor is used to obtain the user's current location. The obtained location information is saved in the form of latitude and longitude.

[0053] Step 2:

[0054] Terminal: The acquired location information is sent to a server via the Internet using a protocol such as an HTTP request.

[0055] Step 3:

[0056] Server: Based on the received location information, the database is searched for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores. Here, a search query is generated and coupons within the specified range are extracted.

[0057] Step 4:

[0058] Server: Refers to the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to identify highly relevant coupons. Relevance is scored based on the user's preferences and past usage history.

[0059] Step 5:

[0060] Server: Sends the identified coupon information to the user's device via push notification or in-app messaging.

[0061] Step 6:

[0062] Terminal: Notifies the user of the coupon information sent and displays it on the screen. The user can then confirm the displayed coupon information.

[0063] Step 7:

[0064] User: To use the coupon, select a product or service at a participating store and launch the cashless payment app.

[0065] Step 8:

[0066] Terminal: Sends payment information (store ID, purchase amount, user ID, etc.) to the server. This is done again using an HTTP request.

[0067] Step 9:

[0068] Server: Receives payment information and initiates the process of matching available coupons. Based on the matching results, the most applicable coupon is selected.

[0069] Step 10:

[0070] Server: Calculates the final discounted price based on the applied coupons. This is where discount percentages and fixed discounts are reflected.

[0071] Step 11:

[0072] Server: Sends the calculated final amount to the terminal, along with the information about the applied coupon.

[0073] Step 12:

[0074] Terminal: The final amount received is displayed on the payment app and the user is prompted to confirm it. The user confirms the final amount and completes the payment.

[0075] Step 13:

[0076] User: After completing the payment, they will receive a receipt and confirmation message with the coupon applied, confirming that the discount has been applied.

[0077] ---

[0078] The above is a detailed description of the processing steps of the program in the embodiment of the present invention, which allows users to effectively use coupons and enjoy a highly convenient shopping experience.

[0079] Example 1

[0080] 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."

[0081] In their daily shopping activities, consumers want to be able to obtain appropriate coupon information in a timely manner based on their location information, and to efficiently manage points, discounts, and other information. However, with conventional systems, users had to search for and apply coupons themselves, which was a cumbersome process. Furthermore, stores lacked a means to effectively distribute targeted coupons based on customers' purchasing history. This created a need for a coupon system that could be applied immediately.

[0082] 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.

[0083] In this invention, the server includes a means for searching for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on location information, a means for selecting highly relevant coupons based on purchase history and coupon information, and a means for automatically applying the coupons at the time of payment. This allows the user to obtain the most suitable coupon in real time and check the final price after the discount has been automatically applied.

[0084] "Means for collecting location information" refers to devices, programs, and methods for obtaining the latitude and longitude of a user's current location using GPS functionality.

[0085] "Means for transmitting location information to a server" refers to the communication protocol or method for transmitting collected location information as data to a server via the Internet.

[0086] "Means for searching for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores" refers to an algorithm and method by which the server refers to a database to search for and obtain coupon information for affiliated stores located near the user's current location.

[0087] "Means for selecting highly relevant coupons based on purchase history and coupon information" refers to the algorithms and methods by which the server compares the user's past purchase history and preference data with the acquired coupon information and selects the coupons that are most relevant to the user.

[0088] "Means for notifying the user's device of the selected coupon information" refers to the communication protocol or method by which the server sends the selected coupon information to the user's device via push notification or the like.

[0089] "Means for automatically applying coupons that can be used at the time of payment" refers to an algorithm or method for automatically applying pre-selected coupons and calculating the discount amount at the time of cashless payment.

[0090] "Means for calculating the discounted amount and notifying the user terminal" refers to a method or program for calculating the final payment amount after the coupon is applied and displaying and notifying that amount on the user terminal.

[0091] "Means for analyzing purchase history and preferences" refers to analytical algorithms and methods for analyzing a user's past purchase data and interest / preference data to predict and recommend coupons and services that will be beneficial in the future.

[0092] "Means for matching payment information with coupon information" refers to a method or algorithm for automatically selecting the most appropriate coupon by matching the product information used at the time of payment with coupon information stored in advance on the server.

[0093] "Means for analyzing collected usage data and utilizing it for coupon distribution and marketing strategies" refers to methods and systems for collecting and analyzing user data and utilizing it for effective coupon distribution and promotional activities.

[0094] This invention is a system that improves convenience for both consumers and stores by allowing users to obtain coupon information in real time based on their location information and automatically applying coupons when making cashless payments. Below, the program and processing of this system are explained in natural language.

[0095] First, a user uses a device such as a smartphone. The device is equipped with a GPS function for acquiring location information, and as the user moves, the location information is updated in real time. The user's current location is identified through the location information acquisition method. Specifically, the device calls the "location information acquisition method" to acquire the latitude and longitude. This location information is then stored in an internal variable.

[0096] The acquired location information is sent from the device to the server. The server uses the received location information to search for coupon information for affiliated stores near the user's current location. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated stores and stored in a database. To retrieve the coupon information, the server executes an SQL query from a database such as MySQL. The resulting coupon information is stored in a temporary list in memory.

[0097] The server then compares the coupon information search results with the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to select coupons that are most relevant to the user. The user's purchase history and preferences are analyzed based on information about the types of products purchased in the past and the services used. The server then runs a matching algorithm based on this data to select the most suitable coupon. The selected coupon information is then sent from the server to the user's device again. This notification is sent using a push notification service such as Firebase Cloud Messaging.

[0098] The user's device will display detailed coupon information, allowing them to immediately check available coupons. For example, a 10% off coupon that can be used at a cafe in the shopping mall where the user is currently located will be displayed.

[0099] When a user purchases a product or service at a store, they launch a cashless payment app and begin the payment. The user selects an app such as Apple Pay or Google Wallet and begins the payment. When the payment begins, the device queries the server to obtain available coupon information. The server compares the user's current payment information with previously recommended coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons. An algorithm is then executed to apply these coupons.

[0100] The discounted amount is calculated based on the applied coupon and sent from the server to the device. This amount is displayed on the payment app, and the user can check the final amount after the discount is applied. For example, a 10% off coupon at a cafe is applied, so an item that normally costs 1,000 yen becomes 900 yen. A response containing this discounted amount is generated and sent to the device via HTTPS.

[0101] The server then analyzes the collected usage data to help with coupon distribution and marketing strategies. The server stores the usage data in a database and periodically runs an analysis algorithm. The server generates a report of the analysis results and provides it to the marketing department.

[0102] This specific implementation allows users to maximize coupon usage without missing out on them, and allows stores to improve customer satisfaction and conduct effective promotions. Furthermore, the data collected and analyzed by the server can provide important insights for future marketing strategies. This system is expected to dramatically improve the effective use of coupons and the convenience of cashless payments.

[0103] Example prompt sentence:

[0104] "Please explain in detail the specific processing steps and operations of the system that uses GPS to obtain the user's location information, searches for and selects coupon information from affiliated stores around the user's current location, and automatically applies the coupon when making a cashless payment."

[0105] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0106] Step 1:

[0107] Obtaining location information

[0108] Subject: Terminal

[0109] Specific behavior:

[0110] The device periodically obtains the user's current location using the built-in GPS function. It calls the location information acquisition method to obtain latitude and longitude data.

[0111] Input: GPS sensor data

[0112] Output: Current location latitude and longitude

[0113] Step 2:

[0114] Sending location information

[0115] Subject: Terminal

[0116] Specific behavior:

[0117] The device sends the acquired location information to the server as a payload of an HTTP request. HTTPS is used for communication to ensure secure data transmission.

[0118] Input: Obtained latitude and longitude

[0119] Output: HTTP request with location information

[0120] Step 3:

[0121] Search for coupon information

[0122] Subject: Server

[0123] Specific behavior:

[0124] The server searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on the received location information, executes an SQL query to retrieve the coupon information, and stores it in a list in memory.

[0125] Input: Location information sent from the device

[0126] Output: A list of the coupons found

[0127] Step 4:

[0128] Matching with user purchase history

[0129] Subject: Server

[0130] Specific behavior:

[0131] The server compares the coupon information with the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to select appropriate coupons. It then runs a matching algorithm to select highly relevant coupons.

[0132] Input: List of coupon information, user purchase history data

[0133] Output: A list of relevant coupons

[0134] Step 5:

[0135] Coupon Notifications

[0136] Subject: Server

[0137] Specific behavior:

[0138] The server sends the selected coupon information to the user's device via a push notification service (e.g., Firebase Cloud Messaging).

[0139] Input: Relevant coupon information

[0140] Output: Push notification containing coupon information

[0141] Step 6:

[0142] View coupons

[0143] Subject: Terminal

[0144] Specific behavior:

[0145] The device displays the received coupon information on the user interface, and displays the coupon details on the app screen so that the user can check them.

[0146] Input: Push notification containing coupon information

[0147] Output: Coupon information displayed on the device screen

[0148] Step 7:

[0149] Start of cashless payment

[0150] Subject: User

[0151] Specific behavior:

[0152] When purchasing goods or services at a store, users launch the cashless payment app and begin payment.

[0153] Input: User payment operation

[0154] Output: Trigger to start payment

[0155] Step 8:

[0156] Applying coupons

[0157] Subject: Server

[0158] Specific behavior:

[0159] When the server receives a payment start inquiry from the terminal, it checks the current payment information against pre-selected coupon information and automatically applies the coupon. It then determines which coupon to apply and calculates the discounted amount.

[0160] Input: Current payment information, pre-selected coupon information

[0161] Output: Discounted amount

[0162] Step 9:

[0163] Display of discount amount

[0164] Subject: Terminal

[0165] Specific behavior:

[0166] The discounted amount sent from the server is received and displayed on the payment app, allowing the user to confirm the final amount with the discount applied.

[0167] Input: Discounted amount sent from the server

[0168] Output: Final amount displayed on the payment app

[0169] Step 10:

[0170] Usage data collection and analysis

[0171] Subject: Server

[0172] Specific behavior:

[0173] The server stores the collected usage data in a database and periodically runs an analysis algorithm to determine future coupon distribution and marketing strategies.

[0174] Input: User usage data

[0175] Output: analytical reports and data for marketing strategies

[0176] (Application example 1)

[0177] 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."

[0178] Today's consumers are on the move a lot, making it difficult for them to efficiently use coupon information while shopping in stores. Furthermore, because consumers often overlook coupon information, it is difficult for stores to implement appropriate promotions. Given this background, there is a need for a system that can efficiently provide coupons to consumers and encourage in-store purchases.

[0179] 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.

[0180] In this invention, the server includes means for collecting location information, means for transmitting the location information to the server, means for the server to search for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on the location information, means for the server to select highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and the coupon information, means for notifying the user's terminal of the selected coupon information, means for recommending coupons based on the user's purchase history and usage history, means for automatically applying coupons that can be used at the time of payment, means for acquiring location information using a smartphone application and sending push notifications of coupons for nearby stores, and means for automatically applying coupons that can be used in conjunction with the user's cashless payment. This enables consumers to receive appropriate coupons in real time based on their location information, and discounts to be automatically applied at the time of payment.

[0181] "Means for collecting location information" refers to a device that has the functionality to obtain the user's current location using technologies such as the device's GPS or beacon.

[0182] "Means for transmitting the location information to a server" refers to a technique for transmitting the user's current location information to a remote server via the Internet.

[0183] "Means for the server to search for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on the location information" refers to the function of the server receiving the location information to search for coupon information stored in a database and obtain store information related to the user's current location.

[0184] "Means for the server to select highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and the coupon information" refers to technology that has an algorithm that analyzes the user's past purchase data and selects highly relevant coupons.

[0185] "Means for notifying the user's terminal of the selected coupon information" refers to a system for sending a push notification of the selected coupon information to the user's smartphone or tablet.

[0186] "Means for recommending coupons based on a user's purchase history and usage history" refers to technology that has the function of recommending optimal coupons to a user based on the user's past purchase history and coupon usage history.

[0187] The "means for automatically applying coupons that can be used at the time of payment" refers to a system that automatically applies coupons that can be used when a user makes a cashless payment.

[0188] "Means of obtaining location information using a smartphone application and sending push notifications of coupons from nearby stores" refers to a technology that uses a smartphone application to collect location information and notify the user in real time of coupon information provided by stores around the user's current location.

[0189] "Means for automatically applying usable coupons in conjunction with a user's cashless payment" refers to a system that automatically applies discounts by linking coupon information obtained in advance when a user makes a cashless payment.

[0190] This invention is a system that uses a smartphone application to acquire location information, obtain available coupon information in real time, and automatically apply coupons when making cashless payments. This system allows consumers to use coupons efficiently and enables stores to carry out effective promotions.

[0191] System Overview

[0192] The system consists of the following major components:

[0193] 1. User device: Obtains the user's current location and sends it to the server.

[0194] 2. Server: Searches for coupon information for nearby stores based on the user's current location, selects relevant coupons based on purchase history, and notifies the user.

[0195] 3. Smartphone application: Runs on the user's device, displays coupon information, and automatically applies coupons when making cashless payments.

[0196] Hardware and Software

[0197] GPS module: Obtains the user's location information in real time.

[0198] Internet connection: Sends and receives location information and coupon information.

[0199] Server: Use backend infrastructure such as cloud services (e.g. AWS, Google Cloud).

[0200] Database: Stores coupon information and user purchase history (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL).

[0201] Smartphone application: an application that runs on the iOS or Android platform.

[0202] Payment gateway: Used for cashless payment integration (e.g. PayPal, Stripe).

[0203] Processing Details

[0204] 1. Acquisition and transmission of location information:

[0205] The user terminal acquires its current location using a built-in GPS module.

[0206] The acquired location information is sent to a server via the Internet.

[0207] 2. Coupon Information Search and Selection:

[0208] The server receives the location information and searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores.

[0209] Based on the search results, the system compares them with the user's purchasing history and usage history to select highly relevant coupons.

[0210] 3. Notices and Indications:

[0211] The selected coupon information is sent to the user terminal via push notification.

[0212] When the smartphone application on the user's device receives the notification, it displays the details of the coupon information.

[0213] 4. Coupon application for cashless payments:

[0214] When a user makes a cashless payment at a store, the smartphone application and payment gateway work together to automatically apply available coupons.

[0215] The final discounted amount is calculated and displayed to the user.

[0216] Examples and prompts

[0217] For example, if a user launches "Smart Coupon Navi" while in Shibuya, Tokyo, the following coupon information will be pushed to them:

[0218] Examples:

[0219] "Current location: 10% off coupon for cafes around Shibuya"

[0220] "Expiration date: 2023-12-31"

[0221] Example prompt sentence:

[0222] "The user is currently in Shibuya. Show available coupons from nearby physical stores. Example: 10% off coupon for cafe, expiration date: 2023-12-31"

[0223] With these components and processing steps, the present invention provides a system that enables efficient provision and reliable utilization of coupon information.

[0224] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0225] Step 1:

[0226] The user terminal acquires its current location using a built-in GPS module.

[0227] Input: GPS data from smartphone

[0228] Output: Current location of the user (latitude and longitude)

[0229] Step 2:

[0230] The acquired location information is sent to a server via the Internet.

[0231] Input: Current location of the user (latitude and longitude)

[0232] Output: Location information sent to the server

[0233] Step 3:

[0234] The server receives the location information and searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores.

[0235] Input: Location information received by the server

[0236] Output: Coupon information for affiliated stores near the user's current location

[0237] Step 4:

[0238] Based on the search results, the server compares them with the user's purchase history and usage history to select highly relevant coupons.

[0239] Input: Coupon information for affiliated stores, user purchase history and usage history

[0240] Output: Relevant coupon information

[0241] Step 5:

[0242] The selected coupon information is sent to the user terminal via push notification.

[0243] Input: Coupon information selected by the server

[0244] Output: Coupon notification sent to user device

[0245] Step 6:

[0246] When the smartphone application on the user's device receives the notification, it displays the details of the coupon information.

[0247] Input: Coupon information received as a push notification

[0248] Output: Coupon details displayed on smartphone screen

[0249] Step 7:

[0250] When a user makes a cashless payment at a store, the smartphone application and payment gateway work together to automatically apply available coupons.

[0251] Input: Payment information selected by the user, selected coupon information

[0252] Output: Automatically applied coupons, final discounted amount

[0253] Step 8:

[0254] The final discounted amount is calculated and displayed to the user.

[0255] Input: Automatically applied coupon

[0256] Output: Smartphone screen showing the final price after the discount

[0257] 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.

[0258] ---

[0259] This invention is a system that improves convenience for both consumers and stores by allowing users to obtain coupon information in real time based on location information and emotion analysis, and automatically applying coupons during cashless payments. In particular, by combining this system with an emotion engine, it becomes possible to recommend coupons that take into account the user's emotional state.

[0260] First, a user uses a device such as a smartphone. The device is equipped with a GPS function for acquiring location information, and as the user moves, the location information is updated in real time. The user's current location is identified using the location information acquisition method.

[0261] The acquired location information is sent from the device to the server. The server searches for coupon information for affiliated stores around the user's current location based on the received location information. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated stores and stored in a database.

[0262] The server compares the coupon search results with the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to select coupons that are highly relevant to the user. The user's purchase history and preferences are analyzed based on, for example, the types of products purchased in the past and the services used.

[0263] The present invention adds an emotion engine to its features. The device uses sensors such as a camera and microphone to identify emotions from the user's facial expressions and voice. It executes emotion identification methods and analyzes the user's emotional state (e.g., joy, sadness, anger, etc.) in real time.

[0264] The recognized emotional information is sent to the server, just like the location information. The server selects coupons based on the received emotional information according to the user's emotional state. For example, if the user is in a positive emotional state, more coupons are provided, and if the user is in a negative emotional state, special comforting coupons are provided.

[0265] The server then notifies the user of the selected coupon information. The user's device then displays detailed coupon information, allowing them to immediately check which coupons are available. For example, a 10% off coupon that can be used at a cafe in the shopping mall where the user is currently located is displayed.

[0266] When a user purchases a product or service at a store, they launch the cashless payment app and begin payment. The device then queries the server at the start of the payment to obtain available coupon information. The server then compares the user's current payment information with previously recommended coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons.

[0267] The discounted price is calculated based on the applied coupon and sent from the server to the terminal. This price is displayed on the payment app, and the user can check the final price after the discount is applied. For example, if a 10% off coupon is applied at a cafe, a product that normally costs 1,000 yen will cost 900 yen.

[0268] In this way, users can make the most of coupons and not miss them, and stores can improve customer satisfaction and run effective promotions. Furthermore, the server can analyze the collected usage data and use it to help with future coupon distribution and marketing strategies.

[0269] The above is a specific embodiment of the present invention. This system is expected to realize not only effective coupon usage and the convenience of cashless payment, but also flexible coupon services that respond to the user's emotional state.

[0270] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0271] ---

[0272] Step 1:

[0273] Device: The GPS sensor is used to obtain the user's current location. The obtained location information is saved in the form of latitude and longitude.

[0274] Step 2:

[0275] Terminal: The acquired location information is sent to a server via the Internet using a protocol such as an HTTP request.

[0276] Step 3:

[0277] Server: Based on the received location information, the server searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores. Here, a search query is generated and coupons within the specified range are extracted.

[0278] Step 4:

[0279] Server: Refers to the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to identify highly relevant coupons. Relevance is scored based on the user's preferences and past usage history.

[0280] Step 5:

[0281] Device: Using sensors such as a camera and microphone, the device identifies emotions from the user's facial expressions and voice. It executes emotion identification methods and analyzes the user's emotional state (e.g., joy, sadness, anger, etc.) in real time.

[0282] Step 6:

[0283] Terminal: The recognized emotion information is sent to the server via the Internet along with the location information.

[0284] Step 7:

[0285] Server: Based on the received emotional information, the server selects coupons according to the user's emotional state. If the emotional state is positive, more coupons are provided, and if the emotional state is negative, special coupons that will comfort the user are provided.

[0286] Step 8:

[0287] Server: Sends the selected coupon information to the user's device via push notification or in-app messaging.

[0288] Step 9:

[0289] Terminal: Notifies the user of the coupon information sent and displays it on the screen. The user can then confirm the displayed coupon information.

[0290] Step 10:

[0291] User: To use the coupon, select a product or service at a participating store and launch the cashless payment app.

[0292] Step 11:

[0293] Terminal: Sends payment information (store ID, purchase amount, user ID, etc.) to the server. This is done again using an HTTP request.

[0294] Step 12:

[0295] Server: Receives payment information and initiates the process of matching available coupons. Based on the matching results, the most applicable coupon is selected.

[0296] Step 13:

[0297] Server: Calculates the final discounted price based on the applied coupons. This is where discount percentages and fixed discounts are reflected.

[0298] Step 14:

[0299] Server: Sends the calculated final amount to the terminal, along with the information about the applied coupon.

[0300] Step 15:

[0301] Terminal: The final amount received is displayed on the payment app and the user is prompted to confirm it. The user confirms the final amount and completes the payment.

[0302] Step 16:

[0303] User: After completing the payment, they will receive a receipt and confirmation message with the coupon applied, confirming that the discount has been applied.

[0304] ---

[0305] The above is a detailed description of the processing steps of the program in an embodiment of the present invention. This processing allows users to effectively use coupons and enjoy a convenient shopping experience. Furthermore, the addition of an emotion engine provides flexible coupon services that take into account the user's emotional state.

[0306] Example 2

[0307] 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."

[0308] In many cases, conventional coupon provision systems provide uniform coupons based solely on the user's location information, and are unable to consider the user's individual purchasing history or emotional state. This has resulted in issues such as not being able to maximize users' motivation to use the coupons and limiting the effectiveness of the coupons provided. Another issue is the lack of a means to automatically apply coupons during cashless payments, forcing users to manually select coupons.

[0309] The identification process by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the second embodiment is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes a means for collecting location information, a means for searching for coupon information of nearby affiliated stores based on the location information, and a means for selecting highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history, emotional information, and the coupon information. This makes it possible to provide coupons that take into account the user's current emotional state, maximizing the effectiveness of coupon usage. Furthermore, by automatically applying the most appropriate coupon during cashless payment, user convenience can be improved.

[0310] "Location information" is data relating to the user's current latitude and longitude.

[0311] A "server" is a computer system that processes, stores, and transfers data over a network.

[0312] "Coupon information" is data about discounts and special offers offered by stores.

[0313] "Purchase history" is a record of products and services purchased by a user in the past.

[0314] "Emotion information" is data relating to the emotional state of the user analyzed from facial expressions and voice.

[0315] A "terminal" is a computing device used by a user, such as a smartphone or tablet.

[0316] "Payment information" refers to data related to payments made when a user purchases a product or service.

[0317] "Automatic application" refers to the process whereby the system automatically applies the coupon without requiring manual action from the user.

[0318] "Notification" is the act of the system sending information to the user's terminal to notify them.

[0319] "Cashless payment" refers to payments made electronically without using cash.

[0320] The present invention provides a system that improves convenience for both consumers and stores by allowing users to obtain coupon information in real time based on location information and sentiment analysis, and automatically applying coupons when making cashless payments. Specific embodiments of this system are described below.

[0321] This system consists of a device such as a user's smartphone, a server, and various software. The device is equipped with a GPS function, which is used to obtain the user's current location. Specifically, the device's LocationManager API is used to collect the user's latitude and longitude data in real time. The device also uses sensors such as a camera and microphone to collect the user's facial expressions and voice, and analyzes their emotional state. For this purpose, it uses software such as an emotion analysis engine and EmotionRecognitionAPI.

[0322] The acquired location information and emotion information are sent from the device to the server. The server receives the HTTP POST request and stores this information in a database. The server then searches for coupon information for affiliated stores near the user's current location based on the received location information. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated stores and stored in the database.

[0323] The server selects highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history, emotional information, and coupon information. The purchase history is a record of the products and services the user has purchased in the past and is stored in a database. The emotional information is data on the user's emotional state analyzed from their facial expressions and voice. Based on this information, the server uses a recommendation engine to select the most suitable coupon for the user.

[0324] The server notifies the user's device of the selected coupon information. The device then notifies the user of this information using the push notification function. The user can then check the coupon's detailed information on the device. For example, if the user is at a cafe in a shopping mall, a 10% off coupon that can be used at the cafe will be displayed.

[0325] When a user purchases a product or service at a partner store, they launch the cashless payment app and begin payment. When the payment begins, the terminal queries the server and obtains available coupon information. The server compares the payment information with pre-selected coupon information and automatically applies the coupon. Finally, the post-discount amount is calculated and sent from the server to the terminal. The user confirms the post-discount amount displayed on the payment app and completes the payment.

[0326] This system allows users to make the most of coupons and not miss them, and also allows stores to improve customer satisfaction and carry out effective promotions. Furthermore, the server can analyze the collected usage data and use it to help with future coupon distribution and marketing strategies. For example, it can create effective coupon plans tailored to specific times or events.

[0327] As a concrete example, when a user is walking in a shopping mall, the device sends the current location information to the server. The server then recommends a 10% off coupon that can be used at a nearby cafe based on the location information. When the user starts cashless payment at the register, the 10% off coupon is automatically applied, allowing the purchase of an item that normally costs 1,000 yen for 900 yen.

[0328] Example prompt sentence:

[0329] "Please explain how a user can get a discount coupon that can be used when they are at a cafe and automatically apply it to their cashless payment."

[0330] In this way, the present invention is expected to realize not only effective coupon use and the convenience of cashless payment, but also flexible coupon services that respond to the user's emotional state.

[0331] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0332] Step 1:

[0333] The device uses the LocationManager API to obtain the user's current location (latitude and longitude). This information is used as input to calculate real-time location information on the device, which then structures and prepares the data. Specifically, once the location information is obtained, the message "Retrieving latitude and longitude of current location..." is displayed.

[0334] Step 2:

[0335] The device sends the acquired location information to the server via an HTTP POST request. This location information becomes the input. The server stores the received data in a database. After this processing, the output shows that the user's current location has been updated in the server's database. The device displays "Sending location information to server...".

[0336] Step 3:

[0337] The server searches for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on the location information stored in the database. The server inputs the location information and searches the coupon database to list applicable coupons. Specifically, the message "Searching for coupons for stores within a 500 meter radius..." is displayed.

[0338] Step 4:

[0339] The server compares the coupon information with the user's purchase history and emotional information, and selects highly relevant coupons. The purchase history and emotional information are input, and the recommendation engine uses this information to select coupons. As a result, a list of selected coupons is output. The server displays the message "Selecting coupons based on past purchase history and emotional information..."

[0340] Step 5:

[0341] The device uses a camera and microphone to collect the user's facial expressions and voice and then performs emotional analysis. This facial and voice data is input, and the emotional state is analyzed in real time using an emotion analysis engine. Emotional information is output as the analysis result. Specifically, the device displays the message "Analyzing facial expression data, identifying emotions..."

[0342] Step 6:

[0343] The device sends the emotional information obtained through emotion analysis to the server via an HTTP POST request. This emotional information becomes the input. The server stores the received emotional information in a database. After processing, the output shows that the latest emotional data has been saved in the server's database. The device displays "Sending emotional information to server...".

[0344] Step 7:

[0345] The server combines location information, purchase history, and emotional information to select the most suitable coupon and notify the user's device. This information is input and the selected coupon information is output. The device notifies the user of the coupon using the push notification function. Specifically, a notification is displayed saying, "Recommending the most suitable coupon for you..."

[0346] Step 8:

[0347] When purchasing a product or service at a partner store, the user launches the cashless payment app. When the payment begins, the terminal queries the server to obtain available coupon information. A payment start notification is input, and coupon information is output. The terminal displays "Checking coupons for payment..."

[0348] Step 9:

[0349] The server checks the payment information against pre-selected coupon information and automatically applies the coupon. Payment information is input, and the amount after the discount due to the applied coupon is output. The server displays "Applying coupon, calculating discounted amount..."

[0350] Step 10:

[0351] The server sends the final amount after the discount to the terminal. The amount after the discount is entered, and this information is displayed on the terminal, where the user can confirm the final amount. Specifically, the message "The total amount after the discount is 900 yen. Please complete the payment" is displayed.

[0352] Through the above processing steps, the system provides coupons based on the user's location information and emotional state, and automatically applies the coupons during cashless payments.

[0353] (Application example 2)

[0354] 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."

[0355] Conventional coupon provision systems can provide coupons based on a user's current location or recommend coupons based on their purchase history, but they do not recommend coupons that take into account the user's emotional state. As a result, they lack the flexibility to improve the user experience or implement effective promotions. Furthermore, they lack a convenient function for automatically applying coupons at the time of payment, which hinders users from making the most of their coupons.

[0356] The identification process by the identification 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 collecting location information, means for transmitting the location information to the server, means for searching for coupon information for nearby affiliated facilities based on the location information, means for analyzing the user's facial expression and voice and identifying their emotion, means for selecting a coupon corresponding to their emotional state based on the emotional information and the coupon information, and means for notifying the user's computer of the selected coupon information. This makes it possible to provide coupons that take the user's emotional state into consideration, thereby improving the user experience and realizing effective store promotions.

[0357] "Location information" is data that indicates a user's current geographic location and is obtained using technologies such as GPS.

[0358] "Emotion information" is data that indicates the emotional state of the user analyzed from facial expressions, voice, and the like.

[0359] "Coupon information" is data regarding discounts and special offers offered by affiliated facilities.

[0360] "Purchase history" is data about products and services purchased by a user in the past.

[0361] A "server" is a computer system that responds to requests from multiple clients and processes and stores data.

[0362] A "terminal" is an electronic device that can be directly operated by a user, including a smartphone or tablet.

[0363] "Cashless payment" is a system in which payments are made electronically without using cash.

[0364] "Facial expression analysis" is a technology that analyzes a user's face captured by a camera and identifies their emotional state.

[0365] "Voice analysis" is a technology that analyzes a user's voice collected by a microphone and identifies their emotional state.

[0366] "Notification" is the act of presenting specific information from a server to a terminal.

[0367] "Payment information" is data relating to the amount and payment method when a user makes a payment.

[0368] A "computer" is an electronic device for processing information, and is a device that performs calculations and data processing.

[0369] This invention is a system that provides optimal coupon information in real time based on user location information and sentiment analysis, and automatically applies coupons when making cashless payments. This system improves the user experience and increases the effectiveness of store promotions.

[0370] A user first uses a device such as a smartphone. The device is equipped with a GPS function to acquire location information, and as the user moves, the location information is updated in real time. Once the device acquires the location information, it sends it to a server.

[0371] The server searches for coupon information for affiliated facilities near the user's current location based on the received location information. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated facilities and stored in a database on the server. The server then compares the user's purchase history and coupon usage history to select highly relevant coupons.

[0372] The device then uses sensors such as a camera and microphone to capture the user's facial expressions and voice, and identifies their emotions. The emotion identification is performed using an emotion engine, and the results are sent to the server as emotion information.

[0373] The server selects coupons according to the user's emotional state based on the received emotional information, location information, and coupon information. For example, if the user is in a positive emotional state, the server provides more coupons, and if the user is in a negative emotional state, the server provides special coupons that will comfort the user.

[0374] The selected coupon information is notified to the user's device, and detailed information is displayed. When the user purchases a product or service at a partner facility, they launch the cashless payment app to begin payment. The device queries the server at the start of payment and obtains available coupon information. The server compares the user's current payment information with previously recommended coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons.

[0375] The discounted amount is calculated based on the applied coupon and sent from the server to the terminal. This amount is displayed on the payment app, allowing the user to check the final amount with the discount applied.

[0376] For example, if a user is approaching a cafe in a shopping mall, the system will provide a 20% off coupon for that cafe. If the user is in a happy emotional state at this time, the system will notify the user of this special coupon. The following example prompt sentence can help achieve this:

[0377] Example prompt sentence:

[0378] Recommend a 20% off coupon to be used when the user approaches a cafe in a shopping mall, assuming the user is in a happy emotional state.

[0379] In this way, the system maximizes the coupons held by users and allows stores to carry out effective promotions. Furthermore, by providing coupons according to emotional states, the system can further improve the user experience.

[0380] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0381] Step 1:

[0382] The device acquires location information.

[0383] Input: Location data from the GPS sensor.

[0384] Processing: Obtain the latitude and longitude of the current location using the device's GPS function.

[0385] Output: The location information obtained.

[0386] Step 2:

[0387] The location information acquired by the device is sent to the server.

[0388] Input: Location information obtained by the device.

[0389] Processing: The location information is sent to the server as an HTTP request.

[0390] Output: Success / failure status of sending location information to the server.

[0391] Step 3:

[0392] The server searches for coupon information for nearby affiliated facilities based on the location information.

[0393] Input: Location information sent from the device.

[0394] Processing: The server accesses the database and searches for coupon information for relevant stores based on the location information.

[0395] Output: Relevant coupon information.

[0396] Step 4:

[0397] The server selects highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and coupon information.

[0398] Input: User's purchase history and acquired coupon information.

[0399] Processing: Purchase history and coupon information are analyzed using an algorithm to select highly relevant coupons.

[0400] Output: A list of relevant coupon deals.

[0401] Step 5:

[0402] The device analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to identify emotions.

[0403] Input: Facial expression and voice data from the device's camera and microphone.

[0404] Processing: Using the emotion engine, the collected data is analyzed for emotion recognition in real time.

[0405] Output: Emotional information.

[0406] Step 6:

[0407] The device transmits the emotion information to the server.

[0408] Input: Identified emotion information.

[0409] Processing: Emotion information is sent to the server as an HTTP request.

[0410] Output: Success / failure status of emotion information transmission to the server.

[0411] Step 7:

[0412] The server selects a coupon according to the emotional state based on the emotional information and coupon information.

[0413] Input: Sentiment information and relevant coupon information.

[0414] Processing: Match the emotional information with the coupon information and select the coupon that best suits the emotional state.

[0415] Output: Optimal coupon information.

[0416] Step 8:

[0417] The selected coupon information is notified to the terminal.

[0418] Input: Best coupon information.

[0419] Processing: Coupon information is sent to the terminal as an HTTP response.

[0420] Output: Coupon information displayed on the terminal.

[0421] Step 9:

[0422] The terminal launches the cashless payment app and queries the server when payment begins.

[0423] Input: Information that triggered the start of payment.

[0424] Processing: Sends a request to the server to check coupon applicability.

[0425] Output: Success / failure status of the query to the server.

[0426] Step 10:

[0427] The server compares the current payment information with the selected coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons.

[0428] Input: Current payment information and selected coupon information.

[0429] Processing: Compare payment information with coupon information and select applicable coupons.

[0430] Output: The applied coupon and the final discounted amount.

[0431] Step 11:

[0432] The server sends the discounted amount to the terminal.

[0433] Enter: Final amount after discount.

[0434] Processing: The discounted amount information is sent to the terminal as an HTTP response.

[0435] Output: The final discounted amount displayed on the terminal.

[0436] 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.

[0437] 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.

[0438] 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.

[0439] [Second embodiment]

[0440] FIG. 3 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 210 according to the second embodiment.

[0441] 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.

[0442] 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).

[0443] 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.

[0444] 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.

[0445] 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).

[0446] 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.

[0447] 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.

[0448] 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.

[0449] 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.

[0450] 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.

[0451] 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."

[0452] ---

[0453] This invention is a system that improves convenience for both consumers and stores by allowing users to obtain coupon information in real time based on their location information and automatically applying coupons when making cashless payments. Below, the program and processing of this system are explained in natural language.

[0454] First, a user uses a device such as a smartphone. The device is equipped with a GPS function to acquire location information, and as the user moves, the location information is updated in real time. The user's current location is identified through the location information acquisition method.

[0455] The acquired location information is sent from the device to the server. The server searches for coupon information for affiliated stores around the user's current location based on the received location information. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated stores and stored in a database.

[0456] The server compares the coupon search results with the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to select coupons that are highly relevant to the user. The user's purchase history and preferences are analyzed based on, for example, the types of products purchased in the past and the services used.

[0457] The server then notifies the user of the selected coupon information. The user's device then displays detailed coupon information, allowing them to immediately check which coupons are available. For example, a 10% off coupon that can be used at a cafe in the shopping mall where the user is currently located is displayed.

[0458] When a user purchases a product or service at a store, they launch the cashless payment app and begin payment. The device then queries the server at the start of the payment to obtain available coupon information. The server then compares the user's current payment information with previously recommended coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons.

[0459] The discounted price is calculated based on the applied coupon and sent from the server to the terminal. This price is displayed on the payment app, and the user can check the final price after the discount is applied. For example, if a 10% off coupon is applied at a cafe, a product that normally costs 1,000 yen will cost 900 yen.

[0460] In this way, users can make the most of coupons and not miss them, and stores can improve customer satisfaction and run effective promotions. Furthermore, the server can analyze the collected usage data and use it to help with future coupon distribution and marketing strategies.

[0461] The above is a specific embodiment of the present invention. It is expected that this system will dramatically improve the effective use of coupons and the convenience of cashless payments.

[0462] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0463] ---

[0464] Step 1:

[0465] Device: The GPS sensor is used to obtain the user's current location. The obtained location information is saved in the form of latitude and longitude.

[0466] Step 2:

[0467] Terminal: The acquired location information is sent to a server via the Internet using a protocol such as an HTTP request.

[0468] Step 3:

[0469] Server: Based on the received location information, the server searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores. Here, a search query is generated and coupons within the specified range are extracted.

[0470] Step 4:

[0471] Server: Refers to the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to identify highly relevant coupons. Relevance is scored based on the user's preferences and past usage history.

[0472] Step 5:

[0473] Server: Sends the identified coupon information to the user's device via push notification or in-app messaging.

[0474] Step 6:

[0475] Terminal: Notifies the user of the coupon information sent and displays it on the screen. The user can then confirm the displayed coupon information.

[0476] Step 7:

[0477] User: To use the coupon, select a product or service at a participating store and launch the cashless payment app.

[0478] Step 8:

[0479] Terminal: Sends payment information (store ID, purchase amount, user ID, etc.) to the server. This is done again using an HTTP request.

[0480] Step 9:

[0481] Server: Receives payment information and initiates the process of matching available coupons. Based on the matching results, the most applicable coupon is selected.

[0482] Step 10:

[0483] Server: Calculates the final discounted price based on the applied coupons. This is where discount percentages and fixed discounts are reflected.

[0484] Step 11:

[0485] Server: Sends the calculated final amount to the terminal, along with the information about the applied coupon.

[0486] Step 12:

[0487] Terminal: The final amount received is displayed on the payment app and the user is prompted to confirm it. The user confirms the final amount and completes the payment.

[0488] Step 13:

[0489] User: After completing the payment, they will receive a receipt and confirmation message with the coupon applied, confirming that the discount has been applied.

[0490] ---

[0491] The above is a detailed description of the processing steps of the program in the embodiment of the present invention, which allows users to effectively use coupons and enjoy a highly convenient shopping experience.

[0492] Example 1

[0493] 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."

[0494] In their daily shopping activities, consumers want to be able to obtain appropriate coupon information in a timely manner based on their location information, and to efficiently manage points, discounts, and other information. However, with conventional systems, users had to search for and apply coupons themselves, which was a cumbersome process. Furthermore, stores lacked a means to effectively distribute targeted coupons based on customers' purchasing history. This created a need for a coupon system that could be applied immediately.

[0495] 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.

[0496] In this invention, the server includes a means for searching for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on location information, a means for selecting highly relevant coupons based on purchase history and coupon information, and a means for automatically applying the coupons at the time of payment. This allows the user to obtain the most suitable coupon in real time and check the final price after the discount has been automatically applied.

[0497] "Means for collecting location information" refers to devices, programs, and methods for obtaining the latitude and longitude of a user's current location using GPS functionality.

[0498] "Means for transmitting location information to a server" refers to the communication protocol or method for transmitting collected location information as data to a server via the Internet.

[0499] "Means for searching for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores" refers to an algorithm and method by which the server refers to a database to search for and obtain coupon information for affiliated stores located near the user's current location.

[0500] "Means for selecting highly relevant coupons based on purchase history and coupon information" refers to the algorithms and methods by which the server compares the user's past purchase history and preference data with the acquired coupon information and selects the coupons that are most relevant to the user.

[0501] "Means for notifying the user's device of the selected coupon information" refers to the communication protocol or method by which the server sends the selected coupon information to the user's device via push notification or the like.

[0502] "Means for automatically applying coupons that can be used at the time of payment" refers to an algorithm or method for automatically applying pre-selected coupons and calculating the discount amount at the time of cashless payment.

[0503] "Means for calculating the discounted amount and notifying the user terminal" refers to a method or program for calculating the final payment amount after the coupon is applied and displaying and notifying that amount on the user terminal.

[0504] "Means for analyzing purchase history and preferences" refers to analytical algorithms and methods for analyzing a user's past purchase data and interest / preference data to predict and recommend coupons and services that will be beneficial in the future.

[0505] "Means for matching payment information with coupon information" refers to a method or algorithm for automatically selecting the most appropriate coupon by matching the product information used at the time of payment with coupon information stored in advance on the server.

[0506] "Means for analyzing collected usage data and utilizing it for coupon distribution and marketing strategies" refers to methods and systems for collecting and analyzing user data and utilizing it for effective coupon distribution and promotional activities.

[0507] This invention is a system that improves convenience for both consumers and stores by allowing users to obtain coupon information in real time based on their location information and automatically applying coupons when making cashless payments. Below, the program and processing of this system are explained in natural language.

[0508] First, a user uses a device such as a smartphone. The device is equipped with a GPS function for acquiring location information, and as the user moves, the location information is updated in real time. The user's current location is identified through the location information acquisition method. Specifically, the device calls the "location information acquisition method" to acquire the latitude and longitude. This location information is then stored in an internal variable.

[0509] The acquired location information is sent from the device to the server. The server uses the received location information to search for coupon information for affiliated stores near the user's current location. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated stores and stored in a database. To retrieve the coupon information, the server executes an SQL query from a database such as MySQL. The resulting coupon information is stored in a temporary list in memory.

[0510] The server then compares the coupon information search results with the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to select coupons that are most relevant to the user. The user's purchase history and preferences are analyzed based on information about the types of products purchased in the past and the services used. The server then runs a matching algorithm based on this data to select the most suitable coupon. The selected coupon information is then sent from the server to the user's device again. This notification is sent using a push notification service such as Firebase Cloud Messaging.

[0511] The user's device will display detailed coupon information, allowing them to immediately check available coupons. For example, a 10% off coupon that can be used at a cafe in the shopping mall where the user is currently located will be displayed.

[0512] When a user purchases a product or service at a store, they launch a cashless payment app and begin the payment. The user selects an app such as Apple Pay or Google Wallet and begins the payment. When the payment begins, the device queries the server to obtain available coupon information. The server compares the user's current payment information with previously recommended coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons. An algorithm is then executed to apply these coupons.

[0513] The discounted amount is calculated based on the applied coupon and sent from the server to the device. This amount is displayed on the payment app, and the user can check the final amount after the discount is applied. For example, a 10% off coupon at a cafe is applied, so an item that normally costs 1,000 yen becomes 900 yen. A response containing this discounted amount is generated and sent to the device via HTTPS.

[0514] The server then analyzes the collected usage data to help with coupon distribution and marketing strategies. The server stores the usage data in a database and periodically runs an analysis algorithm. The server generates a report of the analysis results and provides it to the marketing department.

[0515] This specific implementation allows users to maximize coupon usage without missing out on them, and allows stores to improve customer satisfaction and conduct effective promotions. Furthermore, the data collected and analyzed by the server can provide important insights for future marketing strategies. This system is expected to dramatically improve the effective use of coupons and the convenience of cashless payments.

[0516] Example prompt sentence:

[0517] "Please explain in detail the specific processing steps and operations of the system that uses GPS to obtain the user's location information, searches for and selects coupon information from affiliated stores around the user's current location, and automatically applies the coupon when making a cashless payment."

[0518] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0519] Step 1:

[0520] Obtaining location information

[0521] Subject: Terminal

[0522] Specific behavior:

[0523] The device periodically obtains the user's current location using the built-in GPS function. It calls the location information acquisition method to obtain latitude and longitude data.

[0524] Input: GPS sensor data

[0525] Output: Current location latitude and longitude

[0526] Step 2:

[0527] Sending location information

[0528] Subject: Terminal

[0529] Specific behavior:

[0530] The device sends the acquired location information to the server as a payload of an HTTP request. HTTPS is used for communication to ensure secure data transmission.

[0531] Input: Obtained latitude and longitude

[0532] Output: HTTP request with location information

[0533] Step 3:

[0534] Search for coupon information

[0535] Subject: Server

[0536] Specific behavior:

[0537] The server searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on the received location information, executes an SQL query to retrieve the coupon information, and stores it in a list in memory.

[0538] Input: Location information sent from the device

[0539] Output: A list of the coupons found

[0540] Step 4:

[0541] Matching with user purchase history

[0542] Subject: Server

[0543] Specific behavior:

[0544] The server compares the coupon information with the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to select appropriate coupons. It then runs a matching algorithm to select highly relevant coupons.

[0545] Input: List of coupon information, user purchase history data

[0546] Output: A list of relevant coupons

[0547] Step 5:

[0548] Coupon Notifications

[0549] Subject: Server

[0550] Specific behavior:

[0551] The server sends the selected coupon information to the user's device via a push notification service (e.g., Firebase Cloud Messaging).

[0552] Input: Relevant coupon information

[0553] Output: Push notification containing coupon information

[0554] Step 6:

[0555] View coupons

[0556] Subject: Terminal

[0557] Specific behavior:

[0558] The device displays the received coupon information on the user interface, and displays the coupon details on the app screen so that the user can check them.

[0559] Input: Push notification containing coupon information

[0560] Output: Coupon information displayed on the device screen

[0561] Step 7:

[0562] Start of cashless payment

[0563] Subject: User

[0564] Specific behavior:

[0565] When purchasing goods or services at a store, users launch the cashless payment app and begin payment.

[0566] Input: User payment operation

[0567] Output: Trigger to start payment

[0568] Step 8:

[0569] Applying coupons

[0570] Subject: Server

[0571] Specific behavior:

[0572] When the server receives a payment start inquiry from the terminal, it checks the current payment information against pre-selected coupon information and automatically applies the coupon. It then determines which coupon to apply and calculates the discounted amount.

[0573] Input: Current payment information, pre-selected coupon information

[0574] Output: Discounted amount

[0575] Step 9:

[0576] Display of discount amount

[0577] Subject: Terminal

[0578] Specific behavior:

[0579] The discounted amount sent from the server is received and displayed on the payment app, allowing the user to confirm the final amount with the discount applied.

[0580] Input: Discounted amount sent from the server

[0581] Output: Final amount displayed on the payment app

[0582] Step 10:

[0583] Usage data collection and analysis

[0584] Subject: Server

[0585] Specific behavior:

[0586] The server stores the collected usage data in a database and periodically runs an analysis algorithm to determine future coupon distribution and marketing strategies.

[0587] Input: User usage data

[0588] Output: analytical reports and data for marketing strategies

[0589] (Application example 1)

[0590] 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."

[0591] Today's consumers are on the move a lot, making it difficult for them to efficiently use coupon information while shopping in stores. Furthermore, because consumers often overlook coupon information, it is difficult for stores to implement appropriate promotions. Given this background, there is a need for a system that can efficiently provide coupons to consumers and encourage in-store purchases.

[0592] 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.

[0593] In this invention, the server includes means for collecting location information, means for transmitting the location information to the server, means for the server to search for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on the location information, means for the server to select highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and the coupon information, means for notifying the user's terminal of the selected coupon information, means for recommending coupons based on the user's purchase history and usage history, means for automatically applying coupons that can be used at the time of payment, means for acquiring location information using a smartphone application and sending push notifications of coupons for nearby stores, and means for automatically applying coupons that can be used in conjunction with the user's cashless payment. This enables consumers to receive appropriate coupons in real time based on their location information, and discounts to be automatically applied at the time of payment.

[0594] "Means for collecting location information" refers to a device that has the functionality to obtain the user's current location using technologies such as the device's GPS or beacon.

[0595] "Means for transmitting the location information to a server" refers to a technique for transmitting the user's current location information to a remote server via the Internet.

[0596] "Means for the server to search for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on the location information" refers to the function of the server receiving the location information to search for coupon information stored in a database and obtain store information related to the user's current location.

[0597] "Means for the server to select highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and the coupon information" refers to technology that has an algorithm that analyzes the user's past purchase data and selects highly relevant coupons.

[0598] "Means for notifying the user's terminal of the selected coupon information" refers to a system for sending a push notification of the selected coupon information to the user's smartphone or tablet.

[0599] "Means for recommending coupons based on a user's purchase history and usage history" refers to technology that has the function of recommending optimal coupons to a user based on the user's past purchase history and coupon usage history.

[0600] The "means for automatically applying coupons that can be used at the time of payment" refers to a system that automatically applies coupons that can be used when a user makes a cashless payment.

[0601] "Means of obtaining location information using a smartphone application and sending push notifications of coupons from nearby stores" refers to a technology that uses a smartphone application to collect location information and notify the user in real time of coupon information provided by stores around the user's current location.

[0602] "Means for automatically applying usable coupons in conjunction with a user's cashless payment" refers to a system that automatically applies discounts by linking coupon information obtained in advance when a user makes a cashless payment.

[0603] This invention is a system that uses a smartphone application to acquire location information, obtain available coupon information in real time, and automatically apply coupons when making cashless payments. This system allows consumers to use coupons efficiently and enables stores to carry out effective promotions.

[0604] System Overview

[0605] The system consists of the following major components:

[0606] 1. User device: Obtains the user's current location and sends it to the server.

[0607] 2. Server: Searches for coupon information for nearby stores based on the user's current location, selects relevant coupons based on purchase history, and notifies the user.

[0608] 3. Smartphone application: Runs on the user's device, displays coupon information, and automatically applies coupons when making cashless payments.

[0609] Hardware and Software

[0610] GPS module: Obtains the user's location information in real time.

[0611] Internet connection: Sends and receives location information and coupon information.

[0612] Server: Use backend infrastructure such as cloud services (e.g. AWS, Google Cloud).

[0613] Database: Stores coupon information and user purchase history (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL).

[0614] Smartphone application: an application that runs on the iOS or Android platform.

[0615] Payment gateway: Used for cashless payment integration (e.g. PayPal, Stripe).

[0616] Processing Details

[0617] 1. Acquisition and transmission of location information:

[0618] The user terminal acquires its current location using a built-in GPS module.

[0619] The acquired location information is sent to a server via the Internet.

[0620] 2. Coupon Information Search and Selection:

[0621] The server receives the location information and searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores.

[0622] Based on the search results, the system compares them with the user's purchasing history and usage history to select highly relevant coupons.

[0623] 3. Notices and Indications:

[0624] The selected coupon information is sent to the user terminal via push notification.

[0625] When the smartphone application on the user's device receives the notification, it displays the details of the coupon information.

[0626] 4. Coupon application for cashless payments:

[0627] When a user makes a cashless payment at a store, the smartphone application and payment gateway work together to automatically apply available coupons.

[0628] The final discounted amount is calculated and displayed to the user.

[0629] Examples and prompts

[0630] For example, if a user launches "Smart Coupon Navi" while in Shibuya, Tokyo, the following coupon information will be pushed to them:

[0631] Examples:

[0632] "Current location: 10% off coupon for cafes around Shibuya"

[0633] "Expiration date: 2023-12-31"

[0634] Example prompt sentence:

[0635] "The user is currently in Shibuya. Show available coupons from nearby physical stores. Example: 10% off coupon for cafe, expiration date: 2023-12-31"

[0636] With these components and processing steps, the present invention provides a system that enables efficient provision and reliable utilization of coupon information.

[0637] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0638] Step 1:

[0639] The user terminal acquires its current location using a built-in GPS module.

[0640] Input: GPS data from smartphone

[0641] Output: Current location of the user (latitude and longitude)

[0642] Step 2:

[0643] The acquired location information is sent to a server via the Internet.

[0644] Input: Current location of the user (latitude and longitude)

[0645] Output: Location information sent to the server

[0646] Step 3:

[0647] The server receives the location information and searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores.

[0648] Input: Location information received by the server

[0649] Output: Coupon information for affiliated stores near the user's current location

[0650] Step 4:

[0651] Based on the search results, the server compares them with the user's purchase history and usage history to select highly relevant coupons.

[0652] Input: Coupon information for affiliated stores, user purchase history and usage history

[0653] Output: Relevant coupon information

[0654] Step 5:

[0655] The selected coupon information is sent to the user terminal via push notification.

[0656] Input: Coupon information selected by the server

[0657] Output: Coupon notification sent to user device

[0658] Step 6:

[0659] When the smartphone application on the user's device receives the notification, it displays the details of the coupon information.

[0660] Input: Coupon information received as a push notification

[0661] Output: Coupon details displayed on smartphone screen

[0662] Step 7:

[0663] When a user makes a cashless payment at a store, the smartphone application and payment gateway work together to automatically apply available coupons.

[0664] Input: Payment information selected by the user, selected coupon information

[0665] Output: Automatically applied coupons, final discounted amount

[0666] Step 8:

[0667] The final discounted amount is calculated and displayed to the user.

[0668] Input: Automatically applied coupon

[0669] Output: Smartphone screen showing the final price after the discount

[0670] 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.

[0671] ---

[0672] This invention is a system that improves convenience for both consumers and stores by allowing users to obtain coupon information in real time based on location information and emotion analysis, and automatically applying coupons during cashless payments. In particular, by combining this system with an emotion engine, it becomes possible to recommend coupons that take into account the user's emotional state.

[0673] First, a user uses a device such as a smartphone. The device is equipped with a GPS function for acquiring location information, and as the user moves, the location information is updated in real time. The user's current location is identified using the location information acquisition method.

[0674] The acquired location information is sent from the device to the server. The server searches for coupon information for affiliated stores around the user's current location based on the received location information. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated stores and stored in a database.

[0675] The server compares the coupon search results with the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to select coupons that are highly relevant to the user. The user's purchase history and preferences are analyzed based on, for example, the types of products purchased in the past and the services used.

[0676] The present invention adds an emotion engine to its features. The device uses sensors such as a camera and microphone to identify emotions from the user's facial expressions and voice. It executes emotion identification methods and analyzes the user's emotional state (e.g., joy, sadness, anger, etc.) in real time.

[0677] The recognized emotional information is sent to the server, just like the location information. The server selects coupons based on the received emotional information according to the user's emotional state. For example, if the user is in a positive emotional state, more coupons are provided, and if the user is in a negative emotional state, special comforting coupons are provided.

[0678] The server then notifies the user of the selected coupon information. The user's device then displays detailed coupon information, allowing them to immediately check which coupons are available. For example, a 10% off coupon that can be used at a cafe in the shopping mall where the user is currently located is displayed.

[0679] When a user purchases a product or service at a store, they launch the cashless payment app and begin payment. The device then queries the server at the start of the payment to obtain available coupon information. The server then compares the user's current payment information with previously recommended coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons.

[0680] The discounted price is calculated based on the applied coupon and sent from the server to the terminal. This price is displayed on the payment app, and the user can check the final price after the discount is applied. For example, if a 10% off coupon is applied at a cafe, a product that normally costs 1,000 yen will cost 900 yen.

[0681] In this way, users can make the most of coupons and not miss them, and stores can improve customer satisfaction and run effective promotions. Furthermore, the server can analyze the collected usage data and use it to help with future coupon distribution and marketing strategies.

[0682] The above is a specific embodiment of the present invention. This system is expected to realize not only effective coupon usage and the convenience of cashless payment, but also flexible coupon services that respond to the user's emotional state.

[0683] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0684] ---

[0685] Step 1:

[0686] Device: The GPS sensor is used to obtain the user's current location. The obtained location information is saved in the form of latitude and longitude.

[0687] Step 2:

[0688] Terminal: The acquired location information is sent to a server via the Internet using a protocol such as an HTTP request.

[0689] Step 3:

[0690] Server: Based on the received location information, the server searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores. Here, a search query is generated and coupons within the specified range are extracted.

[0691] Step 4:

[0692] Server: Refers to the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to identify highly relevant coupons. Relevance is scored based on the user's preferences and past usage history.

[0693] Step 5:

[0694] Device: Using sensors such as a camera and microphone, the device identifies emotions from the user's facial expressions and voice. It executes emotion identification methods and analyzes the user's emotional state (e.g., joy, sadness, anger, etc.) in real time.

[0695] Step 6:

[0696] Terminal: The recognized emotion information is sent to the server via the Internet along with the location information.

[0697] Step 7:

[0698] Server: Based on the received emotional information, the server selects coupons according to the user's emotional state. Based on the emotional state, if the emotion is positive, more coupons are provided, and if the emotion is negative, special coupons that will comfort the user are provided.

[0699] Step 8:

[0700] Server: Sends the selected coupon information to the user's device via push notification or in-app messaging.

[0701] Step 9:

[0702] Terminal: Notifies the user of the coupon information sent and displays it on the screen. The user can then confirm the displayed coupon information.

[0703] Step 10:

[0704] User: To use the coupon, select a product or service at a participating store and launch the cashless payment app.

[0705] Step 11:

[0706] Terminal: Sends payment information (store ID, purchase amount, user ID, etc.) to the server. This is done again using an HTTP request.

[0707] Step 12:

[0708] Server: Receives payment information and initiates the process of matching available coupons. Based on the matching results, the most applicable coupon is selected.

[0709] Step 13:

[0710] Server: Calculates the final discounted price based on the applied coupons. This is where discount percentages and fixed discounts are reflected.

[0711] Step 14:

[0712] Server: Sends the calculated final amount to the terminal, along with the information about the applied coupon.

[0713] Step 15:

[0714] Terminal: The final amount received is displayed on the payment app and the user is prompted to confirm it. The user confirms the final amount and completes the payment.

[0715] Step 16:

[0716] User: After completing the payment, they will receive a receipt and confirmation message with the coupon applied, confirming that the discount has been applied.

[0717] ---

[0718] The above is a detailed description of the processing steps of the program in an embodiment of the present invention. This processing allows users to effectively use coupons and enjoy a convenient shopping experience. Furthermore, the addition of an emotion engine provides flexible coupon services that take into account the user's emotional state.

[0719] Example 2

[0720] 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."

[0721] In many cases, conventional coupon provision systems provide uniform coupons based solely on the user's location information, and are unable to consider the user's individual purchasing history or emotional state. This has resulted in issues such as not being able to maximize users' motivation to use the coupons and limiting the effectiveness of the coupons provided. Another issue is the lack of a means to automatically apply coupons during cashless payments, forcing users to manually select coupons.

[0722] The identification process by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the second embodiment is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes a means for collecting location information, a means for searching for coupon information of nearby affiliated stores based on the location information, and a means for selecting highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history, emotional information, and the coupon information. This makes it possible to provide coupons that take into account the user's current emotional state, maximizing the effectiveness of coupon usage. Furthermore, by automatically applying the most appropriate coupon during cashless payment, user convenience can be improved.

[0723] "Location information" is data relating to the user's current latitude and longitude.

[0724] A "server" is a computer system that processes, stores, and transfers data over a network.

[0725] "Coupon information" is data about discounts and special offers offered by stores.

[0726] "Purchase history" is a record of products and services purchased by a user in the past.

[0727] "Emotion information" is data relating to the emotional state of the user analyzed from facial expressions and voice.

[0728] A "terminal" is a computing device used by a user, such as a smartphone or tablet.

[0729] "Payment information" refers to data related to payments made when a user purchases a product or service.

[0730] "Automatic application" refers to the process whereby the system automatically applies the coupon without requiring manual action from the user.

[0731] "Notification" is the act of the system sending information to the user's terminal to notify them.

[0732] "Cashless payment" refers to payments made electronically without using cash.

[0733] The present invention provides a system that improves convenience for both consumers and stores by allowing users to obtain coupon information in real time based on location information and sentiment analysis, and automatically applying coupons when making cashless payments. Specific embodiments of this system are described below.

[0734] This system consists of a device such as a user's smartphone, a server, and various software. The device is equipped with a GPS function, which is used to obtain the user's current location. Specifically, the device's LocationManager API is used to collect the user's latitude and longitude data in real time. The device also uses sensors such as a camera and microphone to collect the user's facial expressions and voice, and analyzes their emotional state. For this purpose, it uses software such as an emotion analysis engine and EmotionRecognitionAPI.

[0735] The acquired location information and emotion information are sent from the device to the server. The server receives the HTTP POST request and stores this information in a database. The server then searches for coupon information for affiliated stores near the user's current location based on the received location information. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated stores and stored in the database.

[0736] The server selects highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history, emotional information, and coupon information. The purchase history is a record of the products and services the user has purchased in the past and is stored in a database. The emotional information is data on the user's emotional state analyzed from their facial expressions and voice. Based on this information, the server uses a recommendation engine to select the most suitable coupon for the user.

[0737] The server notifies the user's device of the selected coupon information. The device then notifies the user of this information using the push notification function. The user can then check the coupon's detailed information on the device. For example, if the user is at a cafe in a shopping mall, a 10% off coupon that can be used at the cafe will be displayed.

[0738] When a user purchases a product or service at a partner store, they launch the cashless payment app and begin payment. When the payment begins, the terminal queries the server and obtains available coupon information. The server compares the payment information with pre-selected coupon information and automatically applies the coupon. Finally, the post-discount amount is calculated and sent from the server to the terminal. The user confirms the post-discount amount displayed on the payment app and completes the payment.

[0739] This system allows users to make the most of coupons and not miss them, and also allows stores to improve customer satisfaction and carry out effective promotions. Furthermore, the server can analyze the collected usage data and use it to help with future coupon distribution and marketing strategies. For example, it can create effective coupon plans tailored to specific times or events.

[0740] As a concrete example, when a user is walking in a shopping mall, the device sends the current location information to the server. The server then recommends a 10% off coupon that can be used at a nearby cafe based on the location information. When the user starts cashless payment at the register, the 10% off coupon is automatically applied, allowing the purchase of an item that normally costs 1,000 yen for 900 yen.

[0741] Example prompt sentence:

[0742] "Please explain how a user can get a discount coupon that can be used when they are at a cafe and automatically apply it to their cashless payment."

[0743] In this way, the present invention is expected to realize not only effective coupon use and the convenience of cashless payment, but also flexible coupon services that respond to the user's emotional state.

[0744] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0745] Step 1:

[0746] The device uses the LocationManager API to obtain the user's current location (latitude and longitude). This information is used as input to calculate real-time location information on the device, which then structures and prepares the data. Specifically, once the location information is obtained, the message "Retrieving latitude and longitude of current location..." is displayed.

[0747] Step 2:

[0748] The device sends the acquired location information to the server via an HTTP POST request. This location information becomes the input. The server stores the received data in a database. After this processing, the output shows that the user's current location has been updated in the server's database. The device displays "Sending location information to server...".

[0749] Step 3:

[0750] The server searches for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on the location information stored in the database. The server inputs the location information and searches the coupon database to list applicable coupons. Specifically, the message "Searching for coupons for stores within a 500 meter radius..." is displayed.

[0751] Step 4:

[0752] The server compares the coupon information with the user's purchase history and emotional information, and selects highly relevant coupons. The purchase history and emotional information are input, and the recommendation engine uses this information to select coupons. As a result, a list of selected coupons is output. The server displays the message "Selecting coupons based on past purchase history and emotional information..."

[0753] Step 5:

[0754] The device uses a camera and microphone to collect the user's facial expressions and voice and then performs emotional analysis. This facial and voice data is input, and the emotional state is analyzed in real time using an emotion analysis engine. Emotional information is output as the analysis result. Specifically, the device displays the message "Analyzing facial expression data, identifying emotions..."

[0755] Step 6:

[0756] The device sends the emotional information obtained through emotion analysis to the server via an HTTP POST request. This emotional information becomes the input. The server stores the received emotional information in a database. After processing, the output shows that the latest emotional data has been saved in the server's database. The device displays "Sending emotional information to server...".

[0757] Step 7:

[0758] The server combines location information, purchase history, and emotional information to select the most suitable coupon and notify the user's device. This information is input and the selected coupon information is output. The device notifies the user of the coupon using the push notification function. Specifically, a notification is displayed saying, "Recommending the most suitable coupon for you..."

[0759] Step 8:

[0760] When purchasing a product or service at a partner store, the user launches the cashless payment app. When the payment begins, the terminal queries the server to obtain available coupon information. A payment start notification is input, and coupon information is output. The terminal displays "Checking coupons for payment..."

[0761] Step 9:

[0762] The server checks the payment information against pre-selected coupon information and automatically applies the coupon. Payment information is input, and the amount after the discount due to the applied coupon is output. The server displays "Applying coupon, calculating discounted amount..."

[0763] Step 10:

[0764] The server sends the final amount after the discount to the terminal. The amount after the discount is entered, and this information is displayed on the terminal, where the user can confirm the final amount. Specifically, the message "The total amount after the discount is 900 yen. Please complete the payment" is displayed.

[0765] Through the above processing steps, the system provides coupons based on the user's location information and emotional state, and automatically applies the coupons during cashless payments.

[0766] (Application example 2)

[0767] 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."

[0768] Conventional coupon provision systems can provide coupons based on a user's current location or recommend coupons based on their purchase history, but they do not recommend coupons that take into account the user's emotional state. As a result, they lack the flexibility to improve the user experience or implement effective promotions. Furthermore, they lack a convenient function for automatically applying coupons at the time of payment, which hinders users from making the most of their coupons.

[0769] The identification process by the identification 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 collecting location information, means for transmitting the location information to the server, means for searching for coupon information for nearby affiliated facilities based on the location information, means for analyzing the user's facial expression and voice and identifying their emotion, means for selecting a coupon corresponding to their emotional state based on the emotional information and the coupon information, and means for notifying the user's computer of the selected coupon information. This makes it possible to provide coupons that take the user's emotional state into consideration, thereby improving the user experience and realizing effective store promotions.

[0770] "Location information" is data that indicates a user's current geographic location and is obtained using technologies such as GPS.

[0771] "Emotion information" is data that indicates the emotional state of the user analyzed from facial expressions, voice, and the like.

[0772] "Coupon information" is data regarding discounts and special offers offered by affiliated facilities.

[0773] "Purchase history" is data about products and services purchased by a user in the past.

[0774] A "server" is a computer system that responds to requests from multiple clients and processes and stores data.

[0775] A "terminal" is an electronic device that can be directly operated by a user, including a smartphone or tablet.

[0776] "Cashless payment" is a system in which payments are made electronically without using cash.

[0777] "Facial expression analysis" is a technology that analyzes a user's face captured by a camera and identifies their emotional state.

[0778] "Voice analysis" is a technology that analyzes a user's voice collected by a microphone and identifies their emotional state.

[0779] "Notification" is the act of presenting specific information from a server to a terminal.

[0780] "Payment information" is data relating to the amount and payment method when a user makes a payment.

[0781] A "computer" is an electronic device for processing information, and is a device that performs calculations and data processing.

[0782] This invention is a system that provides optimal coupon information in real time based on user location information and sentiment analysis, and automatically applies coupons when making cashless payments. This system improves the user experience and increases the effectiveness of store promotions.

[0783] A user first uses a device such as a smartphone. The device is equipped with a GPS function to acquire location information, and as the user moves, the location information is updated in real time. Once the device acquires the location information, it sends it to a server.

[0784] The server searches for coupon information for affiliated facilities near the user's current location based on the received location information. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated facilities and stored in a database on the server. The server then compares the user's purchase history and coupon usage history to select highly relevant coupons.

[0785] The device then uses sensors such as a camera and microphone to capture the user's facial expressions and voice, and identifies their emotions. The emotion identification is performed using an emotion engine, and the results are sent to the server as emotion information.

[0786] The server selects coupons according to the user's emotional state based on the received emotional information, location information, and coupon information. For example, if the user is in a positive emotional state, the server provides more coupons, and if the user is in a negative emotional state, the server provides special coupons that will comfort the user.

[0787] The selected coupon information is notified to the user's device, and detailed information is displayed. When the user purchases a product or service at a partner facility, they launch the cashless payment app to begin payment. The device queries the server at the start of payment and obtains available coupon information. The server compares the user's current payment information with previously recommended coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons.

[0788] The discounted amount is calculated based on the applied coupon and sent from the server to the terminal. This amount is displayed on the payment app, allowing the user to check the final amount with the discount applied.

[0789] For example, if a user is approaching a cafe in a shopping mall, the system will provide a 20% off coupon for that cafe. If the user is in a happy emotional state at this time, the system will notify the user of this special coupon. The following example prompt sentence can help achieve this:

[0790] Example prompt sentence:

[0791] Recommend a 20% off coupon to be used when the user approaches a cafe in a shopping mall, assuming the user is in a happy emotional state.

[0792] In this way, the system maximizes the coupons held by users and allows stores to carry out effective promotions. Furthermore, by providing coupons according to emotional states, the system can further improve the user experience.

[0793] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0794] Step 1:

[0795] The device acquires location information.

[0796] Input: Location data from the GPS sensor.

[0797] Processing: Obtain the latitude and longitude of the current location using the device's GPS function.

[0798] Output: The location information obtained.

[0799] Step 2:

[0800] The location information acquired by the device is sent to the server.

[0801] Input: Location information obtained by the device.

[0802] Processing: The location information is sent to the server as an HTTP request.

[0803] Output: Success / failure status of sending location information to the server.

[0804] Step 3:

[0805] The server searches for coupon information for nearby affiliated facilities based on the location information.

[0806] Input: Location information sent from the device.

[0807] Processing: The server accesses the database and searches for coupon information for relevant stores based on the location information.

[0808] Output: Relevant coupon information.

[0809] Step 4:

[0810] The server selects highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and coupon information.

[0811] Input: User's purchase history and acquired coupon information.

[0812] Processing: Purchase history and coupon information are analyzed using an algorithm to select highly relevant coupons.

[0813] Output: A list of relevant coupon deals.

[0814] Step 5:

[0815] The device analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to identify emotions.

[0816] Input: Facial expression and voice data from the device's camera and microphone.

[0817] Processing: Using the emotion engine, the collected data is analyzed for emotion recognition in real time.

[0818] Output: Emotional information.

[0819] Step 6:

[0820] The device transmits the emotion information to the server.

[0821] Input: Identified emotion information.

[0822] Processing: Emotion information is sent to the server as an HTTP request.

[0823] Output: Success / failure status of emotion information transmission to the server.

[0824] Step 7:

[0825] The server selects a coupon according to the emotional state based on the emotional information and coupon information.

[0826] Input: Sentiment information and relevant coupon information.

[0827] Processing: Match the emotional information with the coupon information and select the coupon that best suits the emotional state.

[0828] Output: Optimal coupon information.

[0829] Step 8:

[0830] The selected coupon information is notified to the terminal.

[0831] Input: Best coupon information.

[0832] Processing: Coupon information is sent to the terminal as an HTTP response.

[0833] Output: Coupon information displayed on the terminal.

[0834] Step 9:

[0835] The terminal launches the cashless payment app and queries the server when payment begins.

[0836] Input: Information that triggered the start of payment.

[0837] Processing: Sends a request to the server to check coupon applicability.

[0838] Output: Success / failure status of the query to the server.

[0839] Step 10:

[0840] The server compares the current payment information with the selected coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons.

[0841] Input: Current payment information and selected coupon information.

[0842] Processing: Compare payment information with coupon information and select applicable coupons.

[0843] Output: The applied coupon and the final discounted amount.

[0844] Step 11:

[0845] The server sends the discounted amount to the terminal.

[0846] Enter: Final amount after discount.

[0847] Processing: The discounted amount information is sent to the terminal as an HTTP response.

[0848] Output: The final discounted amount displayed on the terminal.

[0849] 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.

[0850] 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.

[0851] 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.

[0852] [Third embodiment]

[0853] FIG. 5 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 310 according to the third embodiment.

[0854] 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.

[0855] 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).

[0856] 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.

[0857] 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.

[0858] 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).

[0859] 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.

[0860] 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.

[0861] 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.

[0862] 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.

[0863] 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.

[0864] 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."

[0865] ---

[0866] This invention is a system that improves convenience for both consumers and stores by allowing users to obtain coupon information in real time based on their location information and automatically applying coupons when making cashless payments. Below, the program and processing of this system are explained in natural language.

[0867] First, a user uses a device such as a smartphone. The device is equipped with a GPS function to acquire location information, and as the user moves, the location information is updated in real time. The user's current location is identified through the location information acquisition method.

[0868] The acquired location information is sent from the device to the server. The server searches for coupon information for affiliated stores around the user's current location based on the received location information. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated stores and stored in a database.

[0869] The server compares the coupon search results with the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to select coupons that are highly relevant to the user. The user's purchase history and preferences are analyzed based on, for example, the types of products purchased in the past and the services used.

[0870] The server then notifies the user of the selected coupon information. The user's device then displays detailed coupon information, allowing them to immediately check which coupons are available. For example, a 10% off coupon that can be used at a cafe in the shopping mall where the user is currently located is displayed.

[0871] When a user purchases a product or service at a store, they launch the cashless payment app and begin payment. The device then queries the server at the start of the payment to obtain available coupon information. The server then compares the user's current payment information with previously recommended coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons.

[0872] The discounted price is calculated based on the applied coupon and sent from the server to the terminal. This price is displayed on the payment app, and the user can check the final price after the discount is applied. For example, if a 10% off coupon is applied at a cafe, a product that normally costs 1,000 yen will cost 900 yen.

[0873] In this way, users can make the most of coupons and not miss them, and stores can improve customer satisfaction and run effective promotions. Furthermore, the server can analyze the collected usage data and use it to help with future coupon distribution and marketing strategies.

[0874] The above is a specific embodiment of the present invention. It is expected that this system will dramatically improve the effective use of coupons and the convenience of cashless payments.

[0875] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0876] ---

[0877] Step 1:

[0878] Device: The GPS sensor is used to obtain the user's current location. The obtained location information is saved in the form of latitude and longitude.

[0879] Step 2:

[0880] Terminal: The acquired location information is sent to a server via the Internet using a protocol such as an HTTP request.

[0881] Step 3:

[0882] Server: Based on the received location information, the server searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores. Here, a search query is generated and coupons within the specified range are extracted.

[0883] Step 4:

[0884] Server: Refers to the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to identify highly relevant coupons. Relevance is scored based on the user's preferences and past usage history.

[0885] Step 5:

[0886] Server: Sends the identified coupon information to the user's device via push notification or in-app messaging.

[0887] Step 6:

[0888] Terminal: Notifies the user of the coupon information sent and displays it on the screen. The user can then confirm the displayed coupon information.

[0889] Step 7:

[0890] User: To use the coupon, select a product or service at a participating store and launch the cashless payment app.

[0891] Step 8:

[0892] Terminal: Sends payment information (store ID, purchase amount, user ID, etc.) to the server. This is done again using an HTTP request.

[0893] Step 9:

[0894] Server: Receives payment information and initiates the process of matching available coupons. Based on the matching results, the most applicable coupon is selected.

[0895] Step 10:

[0896] Server: Calculates the final discounted price based on the applied coupons. This is where discount percentages and fixed discounts are reflected.

[0897] Step 11:

[0898] Server: Sends the calculated final amount to the terminal, along with the information about the applied coupon.

[0899] Step 12:

[0900] Terminal: The final amount received is displayed on the payment app and the user is prompted to confirm it. The user confirms the final amount and completes the payment.

[0901] Step 13:

[0902] User: After completing the payment, they will receive a receipt and confirmation message with the coupon applied, confirming that the discount has been applied.

[0903] ---

[0904] The above is a detailed description of the processing steps of the program in the embodiment of the present invention, which allows users to effectively use coupons and enjoy a highly convenient shopping experience.

[0905] Example 1

[0906] 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."

[0907] In their daily shopping activities, consumers want to be able to obtain appropriate coupon information in a timely manner based on their location information, and to efficiently manage points, discounts, and other information. However, with conventional systems, users had to search for and apply coupons themselves, which was a cumbersome process. Furthermore, stores lacked a means to effectively distribute targeted coupons based on customers' purchasing history. This created a need for a coupon system that could be applied immediately.

[0908] 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.

[0909] In this invention, the server includes a means for searching for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on location information, a means for selecting highly relevant coupons based on purchase history and coupon information, and a means for automatically applying the coupons at the time of payment. This allows the user to obtain the most suitable coupon in real time and check the final price after the discount has been automatically applied.

[0910] "Means for collecting location information" refers to devices, programs, and methods for obtaining the latitude and longitude of a user's current location using GPS functionality.

[0911] "Means for transmitting location information to a server" refers to the communication protocol or method for transmitting collected location information as data to a server via the Internet.

[0912] "Means for searching for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores" refers to an algorithm and method by which the server refers to a database to search for and obtain coupon information for affiliated stores located near the user's current location.

[0913] "Means for selecting highly relevant coupons based on purchase history and coupon information" refers to the algorithms and methods by which the server compares the user's past purchase history and preference data with the acquired coupon information and selects the coupons that are most relevant to the user.

[0914] "Means for notifying the user's device of the selected coupon information" refers to the communication protocol or method by which the server sends the selected coupon information to the user's device via push notification or the like.

[0915] "Means for automatically applying coupons that can be used at the time of payment" refers to an algorithm or method for automatically applying pre-selected coupons and calculating the discount amount at the time of cashless payment.

[0916] "Means for calculating the discounted amount and notifying the user terminal" refers to a method or program for calculating the final payment amount after the coupon is applied and displaying and notifying that amount on the user terminal.

[0917] "Means for analyzing purchase history and preferences" refers to analytical algorithms and methods for analyzing a user's past purchase data and interest / preference data to predict and recommend coupons and services that will be beneficial in the future.

[0918] "Means for matching payment information with coupon information" refers to a method or algorithm for automatically selecting the most appropriate coupon by matching the product information used at the time of payment with coupon information stored in advance on the server.

[0919] "Means for analyzing collected usage data and utilizing it for coupon distribution and marketing strategies" refers to methods and systems for collecting and analyzing user data and utilizing it for effective coupon distribution and promotional activities.

[0920] This invention is a system that improves convenience for both consumers and stores by allowing users to obtain coupon information in real time based on their location information and automatically applying coupons when making cashless payments. Below, the program and processing of this system are explained in natural language.

[0921] First, a user uses a device such as a smartphone. The device is equipped with a GPS function for acquiring location information, and as the user moves, the location information is updated in real time. The user's current location is identified through the location information acquisition method. Specifically, the device calls the "location information acquisition method" to acquire the latitude and longitude. This location information is then stored in an internal variable.

[0922] The acquired location information is sent from the device to the server. The server uses the received location information to search for coupon information for affiliated stores near the user's current location. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated stores and stored in a database. To retrieve the coupon information, the server executes an SQL query from a database such as MySQL. The resulting coupon information is stored in a temporary list in memory.

[0923] The server then compares the coupon information search results with the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to select coupons that are most relevant to the user. The user's purchase history and preferences are analyzed based on information about the types of products purchased in the past and the services used. The server then runs a matching algorithm based on this data to select the most suitable coupon. The selected coupon information is then sent from the server to the user's device again. This notification is sent using a push notification service such as Firebase Cloud Messaging.

[0924] The user's device will display detailed coupon information, allowing them to immediately check available coupons. For example, a 10% off coupon that can be used at a cafe in the shopping mall where the user is currently located will be displayed.

[0925] When a user purchases a product or service at a store, they launch a cashless payment app and begin the payment. The user selects an app such as Apple Pay or Google Wallet and begins the payment. When the payment begins, the device queries the server to obtain available coupon information. The server compares the user's current payment information with previously recommended coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons. An algorithm is then executed to apply these coupons.

[0926] The discounted amount is calculated based on the applied coupon and sent from the server to the device. This amount is displayed on the payment app, and the user can check the final amount after the discount is applied. For example, a 10% off coupon at a cafe is applied, so an item that normally costs 1,000 yen becomes 900 yen. A response containing this discounted amount is generated and sent to the device via HTTPS.

[0927] The server then analyzes the collected usage data to help with coupon distribution and marketing strategies. The server stores the usage data in a database and periodically runs an analysis algorithm. The server generates a report of the analysis results and provides it to the marketing department.

[0928] This specific implementation allows users to maximize coupon usage without missing out on them, and allows stores to improve customer satisfaction and conduct effective promotions. Furthermore, the data collected and analyzed by the server can provide important insights for future marketing strategies. This system is expected to dramatically improve the effective use of coupons and the convenience of cashless payments.

[0929] Example prompt sentence:

[0930] "Please explain in detail the specific processing steps and operations of the system that uses GPS to obtain the user's location information, searches for and selects coupon information from affiliated stores around the user's current location, and automatically applies the coupon when making a cashless payment."

[0931] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0932] Step 1:

[0933] Obtaining location information

[0934] Subject: Terminal

[0935] Specific behavior:

[0936] The device periodically obtains the user's current location using the built-in GPS function. It calls the location information acquisition method to obtain latitude and longitude data.

[0937] Input: GPS sensor data

[0938] Output: Current location latitude and longitude

[0939] Step 2:

[0940] Sending location information

[0941] Subject: Terminal

[0942] Specific behavior:

[0943] The device sends the acquired location information to the server as a payload of an HTTP request. HTTPS is used for communication to ensure secure data transmission.

[0944] Input: Obtained latitude and longitude

[0945] Output: HTTP request with location information

[0946] Step 3:

[0947] Search for coupon information

[0948] Subject: Server

[0949] Specific behavior:

[0950] The server searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on the received location information, executes an SQL query to retrieve the coupon information, and stores it in a list in memory.

[0951] Input: Location information sent from the device

[0952] Output: A list of the coupons found

[0953] Step 4:

[0954] Matching with user purchase history

[0955] Subject: Server

[0956] Specific behavior:

[0957] The server compares the coupon information with the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to select appropriate coupons. It then runs a matching algorithm to select highly relevant coupons.

[0958] Input: List of coupon information, user purchase history data

[0959] Output: A list of relevant coupons

[0960] Step 5:

[0961] Coupon Notifications

[0962] Subject: Server

[0963] Specific behavior:

[0964] The server sends the selected coupon information to the user's device via a push notification service (e.g., Firebase Cloud Messaging).

[0965] Input: Relevant coupon information

[0966] Output: Push notification containing coupon information

[0967] Step 6:

[0968] View coupons

[0969] Subject: Terminal

[0970] Specific behavior:

[0971] The device displays the received coupon information on the user interface, and displays the coupon details on the app screen so that the user can check them.

[0972] Input: Push notification containing coupon information

[0973] Output: Coupon information displayed on the device screen

[0974] Step 7:

[0975] Start of cashless payment

[0976] Subject: User

[0977] Specific behavior:

[0978] When purchasing goods or services at a store, users launch the cashless payment app and begin payment.

[0979] Input: User payment operation

[0980] Output: Trigger to start payment

[0981] Step 8:

[0982] Applying coupons

[0983] Subject: Server

[0984] Specific behavior:

[0985] When the server receives a payment start inquiry from the terminal, it checks the current payment information against pre-selected coupon information and automatically applies the coupon. It then determines which coupon to apply and calculates the discounted amount.

[0986] Input: Current payment information, pre-selected coupon information

[0987] Output: Discounted amount

[0988] Step 9:

[0989] Display of discount amount

[0990] Subject: Terminal

[0991] Specific behavior:

[0992] The discounted amount sent from the server is received and displayed on the payment app, allowing the user to confirm the final amount with the discount applied.

[0993] Input: Discounted amount sent from the server

[0994] Output: Final amount displayed on the payment app

[0995] Step 10:

[0996] Usage data collection and analysis

[0997] Subject: Server

[0998] Specific behavior:

[0999] The server stores the collected usage data in a database and periodically runs an analysis algorithm to determine future coupon distribution and marketing strategies.

[1000] Input: User usage data

[1001] Output: analytical reports and data for marketing strategies

[1002] (Application example 1)

[1003] 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."

[1004] Today's consumers are on the move a lot, making it difficult for them to efficiently use coupon information while shopping in stores. Furthermore, because consumers often overlook coupon information, it is difficult for stores to implement appropriate promotions. Given this background, there is a need for a system that can efficiently provide coupons to consumers and encourage in-store purchases.

[1005] 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.

[1006] In this invention, the server includes means for collecting location information, means for transmitting the location information to the server, means for the server to search for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on the location information, means for the server to select highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and the coupon information, means for notifying the user's terminal of the selected coupon information, means for recommending coupons based on the user's purchase history and usage history, means for automatically applying coupons that can be used at the time of payment, means for acquiring location information using a smartphone application and sending push notifications of coupons for nearby stores, and means for automatically applying coupons that can be used in conjunction with the user's cashless payment. This enables consumers to receive appropriate coupons in real time based on their location information, and discounts to be automatically applied at the time of payment.

[1007] "Means for collecting location information" refers to a device that has the functionality to obtain the user's current location using technologies such as the device's GPS or beacon.

[1008] "Means for transmitting the location information to a server" refers to a technique for transmitting the user's current location information to a remote server via the Internet.

[1009] "Means for the server to search for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on the location information" refers to the function of the server receiving the location information to search for coupon information stored in a database and obtain store information related to the user's current location.

[1010] "Means for the server to select highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and the coupon information" refers to technology that has an algorithm that analyzes the user's past purchase data and selects highly relevant coupons.

[1011] "Means for notifying the user's terminal of the selected coupon information" refers to a system for sending a push notification of the selected coupon information to the user's smartphone or tablet.

[1012] "Means for recommending coupons based on a user's purchase history and usage history" refers to technology that has the function of recommending optimal coupons to a user based on the user's past purchase history and coupon usage history.

[1013] The "means for automatically applying coupons that can be used at the time of payment" refers to a system that automatically applies coupons that can be used when a user makes a cashless payment.

[1014] "Means of obtaining location information using a smartphone application and sending push notifications of coupons from nearby stores" refers to a technology that uses a smartphone application to collect location information and notify the user in real time of coupon information provided by stores around the user's current location.

[1015] "Means for automatically applying usable coupons in conjunction with a user's cashless payment" refers to a system that automatically applies discounts by linking coupon information obtained in advance when a user makes a cashless payment.

[1016] This invention is a system that uses a smartphone application to acquire location information, obtain available coupon information in real time, and automatically apply coupons when making cashless payments. This system allows consumers to use coupons efficiently and enables stores to carry out effective promotions.

[1017] System Overview

[1018] The system consists of the following major components:

[1019] 1. User device: Obtains the user's current location and sends it to the server.

[1020] 2. Server: Searches for coupon information for nearby stores based on the user's current location, selects relevant coupons based on purchase history, and notifies the user.

[1021] 3. Smartphone application: Runs on the user's device, displays coupon information, and automatically applies coupons when making cashless payments.

[1022] Hardware and Software

[1023] GPS module: Obtains the user's location information in real time.

[1024] Internet connection: Sends and receives location information and coupon information.

[1025] Server: Use backend infrastructure such as cloud services (e.g. AWS, Google Cloud).

[1026] Database: Stores coupon information and user purchase history (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL).

[1027] Smartphone application: an application that runs on the iOS or Android platform.

[1028] Payment gateway: Used for cashless payment integration (e.g. PayPal, Stripe).

[1029] Processing Details

[1030] 1. Acquisition and transmission of location information:

[1031] The user terminal acquires its current location using a built-in GPS module.

[1032] The acquired location information is sent to a server via the Internet.

[1033] 2. Coupon Information Search and Selection:

[1034] The server receives the location information and searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores.

[1035] Based on the search results, the system compares them with the user's purchasing history and usage history to select highly relevant coupons.

[1036] 3. Notices and Indications:

[1037] The selected coupon information is sent to the user terminal via push notification.

[1038] When the smartphone application on the user's device receives the notification, it displays the details of the coupon information.

[1039] 4. Coupon application for cashless payments:

[1040] When a user makes a cashless payment at a store, the smartphone application and payment gateway work together to automatically apply available coupons.

[1041] The final discounted amount is calculated and displayed to the user.

[1042] Examples and prompts

[1043] For example, if a user launches "Smart Coupon Navi" while in Shibuya, Tokyo, the following coupon information will be pushed to them:

[1044] Examples:

[1045] "Current location: 10% off coupon for cafes around Shibuya"

[1046] "Expiration date: 2023-12-31"

[1047] Example prompt sentence:

[1048] "The user is currently in Shibuya. Show available coupons from nearby physical stores. Example: 10% off coupon for cafe, expiration date: 2023-12-31"

[1049] With these components and processing steps, the present invention provides a system that enables efficient provision and reliable utilization of coupon information.

[1050] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1051] Step 1:

[1052] The user terminal acquires its current location using a built-in GPS module.

[1053] Input: GPS data from smartphone

[1054] Output: Current location of the user (latitude and longitude)

[1055] Step 2:

[1056] The acquired location information is sent to a server via the Internet.

[1057] Input: Current location of the user (latitude and longitude)

[1058] Output: Location information sent to the server

[1059] Step 3:

[1060] The server receives the location information and searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores.

[1061] Input: Location information received by the server

[1062] Output: Coupon information for affiliated stores near the user's current location

[1063] Step 4:

[1064] Based on the search results, the server compares them with the user's purchase history and usage history to select highly relevant coupons.

[1065] Input: Coupon information for affiliated stores, user purchase history and usage history

[1066] Output: Relevant coupon information

[1067] Step 5:

[1068] The selected coupon information is sent to the user terminal via push notification.

[1069] Input: Coupon information selected by the server

[1070] Output: Coupon notification sent to user device

[1071] Step 6:

[1072] When the smartphone application on the user's device receives the notification, it displays the details of the coupon information.

[1073] Input: Coupon information received as a push notification

[1074] Output: Coupon details displayed on smartphone screen

[1075] Step 7:

[1076] When a user makes a cashless payment at a store, the smartphone application and payment gateway work together to automatically apply available coupons.

[1077] Input: Payment information selected by the user, selected coupon information

[1078] Output: Automatically applied coupons, final discounted amount

[1079] Step 8:

[1080] The final discounted amount is calculated and displayed to the user.

[1081] Input: Automatically applied coupon

[1082] Output: Smartphone screen showing the final price after the discount

[1083] 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.

[1084] ---

[1085] This invention is a system that improves convenience for both consumers and stores by allowing users to obtain coupon information in real time based on location information and emotion analysis, and automatically applying coupons during cashless payments. In particular, by combining this system with an emotion engine, it becomes possible to recommend coupons that take into account the user's emotional state.

[1086] First, a user uses a device such as a smartphone. The device is equipped with a GPS function to acquire location information, and as the user moves, the location information is updated in real time. The user's current location is identified using the location information acquisition method.

[1087] The acquired location information is sent from the device to the server. The server searches for coupon information for affiliated stores around the user's current location based on the received location information. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated stores and stored in a database.

[1088] The server compares the coupon search results with the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to select coupons that are highly relevant to the user. The user's purchase history and preferences are analyzed based on, for example, the types of products purchased in the past and the services used.

[1089] The present invention adds an emotion engine to its features. The device uses sensors such as a camera and microphone to identify emotions from the user's facial expressions and voice. It executes emotion identification methods and analyzes the user's emotional state (e.g., joy, sadness, anger, etc.) in real time.

[1090] The recognized emotional information is sent to the server, just like the location information. The server selects coupons based on the received emotional information according to the user's emotional state. For example, if the user is in a positive emotional state, more coupons are provided, and if the user is in a negative emotional state, special comforting coupons are provided.

[1091] The server then notifies the user of the selected coupon information. The user's device then displays detailed coupon information, allowing them to immediately check which coupons are available. For example, a 10% off coupon that can be used at a cafe in the shopping mall where the user is currently located is displayed.

[1092] When a user purchases a product or service at a store, they launch the cashless payment app and begin payment. The device then queries the server at the start of the payment to obtain available coupon information. The server then compares the user's current payment information with previously recommended coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons.

[1093] The discounted price is calculated based on the applied coupon and sent from the server to the terminal. This price is displayed on the payment app, and the user can check the final price after the discount is applied. For example, if a 10% off coupon is applied at a cafe, a product that normally costs 1,000 yen will cost 900 yen.

[1094] In this way, users can make the most of coupons and not miss them, and stores can improve customer satisfaction and run effective promotions. Furthermore, the server can analyze the collected usage data and use it to help with future coupon distribution and marketing strategies.

[1095] The above is a specific embodiment of the present invention. This system is expected to realize not only effective coupon usage and the convenience of cashless payment, but also flexible coupon services that respond to the user's emotional state.

[1096] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1097] ---

[1098] Step 1:

[1099] Device: The GPS sensor is used to obtain the user's current location. The obtained location information is saved in the form of latitude and longitude.

[1100] Step 2:

[1101] Terminal: The acquired location information is sent to a server via the Internet using a protocol such as an HTTP request.

[1102] Step 3:

[1103] Server: Based on the received location information, the server searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores. Here, a search query is generated and coupons within the specified range are extracted.

[1104] Step 4:

[1105] Server: Refers to the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to identify highly relevant coupons. Relevance is scored based on the user's preferences and past usage history.

[1106] Step 5:

[1107] Device: Using sensors such as a camera and microphone, the device identifies emotions from the user's facial expressions and voice. It executes emotion identification methods and analyzes the user's emotional state (e.g., joy, sadness, anger, etc.) in real time.

[1108] Step 6:

[1109] Terminal: The recognized emotion information is sent to the server via the Internet along with the location information.

[1110] Step 7:

[1111] Server: Based on the received emotional information, the server selects coupons according to the user's emotional state. Based on the emotional state, if the emotion is positive, more coupons are provided, and if the emotion is negative, special coupons that will comfort the user are provided.

[1112] Step 8:

[1113] Server: Sends the selected coupon information to the user's device via push notification or in-app messaging.

[1114] Step 9:

[1115] Terminal: Notifies the user of the coupon information sent and displays it on the screen. The user can then confirm the displayed coupon information.

[1116] Step 10:

[1117] User: To use the coupon, select a product or service at a participating store and launch the cashless payment app.

[1118] Step 11:

[1119] Terminal: Sends payment information (store ID, purchase amount, user ID, etc.) to the server. This is done again using an HTTP request.

[1120] Step 12:

[1121] Server: Receives payment information and initiates the process of matching available coupons. Based on the matching results, the most applicable coupon is selected.

[1122] Step 13:

[1123] Server: Calculates the final discounted price based on the applied coupons. This is where discount percentages and fixed discounts are reflected.

[1124] Step 14:

[1125] Server: Sends the calculated final amount to the terminal, along with the information about the applied coupon.

[1126] Step 15:

[1127] Terminal: The final amount received is displayed on the payment app and the user is prompted to confirm it. The user confirms the final amount and completes the payment.

[1128] Step 16:

[1129] User: After completing the payment, they will receive a receipt and confirmation message with the coupon applied, confirming that the discount has been applied.

[1130] ---

[1131] The above is a detailed description of the processing steps of the program in an embodiment of the present invention. This processing allows users to effectively use coupons and enjoy a convenient shopping experience. Furthermore, the addition of an emotion engine provides flexible coupon services that take into account the user's emotional state.

[1132] Example 2

[1133] 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."

[1134] In many cases, conventional coupon provision systems provide uniform coupons based solely on the user's location information, and are unable to consider the user's individual purchasing history or emotional state. This has resulted in issues such as not being able to maximize users' motivation to use the coupons and limiting the effectiveness of the coupons provided. Another issue is the lack of a means to automatically apply coupons during cashless payments, forcing users to manually select coupons.

[1135] The identification process by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the second embodiment is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes a means for collecting location information, a means for searching for coupon information of nearby affiliated stores based on the location information, and a means for selecting highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history, emotional information, and the coupon information. This makes it possible to provide coupons that take into account the user's current emotional state, maximizing the effectiveness of coupon usage. Furthermore, by automatically applying the most appropriate coupon during cashless payment, user convenience can be improved.

[1136] "Location information" is data relating to the user's current latitude and longitude.

[1137] A "server" is a computer system that processes, stores, and transfers data over a network.

[1138] "Coupon information" is data about discounts and special offers offered by stores.

[1139] "Purchase history" is a record of products and services purchased by a user in the past.

[1140] "Emotion information" is data relating to the emotional state of the user analyzed from facial expressions and voice.

[1141] A "terminal" is a computing device used by a user, such as a smartphone or tablet.

[1142] "Payment information" refers to data related to payments made when a user purchases a product or service.

[1143] "Automatic application" refers to the process whereby the system automatically applies the coupon without requiring manual action from the user.

[1144] "Notification" is the act of the system sending information to the user's terminal to notify them.

[1145] "Cashless payment" refers to payments made electronically without using cash.

[1146] The present invention provides a system that improves convenience for both consumers and stores by allowing users to obtain coupon information in real time based on location information and sentiment analysis, and automatically applying coupons when making cashless payments. Specific embodiments of this system are described below.

[1147] This system consists of a device such as a user's smartphone, a server, and various software. The device is equipped with a GPS function, which is used to obtain the user's current location. Specifically, the device's LocationManager API is used to collect the user's latitude and longitude data in real time. The device also uses sensors such as a camera and microphone to collect the user's facial expressions and voice, and analyzes their emotional state. For this purpose, it uses software such as an emotion analysis engine and EmotionRecognitionAPI.

[1148] The acquired location information and emotion information are sent from the device to the server. The server receives the HTTP POST request and stores this information in a database. The server then searches for coupon information for affiliated stores near the user's current location based on the received location information. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated stores and stored in the database.

[1149] The server selects highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history, emotional information, and coupon information. The purchase history is a record of the products and services the user has purchased in the past and is stored in a database. The emotional information is data on the user's emotional state analyzed from their facial expressions and voice. Based on this information, the server uses a recommendation engine to select the most suitable coupon for the user.

[1150] The server notifies the user's device of the selected coupon information. The device then notifies the user of this information using the push notification function. The user can then check the coupon's detailed information on the device. For example, if the user is at a cafe in a shopping mall, a 10% off coupon that can be used at the cafe will be displayed.

[1151] When a user purchases a product or service at a partner store, they launch the cashless payment app and begin payment. When the payment begins, the terminal queries the server and obtains available coupon information. The server compares the payment information with pre-selected coupon information and automatically applies the coupon. Finally, the post-discount amount is calculated and sent from the server to the terminal. The user confirms the post-discount amount displayed on the payment app and completes the payment.

[1152] This system allows users to make the most of coupons and not miss them, and also allows stores to improve customer satisfaction and carry out effective promotions. Furthermore, the server can analyze the collected usage data and use it to help with future coupon distribution and marketing strategies. For example, it can create effective coupon plans tailored to specific times or events.

[1153] As a concrete example, when a user is walking in a shopping mall, the device sends the current location information to the server. The server then recommends a 10% off coupon that can be used at a nearby cafe based on the location information. When the user starts cashless payment at the register, the 10% off coupon is automatically applied, allowing the purchase of an item that normally costs 1,000 yen for 900 yen.

[1154] Example prompt sentence:

[1155] "Please explain how a user can get a discount coupon that can be used when they are at a cafe and automatically apply it to their cashless payment."

[1156] In this way, the present invention is expected to realize not only effective coupon use and the convenience of cashless payment, but also flexible coupon services that respond to the user's emotional state.

[1157] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1158] Step 1:

[1159] The device uses the LocationManager API to obtain the user's current location (latitude and longitude). This information is used as input to calculate real-time location information on the device, which then structures and prepares the data. Specifically, once the location information is obtained, the message "Retrieving latitude and longitude of current location..." is displayed.

[1160] Step 2:

[1161] The device sends the acquired location information to the server via an HTTP POST request. This location information becomes the input. The server stores the received data in a database. After this processing, the output shows that the user's current location has been updated in the server's database. The device displays "Sending location information to server...".

[1162] Step 3:

[1163] The server searches for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on the location information stored in the database. The server inputs the location information and searches the coupon database to list applicable coupons. Specifically, the message "Searching for coupons for stores within a 500 meter radius..." is displayed.

[1164] Step 4:

[1165] The server compares the coupon information with the user's purchase history and emotional information, and selects highly relevant coupons. The purchase history and emotional information are input, and the recommendation engine uses this information to select coupons. As a result, a list of selected coupons is output. The server displays the message "Selecting coupons based on past purchase history and emotional information..."

[1166] Step 5:

[1167] The device uses a camera and microphone to collect the user's facial expressions and voice and then performs emotional analysis. This facial and voice data is input, and the emotional state is analyzed in real time using an emotion analysis engine. Emotional information is output as the analysis result. Specifically, the device displays the message "Analyzing facial expression data, identifying emotions..."

[1168] Step 6:

[1169] The device sends the emotional information obtained through emotion analysis to the server via an HTTP POST request. This emotional information becomes the input. The server stores the received emotional information in a database. After processing, the output shows that the latest emotional data has been saved in the server's database. The device displays "Sending emotional information to server...".

[1170] Step 7:

[1171] The server combines location information, purchase history, and emotional information to select the most suitable coupon and notify the user's device. This information is input and the selected coupon information is output. The device notifies the user of the coupon using the push notification function. Specifically, a notification is displayed saying, "Recommending the most suitable coupon for you..."

[1172] Step 8:

[1173] When purchasing a product or service at a partner store, the user launches the cashless payment app. When the payment begins, the terminal queries the server to obtain available coupon information. A payment start notification is input, and coupon information is output. The terminal displays "Checking coupons for payment..."

[1174] Step 9:

[1175] The server checks the payment information against pre-selected coupon information and automatically applies the coupon. Payment information is input, and the amount after the discount due to the applied coupon is output. The server displays "Applying coupon, calculating discounted amount..."

[1176] Step 10:

[1177] The server sends the final amount after the discount to the terminal. The amount after the discount is entered, and this information is displayed on the terminal, where the user can confirm the final amount. Specifically, the message "The total amount after the discount is 900 yen. Please complete the payment" is displayed.

[1178] Through the above processing steps, the system provides coupons based on the user's location information and emotional state, and automatically applies the coupons during cashless payments.

[1179] (Application example 2)

[1180] 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."

[1181] Conventional coupon provision systems can provide coupons based on a user's current location or recommend coupons based on their purchase history, but they do not recommend coupons that take into account the user's emotional state. As a result, they lack the flexibility to improve the user experience or implement effective promotions. Furthermore, they lack a convenient function for automatically applying coupons at the time of payment, which hinders users from making the most of their coupons.

[1182] The identification process by the identification 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 collecting location information, means for transmitting the location information to the server, means for searching for coupon information for nearby affiliated facilities based on the location information, means for analyzing the user's facial expression and voice and identifying their emotion, means for selecting a coupon corresponding to their emotional state based on the emotional information and the coupon information, and means for notifying the user's computer of the selected coupon information. This makes it possible to provide coupons that take the user's emotional state into consideration, thereby improving the user experience and realizing effective store promotions.

[1183] "Location information" is data that indicates a user's current geographic location and is obtained using technologies such as GPS.

[1184] "Emotion information" is data that indicates the emotional state of the user analyzed from facial expressions, voice, and the like.

[1185] "Coupon information" is data regarding discounts and special offers offered by affiliated facilities.

[1186] "Purchase history" is data about products and services purchased by a user in the past.

[1187] A "server" is a computer system that responds to requests from multiple clients and processes and stores data.

[1188] A "terminal" is an electronic device that can be directly operated by a user, including a smartphone or tablet.

[1189] "Cashless payment" is a system in which payments are made electronically without using cash.

[1190] "Facial expression analysis" is a technology that analyzes a user's face captured by a camera and identifies their emotional state.

[1191] "Voice analysis" is a technology that analyzes a user's voice collected by a microphone and identifies their emotional state.

[1192] "Notification" is the act of presenting specific information from a server to a terminal.

[1193] "Payment information" is data relating to the amount and payment method when a user makes a payment.

[1194] A "computer" is an electronic device for processing information, and is a device that performs calculations and data processing.

[1195] This invention is a system that provides optimal coupon information in real time based on user location information and sentiment analysis, and automatically applies coupons when making cashless payments. This system improves the user experience and increases the effectiveness of store promotions.

[1196] A user first uses a device such as a smartphone. The device is equipped with a GPS function to acquire location information, and as the user moves, the location information is updated in real time. Once the device acquires the location information, it sends it to a server.

[1197] The server searches for coupon information for affiliated facilities near the user's current location based on the received location information. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated facilities and stored in a database on the server. The server then compares the user's purchase history and coupon usage history to select highly relevant coupons.

[1198] The device then uses sensors such as a camera and microphone to capture the user's facial expressions and voice, and identifies their emotions. The emotion identification is performed using an emotion engine, and the results are sent to the server as emotion information.

[1199] The server selects coupons according to the user's emotional state based on the received emotional information, location information, and coupon information. For example, if the user is in a positive emotional state, the server provides more coupons, and if the user is in a negative emotional state, the server provides special coupons that will comfort the user.

[1200] The selected coupon information is notified to the user's device, and detailed information is displayed. When the user purchases a product or service at a partner facility, they launch the cashless payment app to begin payment. The device queries the server at the start of payment and obtains available coupon information. The server compares the user's current payment information with previously recommended coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons.

[1201] The discounted amount is calculated based on the applied coupon and sent from the server to the terminal. This amount is displayed on the payment app, allowing the user to check the final amount with the discount applied.

[1202] For example, if a user is approaching a cafe in a shopping mall, the system will provide a 20% off coupon for that cafe. If the user is in a happy emotional state at this time, the system will notify the user of this special coupon. The following example prompt sentence can help achieve this:

[1203] Example prompt sentence:

[1204] Recommend a 20% off coupon to be used when the user approaches a cafe in a shopping mall, assuming the user is in a happy emotional state.

[1205] In this way, the system maximizes the coupons held by users and allows stores to carry out effective promotions. Furthermore, by providing coupons according to emotional states, the system can further improve the user experience.

[1206] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1207] Step 1:

[1208] The device acquires location information.

[1209] Input: Location data from the GPS sensor.

[1210] Processing: Obtain the latitude and longitude of the current location using the device's GPS function.

[1211] Output: The location information obtained.

[1212] Step 2:

[1213] The location information acquired by the device is sent to the server.

[1214] Input: Location information obtained by the device.

[1215] Processing: The location information is sent to the server as an HTTP request.

[1216] Output: Success / failure status of sending location information to the server.

[1217] Step 3:

[1218] The server searches for coupon information for nearby affiliated facilities based on the location information.

[1219] Input: Location information sent from the device.

[1220] Processing: The server accesses the database and searches for coupon information for relevant stores based on the location information.

[1221] Output: Relevant coupon information.

[1222] Step 4:

[1223] The server selects highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and coupon information.

[1224] Input: User's purchase history and acquired coupon information.

[1225] Processing: Purchase history and coupon information are analyzed using an algorithm to select highly relevant coupons.

[1226] Output: A list of relevant coupon deals.

[1227] Step 5:

[1228] The device analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to identify emotions.

[1229] Input: Facial expression and voice data from the device's camera and microphone.

[1230] Processing: Using the emotion engine, the collected data is analyzed for emotion recognition in real time.

[1231] Output: Emotional information.

[1232] Step 6:

[1233] The device transmits the emotion information to the server.

[1234] Input: Identified emotion information.

[1235] Processing: Emotion information is sent to the server as an HTTP request.

[1236] Output: Success / failure status of emotion information transmission to the server.

[1237] Step 7:

[1238] The server selects a coupon according to the emotional state based on the emotional information and coupon information.

[1239] Input: Sentiment information and relevant coupon information.

[1240] Processing: Match the emotional information with the coupon information and select the coupon that best suits the emotional state.

[1241] Output: Optimal coupon information.

[1242] Step 8:

[1243] The selected coupon information is notified to the terminal.

[1244] Input: Best coupon information.

[1245] Processing: Coupon information is sent to the terminal as an HTTP response.

[1246] Output: Coupon information displayed on the terminal.

[1247] Step 9:

[1248] The terminal launches the cashless payment app and queries the server when payment begins.

[1249] Input: Information that triggered the start of payment.

[1250] Processing: Sends a request to the server to check coupon applicability.

[1251] Output: Success / failure status of the query to the server.

[1252] Step 10:

[1253] The server compares the current payment information with the selected coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons.

[1254] Input: Current payment information and selected coupon information.

[1255] Processing: Compare payment information with coupon information and select applicable coupons.

[1256] Output: The applied coupon and the final discounted amount.

[1257] Step 11:

[1258] The server sends the discounted amount to the terminal.

[1259] Enter: Final amount after discount.

[1260] Processing: The discounted amount information is sent to the terminal as an HTTP response.

[1261] Output: The final discounted amount displayed on the terminal.

[1262] 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.

[1263] 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.

[1264] 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.

[1265] [Fourth embodiment]

[1266] FIG. 7 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 410 according to the fourth embodiment.

[1267] 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.

[1268] 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).

[1269] 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.

[1270] 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.

[1271] 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).

[1272] 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.

[1273] 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.

[1274] 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.

[1275] 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.

[1276] 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.

[1277] 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.

[1278] 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."

[1279] ---

[1280] This invention is a system that improves convenience for both consumers and stores by allowing users to obtain coupon information in real time based on their location information and automatically applying coupons when making cashless payments. Below, the program and processing of this system are explained in natural language.

[1281] First, a user uses a device such as a smartphone. The device is equipped with a GPS function to acquire location information, and as the user moves, the location information is updated in real time. The user's current location is identified through the location information acquisition method.

[1282] The acquired location information is sent from the device to the server. The server searches for coupon information for affiliated stores around the user's current location based on the received location information. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated stores and stored in a database.

[1283] The server compares the coupon search results with the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to select coupons that are highly relevant to the user. The user's purchase history and preferences are analyzed based on, for example, the types of products purchased in the past and the services used.

[1284] The server then notifies the user of the selected coupon information. The user's device then displays detailed coupon information, allowing them to immediately check which coupons are available. For example, a 10% off coupon that can be used at a cafe in the shopping mall where the user is currently located is displayed.

[1285] When a user purchases a product or service at a store, they launch the cashless payment app and begin payment. The device then queries the server at the start of the payment to obtain available coupon information. The server then compares the user's current payment information with previously recommended coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons.

[1286] The discounted price is calculated based on the applied coupon and sent from the server to the terminal. This price is displayed on the payment app, and the user can check the final price after the discount is applied. For example, if a 10% off coupon is applied at a cafe, a product that normally costs 1,000 yen will cost 900 yen.

[1287] In this way, users can make the most of coupons and not miss them, and stores can improve customer satisfaction and run effective promotions. Furthermore, the server can analyze the collected usage data and use it to help with future coupon distribution and marketing strategies.

[1288] The above is a specific embodiment of the present invention. It is expected that this system will dramatically improve the effective use of coupons and the convenience of cashless payments.

[1289] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1290] ---

[1291] Step 1:

[1292] Device: The GPS sensor is used to obtain the user's current location. The obtained location information is saved in the form of latitude and longitude.

[1293] Step 2:

[1294] Terminal: The acquired location information is sent to a server via the Internet using a protocol such as an HTTP request.

[1295] Step 3:

[1296] Server: Based on the received location information, the server searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores. Here, a search query is generated and coupons within the specified range are extracted.

[1297] Step 4:

[1298] Server: Refers to the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to identify highly relevant coupons. Relevance is scored based on the user's preferences and past usage history.

[1299] Step 5:

[1300] Server: Sends the identified coupon information to the user's device via push notification or in-app messaging.

[1301] Step 6:

[1302] Terminal: Notifies the user of the coupon information sent and displays it on the screen. The user can then confirm the displayed coupon information.

[1303] Step 7:

[1304] User: To use the coupon, select a product or service at a participating store and launch the cashless payment app.

[1305] Step 8:

[1306] Terminal: Sends payment information (store ID, purchase amount, user ID, etc.) to the server. This is done again using an HTTP request.

[1307] Step 9:

[1308] Server: Receives payment information and initiates the process of matching available coupons. Based on the matching results, the most applicable coupon is selected.

[1309] Step 10:

[1310] Server: Calculates the final discounted price based on the applied coupons. This is where discount percentages and fixed discounts are reflected.

[1311] Step 11:

[1312] Server: Sends the calculated final amount to the terminal, along with the information about the applied coupon.

[1313] Step 12:

[1314] Terminal: The final amount received is displayed on the payment app and the user is prompted to confirm it. The user confirms the final amount and completes the payment.

[1315] Step 13:

[1316] User: After completing the payment, they will receive a receipt and confirmation message with the coupon applied, confirming that the discount has been applied.

[1317] ---

[1318] The above is a detailed description of the processing steps of the program in the embodiment of the present invention, which allows users to effectively use coupons and enjoy a highly convenient shopping experience.

[1319] Example 1

[1320] 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."

[1321] In their daily shopping activities, consumers want to obtain appropriate coupon information in a timely manner based on their location information, and efficiently manage points, discounts, and other information. However, with conventional systems, users have to search for and apply coupons themselves, which is a cumbersome process. Furthermore, stores lack a means to effectively distribute targeted coupons based on customers' purchasing history. This has led to a demand for a coupon system that can be applied instantly.

[1322] 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.

[1323] In this invention, the server includes a means for searching for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on location information, a means for selecting highly relevant coupons based on purchase history and coupon information, and a means for automatically applying the coupons at the time of payment. This allows the user to obtain the most suitable coupon in real time and check the final price after the discount has been automatically applied.

[1324] "Means for collecting location information" refers to devices, programs, and methods for obtaining the latitude and longitude of a user's current location using GPS functionality.

[1325] "Means for transmitting location information to a server" refers to the communication protocol or method for transmitting collected location information as data to a server via the Internet.

[1326] "Means for searching for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores" refers to an algorithm and method by which the server refers to a database to search for and obtain coupon information for affiliated stores located near the user's current location.

[1327] "Means for selecting highly relevant coupons based on purchase history and coupon information" refers to the algorithms and methods by which the server compares the user's past purchase history and preference data with the acquired coupon information and selects the coupons that are most relevant to the user.

[1328] "Means for notifying the user's device of the selected coupon information" refers to the communication protocol or method by which the server sends the selected coupon information to the user's device via push notification or the like.

[1329] "Means for automatically applying coupons that can be used at the time of payment" refers to an algorithm or method for automatically applying pre-selected coupons and calculating the discount amount at the time of cashless payment.

[1330] "Means for calculating the discounted amount and notifying the user terminal" refers to a method or program for calculating the final payment amount after the coupon is applied and displaying and notifying that amount on the user terminal.

[1331] "Means for analyzing purchase history and preferences" refers to analytical algorithms and methods for analyzing a user's past purchase data and interest / preference data to predict and recommend coupons and services that will be beneficial in the future.

[1332] "Means for matching payment information with coupon information" refers to a method or algorithm for automatically selecting the most appropriate coupon by matching the product information used at the time of payment with coupon information stored in advance on the server.

[1333] "Means for analyzing collected usage data and utilizing it for coupon distribution and marketing strategies" refers to methods and systems for collecting and analyzing user data and utilizing it for effective coupon distribution and promotional activities.

[1334] This invention is a system that improves convenience for both consumers and stores by allowing users to obtain coupon information in real time based on their location information and automatically applying coupons when making cashless payments. Below, the program and processing of this system are explained in natural language.

[1335] First, a user uses a device such as a smartphone. The device is equipped with a GPS function for acquiring location information, and as the user moves, the location information is updated in real time. The user's current location is identified through the location information acquisition method. Specifically, the device calls the "location information acquisition method" to acquire the latitude and longitude. This location information is then stored in an internal variable.

[1336] The acquired location information is sent from the device to the server. The server uses the received location information to search for coupon information for affiliated stores near the user's current location. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated stores and stored in a database. To retrieve the coupon information, the server executes an SQL query from a database such as MySQL. The resulting coupon information is stored in a temporary list in memory.

[1337] The server then compares the coupon information search results with the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to select coupons that are most relevant to the user. The user's purchase history and preferences are analyzed based on information about the types of products purchased in the past and the services used. The server then runs a matching algorithm based on this data to select the most suitable coupon. The selected coupon information is then sent from the server to the user's device again. This notification is sent using a push notification service such as Firebase Cloud Messaging.

[1338] The user's device will display detailed coupon information, allowing them to immediately check available coupons. For example, a 10% off coupon that can be used at a cafe in the shopping mall where the user is currently located will be displayed.

[1339] When a user purchases a product or service at a store, they launch a cashless payment app and begin the payment. The user selects an app such as Apple Pay or Google Wallet and begins the payment. When the payment begins, the device queries the server to obtain available coupon information. The server compares the user's current payment information with previously recommended coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons. An algorithm is then executed to apply these coupons.

[1340] The discounted amount is calculated based on the applied coupon and sent from the server to the device. This amount is displayed on the payment app, and the user can check the final amount after the discount is applied. For example, a 10% off coupon at a cafe is applied, so an item that normally costs 1,000 yen becomes 900 yen. A response containing this discounted amount is generated and sent to the device via HTTPS.

[1341] The server then analyzes the collected usage data to help with coupon distribution and marketing strategies. The server stores the usage data in a database and periodically runs an analysis algorithm. The server generates a report of the analysis results and provides it to the marketing department.

[1342] This specific implementation allows users to maximize coupon usage without missing out on them, and allows stores to improve customer satisfaction and conduct effective promotions. Furthermore, the data collected and analyzed by the server can provide important insights for future marketing strategies. This system is expected to dramatically improve the effective use of coupons and the convenience of cashless payments.

[1343] Example prompt sentence:

[1344] "Please explain in detail the specific processing steps and operations of the system that uses GPS to obtain the user's location information, searches for and selects coupon information from affiliated stores around the user's current location, and automatically applies the coupon when making a cashless payment."

[1345] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1346] Step 1:

[1347] Obtaining location information

[1348] Subject: Terminal

[1349] Specific behavior:

[1350] The device periodically obtains the user's current location using the built-in GPS function. It calls the location information acquisition method to obtain latitude and longitude data.

[1351] Input: GPS sensor data

[1352] Output: Current location latitude and longitude

[1353] Step 2:

[1354] Sending location information

[1355] Subject: Terminal

[1356] Specific behavior:

[1357] The device sends the acquired location information to the server as a payload of an HTTP request. HTTPS is used for communication to ensure secure data transmission.

[1358] Input: Obtained latitude and longitude

[1359] Output: HTTP request with location information

[1360] Step 3:

[1361] Search for coupon information

[1362] Subject: Server

[1363] Specific behavior:

[1364] The server searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on the received location information, executes an SQL query to retrieve the coupon information, and stores it in a list in memory.

[1365] Input: Location information sent from the device

[1366] Output: A list of the coupons found

[1367] Step 4:

[1368] Matching with user purchase history

[1369] Subject: Server

[1370] Specific behavior:

[1371] The server compares the coupon information with the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to select appropriate coupons. It then runs a matching algorithm to select highly relevant coupons.

[1372] Input: List of coupon information, user purchase history data

[1373] Output: A list of relevant coupons

[1374] Step 5:

[1375] Coupon Notifications

[1376] Subject: Server

[1377] Specific behavior:

[1378] The server sends the selected coupon information to the user's device via a push notification service (e.g., Firebase Cloud Messaging).

[1379] Input: Relevant coupon information

[1380] Output: Push notification containing coupon information

[1381] Step 6:

[1382] View coupons

[1383] Subject: Terminal

[1384] Specific behavior:

[1385] The device displays the received coupon information on the user interface, and displays the coupon details on the app screen so that the user can check them.

[1386] Input: Push notification containing coupon information

[1387] Output: Coupon information displayed on the device screen

[1388] Step 7:

[1389] Start of cashless payment

[1390] Subject: User

[1391] Specific behavior:

[1392] When purchasing goods or services at a store, users launch the cashless payment app and begin payment.

[1393] Input: User payment operation

[1394] Output: Trigger to start payment

[1395] Step 8:

[1396] Applying coupons

[1397] Subject: Server

[1398] Specific behavior:

[1399] When the server receives a payment start inquiry from the terminal, it checks the current payment information against pre-selected coupon information and automatically applies the coupon. It then determines which coupon to apply and calculates the discounted amount.

[1400] Input: Current payment information, pre-selected coupon information

[1401] Output: Discounted amount

[1402] Step 9:

[1403] Display of discount amount

[1404] Subject: Terminal

[1405] Specific behavior:

[1406] The discounted amount sent from the server is received and displayed on the payment app, allowing the user to confirm the final amount with the discount applied.

[1407] Input: Discounted amount sent from the server

[1408] Output: Final amount displayed on the payment app

[1409] Step 10:

[1410] Usage data collection and analysis

[1411] Subject: Server

[1412] Specific behavior:

[1413] The server stores the collected usage data in a database and periodically runs an analysis algorithm to determine future coupon distribution and marketing strategies.

[1414] Input: User usage data

[1415] Output: analytical reports and data for marketing strategies

[1416] (Application example 1)

[1417] 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."

[1418] Today's consumers are on the move a lot, making it difficult for them to efficiently use coupon information while shopping in stores. Furthermore, because consumers often overlook coupon information, it is difficult for stores to implement appropriate promotions. Given this background, there is a need for a system that can efficiently provide coupons to consumers and encourage in-store purchases.

[1419] 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.

[1420] In this invention, the server includes means for collecting location information, means for transmitting the location information to the server, means for the server to search for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on the location information, means for the server to select highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and the coupon information, means for notifying the user's terminal of the selected coupon information, means for recommending coupons based on the user's purchase history and usage history, means for automatically applying coupons that can be used at the time of payment, means for acquiring location information using a smartphone application and sending push notifications of coupons for nearby stores, and means for automatically applying coupons that can be used in conjunction with the user's cashless payment. This enables consumers to receive appropriate coupons in real time based on their location information, and discounts to be automatically applied at the time of payment.

[1421] "Means for collecting location information" refers to a device that has the functionality to obtain the user's current location using technologies such as the device's GPS or beacon.

[1422] "Means for transmitting the location information to a server" refers to a technique for transmitting the user's current location information to a remote server via the Internet.

[1423] "Means for the server to search for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on the location information" refers to the function of the server receiving the location information to search for coupon information stored in a database and obtain store information related to the user's current location.

[1424] "Means for the server to select highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and the coupon information" refers to technology that has an algorithm that analyzes the user's past purchase data and selects highly relevant coupons.

[1425] "Means for notifying the user's terminal of the selected coupon information" refers to a system for sending a push notification of the selected coupon information to the user's smartphone or tablet.

[1426] "Means for recommending coupons based on a user's purchase history and usage history" refers to technology that has the function of recommending optimal coupons to a user based on the user's past purchase history and coupon usage history.

[1427] The "means for automatically applying coupons that can be used at the time of payment" refers to a system that automatically applies coupons that can be used when a user makes a cashless payment.

[1428] "Means of obtaining location information using a smartphone application and sending push notifications of coupons from nearby stores" refers to a technology that uses a smartphone application to collect location information and notify the user in real time of coupon information provided by stores around the user's current location.

[1429] "Means for automatically applying usable coupons in conjunction with a user's cashless payment" refers to a system that automatically applies discounts by linking coupon information obtained in advance when a user makes a cashless payment.

[1430] This invention is a system that uses a smartphone application to acquire location information, obtain available coupon information in real time, and automatically apply coupons when making cashless payments. This system allows consumers to use coupons efficiently and enables stores to carry out effective promotions.

[1431] System Overview

[1432] The system consists of the following major components:

[1433] 1. User device: Obtains the user's current location and sends it to the server.

[1434] 2. Server: Searches for coupon information for nearby stores based on the user's current location, selects relevant coupons based on purchase history, and notifies the user.

[1435] 3. Smartphone application: Runs on the user's device, displays coupon information, and automatically applies coupons when making cashless payments.

[1436] Hardware and Software

[1437] GPS module: Obtains the user's location information in real time.

[1438] Internet connection: Sends and receives location information and coupon information.

[1439] Server: Use backend infrastructure such as cloud services (e.g. AWS, Google Cloud).

[1440] Database: Stores coupon information and user purchase history (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL).

[1441] Smartphone application: an application that runs on the iOS or Android platform.

[1442] Payment gateway: Used for cashless payment integration (e.g. PayPal, Stripe).

[1443] Processing Details

[1444] 1. Acquisition and transmission of location information:

[1445] The user terminal acquires its current location using a built-in GPS module.

[1446] The acquired location information is sent to a server via the Internet.

[1447] 2. Coupon Information Search and Selection:

[1448] The server receives the location information and searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores.

[1449] Based on the search results, the system compares them with the user's purchasing history and usage history to select highly relevant coupons.

[1450] 3. Notices and Indications:

[1451] The selected coupon information is sent to the user terminal via push notification.

[1452] When the smartphone application on the user's device receives the notification, it displays the details of the coupon information.

[1453] 4. Coupon application for cashless payments:

[1454] When a user makes a cashless payment at a store, the smartphone application and payment gateway work together to automatically apply available coupons.

[1455] The final discounted amount is calculated and displayed to the user.

[1456] Examples and prompts

[1457] For example, if a user launches "Smart Coupon Navi" while in Shibuya, Tokyo, the following coupon information will be pushed to them:

[1458] Examples:

[1459] "Current location: 10% off coupon for cafes around Shibuya"

[1460] "Expiration date: 2023-12-31"

[1461] Example prompt sentence:

[1462] "The user is currently in Shibuya. Show available coupons from nearby physical stores. Example: 10% off coupon for cafe, expiration date: 2023-12-31"

[1463] With these components and processing steps, the present invention provides a system that enables efficient provision and reliable utilization of coupon information.

[1464] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1465] Step 1:

[1466] The user terminal acquires its current location using a built-in GPS module.

[1467] Input: GPS data from smartphone

[1468] Output: Current location of the user (latitude and longitude)

[1469] Step 2:

[1470] The acquired location information is sent to a server via the Internet.

[1471] Input: Current location of the user (latitude and longitude)

[1472] Output: Location information sent to the server

[1473] Step 3:

[1474] The server receives the location information and searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores.

[1475] Input: Location information received by the server

[1476] Output: Coupon information for affiliated stores near the user's current location

[1477] Step 4:

[1478] Based on the search results, the server compares them with the user's purchase history and usage history to select highly relevant coupons.

[1479] Input: Coupon information for affiliated stores, user purchase history and usage history

[1480] Output: Relevant coupon information

[1481] Step 5:

[1482] The selected coupon information is sent to the user terminal via push notification.

[1483] Input: Coupon information selected by the server

[1484] Output: Coupon notification sent to user device

[1485] Step 6:

[1486] When the smartphone application on the user's device receives the notification, it displays the details of the coupon information.

[1487] Input: Coupon information received as a push notification

[1488] Output: Coupon details displayed on smartphone screen

[1489] Step 7:

[1490] When a user makes a cashless payment at a store, the smartphone application and payment gateway work together to automatically apply available coupons.

[1491] Input: Payment information selected by the user, selected coupon information

[1492] Output: Automatically applied coupons, final discounted amount

[1493] Step 8:

[1494] The final discounted amount is calculated and displayed to the user.

[1495] Input: Automatically applied coupon

[1496] Output: Smartphone screen showing the final price after the discount

[1497] 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.

[1498] ---

[1499] This invention is a system that improves convenience for both consumers and stores by allowing users to obtain coupon information in real time based on location information and emotion analysis, and automatically applying coupons during cashless payments. In particular, by combining this system with an emotion engine, it becomes possible to recommend coupons that take into account the user's emotional state.

[1500] First, a user uses a device such as a smartphone. The device is equipped with a GPS function for acquiring location information, and as the user moves, the location information is updated in real time. The user's current location is identified using the location information acquisition method.

[1501] The acquired location information is sent from the device to the server. The server searches for coupon information for affiliated stores around the user's current location based on the received location information. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated stores and stored in a database.

[1502] The server compares the coupon search results with the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to select coupons that are highly relevant to the user. The user's purchase history and preferences are analyzed based on, for example, the types of products purchased in the past and the services used.

[1503] The present invention adds an emotion engine to its features. The device uses sensors such as a camera and microphone to identify emotions from the user's facial expressions and voice. It executes emotion identification methods and analyzes the user's emotional state (e.g., joy, sadness, anger, etc.) in real time.

[1504] The recognized emotional information is sent to the server, just like the location information. The server selects coupons based on the received emotional information according to the user's emotional state. For example, if the user is in a positive emotional state, more coupons are provided, and if the user is in a negative emotional state, special comforting coupons are provided.

[1505] The server then notifies the user of the selected coupon information. The user's device then displays detailed coupon information, allowing them to immediately check which coupons are available. For example, a 10% off coupon that can be used at a cafe in the shopping mall where the user is currently located is displayed.

[1506] When a user purchases a product or service at a store, they launch the cashless payment app and begin payment. The device then queries the server at the start of the payment to obtain available coupon information. The server then compares the user's current payment information with previously recommended coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons.

[1507] The discounted price is calculated based on the applied coupon and sent from the server to the terminal. This price is displayed on the payment app, and the user can check the final price after the discount is applied. For example, if a 10% off coupon is applied at a cafe, a product that normally costs 1,000 yen will cost 900 yen.

[1508] In this way, users can make the most of coupons and not miss them, and stores can improve customer satisfaction and run effective promotions. Furthermore, the server can analyze the collected usage data and use it to help with future coupon distribution and marketing strategies.

[1509] The above is a specific embodiment of the present invention. This system is expected to realize not only effective coupon usage and the convenience of cashless payment, but also flexible coupon services that respond to the user's emotional state.

[1510] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1511] ---

[1512] Step 1:

[1513] Device: The GPS sensor is used to obtain the user's current location. The obtained location information is saved in the form of latitude and longitude.

[1514] Step 2:

[1515] Terminal: The acquired location information is sent to a server via the Internet using a protocol such as an HTTP request.

[1516] Step 3:

[1517] Server: Based on the received location information, the server searches the database for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores. Here, a search query is generated and coupons within the specified range are extracted.

[1518] Step 4:

[1519] Server: Refers to the user's purchase history and past coupon usage history to identify highly relevant coupons. Relevance is scored based on the user's preferences and past usage history.

[1520] Step 5:

[1521] Device: Using sensors such as a camera and microphone, the device identifies emotions from the user's facial expressions and voice. It executes emotion identification methods and analyzes the user's emotional state (e.g., joy, sadness, anger, etc.) in real time.

[1522] Step 6:

[1523] Terminal: The recognized emotion information is sent to the server via the Internet along with the location information.

[1524] Step 7:

[1525] Server: Based on the received emotional information, the server selects coupons according to the user's emotional state. Based on the emotional state, if the emotion is positive, more coupons are provided, and if the emotion is negative, special coupons that will comfort the user are provided.

[1526] Step 8:

[1527] Server: Sends the selected coupon information to the user's device via push notification or in-app messaging.

[1528] Step 9:

[1529] Terminal: Notifies the user of the coupon information sent and displays it on the screen. The user can then confirm the displayed coupon information.

[1530] Step 10:

[1531] User: To use the coupon, select a product or service at a participating store and launch the cashless payment app.

[1532] Step 11:

[1533] Terminal: Sends payment information (store ID, purchase amount, user ID, etc.) to the server. This is done again using an HTTP request.

[1534] Step 12:

[1535] Server: Receives payment information and initiates the process of matching available coupons. Based on the matching results, the most applicable coupon is selected.

[1536] Step 13:

[1537] Server: Calculates the final discounted price based on the applied coupons. This is where discount percentages and fixed discounts are reflected.

[1538] Step 14:

[1539] Server: Sends the calculated final amount to the terminal, along with the information about the applied coupon.

[1540] Step 15:

[1541] Terminal: The final amount received is displayed on the payment app and the user is prompted to confirm it. The user confirms the final amount and completes the payment.

[1542] Step 16:

[1543] User: After completing the payment, they will receive a receipt and confirmation message with the coupon applied, confirming that the discount has been applied.

[1544] ---

[1545] The above is a detailed description of the processing steps of the program in an embodiment of the present invention. This processing allows users to effectively use coupons and enjoy a convenient shopping experience. Furthermore, the addition of an emotion engine provides flexible coupon services that take into account the user's emotional state.

[1546] Example 2

[1547] 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."

[1548] In many cases, conventional coupon provision systems provide uniform coupons based solely on the user's location information, and are unable to consider the user's individual purchasing history or emotional state. This has resulted in issues such as not being able to maximize users' motivation to use the coupons and limiting the effectiveness of the coupons provided. Another issue is the lack of a means to automatically apply coupons during cashless payments, forcing users to manually select coupons.

[1549] The identification process by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the second embodiment is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes a means for collecting location information, a means for searching for coupon information of nearby affiliated stores based on the location information, and a means for selecting highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history, emotional information, and the coupon information. This makes it possible to provide coupons that take into account the user's current emotional state, maximizing the effectiveness of coupon usage. Furthermore, by automatically applying the most appropriate coupon during cashless payment, user convenience can be improved.

[1550] "Location information" is data relating to the user's current latitude and longitude.

[1551] A "server" is a computer system that processes, stores, and transfers data over a network.

[1552] "Coupon information" is data about discounts and special offers offered by stores.

[1553] "Purchase history" is a record of products and services purchased by a user in the past.

[1554] "Emotion information" is data relating to the emotional state of the user analyzed from facial expressions and voice.

[1555] A "terminal" is a computing device used by a user, such as a smartphone or tablet.

[1556] "Payment information" refers to data related to payments made when a user purchases a product or service.

[1557] "Automatic application" refers to the process whereby the system automatically applies the coupon without requiring manual action from the user.

[1558] "Notification" is the act of the system sending information to the user's terminal to notify them.

[1559] "Cashless payment" refers to payments made electronically without using cash.

[1560] The present invention provides a system that improves convenience for both consumers and stores by allowing users to obtain coupon information in real time based on location information and sentiment analysis, and automatically applying coupons when making cashless payments. Specific embodiments of this system are described below.

[1561] This system consists of a device such as a user's smartphone, a server, and various software. The device is equipped with a GPS function, which is used to obtain the user's current location. Specifically, the device's LocationManager API is used to collect the user's latitude and longitude data in real time. The device also uses sensors such as a camera and microphone to collect the user's facial expressions and voice, and analyzes their emotional state. For this purpose, it uses software such as an emotion analysis engine and EmotionRecognitionAPI.

[1562] The acquired location information and emotion information are sent from the device to the server. The server receives the HTTP POST request and stores this information in a database. The server then searches for coupon information for affiliated stores near the user's current location based on the received location information. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated stores and stored in the database.

[1563] The server selects highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history, emotional information, and coupon information. The purchase history is a record of the products and services the user has purchased in the past and is stored in a database. The emotional information is data on the user's emotional state analyzed from their facial expressions and voice. Based on this information, the server uses a recommendation engine to select the most suitable coupon for the user.

[1564] The server notifies the user's device of the selected coupon information. The device then notifies the user of this information using the push notification function. The user can then check the coupon's detailed information on the device. For example, if the user is at a cafe in a shopping mall, a 10% off coupon that can be used at the cafe will be displayed.

[1565] When a user purchases a product or service at a partner store, they launch the cashless payment app and begin payment. When the payment begins, the terminal queries the server and obtains available coupon information. The server compares the payment information with pre-selected coupon information and automatically applies the coupon. Finally, the post-discount amount is calculated and sent from the server to the terminal. The user confirms the post-discount amount displayed on the payment app and completes the payment.

[1566] This system allows users to make the most of coupons and not miss them, and also allows stores to improve customer satisfaction and carry out effective promotions. Furthermore, the server can analyze the collected usage data and use it to help with future coupon distribution and marketing strategies. For example, it can create effective coupon plans tailored to specific times or events.

[1567] As a concrete example, when a user is walking in a shopping mall, the device sends the current location information to the server. The server then recommends a 10% off coupon that can be used at a nearby cafe based on the location information. When the user starts cashless payment at the register, the 10% off coupon is automatically applied, allowing the purchase of an item that normally costs 1,000 yen for 900 yen.

[1568] Example prompt sentence:

[1569] "Please explain how a user can get a discount coupon that can be used when they are at a cafe and automatically apply it to their cashless payment."

[1570] In this way, the present invention is expected to realize not only effective coupon use and the convenience of cashless payment, but also flexible coupon services that respond to the user's emotional state.

[1571] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1572] Step 1:

[1573] The device uses the LocationManager API to obtain the user's current location (latitude and longitude). This information is used as input to calculate real-time location information on the device, which then structures and prepares the data. Specifically, once the location information is obtained, the message "Retrieving latitude and longitude of current location..." is displayed.

[1574] Step 2:

[1575] The device sends the acquired location information to the server via an HTTP POST request. This location information becomes the input. The server stores the received data in a database. After this processing, the output shows that the user's current location has been updated in the server's database. The device displays "Sending location information to server...".

[1576] Step 3:

[1577] The server searches for coupon information for nearby affiliated stores based on the location information stored in the database. The server inputs the location information and searches the coupon database to list applicable coupons. Specifically, the message "Searching for coupons for stores within a 500 meter radius..." is displayed.

[1578] Step 4:

[1579] The server compares the coupon information with the user's purchase history and emotional information, and selects highly relevant coupons. The purchase history and emotional information are input, and the recommendation engine uses this information to select coupons. As a result, a list of selected coupons is output. The server displays the message "Selecting coupons based on past purchase history and emotional information..."

[1580] Step 5:

[1581] The device uses a camera and microphone to collect the user's facial expressions and voice and then performs emotional analysis. This facial and voice data is input, and the emotional state is analyzed in real time using an emotion analysis engine. Emotional information is output as the analysis result. Specifically, the device displays the message "Analyzing facial expression data, identifying emotions..."

[1582] Step 6:

[1583] The device sends the emotional information obtained through emotion analysis to the server via an HTTP POST request. This emotional information becomes the input. The server stores the received emotional information in a database. After processing, the output shows that the latest emotional data has been saved in the server's database. The device displays "Sending emotional information to server...".

[1584] Step 7:

[1585] The server combines location information, purchase history, and emotional information to select the most suitable coupon and notify the user's device. This information is input and the selected coupon information is output. The device notifies the user of the coupon using the push notification function. Specifically, a notification is displayed saying, "Recommending the most suitable coupon for you..."

[1586] Step 8:

[1587] When purchasing a product or service at a partner store, the user launches the cashless payment app. When the payment begins, the terminal queries the server to obtain available coupon information. A payment start notification is input, and coupon information is output. The terminal displays "Checking coupons for payment..."

[1588] Step 9:

[1589] The server checks the payment information against pre-selected coupon information and automatically applies the coupon. Payment information is input, and the amount after the discount due to the applied coupon is output. The server displays "Applying coupon, calculating discounted amount..."

[1590] Step 10:

[1591] The server sends the final amount after the discount to the terminal. The amount after the discount is entered, and this information is displayed on the terminal, where the user can confirm the final amount. Specifically, the message "The total amount after the discount is 900 yen. Please complete the payment" is displayed.

[1592] Through the above processing steps, the system provides coupons based on the user's location information and emotional state, and automatically applies the coupons during cashless payments.

[1593] (Application example 2)

[1594] 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."

[1595] Conventional coupon provision systems can provide coupons based on a user's current location or recommend coupons based on their purchase history, but they do not recommend coupons that take into account the user's emotional state. As a result, they lack the flexibility to improve the user experience or implement effective promotions. Furthermore, they lack a convenient function for automatically applying coupons at the time of payment, which hinders users from making the most of their coupons.

[1596] The identification process by the identification 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 collecting location information, means for transmitting the location information to the server, means for searching for coupon information for nearby affiliated facilities based on the location information, means for analyzing the user's facial expression and voice and identifying their emotion, means for selecting a coupon corresponding to their emotional state based on the emotional information and the coupon information, and means for notifying the user's computer of the selected coupon information. This makes it possible to provide coupons that take the user's emotional state into consideration, thereby improving the user experience and realizing effective store promotions.

[1597] "Location information" is data that indicates a user's current geographic location and is obtained using technologies such as GPS.

[1598] "Emotion information" is data that indicates the emotional state of the user analyzed from facial expressions, voice, and the like.

[1599] "Coupon information" is data regarding discounts and special offers offered by affiliated facilities.

[1600] "Purchase history" is data about products and services purchased by a user in the past.

[1601] A "server" is a computer system that responds to requests from multiple clients and processes and stores data.

[1602] A "terminal" is an electronic device that can be directly operated by a user, including a smartphone or tablet.

[1603] "Cashless payment" is a system in which payments are made electronically without using cash.

[1604] "Facial expression analysis" is a technology that analyzes a user's face captured by a camera and identifies their emotional state.

[1605] "Voice analysis" is a technology that analyzes a user's voice collected by a microphone and identifies their emotional state.

[1606] "Notification" is the act of presenting specific information from a server to a terminal.

[1607] "Payment information" is data relating to the amount and payment method when a user makes a payment.

[1608] A "computer" is an electronic device for processing information, and is a device that performs calculations and data processing.

[1609] This invention is a system that provides optimal coupon information in real time based on user location information and sentiment analysis, and automatically applies coupons when making cashless payments. This system improves the user experience and increases the effectiveness of store promotions.

[1610] A user first uses a device such as a smartphone. The device is equipped with a GPS function to acquire location information, and as the user moves, the location information is updated in real time. Once the device acquires the location information, it sends it to a server.

[1611] The server searches for coupon information for affiliated facilities near the user's current location based on the received location information. This coupon information is provided in advance by the affiliated facilities and stored in a database on the server. The server then compares the user's purchase history and coupon usage history to select highly relevant coupons.

[1612] The device then uses sensors such as a camera and microphone to capture the user's facial expressions and voice, and identifies their emotions. The emotion identification is performed using an emotion engine, and the results are sent to the server as emotion information.

[1613] The server selects coupons according to the user's emotional state based on the received emotional information, location information, and coupon information. For example, if the user is in a positive emotional state, the server provides more coupons, and if the user is in a negative emotional state, the server provides special coupons that will comfort the user.

[1614] The selected coupon information is notified to the user's device, and detailed information is displayed. When the user purchases a product or service at a partner facility, they launch the cashless payment app to begin payment. The device queries the server at the start of payment and obtains available coupon information. The server compares the user's current payment information with previously recommended coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons.

[1615] The discounted amount is calculated based on the applied coupon and sent from the server to the terminal. This amount is displayed on the payment app, allowing the user to check the final amount with the discount applied.

[1616] For example, if a user is approaching a cafe in a shopping mall, the system will provide a 20% off coupon for that cafe. If the user is in a happy emotional state at this time, the system will notify the user of this special coupon. The following example prompt sentence can help achieve this:

[1617] Example prompt sentence:

[1618] Recommend a 20% off coupon to be used when the user approaches a cafe in a shopping mall, assuming the user is in a happy emotional state.

[1619] In this way, the system maximizes the coupons held by users and allows stores to carry out effective promotions. Furthermore, by providing coupons according to emotional states, the system can further improve the user experience.

[1620] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1621] Step 1:

[1622] The device acquires location information.

[1623] Input: Location data from the GPS sensor.

[1624] Processing: Obtain the latitude and longitude of the current location using the device's GPS function.

[1625] Output: The location information obtained.

[1626] Step 2:

[1627] The location information acquired by the device is sent to the server.

[1628] Input: Location information obtained by the device.

[1629] Processing: The location information is sent to the server as an HTTP request.

[1630] Output: Success / failure status of sending location information to the server.

[1631] Step 3:

[1632] The server searches for coupon information for nearby affiliated facilities based on the location information.

[1633] Input: Location information sent from the device.

[1634] Processing: The server accesses the database and searches for coupon information for relevant stores based on the location information.

[1635] Output: Relevant coupon information.

[1636] Step 4:

[1637] The server selects highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and coupon information.

[1638] Input: User's purchase history and acquired coupon information.

[1639] Processing: Purchase history and coupon information are analyzed using an algorithm to select highly relevant coupons.

[1640] Output: A list of relevant coupon deals.

[1641] Step 5:

[1642] The device analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to identify emotions.

[1643] Input: Facial expression and voice data from the device's camera and microphone.

[1644] Processing: Using the emotion engine, the collected data is analyzed for emotion recognition in real time.

[1645] Output: Emotional information.

[1646] Step 6:

[1647] The device transmits the emotion information to the server.

[1648] Input: Identified emotion information.

[1649] Processing: Emotion information is sent to the server as an HTTP request.

[1650] Output: Success / failure status of emotion information transmission to the server.

[1651] Step 7:

[1652] The server selects a coupon according to the emotional state based on the emotional information and coupon information.

[1653] Input: Sentiment information and relevant coupon information.

[1654] Processing: Match the emotional information with the coupon information and select the coupon that best suits the emotional state.

[1655] Output: Optimal coupon information.

[1656] Step 8:

[1657] The selected coupon information is notified to the terminal.

[1658] Input: Best coupon information.

[1659] Processing: Coupon information is sent to the terminal as an HTTP response.

[1660] Output: Coupon information displayed on the terminal.

[1661] Step 9:

[1662] The terminal launches the cashless payment app and queries the server when payment begins.

[1663] Input: Information that triggered the start of payment.

[1664] Processing: Sends a request to the server to check coupon applicability.

[1665] Output: Success / failure status of the query to the server.

[1666] Step 10:

[1667] The server compares the current payment information with the selected coupon information and automatically selects applicable coupons.

[1668] Input: Current payment information and selected coupon information.

[1669] Processing: Compare payment information with coupon information and select applicable coupons.

[1670] Output: The applied coupon and the final discounted amount.

[1671] Step 11:

[1672] The server sends the discounted amount to the terminal.

[1673] Enter: Final amount after discount.

[1674] Processing: The discounted amount information is sent to the terminal as an HTTP response.

[1675] Output: The final discounted amount displayed on the terminal.

[1676] 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.

[1677] 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.

[1678] 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.

[1679] 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.

[1680] 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.

[1681] 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.

[1682] 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).

[1683] 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.

[1684] 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."

[1685] 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.

[1686] 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).

[1687] 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.

[1688] 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.

[1689] 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.

[1690] 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.

[1691] 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.

[1692] 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.

[1693] 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.

[1694] 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.

[1695] 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.

[1696] 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.

[1697] The following is further disclosed regarding the above embodiment.

[1698] (Claim 1)

[1699] a means for collecting location information;

[1700] means for transmitting the location information to a server;

[1701] A means for the server to search for coupon information of affiliated stores in the vicinity based on the location information;

[1702] a means for the server to select highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and the coupon information;

[1703] means for notifying a user terminal of the selected coupon information;

[1704] The system includes a means for automatically applying a coupon that can be used at the time of payment.

[1705] (Claim 2)

[1706] A means of analyzing users' purchasing history and preferences;

[1707] The system of claim 1 , further comprising: means for recommending coupons based on the analysis results.

[1708] (Claim 3)

[1709] a means for collating coupon information of the user and automatically applying available coupons to calculate a final amount at the time of cashless payment;

[1710] The system of claim 1 further comprising means for notifying the user of the final amount.

[1711] "Example 1"

[1712] (Claim 1)

[1713] a means for collecting location information;

[1714] means for transmitting the location information to a server;

[1715] A means for the server to search for coupon information of affiliated stores in the vicinity based on the location information;

[1716] a means for the server to select highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and the coupon information;

[1717] means for notifying a user terminal of the selected coupon information;

[1718] means for automatically applying a coupon that can be used at the time of payment;

[1719] A system including a means for calculating the discounted amount and notifying the user terminal.

[1720] (Claim 2)

[1721] A means of analyzing users' purchasing history and preferences;

[1722] means for recommending coupons based on the analysis results;

[1723] The system of claim 1, further comprising means for matching payment information with coupon information for calculating and notifying the discount amount.

[1724] (Claim 3)

[1725] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for analyzing the collected usage data to aid in coupon distribution and marketing strategies.

[1726] "Application Example 1"

[1727] (Claim 1)

[1728] a means for collecting location information;

[1729] means for transmitting the location information to a server;

[1730] A means for the server to search for coupon information of affiliated stores in the vicinity based on the location information;

[1731] a means for the server to select highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and the coupon information;

[1732] means for notifying a user terminal of the selected coupon information;

[1733] A means for recommending coupons based on a user's purchase history and usage history;

[1734] means for automatically applying a coupon that can be used at the time of payment;

[1735] A means for obtaining location information using a smartphone application and sending push notifications of coupons for nearby stores;

[1736] A means for automatically applying available coupons in conjunction with a user's cashless payment;

[1737] A system including:

[1738] (Claim 2)

[1739] A means of analyzing users' purchasing history and preferences;

[1740] means for recommending coupons based on the analysis results;

[1741] The method further comprises: displaying a coupon search result based on location information so that the user can confirm the search result;

[1742] 10. The system of claim 1.

[1743] (Claim 3)

[1744] a means for collating coupon information of the user and automatically applying available coupons to calculate a final amount at the time of cashless payment;

[1745] means for notifying the user of the final amount;

[1746] The system further includes a means for displaying discount information after the coupon is applied on the user's smartphone display.

[1747] 10. The system of claim 1.

[1748] "Example 2: Combining Emotion Engines"

[1749] (Claim 1)

[1750] a means for collecting location information;

[1751] means for transmitting the location information to a server;

[1752] A means for the server to search for coupon information of affiliated stores in the vicinity based on the location information;

[1753] a means for the server to select highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and emotional information and the coupon information;

[1754] means for notifying a user terminal of the selected coupon information;

[1755] The system includes a means for automatically applying a coupon that can be used at the time of payment.

[1756] (Claim 2)

[1757] means for analyzing user purchasing history, preferences and sentiment information;

[1758] The system of claim 1 , further comprising: means for recommending coupons based on the analysis results.

[1759] (Claim 3)

[1760] a means for collating coupon information of the user and automatically applying available coupons to calculate a final amount at the time of cashless payment;

[1761] The system of claim 1 further comprising means for notifying the user of the final amount.

[1762] "Application example 2 when combining emotion engines"

[1763] (Claim 1)

[1764] a means for collecting location information;

[1765] means for transmitting the location information to a server;

[1766] A means for the server to search for coupon information for affiliated facilities in the vicinity based on the location information;

[1767] a means for the server to select highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and the coupon information;

[1768] means for analyzing the facial expressions and voice of the user and identifying emotions;

[1769] means for selecting a coupon according to the emotional state based on the emotional information and the coupon information;

[1770] means for notifying the user's computer of the selected coupon information;

[1771] The system includes a means for automatically applying a coupon that can be used at the time of payment.

[1772] (Claim 2)

[1773] A means of analyzing users' purchasing history and preferences;

[1774] The system of claim 1 , further comprising: means for recommending coupons based on the analysis results.

[1775] (Claim 3)

[1776] a means for collating coupon information of the user and automatically applying available coupons to calculate a final amount at the time of cashless payment;

[1777] The system of claim 1 further comprising means for notifying the user of the final amount. [Explanation of symbols]

[1778] 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 means for collecting location information; means for transmitting the location information to a server; A means for the server to search for coupon information of affiliated stores in the vicinity based on the location information; a means for the server to select highly relevant coupons based on the user's purchase history and the coupon information; means for notifying a user terminal of the selected coupon information; The system includes a means for automatically applying a coupon that can be used at the time of payment.

2. A means of analyzing users' purchasing history and preferences; The system of claim 1 , further comprising: means for recommending coupons based on the analysis results.

3. a means for collating coupon information of the user and automatically applying available coupons to calculate a final amount at the time of cashless payment; The system of claim 1 further comprising means for notifying the user of the final amount.

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