System
The system addresses the challenge of maintaining connections with the deceased by enabling digital storage and retrieval of messages and anecdotes, facilitating real-time conversations and memory sharing, thereby reducing psychological burden.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2024128343
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-08-02
- Publication Date
- 2026-02-16
AI Technical Summary
Current systems fail to efficiently allow individuals to maintain connections with deceased loved ones, share memories, and provide psychological support by facilitating electronic communication and advice, leading to a psychological burden.
A system that allows users to input, store, and retrieve messages, anecdotes, and personal belongings of the deceased, utilizing a server to generate responses and advice, and manage data in a database, enabling real-time conversations and memory sharing.
The system reduces psychological burden by allowing users to maintain connections and share memories with the deceased, providing real-time advice and managing personal belongings digitally, thus offering psychological support.
Smart Images

Figure 2026025534000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
[Technical Field]
[0001] The technology of the present disclosure relates to a system. [Background technology]
[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a persona chatbot control method performed by at least one processor, the method including the steps of receiving a user utterance, adding the user utterance to a prompt including an instruction sentence related to a description of the chatbot character, encoding the prompt, and inputting the encoded prompt into a language model to generate a chatbot utterance in response to the user utterance. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]
[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-180282 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]
[0004] In modern society, as the population ages, many people are experiencing separation from their deceased loved ones. There is a growing need to maintain connections with the deceased, and many people who have experienced separation feel a desire to retain memories and advice from the deceased and continue communication. However, currently available systems make it difficult to efficiently communicate with the deceased electronically, provide advice, and share memories. Therefore, there is a need for a system that can reduce the psychological burden while maintaining a connection with the deceased. [Means for solving the problem]
[0005] The present invention solves the above-mentioned problems by providing a system that allows users to input messages and anecdotes from the deceased, transmit them to a server, and store them in a database. Specifically, the system includes a means for receiving a conversation request with the deceased, generating an appropriate response from stored data, and transmitting it. The system also includes a means for inputting a specific problem or question, analyzing related data about the deceased, generating advice, and transmitting it. The system further includes a means for uploading photos and anecdotes, transmitting them to a server, and storing them in a database, as well as a means for searching and transmitting the stored data. The system also includes a means for inputting data about personal belongings, transmitting them to a server, and storing them in a database. This allows users to maintain a connection with the deceased, share memories and advice, and reduce their psychological burden.
[0006] A "deceased person" is someone who is left behind after losing their life, and their memories and messages are preserved in digital form.
[0007] A "message" is any word or sentence left behind by a deceased person during their lifetime, and is data that is entered and saved by the user through the system.
[0008] An "episode" is a specific story about an event or memory that occurred during the deceased's lifetime, and is data that is entered and saved by the user through the system.
[0009] A "server" is a computer system that receives, stores, and processes data sent by users.
[0010] A "database" is a system that systematically stores and manages data such as messages and episodes.
[0011] A "conversation request" is a request that a user sends to the system to initiate a virtual dialogue with a deceased person.
[0012] A "response" is a system-generated response to a user's input or conversational request, based on stored data and natural language processing techniques.
[0013] "Natural language processing" refers to computer techniques for understanding and generating human language, and is used to generate responses in a virtual conversation with a deceased person.
[0014] "Advice" refers to advice the system generates when a user inputs a specific problem or question, and is based on data about the deceased person.
[0015] "Upload" is the process by which a user sends data (e.g., photos or episodes) to the system, where it is stored on the server.
[0016] "Personal effects" are items left behind by the deceased, and are items that are organized and stored as digital data within the system.
[0017] A "search" is an operation performed by a user to find specific information based on stored data.
[0018] "Sharing" is a function that allows users to view and use data such as saved messages and episodes together with other users.
[0019] "Psychological burden" refers to the mental stress and pain that accompanies saying goodbye to the deceased and sorting out their belongings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]
[0020] [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
[0021] 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.
[0022] First, the terms used in the following description will be explained.
[0023] 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).
[0024] 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.
[0025] 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.
[0026] 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.
[0027] 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."
[0028] [First embodiment]
[0029] FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 10 according to the first embodiment.
[0030] 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.
[0031] 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).
[0032] 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.
[0033] 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.
[0034] 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.
[0035] 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.
[0036] FIG. 2 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart device 14.
[0037] 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.
[0038] 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.
[0039] 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.
[0040] 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."
[0041] The present invention relates to a system that allows a deceased person to input and store messages and stories about the deceased and communicate with them. Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[0042] Communicating with the deceased
[0043] Message storage
[0044] The user inputs messages and stories about the deceased through the device. For example, they input "a recipe that Grandma taught me." The device then sends this input data to the server. The server then stores the received data in a database, allowing the user to view these messages later.
[0045] Conversation feature
[0046] When a user sends a conversation request from their device, such as "How are you doing lately?", the device sends this request data to the server. The server analyzes the received request and generates an appropriate response from the stored data. The generated response might be something like "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." The server then sends this response data to the device, where the user can view the response.
[0047] Advice from the deceased
[0048] The user inputs a specific question from the terminal, such as "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The terminal sends this question data to the server. The server analyzes the received question and searches for related data on the deceased. Based on the results, specific advice is generated. The advice might be something like "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do." The server then sends this advice data to the terminal, where it can be viewed by the user.
[0049] Sharing memories of the deceased
[0050] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased from their device. For example, they upload "photos taken with Grandma." The device sends this data to the server, which stores the received photos and stories in a database. When the user sends a request to view memories, the server searches the database for the corresponding memories and sends the results to the device. The user can then view "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[0051] Reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[0052] The user inputs information about the deceased's belongings into the device. For example, they input "the camera that grandpa used." The device sends this data to the server, which stores it in a database. This allows the information to be managed digitally when sorting through the belongings, reducing the psychological burden.
[0053] The system of this invention stores memories, messages, and advice from the deceased in a database and allows users to view and use them at any time, allowing people to maintain a connection with the deceased and receive psychological support.
[0054] The processing flow will be explained below.
[0055] Communicating with the deceased
[0056] Message storage
[0057] Step 1:
[0058] The user inputs messages and stories about the deceased through the terminal.
[0059] Step 2:
[0060] The terminal transmits the input data to the server.
[0061] Step 3:
[0062] The server stores the received data in a database.
[0063] Conversation feature
[0064] Step 1:
[0065] The user sends a request to talk to the deceased person from the terminal to the server.
[0066] Step 2:
[0067] The terminal sends a conversation request to the server.
[0068] Step 3:
[0069] The server analyzes the received request.
[0070] Step 4:
[0071] The server retrieves the relevant data from the database.
[0072] Step 5:
[0073] The server uses natural language processing techniques to generate an appropriate response.
[0074] Step 6:
[0075] The server generates a response and sends it to the terminal.
[0076] Step 7:
[0077] The user confirms the response through the terminal.
[0078] Advice from the deceased
[0079] Step 1:
[0080] The user enters a specific problem or question into the terminal.
[0081] Step 2:
[0082] The terminal sends the entered question to the server.
[0083] Step 3:
[0084] The server parses the received query.
[0085] Step 4:
[0086] The server retrieves the relevant deceased person's data from the database.
[0087] Step 5:
[0088] The server generates advice based on the deceased person's data.
[0089] Step 6:
[0090] The server sends the generated advice to the terminal.
[0091] Step 7:
[0092] The user checks the advice through the terminal.
[0093] Sharing memories of the deceased
[0094] Upload your memories
[0095] Step 1:
[0096] Users upload photos and stories about the deceased from their devices.
[0097] Step 2:
[0098] The device sends the upload data to the server.
[0099] Step 3:
[0100] The server stores the received data in a database.
[0101] View and share your memories
[0102] Step 1:
[0103] The user sends a request to view memories from the terminal to the server.
[0104] Step 2:
[0105] The device sends a request to the server.
[0106] Step 3:
[0107] The server searches the database for the relevant memories.
[0108] Step 4:
[0109] The server sends the search results to the terminal.
[0110] Step 5:
[0111] The user browses the memories through the device.
[0112] Reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[0113] Digital Archive of Relics
[0114] Step 1:
[0115] The user inputs data about the deceased's belongings from the terminal.
[0116] Step 2:
[0117] The terminal transmits the entered personal effects data to the server.
[0118] Step 3:
[0119] The server stores the received data in a database.
[0120] This detailed description of each step aids in understanding the operation of the overall system.
[0121] Example 1
[0122] 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."
[0123] This system allows people to maintain a connection with the deceased and receive psychological support by storing memories, messages, and advice from the deceased in a database and making them available for users to view and use at any time. It provides appropriate responses and advice in real time, enabling conversations and sharing of memories with the deceased. Another challenge is to provide a method for managing personal belongings in a digital format, reducing the burden of sorting through the deceased's belongings.
[0124] 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.
[0125] In this invention, the server includes a means for users to input messages and stories about the deceased, a means for users to input requests to talk to the deceased, a means for users to input specific questions, and a means for uploading photos and stories about the deceased. This allows users to enjoy real-time conversations with the deceased and receive specific advice. It also allows users to share memories of the deceased and reduce the burden of sorting out their belongings.
[0126] A "user" is someone who interacts with the server by entering messages, stories, questions, etc. about the deceased.
[0127] A "terminal" is a device (e.g., a smartphone or PC) that a user uses to send input data to a server and receive responses and data from the server.
[0128] "Server" means a computer system used to receive data sent by a user and return analysis, generated responses, and advice.
[0129] A "message" is a sentence or word left behind by a deceased person.
[0130] An "episode" is a specific event or memory associated with the deceased.
[0131] A "database" is a collection of data stored and managed by a server, allowing for efficient searching and retrieval of required data.
[0132] A "conversation request" is a request for dialogue made by a user to a deceased person.
[0133] A "generative AI model" is an artificial intelligence model that generates appropriate responses and advice based on received data and requests.
[0134] A "question" is something a user enters to seek advice from the deceased about a particular problem or question.
[0135] "Advice" refers to advice or suggestions provided to the user by the deceased.
[0136] A "photograph" is image data that depicts the deceased or a scene related to the deceased.
[0137] "Upload" refers to the act of a user sending data from a terminal to a server.
[0138] This invention is a system that allows users to input and save messages and stories about the deceased and communicate with them through that information. Specific embodiments for implementing this system are described below.
[0139] Message storage
[0140] The user uses the device's input form to input messages and stories about the deceased. For example, they can input "a recipe that Grandma taught me." The device then sends this input data to the server, which then stores the received data in a database. This allows the user to view these messages later. Specifically, the input data is stored in a MySQL database.
[0141] Conversation feature
[0142] When a user sends a conversation request such as "How are you doing lately?" from their device, the device sends this request data to a server. The server analyzes the received request and generates an appropriate response from stored data. Using a generative AI model (such as GPT-3), a response such as "I'm fine. I went for a walk today" is generated based on past episodes and messages. The server then sends this response data to the device, where the user can view the response.
[0143] Advice from the deceased
[0144] The user inputs a specific question into the device, such as "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The device then sends this question data to the server. The server analyzes the received question and searches for relevant data on the deceased. Based on the results, specific advice is generated. Using a generative AI model, advice such as "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do" is generated. The server then sends this advice data to the device, where it can be viewed by the user.
[0145] Sharing memories of the deceased
[0146] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased from their device. For example, they upload "photos taken with Grandma." The device sends this data to the server, which then stores the received photos and stories in a database. Image files are stored in cloud storage such as Amazon S3, and metadata is stored in the database. When the user sends a request to view memories, the server searches the database for the corresponding memories and sends the results to the device. The user can then view "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[0147] Reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[0148] The user inputs information about the deceased's belongings into the device. For example, they input "the camera that grandpa used." The device sends this data to the server, which stores it in a database. This allows the information to be managed digitally when sorting through the belongings, reducing the psychological burden.
[0149] Specific examples
[0150] Message save prompt
[0151] "Enter message: Recipe taught to me by my grandma"
[0152] Conversation request prompts
[0153] "Conversation request: What's been going on lately?"
[0154] Advice Request Prompt
[0155] "I need some advice: I'm having trouble with my work..."
[0156] Memories upload prompt
[0157] "Memories Upload: Photos taken with Grandma"
[0158] Prompt for entering personal belongings information
[0159] "Enter information about the belongings: The camera my grandfather used"
[0160] The system stores messages, anecdotes, and advice from the deceased in a database, allowing users to communicate with them. It also uses specific prompts to make input easier for users.
[0161] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[0162] Message retention processing steps
[0163] Step 1:
[0164] The user inputs a message or story about the deceased into the input form on the device. For example, they can input "a recipe my grandmother taught me." This input becomes input data.
[0165] Step 2:
[0166] The terminal receives the data entered by the user, converts it into JSON format data, and sends the converted data to the server.
[0167] Step 3:
[0168] The server receives the JSON data sent from the device, analyzes it, and extracts messages and episodes from the deceased. These extracted information becomes entries in the database.
[0169] Step 4:
[0170] The server stores the parsed data in a database, allowing the user to view the message at a later time.
[0171] Conversation function processing steps
[0172] Step 1:
[0173] The user inputs a conversation request such as "How are you doing lately?" into the conversation input form on the device. This input becomes the request data.
[0174] Step 2:
[0175] The terminal receives the request data entered by the user, converts it into JSON format, and sends it to the server.
[0176] Step 3:
[0177] The server receives the request data sent from the device, analyzes the received data, and interprets the intent. Based on the analysis, the generative AI model generates an appropriate response.
[0178] Step 4:
[0179] The server then transmits the generated response data to the terminal, allowing the user to enjoy a conversation with the deceased based on this response data.
[0180] Step 5:
[0181] The user sees the response displayed on the terminal, for example, "I'm fine. I went for a walk today."
[0182] Steps for processing advice from the deceased
[0183] Step 1:
[0184] The user enters "I'm having trouble with something at work..." into the question input form on the terminal. This input becomes the question data.
[0185] Step 2:
[0186] The terminal receives the question data entered by the user, converts it into JSON format, and sends it to the server.
[0187] Step 3:
[0188] The server receives the question data sent from the terminal, analyzes the question data, and searches for appropriate messages and episodes from the deceased.
[0189] Step 4:
[0190] The server uses a generative AI model to generate advice based on the search results, such as "When in doubt, first think about what you really want to do."
[0191] Step 5:
[0192] The server transmits the generated advice data to the terminal, and the user can receive appropriate advice based on this advice data.
[0193] Process steps for sharing memories of the deceased
[0194] Step 1:
[0195] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased through the terminal. For example, they upload a photo of them with their grandmother. This input becomes the uploaded data.
[0196] Step 2:
[0197] The terminal receives the uploaded data, converts it into JSON format, and sends it to the server.
[0198] Step 3:
[0199] The server receives the uploaded data sent from the device, analyzes the received data, and stores the photos and episodes in a database, allowing users to view these memories later.
[0200] Step 4:
[0201] The user sends a request to view memories from their device, and this request becomes the search data.
[0202] Step 5:
[0203] The server receives the request and searches the database for the corresponding memories, using a search algorithm to extract the relevant data.
[0204] Step 6:
[0205] The server sends the search results to the terminal, and the user can view "Photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[0206] Processing steps to reduce the burden of sorting out belongings
[0207] Step 1:
[0208] The user inputs information about the deceased person's belongings into the terminal. For example, they input "the camera that grandpa used." This input becomes the belongings data.
[0209] Step 2:
[0210] The terminal receives the personal belongings data entered by the user, converts it into JSON format, and sends it to the server.
[0211] Step 3:
[0212] The server receives the personal effects data sent from the device, analyzes the received data, and stores the personal effects information in a database. This storage allows the personal effects information to be managed digitally when sorting the personal effects.
[0213] Step 4:
[0214] The user can view the saved personal effects information later.
[0215] (Application example 1)
[0216] 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."
[0217] There is a need for a system that can digitize memories and messages of the deceased and store and use them for the future. There is also a need for a means that allows users to experience the deceased's messages and stories as if they were having a natural conversation. Conventional systems have limited the ability to communicate and share memories with the deceased, and have not been able to provide a sufficient sense of psychological security.
[0218] 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.
[0219] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting information about the deceased, means for transmitting the input information to a communication device, means for storing the received information in a storage device, means for receiving a request to interact with the deceased, means for generating an appropriate response from the stored information, means for transmitting the generated response, and means for streaming information about the deceased to a user via a smart device, thereby enabling the user to experience memories with the deceased more realistically.
[0220] "Information about the deceased" refers to messages, anecdotes, image data, advice, etc. related to the deceased.
[0221] "Communication device" refers to a device or system for transmitting input information to a server.
[0222] "Storage device" refers to hardware or software for storing received information in a database or the like.
[0223] A "dialogue request" refers to a request sent by a user to a server wishing to converse with a deceased person.
[0224] An "appropriate response" refers to a response to a user's interactive request that is generated based on stored information about the deceased.
[0225] "Smart devices" refers to devices such as smartphones, smart glasses, and head-mounted displays that allow users to view and receive information about the deceased.
[0226] "Streaming" refers to the means of delivering information about a deceased person to a user's smart device in real time.
[0227] "Image data" refers to visual information, such as photographs or videos, related to the deceased.
[0228] An "episode" refers to a specific event, such as a memory or anecdote, related to the deceased.
[0229] The present invention is a system that allows users to input and store information about the deceased in digital form, and allows users to enjoy conversations with the deceased and memories via streaming. This system is realized mainly using a server, a communication device, a storage device, and a smart device.
[0230] First, the user inputs information about the deceased (messages, anecdotes, image data, advice, etc.). For example, the user inputs "a recipe that grandma taught me." The user then uses a smartphone or computer to send this information to a communication device, which then transmits it to a server.
[0231] The server stores the received information in a storage device (e.g., an SQL database), which can then be used by the user to interact with or view the deceased person.
[0232] To have a conversation with a deceased person, the user sends a conversation request to the server from a smart device (such as a smartphone, smart glasses, or head-mounted display). Specifically, when the user enters the question "How are you doing lately?", the request is sent to the server.
[0233] The server analyzes the dialogue request and generates an appropriate response based on the information about the deceased person stored in the storage device. This response is generated using a generative AI model, such as OpenAI's GPT-3. Based on the analyzed prompt, the generative AI model generates a response such as "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." This generated response is then sent from the server to the smart device, allowing the user to receive the response in real time.
[0234] Furthermore, if a user has a specific question, they can input it, for example, "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The server analyzes this question, searches for relevant data on the deceased, and generates advice based on the analysis results. This advice is also generated using a generative AI model. The generated advice, such as "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do," is sent from the server to the smart device.
[0235] Furthermore, users can upload image data and stories related to the deceased. For example, they can upload "photos taken with Grandma." These data are also sent to the server via the communication device and stored in the storage device. When the user sends a request to view these memories, the server searches for the relevant data from the storage device and sends it to the smart device.
[0236] For example, if a user inputs "How are you doing lately?", the server will generate a response of "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." Using this prompt example, the user can enjoy a conversational experience.
[0237] Therefore, this invention allows the user to experience memories of the deceased in a more realistic way, and provides psychological support.
[0238] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
[0239] Step 1:
[0240] The user inputs information about the deceased (messages, anecdotes, image data, advice) from the terminal. The terminal receives the input information and transmits it to the communication device. The input data may include, for example, "recipes that grandma taught me." The communication device then transfers this data to the server.
[0241] Step 2:
[0242] The server stores the information received from the communication device in a storage device. The storage device may be an SQL database or similar, and the received data is stored appropriately. The stored data can then be searched and used later according to the user's request.
[0243] Step 3:
[0244] A user sends a dialogue request to the server from a smart device (smartphone, smart glasses, head-mounted display, etc.). For example, the user inputs a question such as "How are you doing lately?" and sends the request to the server. The input data at this time is the content of the user's question.
[0245] Step 4:
[0246] The server analyzes the dialogue request received from the user and generates an appropriate response from the information about the deceased person stored in the memory device. This analysis and response generation uses a generative AI model such as OpenAI's GPT-3. For example, based on the prompt "How are you doing lately?", it generates a response such as "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." For analysis and generation, the received data is passed to the generative AI as a prompt, and the generated text is received as a response.
[0247] Step 5:
[0248] The server sends the generated response to the smart device, which then displays the received response to the user. This allows the user to enjoy a natural conversation experience with the deceased. The response generated by the generative AI model becomes the output data.
[0249] Step 6:
[0250] A user inputs a specific question into a terminal and sends it to the server, such as "I'm having trouble with something at work..." The terminal sends the question to a communication device, which then forwards it to the server.
[0251] Step 7:
[0252] The server analyzes the specific question and searches for relevant information about the deceased stored in a storage device. Based on the searched data, it uses a generative AI model to generate specific advice. For example, advice such as "When in doubt, first think about what you really want to do" is generated. Based on the search results, the server passes a prompt to the generative AI and receives the generated advice as a response.
[0253] Step 8:
[0254] The server sends the generated advice to the smart device, where the user can confirm the advice. The generated advice becomes output data.
[0255] Step 9:
[0256] The user uploads image data and stories from the terminal and sends them to the server. The uploaded data may include, for example, "photos taken with grandma." The communication device then sends the received data to the server.
[0257] Step 10:
[0258] The server stores the received image data and episodes in a storage device, which can then be searched and distributed at a later time in response to a user request.
[0259] Step 11:
[0260] The user sends a request to view memories from their smart device. The server searches the database for the relevant memories and sends the search results to the smart device. This allows the user to view "Photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival." The searched data is output.
[0261] 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.
[0262] The present invention is a system that allows users to input and save messages and stories from the deceased and enables virtual communication with the deceased, and combines it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and customizes responses based on those emotions. Below, we will explain the embodiments of the present invention.
[0263] Examples of communication with the deceased
[0264] Message storage
[0265] The user inputs messages and stories about the deceased through the device. For example, they input "a recipe that Grandma taught me." The device then sends this input data to the server. The server then stores the received data in a database, allowing the user to view these messages later.
[0266] Conversation feature
[0267] When a user sends a conversation request from their device, such as "How are you doing lately?", the device sends this request data to the server. The server analyzes the received request and generates an appropriate response from the stored data. The generated response might be something like "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." The server then sends this response data to the device, where the user can view the response.
[0268] Examples of advice from the deceased
[0269] The user inputs a specific question from the terminal, such as "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The terminal sends this question data to the server. The server analyzes the received question and searches for related data on the deceased. Based on the results, specific advice is generated. The advice might be something like "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do." The server then sends this advice data to the terminal, where it can be viewed by the user.
[0270] Examples of sharing memories of the deceased
[0271] Upload your memories
[0272] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased from their device. For example, they upload "photos taken with Grandma." The device sends this data to the server, which stores the received photos and stories in a database. When the user sends a request to view memories, the server searches the database for the corresponding memories and sends the results to the device. The user can then view "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[0273] Examples of reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[0274] The user inputs information about the deceased's belongings into the device. For example, they input "the camera that grandpa used." The device sends this data to the server, which stores it in a database. This allows the information to be managed digitally when sorting through the belongings, reducing the psychological burden.
[0275] Example of an Emotion Engine
[0276] emotion recognition
[0277] The device uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotions in response to messages or questions entered by the user. For example, if the user enters "I've been feeling very lonely lately," the emotion engine will recognize that the user is feeling "sad."
[0278] Response Customization
[0279] The server receives the emotion data from the emotion engine and customizes the response based on the recognized emotion. For example, if the recognized emotion is "sad," the response might be something like, "That's so hard, I felt the same way."
[0280] Storing Emotional Data
[0281] The server stores the recognized emotion data in a database, allowing it to refer to the user's emotion history in the future and provide more appropriate responses.
[0282] As a result, this system can recognize the user's emotions and provide appropriate content and advice, deepening the connection with the deceased and providing psychological support.
[0283] The processing flow will be explained below.
[0284] Communicating with the deceased
[0285] Message storage
[0286] Step 1:
[0287] The user can input a message or story about the deceased through the device, for example, "A recipe that grandma taught me."
[0288] Step 2:
[0289] The terminal transmits the input data to the server.
[0290] Step 3:
[0291] The server stores the received data in a database.
[0292] Conversation feature
[0293] Step 1:
[0294] The user sends a conversation request to the deceased from their device, for example, "How are you doing lately?"
[0295] Step 2:
[0296] The terminal sends a conversation request to the server.
[0297] Step 3:
[0298] The server analyzes the received request.
[0299] Step 4:
[0300] The server retrieves the relevant data from the database.
[0301] Step 5:
[0302] The server uses natural language processing techniques to generate an appropriate response, such as "I'm fine. I went for a walk today."
[0303] Step 6:
[0304] The server generates a response and sends it to the terminal.
[0305] Step 7:
[0306] The user confirms the response through the terminal.
[0307] Advice from the deceased
[0308] Step 1:
[0309] The user inputs a specific problem or question into the terminal, for example, "I'm having trouble with something at work..."
[0310] Step 2:
[0311] The terminal sends the entered question to the server.
[0312] Step 3:
[0313] The server parses the received query.
[0314] Step 4:
[0315] The server retrieves the relevant deceased person's data from the database.
[0316] Step 5:
[0317] The server generates appropriate advice based on the deceased's data, such as "When in doubt, first think about what you really want to do."
[0318] Step 6:
[0319] The server sends the generated advice to the terminal.
[0320] Step 7:
[0321] The user checks the advice through the terminal.
[0322] Sharing memories of the deceased
[0323] Upload your memories
[0324] Step 1:
[0325] Users upload photos and stories about the deceased from their devices. For example, they can upload a photo of themselves with their grandmother.
[0326] Step 2:
[0327] The device sends the upload data to the server.
[0328] Step 3:
[0329] The server stores the received data in a database.
[0330] View and share your memories
[0331] Step 1:
[0332] The user sends a request to view memories from their device to the server. For example, they may request, "I want to see memories with my grandma."
[0333] Step 2:
[0334] The device sends a request to the server.
[0335] Step 3:
[0336] The server searches the database for the relevant memories.
[0337] Step 4:
[0338] The server sends the search results to the terminal.
[0339] Step 5:
[0340] The user browses through their device memories, for example, browsing "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[0341] Reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[0342] Digital Archive of Relics
[0343] Step 1:
[0344] The user inputs data about the deceased's belongings into the terminal. For example, the user inputs "the camera that grandpa used."
[0345] Step 2:
[0346] The terminal transmits the entered personal effects data to the server.
[0347] Step 3:
[0348] The server stores the received data in a database.
[0349] Example of an Emotion Engine
[0350] emotion recognition
[0351] Step 1:
[0352] A user-input message or question is entered into the terminal. For example, the user might type, "I've been feeling very lonely lately."
[0353] Step 2:
[0354] The terminal sends the entered message or question to the server.
[0355] Step 3:
[0356] The server receives the input data and analyzes the user's emotions using an emotion engine, which recognizes the "sad" emotion from the message content.
[0357] Response Customization
[0358] Step 1:
[0359] The server generates a response based on the results of the emotion engine. For example, if the recognized emotion is "sad," the server generates a response such as "That's terrible, I felt the same way."
[0360] Step 2:
[0361] The server sends the generated response to the terminal.
[0362] Step 3:
[0363] The user confirms the customized response through the terminal.
[0364] Storing Emotional Data
[0365] Step 1:
[0366] The server stores the recognized emotion data in a database, allowing future reference of the user's emotion history.
[0367] Through these steps, the system recognizes the user's emotions and provides responses based on those emotions, thereby deepening the connection with the deceased and strengthening emotional support.
[0368] Example 2
[0369] 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."
[0370] In a system that virtually enables communication with the deceased and provides psychological support by allowing users to converse with and receive advice from the deceased, it is necessary to recognize the user's emotions and provide appropriate responses accordingly. However, existing systems lack the ability to understand the user's emotions and customize responses based on those emotions, which leads to a problem of users not being able to achieve sufficient satisfaction.
[0371] The identification process by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for inputting messages and episodes from the deceased, means for transmitting the input messages and episodes to the server, means for storing the received messages and episodes in a database, means for receiving a conversation request with the deceased, means for generating an appropriate response from the stored data, means for transmitting the generated response, means for analyzing the message or question input by the user and recognizing emotions, means for customizing a response based on the recognized emotions, and means for storing the recognized emotion data in a database. This makes it possible to understand the user's emotions and provide an appropriate and satisfying response based on them.
[0372] "Deceased" refers to individuals covered by this system who have passed away.
[0373] "Messages and episodes" refers to textual information and stories related to the deceased.
[0374] "User" refers to a person who uses this system to virtually communicate with a deceased person.
[0375] "Terminal" refers to an electronic device that allows a user to access the system and input, view, and send messages and episodes.
[0376] "Server" means a computer system capable of receiving, storing, and analyzing input data, and generating and transmitting an appropriate response.
[0377] "Database" refers to an information storage system managed by a server for storing messages, episodes, and emotional data.
[0378] "Conversation Request" refers to a request that a user enters and submits to initiate a virtual conversation with a deceased person.
[0379] A "response" is a message generated by the server based on a conversation request or input data, and refers to the content sent in reply to the user.
[0380] "Analysis" refers to the process of understanding the text data entered by the user and extracting their intent and emotions.
[0381] "Emotion recognition" refers to the technology of identifying emotions from user input data.
[0382] "Response customization" refers to the process of tailoring the content of the responses generated by the system based on perceived emotions.
[0383] "Emotion data" refers to emotional information analyzed from user input and stored in a database.
[0384] An "appropriate response" refers to a reply that is useful and emotionally relevant to the user, generated in consideration of the stored message, episode, and the user's emotions.
[0385] "Advice" refers to answers to users' questions or problems that are generated based on past messages and stories from the deceased.
[0386] "Uploading" refers to the act of a user sending data such as photos and stories about the deceased to a server.
[0387] The present invention provides a system that enables virtual communication with a deceased person, and includes a function that recognizes the user's emotions and customizes responses according to those emotions. This system is realized using a server, a terminal, and a database.
[0388] System Configuration
[0389] The system consists of the following main components:
[0390] Server: A computer system that receives, analyzes, stores, and generates a response to data.
[0391] Device: The electronic device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, PC) through which a user accesses the system and inputs and receives data.
[0392] Database: An information storage system that stores messages and stories from the deceased, as well as user emotional data.
[0393] Hardware and Software
[0394] Hardware: A server is a computer with a powerful processor and large storage capacity that efficiently processes requests from multiple users. A terminal is a typical user device.
[0395] Software: The server analyzes text data using natural language processing (NLP) technology. Specifically, it uses a generative AI model (e.g., GPT-3) to understand natural language and generate appropriate responses. The emotion engine is a module for recognizing emotions from user input.
[0396] Message storage examples
[0397] The user inputs messages and stories about the deceased through the device. For example, they input "a recipe that grandma taught me." The device then sends this data to the server, which stores the received data in a database. This allows the user to view these messages later.
[0398] Conversation feature examples
[0399] The user sends a conversation request from the device, asking "How are you doing lately?" The device sends this request data to the server. The server analyzes the received request and generates an appropriate response from the stored data. The generated response might be something like "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." The server then sends this response data to the device, where the user can view the response.
[0400] Examples of advice from the deceased
[0401] The user inputs a question from the device, such as "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The device then sends this question data to the server. The server analyzes the received question and searches for relevant data on the deceased. Based on the results, it generates specific advice. For example, it could say, "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do." The server then sends this advice data to the device, where it can be viewed by the user.
[0402] Examples of sharing memories of the deceased
[0403] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased from their device. For example, they upload "photos taken with Grandma." The device sends this data to the server, which stores the received photos and stories in a database. When the user sends a request to view memories, the server searches the database for the corresponding memories and sends the results to the device. The user can then view "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[0404] Examples of emotion engines
[0405] The device uses an emotion engine to analyze the emotions expressed in messages and questions entered by the user. For example, if a user enters "I've been feeling very lonely lately," the engine recognizes this as "sad." The server receives the emotion data from the emotion engine and customizes a response based on that emotion. For example, if the user's emotion is "sad," the response might be something like "That's tough, I used to feel the same way." The recognized emotion data is also stored in a database, allowing the user's emotion history to be referenced in the future.
[0406] Prompt Sentence Examples
[0407] Do you want to save "Grandma's Recipes"?
[0408] Start a conversation: "How are you doing these days?"
[0409] Seeking advice from the deceased: "I'm having trouble with my work..."
[0410] This allows the system to recognize the user's emotions and provide appropriate content and advice, deepening the connection with the deceased and providing psychological support.
[0411] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[0412] Step 1:
[0413] Enter your message
[0414] The user inputs a message or story about the deceased through the device's interface. For example, they input "a recipe that Grandma taught me." The input data (in text format) is sent to the device. Input: Text data from the user. Output: Formatted input data. In concrete terms, the device uses an input form and voice recognition software.
[0415] Step 2:
[0416] Sending data
[0417] The terminal converts the input data into an appropriate format (for example, JSON format) and sends it to the server using an HTTP request. Input: Formatted input data. Output: Request to the server. Specifically, the terminal uses SSL / TLS encrypted communication to send data safely.
[0418] Step 3:
[0419] Data storage
[0420] The server validates the received data (for example, escaping special characters and checking the data format) and then stores it in the database. Input: Data sent to the server. Output: Records stored in the database. Specifically, the server inserts the data using a database management system (DBMS).
[0421] Step 4:
[0422] Entering a conversation request
[0423] The user enters a conversation request such as "What's up lately?" into the terminal and clicks the send button. Input: User's conversation request (text format). Output: Formatted request data from the terminal. Specifically, the terminal captures the user's input and generates request data.
[0424] Step 5:
[0425] Submitting a Request
[0426] The terminal sends the request data to the server. Input: Formatted request data. Output: Request to the server. As a specific operation, the terminal again sends the data using the HTTPS protocol.
[0427] Step 6:
[0428] Parsing the request
[0429] The server analyzes the received request data. It uses NLP techniques to understand the intent of the request and extract information to generate an appropriate message. Input: Request data sent to the server. Output: Analysis results. Specifically, the server processes the request data using a generative AI model.
[0430] Step 7:
[0431] Generating a response
[0432] The server searches for appropriate messages and episodes from a stored database and generates a response according to the user's request. Input: Analysis results and database contents. Output: Generated response text. Specifically, the server uses the generative AI model to generate an appropriate response message.
[0433] Step 8:
[0434] Sending a Response
[0435] The server sends the generated response to the terminal. Input: Generated response text. Output: HTTP response to the terminal. Specifically, the server sends the response data using the HTTPS protocol.
[0436] Step 9:
[0437] Viewing the response
[0438] The terminal displays the received response data to the user. It is displayed in text format, so the user can check the response content. Input: Received response data. Output: Text displayed on the terminal display. Specifically, the terminal displays the text using a GUI.
[0439] Step 10:
[0440] emotion recognition
[0441] The device analyzes messages and questions entered by the user and recognizes emotions using an emotion engine. Input: User input such as "I've been feeling very lonely lately." Output: Recognized emotion (e.g., "sad"). Specific operations of the device include using emotion recognition software.
[0442] Step 11:
[0443] Sending emotional data
[0444] The device sends the results of the emotion engine to the server. Input: Recognized emotion data. Output: HTTP request to the server. Specifically, the device sends the emotion data via HTTPS.
[0445] Step 12:
[0446] Storing Emotional Data
[0447] The server stores the recognized emotion data in a database. Input: Emotion data sent to the server. Output: Emotion record stored in the database. Specifically, the server inserts data into the database using a DBMS.
[0448] Step 13:
[0449] Customizing the response
[0450] The server customizes the response based on the emotional data stored in the database. Input: Recognized emotional data and database contents. Output: Customized response. Specifically, the server uses the generative AI model again to generate an emotionally relevant response.
[0451] Step 14:
[0452] Sending and Viewing Customized Responses
[0453] The server sends the customized response to the terminal, which displays it to the user. Input: Customized response data. Output: Displayed response text on the terminal. As a specific operation, the server and the terminal perform the sending and display procedures described above again.
[0454] (Application example 2)
[0455] 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."
[0456] The present invention aims to provide more effective psychological support to users by recognizing their emotions and customizing responses based on those emotions in a system that virtually recreates the memories and opinions of the deceased. It also aims to provide a virtual shopping experience in which users can receive advice from the deceased and reminisce about their memories through virtual communication with the deceased.
[0457] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.
[0458] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting messages and events from the deceased, means for transmitting the input messages and events to the server, means for storing the received messages and events in a database, means for receiving a conversation request with the deceased, means for generating an appropriate response from the stored data, means for transmitting the generated response, means for recognizing the user's emotions, and means for customizing the response based on the recognized emotions. This allows the user to receive psychological support through a conversation with the deceased and obtain an appropriate response according to their emotions.
[0459] "Deceased" refers to a person who has died during their lifetime.
[0460] "Communication content" refers to information such as messages, advice, and anecdotes left by the deceased during their lifetime.
[0461] "Events" refer to specific experiences and memories related to the deceased.
[0462] "Server" refers to a computer system for storing and analyzing data.
[0463] "Database" refers to an information system for storing and managing received communications and events.
[0464] A "conversation request" refers to a request indicating a user's desire to virtually interact with a deceased person.
[0465] "Response" refers to a message or reply from a deceased person generated based on a user's request.
[0466] "Emotion" refers to the psychological state or feeling of a user.
[0467] "Means for recognizing emotions" refers to technologies and systems for analyzing and identifying a user's emotional state from their input.
[0468] "Means for customizing responses" refers to methods and techniques for generating more appropriate responses based on the recognized user sentiment.
[0469] A "prompt" is a piece of text that instructs a generative AI model on what response to generate.
[0470] A "generative AI model" refers to an artificial intelligence model that generates appropriate responses based on user input and emotions.
[0471] The present invention is a system that provides virtual communication with a deceased person and customizes responses based on the user's emotions. This system is equipped with a series of means for the user to input messages and stories about the deceased, and to store and utilize the data. In addition, by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions, it is possible to generate more appropriate responses.
[0472] To realize this system, the following main components are required:
[0473] 1. Input and transmission methods:
[0474] Users use devices such as smartphones or head-mounted displays (HMDs) to input messages, stories, photos, etc. about the deceased. This data is then sent from the device to the server.
[0475] 2. Data storage means:
[0476] The server stores received data such as messages, episodes, and photos in a database, which serves as the basis for generating responses to issued requests.
[0477] 3. Emotion recognition means:
[0478] The server analyzes the messages and questions entered by the user and uses the emotion engine to recognize the user's emotion. For example, if the user enters "I've been feeling very lonely lately," the emotion engine will recognize the user's emotion as "sad."
[0479] 4. Response Generation Method:
[0480] The server generates an appropriate response based on the recognized emotion, which is in tune with the user's emotions and allows for a virtual conversation with the deceased.
[0481] 5. Prompt generation:
[0482] The server generates a prompt to generate an appropriate response for the generative AI model. The following is an example of a prompt:
[0483] "News! Sentiment analysis needed: User typed 'I've been feeling very lonely lately'."
[0484] "News! User says 'I've been feeling really lonely lately'. Recognized emotion is 'sad'. Generate an appropriate response."
[0485] This allows users to receive psychological support through virtual conversations with the deceased. Sharing memories with the deceased also helps users find peace of mind. This system is built using a complex technology that includes a smartphone, a head-mounted display (HMD), a server, a database, an emotion engine, and a generative AI model.
[0486] For example, if a user inputs "a recipe that my grandmother taught me" and stores that information in a database, when the user later requests "Tell me my grandmother's recipes," the appropriate recipe information will be provided as a response. In this way, virtual communication between the user and the deceased is realized.
[0487] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
[0488] Step 1:
[0489] The user inputs a message or story about the deceased into the device. The input data includes text and images. This is the input data.
[0490] Step 2:
[0491] The device sends the entered messages, episodes, and images to the server, where the data is properly formatted and sent over the Internet.
[0492] Step 3:
[0493] The server stores the received data in a database, which stores messages, stories, and images of the deceased for each user in a structured manner.
[0494] Step 4:
[0495] The user sends a conversation request through the terminal. For example, the user types, "Tell me how you've been lately." This input data is sent to the server.
[0496] Step 5:
[0497] The server analyzes the received conversation request and determines the appropriate response by searching the database for related messages and stories about the deceased person and generating appropriate response data.
[0498] Step 6:
[0499] The server sends the generated response data to the generative AI model as a prompt sentence. An example of a prompt sentence is "News! The user entered 'Tell me how you've been lately.'"
[0500] Step 7:
[0501] The generative AI model generates a response based on the prompt sentence, and the generated response is text data expressed in natural language.
[0502] Step 8:
[0503] The server receives the response data returned by the generative AI model and sends it to the device. This response data is customized to make the conversation natural for the user.
[0504] Step 9:
[0505] The terminal displays the received response data to the user, allowing the user to have a virtual conversation with the deceased.
[0506] Step 10:
[0507] If the user enters an additional question or message, the process repeats from step 4 to step 9, allowing for a continuous dialogue.
[0508] 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.
[0509] 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.
[0510] 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.
[0511] [Second embodiment]
[0512] FIG. 3 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 210 according to the second embodiment.
[0513] 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.
[0514] 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).
[0515] 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.
[0516] 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.
[0517] 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).
[0518] 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.
[0519] 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.
[0520] 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.
[0521] 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.
[0522] 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.
[0523] 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."
[0524] The present invention relates to a system that allows a deceased person to input and store messages and stories about the deceased and communicate with them. Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[0525] Communicating with the deceased
[0526] Message storage
[0527] The user inputs messages and stories about the deceased through the device. For example, they input "a recipe that Grandma taught me." The device then sends this input data to the server. The server then stores the received data in a database, allowing the user to view these messages later.
[0528] Conversation feature
[0529] When a user sends a conversation request from their device, such as "How are you doing lately?", the device sends this request data to the server. The server analyzes the received request and generates an appropriate response from the stored data. The generated response might be something like "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." The server then sends this response data to the device, where the user can view the response.
[0530] Advice from the deceased
[0531] The user inputs a specific question from the terminal, such as "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The terminal sends this question data to the server. The server analyzes the received question and searches for related data on the deceased. Based on the results, specific advice is generated. The advice might be something like "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do." The server then sends this advice data to the terminal, where it can be viewed by the user.
[0532] Sharing memories of the deceased
[0533] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased from their device. For example, they upload "photos taken with Grandma." The device sends this data to the server, which stores the received photos and stories in a database. When the user sends a request to view memories, the server searches the database for the corresponding memories and sends the results to the device. The user can then view "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[0534] Reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[0535] The user inputs information about the deceased's belongings into the device. For example, they input "the camera that grandpa used." The device sends this data to the server, which stores it in a database. This allows the information to be managed digitally when sorting through the belongings, reducing the psychological burden.
[0536] The system of this invention stores memories, messages, and advice from the deceased in a database and allows users to view and use them at any time, allowing people to maintain a connection with the deceased and receive psychological support.
[0537] The processing flow will be explained below.
[0538] Communicating with the deceased
[0539] Message storage
[0540] Step 1:
[0541] The user inputs messages and stories about the deceased through the terminal.
[0542] Step 2:
[0543] The terminal transmits the input data to the server.
[0544] Step 3:
[0545] The server stores the received data in a database.
[0546] Conversation feature
[0547] Step 1:
[0548] The user sends a request to talk to the deceased person from the terminal to the server.
[0549] Step 2:
[0550] The terminal sends a conversation request to the server.
[0551] Step 3:
[0552] The server analyzes the received request.
[0553] Step 4:
[0554] The server retrieves the relevant data from the database.
[0555] Step 5:
[0556] The server uses natural language processing techniques to generate an appropriate response.
[0557] Step 6:
[0558] The server generates a response and sends it to the terminal.
[0559] Step 7:
[0560] The user confirms the response through the terminal.
[0561] Advice from the deceased
[0562] Step 1:
[0563] The user enters a specific problem or question into the terminal.
[0564] Step 2:
[0565] The terminal sends the entered question to the server.
[0566] Step 3:
[0567] The server parses the received query.
[0568] Step 4:
[0569] The server retrieves the relevant deceased person's data from the database.
[0570] Step 5:
[0571] The server generates advice based on the deceased person's data.
[0572] Step 6:
[0573] The server sends the generated advice to the terminal.
[0574] Step 7:
[0575] The user checks the advice through the terminal.
[0576] Sharing memories of the deceased
[0577] Upload your memories
[0578] Step 1:
[0579] Users upload photos and stories about the deceased from their devices.
[0580] Step 2:
[0581] The device sends the upload data to the server.
[0582] Step 3:
[0583] The server stores the received data in a database.
[0584] View and share your memories
[0585] Step 1:
[0586] The user sends a request to view memories from the terminal to the server.
[0587] Step 2:
[0588] The device sends a request to the server.
[0589] Step 3:
[0590] The server searches the database for the relevant memories.
[0591] Step 4:
[0592] The server sends the search results to the terminal.
[0593] Step 5:
[0594] The user browses the memories through the device.
[0595] Reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[0596] Digital Archive of Relics
[0597] Step 1:
[0598] The user inputs data about the deceased's belongings from the terminal.
[0599] Step 2:
[0600] The terminal transmits the entered personal effects data to the server.
[0601] Step 3:
[0602] The server stores the received data in a database.
[0603] This detailed description of each step aids in understanding the operation of the overall system.
[0604] Example 1
[0605] 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."
[0606] This system allows people to maintain a connection with the deceased and receive psychological support by storing memories, messages, and advice from the deceased in a database and making them available for users to view and use at any time. It provides appropriate responses and advice in real time, enabling conversations and sharing of memories with the deceased. Another challenge is to provide a method for managing personal belongings in a digital format, reducing the burden of sorting through the deceased's belongings.
[0607] 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.
[0608] In this invention, the server includes a means for users to input messages and stories about the deceased, a means for users to input requests to talk to the deceased, a means for users to input specific questions, and a means for uploading photos and stories about the deceased. This allows users to enjoy real-time conversations with the deceased and receive specific advice. It also allows users to share memories of the deceased and reduce the burden of sorting out their belongings.
[0609] A "user" is someone who interacts with the server by entering messages, stories, questions, etc. about the deceased.
[0610] A "terminal" is a device (e.g., a smartphone or PC) that a user uses to send input data to a server and receive responses and data from the server.
[0611] "Server" means a computer system used to receive data sent by a user and return analysis, generated responses, and advice.
[0612] A "message" is a sentence or word left behind by a deceased person.
[0613] An "episode" is a specific event or memory associated with the deceased.
[0614] A "database" is a collection of data stored and managed by a server, allowing for efficient searching and retrieval of required data.
[0615] A "conversation request" is a request for dialogue made by a user to a deceased person.
[0616] A "generative AI model" is an artificial intelligence model that generates appropriate responses and advice based on received data and requests.
[0617] A "question" is something a user enters to seek advice from the deceased about a particular problem or question.
[0618] "Advice" refers to advice or suggestions provided to the user by the deceased.
[0619] A "photograph" is image data that depicts the deceased or a scene related to the deceased.
[0620] "Upload" refers to the act of a user sending data from a terminal to a server.
[0621] This invention is a system that allows users to input and save messages and stories about the deceased and communicate with them through that information. Specific embodiments for implementing this system are described below.
[0622] Message storage
[0623] The user uses the device's input form to input messages and stories about the deceased. For example, they can input "a recipe that Grandma taught me." The device then sends this input data to the server, which then stores the received data in a database. This allows the user to view these messages later. Specifically, the input data is stored in a MySQL database.
[0624] Conversation feature
[0625] When a user sends a conversation request such as "How are you doing lately?" from their device, the device sends this request data to a server. The server analyzes the received request and generates an appropriate response from stored data. Using a generative AI model (such as GPT-3), a response such as "I'm fine. I went for a walk today" is generated based on past episodes and messages. The server then sends this response data to the device, where the user can view the response.
[0626] Advice from the deceased
[0627] The user inputs a specific question into the device, such as "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The device then sends this question data to the server. The server analyzes the received question and searches for relevant data on the deceased. Based on the results, specific advice is generated. Using a generative AI model, advice such as "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do" is generated. The server then sends this advice data to the device, where it can be viewed by the user.
[0628] Sharing memories of the deceased
[0629] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased from their device. For example, they upload "photos taken with Grandma." The device sends this data to the server, which then stores the received photos and stories in a database. Image files are stored in cloud storage such as Amazon S3, and metadata is stored in the database. When the user sends a request to view memories, the server searches the database for the corresponding memories and sends the results to the device. The user can then view "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[0630] Reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[0631] The user inputs information about the deceased's belongings into the device. For example, they input "the camera that grandpa used." The device sends this data to the server, which stores it in a database. This allows the information to be managed digitally when sorting through the belongings, reducing the psychological burden.
[0632] Specific examples
[0633] Message save prompt
[0634] "Enter message: Recipe taught to me by my grandma"
[0635] Conversation request prompts
[0636] "Conversation request: What's been going on lately?"
[0637] Advice Request Prompt
[0638] "I need some advice: I'm having trouble with my work..."
[0639] Memories upload prompt
[0640] "Memories Upload: Photos taken with Grandma"
[0641] Prompt for entering personal belongings information
[0642] "Enter information about the belongings: The camera my grandfather used"
[0643] The system stores messages, anecdotes, and advice from the deceased in a database, allowing users to communicate with them. It also uses specific prompts to make input easier for users.
[0644] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[0645] Message retention processing steps
[0646] Step 1:
[0647] The user inputs a message or story about the deceased into the input form on the device. For example, they can input "a recipe my grandmother taught me." This input becomes input data.
[0648] Step 2:
[0649] The terminal receives the data entered by the user, converts it into JSON format data, and sends the converted data to the server.
[0650] Step 3:
[0651] The server receives the JSON data sent from the device, analyzes it, and extracts messages and episodes from the deceased. These extracted information becomes entries in the database.
[0652] Step 4:
[0653] The server stores the parsed data in a database, allowing the user to view the message at a later time.
[0654] Conversation function processing steps
[0655] Step 1:
[0656] The user inputs a conversation request such as "How are you doing lately?" into the conversation input form on the device. This input becomes the request data.
[0657] Step 2:
[0658] The terminal receives the request data entered by the user, converts it into JSON format, and sends it to the server.
[0659] Step 3:
[0660] The server receives the request data sent from the device, analyzes the received data, and interprets the intent. Based on the analysis, the generative AI model generates an appropriate response.
[0661] Step 4:
[0662] The server then transmits the generated response data to the terminal, allowing the user to enjoy a conversation with the deceased based on this response data.
[0663] Step 5:
[0664] The user sees the response displayed on the terminal, for example, "I'm fine. I went for a walk today."
[0665] Steps for processing advice from the deceased
[0666] Step 1:
[0667] The user enters "I'm having trouble with something at work..." into the question input form on the terminal. This input becomes the question data.
[0668] Step 2:
[0669] The terminal receives the question data entered by the user, converts it into JSON format, and sends it to the server.
[0670] Step 3:
[0671] The server receives the question data sent from the terminal, analyzes the question data, and searches for appropriate messages and episodes from the deceased.
[0672] Step 4:
[0673] The server uses a generative AI model to generate advice based on the search results, such as "When in doubt, first think about what you really want to do."
[0674] Step 5:
[0675] The server transmits the generated advice data to the terminal, and the user can receive appropriate advice based on this advice data.
[0676] Process steps for sharing memories of the deceased
[0677] Step 1:
[0678] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased through the terminal. For example, they upload a photo of them with their grandmother. This input becomes the uploaded data.
[0679] Step 2:
[0680] The terminal receives the uploaded data, converts it into JSON format, and sends it to the server.
[0681] Step 3:
[0682] The server receives the uploaded data sent from the device, analyzes the received data, and stores the photos and episodes in a database, allowing users to view these memories later.
[0683] Step 4:
[0684] The user sends a request to view memories from their device, and this request becomes the search data.
[0685] Step 5:
[0686] The server receives the request and searches the database for the corresponding memories, using a search algorithm to extract the relevant data.
[0687] Step 6:
[0688] The server sends the search results to the terminal, and the user can view "Photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[0689] Processing steps to reduce the burden of sorting out belongings
[0690] Step 1:
[0691] The user inputs information about the deceased person's belongings into the terminal. For example, they input "the camera that grandpa used." This input becomes the belongings data.
[0692] Step 2:
[0693] The terminal receives the personal belongings data entered by the user, converts it into JSON format, and sends it to the server.
[0694] Step 3:
[0695] The server receives the personal effects data sent from the device, analyzes the received data, and stores the personal effects information in a database. This storage allows the personal effects information to be managed digitally when sorting the personal effects.
[0696] Step 4:
[0697] The user can view the saved personal effects information later.
[0698] (Application example 1)
[0699] 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."
[0700] There is a need for a system that can digitize memories and messages of the deceased and store and use them for the future. There is also a need for a means that allows users to experience the deceased's messages and stories as if they were having a natural conversation. Conventional systems have limited the ability to communicate and share memories with the deceased, and have not been able to provide a sufficient sense of psychological security.
[0701] 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.
[0702] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting information about the deceased, means for transmitting the input information to a communication device, means for storing the received information in a storage device, means for receiving a request to interact with the deceased, means for generating an appropriate response from the stored information, means for transmitting the generated response, and means for streaming information about the deceased to a user via a smart device, thereby enabling the user to experience memories with the deceased more realistically.
[0703] "Information about the deceased" refers to messages, anecdotes, image data, advice, etc. related to the deceased.
[0704] "Communication device" refers to a device or system for transmitting input information to a server.
[0705] "Storage device" refers to hardware or software for storing received information in a database or the like.
[0706] A "dialogue request" refers to a request sent by a user to a server wishing to converse with a deceased person.
[0707] An "appropriate response" refers to a response to a user's interactive request that is generated based on stored information about the deceased.
[0708] "Smart devices" refers to devices such as smartphones, smart glasses, and head-mounted displays that allow users to view and receive information about the deceased.
[0709] "Streaming" refers to the means of delivering information about a deceased person to a user's smart device in real time.
[0710] "Image data" refers to visual information, such as photographs or videos, related to the deceased.
[0711] An "episode" refers to a specific event, such as a memory or anecdote, related to the deceased.
[0712] The present invention is a system that allows users to input and store information about the deceased in digital form, and allows users to enjoy conversations with the deceased and memories via streaming. This system is realized mainly using a server, a communication device, a storage device, and a smart device.
[0713] First, the user inputs information about the deceased (messages, anecdotes, image data, advice, etc.). For example, the user inputs "a recipe that grandma taught me." The user then uses a smartphone or computer to send this information to a communication device, which then transmits it to a server.
[0714] The server stores the received information in a storage device (e.g., an SQL database), which can then be used by the user to interact with or view the deceased person.
[0715] To have a conversation with a deceased person, the user sends a conversation request to the server from a smart device (such as a smartphone, smart glasses, or head-mounted display). Specifically, when the user enters the question "How are you doing lately?", the request is sent to the server.
[0716] The server analyzes the dialogue request and generates an appropriate response based on the information about the deceased person stored in the storage device. This response is generated using a generative AI model, such as OpenAI's GPT-3. Based on the analyzed prompt, the generative AI model generates a response such as "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." This generated response is then sent from the server to the smart device, allowing the user to receive the response in real time.
[0717] Furthermore, if a user has a specific question, they can input it, for example, "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The server analyzes this question, searches for relevant data on the deceased, and generates advice based on the analysis results. This advice is also generated using a generative AI model. The generated advice, such as "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do," is sent from the server to the smart device.
[0718] Furthermore, users can upload image data and stories related to the deceased. For example, they can upload "photos taken with Grandma." These data are also sent to the server via the communication device and stored in the storage device. When the user sends a request to view these memories, the server searches for the relevant data from the storage device and sends it to the smart device.
[0719] For example, if a user inputs "How are you doing lately?", the server will generate a response of "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." Using this prompt example, the user can enjoy a conversational experience.
[0720] Therefore, this invention allows the user to experience memories of the deceased in a more realistic way, and provides psychological support.
[0721] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
[0722] Step 1:
[0723] The user inputs information about the deceased (messages, anecdotes, image data, advice) from the terminal. The terminal receives the input information and transmits it to the communication device. The input data may include, for example, "recipes that grandma taught me." The communication device then transfers this data to the server.
[0724] Step 2:
[0725] The server stores the information received from the communication device in a storage device. The storage device may be an SQL database or similar, and the received data is stored appropriately. The stored data can then be searched and used later according to the user's request.
[0726] Step 3:
[0727] A user sends a dialogue request to the server from a smart device (smartphone, smart glasses, head-mounted display, etc.). For example, the user inputs a question such as "How are you doing lately?" and sends the request to the server. The input data at this time is the content of the user's question.
[0728] Step 4:
[0729] The server analyzes the dialogue request received from the user and generates an appropriate response from the information about the deceased person stored in the memory device. This analysis and response generation uses a generative AI model such as OpenAI's GPT-3. For example, based on the prompt "How are you doing lately?", it generates a response such as "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." For analysis and generation, the received data is passed to the generative AI as a prompt, and the generated text is received as a response.
[0730] Step 5:
[0731] The server sends the generated response to the smart device, which then displays the received response to the user. This allows the user to enjoy a natural conversation experience with the deceased. The response generated by the generative AI model becomes the output data.
[0732] Step 6:
[0733] A user inputs a specific question into a terminal and sends it to the server, such as "I'm having trouble with something at work..." The terminal sends the question to a communication device, which then forwards it to the server.
[0734] Step 7:
[0735] The server analyzes the specific question and searches for relevant information about the deceased stored in a storage device. Based on the searched data, it uses a generative AI model to generate specific advice. For example, advice such as "When in doubt, first think about what you really want to do" is generated. Based on the search results, the server passes a prompt to the generative AI and receives the generated advice as a response.
[0736] Step 8:
[0737] The server sends the generated advice to the smart device, where the user can confirm the advice. The generated advice becomes output data.
[0738] Step 9:
[0739] The user uploads image data and stories from the terminal and sends them to the server. The uploaded data may include, for example, "photos taken with grandma." The communication device then sends the received data to the server.
[0740] Step 10:
[0741] The server stores the received image data and episodes in a storage device, which can then be searched and distributed at a later time in response to a user request.
[0742] Step 11:
[0743] The user sends a request to view memories from their smart device. The server searches the database for the relevant memories and sends the search results to the smart device. This allows the user to view "Photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival." The searched data is output.
[0744] 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.
[0745] The present invention is a system that allows users to input and save messages and stories from the deceased and enables virtual communication with the deceased, and combines it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and customizes responses based on those emotions. Below, we will explain the embodiments of the present invention.
[0746] Examples of communication with the deceased
[0747] Message storage
[0748] The user inputs messages and stories about the deceased through the device. For example, they input "a recipe that Grandma taught me." The device then sends this input data to the server. The server then stores the received data in a database, allowing the user to view these messages later.
[0749] Conversation feature
[0750] When a user sends a conversation request from their device, such as "How are you doing lately?", the device sends this request data to the server. The server analyzes the received request and generates an appropriate response from the stored data. The generated response might be something like "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." The server then sends this response data to the device, where the user can view the response.
[0751] Examples of advice from the deceased
[0752] The user inputs a specific question from the terminal, such as "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The terminal sends this question data to the server. The server analyzes the received question and searches for related data on the deceased. Based on the results, specific advice is generated. The advice might be something like "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do." The server then sends this advice data to the terminal, where it can be viewed by the user.
[0753] Examples of sharing memories of the deceased
[0754] Upload your memories
[0755] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased from their device. For example, they upload "photos taken with Grandma." The device sends this data to the server, which stores the received photos and stories in a database. When the user sends a request to view memories, the server searches the database for the corresponding memories and sends the results to the device. The user can then view "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[0756] Examples of reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[0757] The user inputs information about the deceased's belongings into the device. For example, they input "the camera that grandpa used." The device sends this data to the server, which stores it in a database. This allows the information to be managed digitally when sorting through the belongings, reducing the psychological burden.
[0758] Example of an Emotion Engine
[0759] emotion recognition
[0760] The device uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotions in response to messages or questions entered by the user. For example, if the user enters "I've been feeling very lonely lately," the emotion engine will recognize that the user is feeling "sad."
[0761] Response Customization
[0762] The server receives the emotion data from the emotion engine and customizes the response based on the recognized emotion. For example, if the recognized emotion is "sad," the response might be something like, "That's so hard, I felt the same way."
[0763] Storing Emotional Data
[0764] The server stores the recognized emotion data in a database, allowing it to refer to the user's emotion history in the future and provide more appropriate responses.
[0765] As a result, this system can recognize the user's emotions and provide appropriate content and advice, deepening the connection with the deceased and providing psychological support.
[0766] The processing flow will be explained below.
[0767] Communicating with the deceased
[0768] Message storage
[0769] Step 1:
[0770] The user can input a message or story about the deceased through the device, for example, "A recipe that grandma taught me."
[0771] Step 2:
[0772] The terminal transmits the input data to the server.
[0773] Step 3:
[0774] The server stores the received data in a database.
[0775] Conversation feature
[0776] Step 1:
[0777] The user sends a conversation request to the deceased from their device, for example, "How are you doing lately?"
[0778] Step 2:
[0779] The terminal sends a conversation request to the server.
[0780] Step 3:
[0781] The server analyzes the received request.
[0782] Step 4:
[0783] The server retrieves the relevant data from the database.
[0784] Step 5:
[0785] The server uses natural language processing techniques to generate an appropriate response, such as "I'm fine. I went for a walk today."
[0786] Step 6:
[0787] The server generates a response and sends it to the terminal.
[0788] Step 7:
[0789] The user confirms the response through the terminal.
[0790] Advice from the deceased
[0791] Step 1:
[0792] The user inputs a specific problem or question into the terminal, for example, "I'm having trouble with something at work..."
[0793] Step 2:
[0794] The terminal sends the entered question to the server.
[0795] Step 3:
[0796] The server parses the received query.
[0797] Step 4:
[0798] The server retrieves the relevant deceased person's data from the database.
[0799] Step 5:
[0800] The server generates appropriate advice based on the deceased's data, such as "When in doubt, first think about what you really want to do."
[0801] Step 6:
[0802] The server sends the generated advice to the terminal.
[0803] Step 7:
[0804] The user checks the advice through the terminal.
[0805] Sharing memories of the deceased
[0806] Upload your memories
[0807] Step 1:
[0808] Users upload photos and stories about the deceased from their devices. For example, they can upload a photo of themselves with their grandmother.
[0809] Step 2:
[0810] The device sends the upload data to the server.
[0811] Step 3:
[0812] The server stores the received data in a database.
[0813] View and share your memories
[0814] Step 1:
[0815] The user sends a request to view memories from their device to the server. For example, they may request, "I want to see memories with my grandma."
[0816] Step 2:
[0817] The device sends a request to the server.
[0818] Step 3:
[0819] The server searches the database for the relevant memories.
[0820] Step 4:
[0821] The server sends the search results to the terminal.
[0822] Step 5:
[0823] The user browses through their device memories, for example, browsing "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[0824] Reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[0825] Digital Archive of Relics
[0826] Step 1:
[0827] The user inputs data about the deceased's belongings into the terminal. For example, the user inputs "the camera that grandpa used."
[0828] Step 2:
[0829] The terminal transmits the entered personal effects data to the server.
[0830] Step 3:
[0831] The server stores the received data in a database.
[0832] Example of an Emotion Engine
[0833] emotion recognition
[0834] Step 1:
[0835] A user-input message or question is entered into the terminal. For example, the user might type, "I've been feeling very lonely lately."
[0836] Step 2:
[0837] The terminal sends the entered message or question to the server.
[0838] Step 3:
[0839] The server receives the input data and analyzes the user's emotions using an emotion engine, which recognizes the "sad" emotion from the message content.
[0840] Response Customization
[0841] Step 1:
[0842] The server generates a response based on the results of the emotion engine. For example, if the recognized emotion is "sad," the server generates a response such as "That's terrible, I felt the same way."
[0843] Step 2:
[0844] The server sends the generated response to the terminal.
[0845] Step 3:
[0846] The user confirms the customized response through the terminal.
[0847] Storing Emotional Data
[0848] Step 1:
[0849] The server stores the recognized emotion data in a database, allowing future reference of the user's emotion history.
[0850] Through these steps, the system recognizes the user's emotions and provides responses based on those emotions, thereby deepening the connection with the deceased and strengthening emotional support.
[0851] Example 2
[0852] 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."
[0853] In a system that virtually enables communication with the deceased and provides psychological support by allowing users to converse with and receive advice from the deceased, it is necessary to recognize the user's emotions and provide appropriate responses accordingly. However, existing systems lack the ability to understand the user's emotions and customize responses based on those emotions, which leads to a problem of users not being able to achieve sufficient satisfaction.
[0854] The identification process by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for inputting messages and episodes from the deceased, means for transmitting the input messages and episodes to the server, means for storing the received messages and episodes in a database, means for receiving a conversation request with the deceased, means for generating an appropriate response from the stored data, means for transmitting the generated response, means for analyzing the message or question input by the user and recognizing emotions, means for customizing a response based on the recognized emotions, and means for storing the recognized emotion data in a database. This makes it possible to understand the user's emotions and provide an appropriate and satisfying response based on them.
[0855] "Deceased" refers to individuals covered by this system who have passed away.
[0856] "Messages and episodes" refers to textual information and stories related to the deceased.
[0857] "User" refers to a person who uses this system to virtually communicate with a deceased person.
[0858] "Terminal" refers to an electronic device that allows a user to access the system and input, view, and send messages and episodes.
[0859] "Server" means a computer system capable of receiving, storing, and analyzing input data, and generating and transmitting an appropriate response.
[0860] "Database" refers to an information storage system managed by a server for storing messages, episodes, and emotional data.
[0861] "Conversation Request" refers to a request that a user enters and submits to initiate a virtual conversation with a deceased person.
[0862] A "response" is a message generated by the server based on a conversation request or input data, and refers to the content sent in reply to the user.
[0863] "Analysis" refers to the process of understanding the text data entered by the user and extracting their intent and emotions.
[0864] "Emotion recognition" refers to the technology of identifying emotions from user input data.
[0865] "Response customization" refers to the process of tailoring the content of the responses generated by the system based on perceived emotions.
[0866] "Emotion data" refers to emotional information analyzed from user input and stored in a database.
[0867] An "appropriate response" refers to a reply that is useful and emotionally relevant to the user, generated in consideration of the stored message, episode, and the user's emotions.
[0868] "Advice" refers to answers to users' questions or problems that are generated based on past messages and stories from the deceased.
[0869] "Uploading" refers to the act of a user sending data such as photos and stories about the deceased to a server.
[0870] The present invention provides a system that enables virtual communication with a deceased person, and includes a function that recognizes the user's emotions and customizes responses according to those emotions. This system is realized using a server, a terminal, and a database.
[0871] System Configuration
[0872] The system consists of the following main components:
[0873] Server: A computer system that receives, analyzes, stores, and generates a response to data.
[0874] Device: The electronic device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, PC) through which a user accesses the system and inputs and receives data.
[0875] Database: An information storage system that stores messages and stories from the deceased, as well as user emotional data.
[0876] Hardware and Software
[0877] Hardware: A server is a computer with a powerful processor and large storage capacity that efficiently processes requests from multiple users. A terminal is a typical user device.
[0878] Software: The server analyzes text data using natural language processing (NLP) technology. Specifically, it uses a generative AI model (e.g., GPT-3) to understand natural language and generate appropriate responses. The emotion engine is a module for recognizing emotions from user input.
[0879] Message storage examples
[0880] The user inputs messages and stories about the deceased through the device. For example, they input "a recipe that grandma taught me." The device then sends this data to the server, which stores the received data in a database. This allows the user to view these messages later.
[0881] Conversation feature examples
[0882] The user sends a conversation request from the device, asking "How are you doing lately?" The device sends this request data to the server. The server analyzes the received request and generates an appropriate response from the stored data. The generated response might be something like "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." The server then sends this response data to the device, where the user can view the response.
[0883] Examples of advice from the deceased
[0884] The user inputs a question from the device, such as "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The device then sends this question data to the server. The server analyzes the received question and searches for relevant data on the deceased. Based on the results, it generates specific advice. For example, it could say, "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do." The server then sends this advice data to the device, where it can be viewed by the user.
[0885] Examples of sharing memories of the deceased
[0886] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased from their device. For example, they upload "photos taken with Grandma." The device sends this data to the server, which stores the received photos and stories in a database. When the user sends a request to view memories, the server searches the database for the corresponding memories and sends the results to the device. The user can then view "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[0887] Examples of emotion engines
[0888] The device uses an emotion engine to analyze the emotions expressed in messages and questions entered by the user. For example, if a user enters "I've been feeling very lonely lately," the engine recognizes this as "sad." The server receives the emotion data from the emotion engine and customizes a response based on that emotion. For example, if the user's emotion is "sad," the response might be something like "That's tough, I used to feel the same way." The recognized emotion data is also stored in a database, allowing the user's emotion history to be referenced in the future.
[0889] Prompt Sentence Examples
[0890] Do you want to save "Grandma's Recipes"?
[0891] Start a conversation: "How are you doing these days?"
[0892] Seeking advice from the deceased: "I'm having trouble with my work..."
[0893] This allows the system to recognize the user's emotions and provide appropriate content and advice, deepening the connection with the deceased and providing psychological support.
[0894] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[0895] Step 1:
[0896] Enter your message
[0897] The user inputs a message or story about the deceased through the device's interface. For example, they input "a recipe that Grandma taught me." The input data (in text format) is sent to the device. Input: Text data from the user. Output: Formatted input data. In concrete terms, the device uses an input form and voice recognition software.
[0898] Step 2:
[0899] Sending data
[0900] The terminal converts the input data into an appropriate format (for example, JSON format) and sends it to the server using an HTTP request. Input: Formatted input data. Output: Request to the server. Specifically, the terminal uses SSL / TLS encrypted communication to send data safely.
[0901] Step 3:
[0902] Data storage
[0903] The server validates the received data (for example, escaping special characters and checking the data format) and then stores it in the database. Input: Data sent to the server. Output: Records stored in the database. Specifically, the server inserts the data using a database management system (DBMS).
[0904] Step 4:
[0905] Entering a conversation request
[0906] The user enters a conversation request such as "What's up lately?" into the terminal and clicks the send button. Input: User's conversation request (text format). Output: Formatted request data from the terminal. Specifically, the terminal captures the user's input and generates request data.
[0907] Step 5:
[0908] Submitting a Request
[0909] The terminal sends the request data to the server. Input: Formatted request data. Output: Request to the server. As a specific operation, the terminal again sends the data using the HTTPS protocol.
[0910] Step 6:
[0911] Parsing the request
[0912] The server analyzes the received request data. It uses NLP techniques to understand the intent of the request and extract information to generate an appropriate message. Input: Request data sent to the server. Output: Analysis results. Specifically, the server processes the request data using a generative AI model.
[0913] Step 7:
[0914] Generating a response
[0915] The server searches for appropriate messages and episodes from a stored database and generates a response according to the user's request. Input: Analysis results and database contents. Output: Generated response text. Specifically, the server uses the generative AI model to generate an appropriate response message.
[0916] Step 8:
[0917] Sending a Response
[0918] The server sends the generated response to the terminal. Input: Generated response text. Output: HTTP response to the terminal. Specifically, the server sends the response data using the HTTPS protocol.
[0919] Step 9:
[0920] Viewing the response
[0921] The terminal displays the received response data to the user. It is displayed in text format, so the user can check the response content. Input: Received response data. Output: Text displayed on the terminal display. Specifically, the terminal displays the text using a GUI.
[0922] Step 10:
[0923] emotion recognition
[0924] The device analyzes messages and questions entered by the user and recognizes emotions using an emotion engine. Input: User input such as "I've been feeling very lonely lately." Output: Recognized emotion (e.g., "sad"). Specific operations of the device include using emotion recognition software.
[0925] Step 11:
[0926] Sending emotional data
[0927] The device sends the results of the emotion engine to the server. Input: Recognized emotion data. Output: HTTP request to the server. Specifically, the device sends the emotion data via HTTPS.
[0928] Step 12:
[0929] Storing Emotional Data
[0930] The server stores the recognized emotion data in a database. Input: Emotion data sent to the server. Output: Emotion record stored in the database. Specifically, the server inserts data into the database using a DBMS.
[0931] Step 13:
[0932] Customizing the response
[0933] The server customizes the response based on the emotional data stored in the database. Input: Recognized emotional data and database contents. Output: Customized response. Specifically, the server uses the generative AI model again to generate an emotionally relevant response.
[0934] Step 14:
[0935] Sending and Viewing Customized Responses
[0936] The server sends the customized response to the terminal, which displays it to the user. Input: Customized response data. Output: Displayed response text on the terminal. As a specific operation, the server and the terminal perform the sending and display procedures described above again.
[0937] (Application example 2)
[0938] 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."
[0939] The present invention aims to provide more effective psychological support to users by recognizing their emotions and customizing responses based on those emotions in a system that virtually recreates the memories and opinions of the deceased. It also aims to provide a virtual shopping experience in which users can receive advice from the deceased and reminisce about their memories through virtual communication with the deceased.
[0940] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.
[0941] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting messages and events from the deceased, means for transmitting the input messages and events to the server, means for storing the received messages and events in a database, means for receiving a conversation request with the deceased, means for generating an appropriate response from the stored data, means for transmitting the generated response, means for recognizing the user's emotions, and means for customizing the response based on the recognized emotions. This allows the user to receive psychological support through a conversation with the deceased and obtain an appropriate response according to their emotions.
[0942] "Deceased" refers to a person who has died during their lifetime.
[0943] "Communication content" refers to information such as messages, advice, and anecdotes left by the deceased during their lifetime.
[0944] "Events" refer to specific experiences and memories related to the deceased.
[0945] "Server" refers to a computer system for storing and analyzing data.
[0946] "Database" refers to an information system for storing and managing received communications and events.
[0947] A "conversation request" refers to a request indicating a user's desire to virtually interact with a deceased person.
[0948] "Response" refers to a message or reply from a deceased person generated based on a user's request.
[0949] "Emotion" refers to the psychological state or feeling of a user.
[0950] "Means for recognizing emotions" refers to technologies and systems for analyzing and identifying a user's emotional state from their input.
[0951] "Means for customizing responses" refers to methods and techniques for generating more appropriate responses based on the recognized user sentiment.
[0952] A "prompt" is a piece of text that instructs a generative AI model on what response to generate.
[0953] A "generative AI model" refers to an artificial intelligence model that generates appropriate responses based on user input and emotions.
[0954] The present invention is a system that provides virtual communication with a deceased person and customizes responses based on the user's emotions. This system is equipped with a series of means for the user to input messages and stories about the deceased, and to store and utilize the data. In addition, by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions, it is possible to generate more appropriate responses.
[0955] To realize this system, the following main components are required:
[0956] 1. Input and transmission methods:
[0957] Users use devices such as smartphones or head-mounted displays (HMDs) to input messages, stories, photos, etc. about the deceased. This data is then sent from the device to the server.
[0958] 2. Data storage means:
[0959] The server stores received data such as messages, episodes, and photos in a database, which serves as the basis for generating responses to issued requests.
[0960] 3. Emotion recognition means:
[0961] The server analyzes the messages and questions entered by the user and uses the emotion engine to recognize the user's emotion. For example, if the user enters "I've been feeling very lonely lately," the emotion engine will recognize the user's emotion as "sad."
[0962] 4. Response Generation Method:
[0963] The server generates an appropriate response based on the recognized emotion, which is in tune with the user's emotions and allows for a virtual conversation with the deceased.
[0964] 5. Prompt generation:
[0965] The server generates a prompt to generate an appropriate response for the generative AI model. The following is an example of a prompt:
[0966] "News! Sentiment analysis needed: User typed 'I've been feeling very lonely lately'."
[0967] "News! User says 'I've been feeling really lonely lately'. Recognized emotion is 'sad'. Generate an appropriate response."
[0968] This allows users to receive psychological support through virtual conversations with the deceased. Sharing memories with the deceased also helps users find peace of mind. This system is built using a complex technology that includes a smartphone, a head-mounted display (HMD), a server, a database, an emotion engine, and a generative AI model.
[0969] For example, if a user inputs "a recipe that my grandmother taught me" and stores that information in a database, when the user later requests "Tell me my grandmother's recipes," the appropriate recipe information will be provided as a response. In this way, virtual communication between the user and the deceased is realized.
[0970] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
[0971] Step 1:
[0972] The user inputs a message or story about the deceased into the device. The input data includes text and images. This is the input data.
[0973] Step 2:
[0974] The device sends the entered messages, episodes, and images to the server, where the data is properly formatted and sent over the Internet.
[0975] Step 3:
[0976] The server stores the received data in a database, which stores messages, stories, and images of the deceased for each user in a structured manner.
[0977] Step 4:
[0978] The user sends a conversation request through the terminal. For example, the user types, "Tell me how you've been lately." This input data is sent to the server.
[0979] Step 5:
[0980] The server analyzes the received conversation request and determines the appropriate response by searching the database for related messages and stories about the deceased person and generating appropriate response data.
[0981] Step 6:
[0982] The server sends the generated response data to the generative AI model as a prompt sentence. An example of a prompt sentence is "News! The user entered 'Tell me how you've been lately.'"
[0983] Step 7:
[0984] The generative AI model generates a response based on the prompt sentence, and the generated response is text data expressed in natural language.
[0985] Step 8:
[0986] The server receives the response data returned by the generative AI model and sends it to the device. This response data is customized to make the conversation natural for the user.
[0987] Step 9:
[0988] The terminal displays the received response data to the user, allowing the user to have a virtual conversation with the deceased.
[0989] Step 10:
[0990] If the user enters an additional question or message, the process repeats from step 4 to step 9, allowing for a continuous dialogue.
[0991] 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.
[0992] 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.
[0993] 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.
[0994] [Third embodiment]
[0995] FIG. 5 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 310 according to the third embodiment.
[0996] 5, the data processing system 310 includes the data processing device 12 and a headset terminal 314. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.
[0997] 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).
[0998] 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.
[0999] 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.
[1000] 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).
[1001] 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.
[1002] 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.
[1003] 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.
[1004] 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.
[1005] 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.
[1006] 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."
[1007] The present invention relates to a system that allows a deceased person to input and store messages and stories about the deceased and communicate with them. Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[1008] Communicating with the deceased
[1009] Message storage
[1010] The user inputs messages and stories about the deceased through the device. For example, they input "a recipe that Grandma taught me." The device then sends this input data to the server. The server then stores the received data in a database, allowing the user to view these messages later.
[1011] Conversation feature
[1012] When a user sends a conversation request from their device, such as "How are you doing lately?", the device sends this request data to the server. The server analyzes the received request and generates an appropriate response from the stored data. The generated response might be something like "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." The server then sends this response data to the device, where the user can view the response.
[1013] Advice from the deceased
[1014] The user inputs a specific question from the terminal, such as "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The terminal sends this question data to the server. The server analyzes the received question and searches for related data on the deceased. Based on the results, specific advice is generated. The advice might be something like "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do." The server then sends this advice data to the terminal, where it can be viewed by the user.
[1015] Sharing memories of the deceased
[1016] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased from their device. For example, they upload "photos taken with Grandma." The device sends this data to the server, which stores the received photos and stories in a database. When the user sends a request to view memories, the server searches the database for the corresponding memories and sends the results to the device. The user can then view "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[1017] Reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[1018] The user inputs information about the deceased's belongings into the device. For example, they input "the camera that grandpa used." The device sends this data to the server, which stores it in a database. This allows the information to be managed digitally when sorting through the belongings, reducing the psychological burden.
[1019] The system of this invention stores memories, messages, and advice from the deceased in a database and allows users to view and use them at any time, allowing people to maintain a connection with the deceased and receive psychological support.
[1020] The processing flow will be explained below.
[1021] Communicating with the deceased
[1022] Message storage
[1023] Step 1:
[1024] The user inputs messages and stories about the deceased through the terminal.
[1025] Step 2:
[1026] The terminal transmits the input data to the server.
[1027] Step 3:
[1028] The server stores the received data in a database.
[1029] Conversation feature
[1030] Step 1:
[1031] The user sends a request to talk to the deceased person from the terminal to the server.
[1032] Step 2:
[1033] The terminal sends a conversation request to the server.
[1034] Step 3:
[1035] The server analyzes the received request.
[1036] Step 4:
[1037] The server retrieves the relevant data from the database.
[1038] Step 5:
[1039] The server uses natural language processing techniques to generate an appropriate response.
[1040] Step 6:
[1041] The server generates a response and sends it to the terminal.
[1042] Step 7:
[1043] The user confirms the response through the terminal.
[1044] Advice from the deceased
[1045] Step 1:
[1046] The user enters a specific problem or question into the terminal.
[1047] Step 2:
[1048] The terminal sends the entered question to the server.
[1049] Step 3:
[1050] The server parses the received query.
[1051] Step 4:
[1052] The server retrieves the relevant deceased person's data from the database.
[1053] Step 5:
[1054] The server generates advice based on the deceased person's data.
[1055] Step 6:
[1056] The server sends the generated advice to the terminal.
[1057] Step 7:
[1058] The user checks the advice through the terminal.
[1059] Sharing memories of the deceased
[1060] Upload your memories
[1061] Step 1:
[1062] Users upload photos and stories about the deceased from their devices.
[1063] Step 2:
[1064] The device sends the upload data to the server.
[1065] Step 3:
[1066] The server stores the received data in a database.
[1067] View and share your memories
[1068] Step 1:
[1069] The user sends a request to view memories from the terminal to the server.
[1070] Step 2:
[1071] The device sends a request to the server.
[1072] Step 3:
[1073] The server searches the database for the relevant memories.
[1074] Step 4:
[1075] The server sends the search results to the terminal.
[1076] Step 5:
[1077] The user browses the memories through the device.
[1078] Reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[1079] Digital Archive of Relics
[1080] Step 1:
[1081] The user inputs data about the deceased's belongings from the terminal.
[1082] Step 2:
[1083] The terminal transmits the entered personal effects data to the server.
[1084] Step 3:
[1085] The server stores the received data in a database.
[1086] This detailed description of each step aids in understanding the operation of the overall system.
[1087] Example 1
[1088] 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."
[1089] This system allows people to maintain a connection with the deceased and receive psychological support by storing memories, messages, and advice from the deceased in a database and making them available for users to view and use at any time. It provides appropriate responses and advice in real time, enabling conversations and sharing of memories with the deceased. Another challenge is to provide a method for managing personal belongings in a digital format, reducing the burden of sorting through the deceased's belongings.
[1090] 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.
[1091] In this invention, the server includes a means for users to input messages and stories about the deceased, a means for users to input requests to talk to the deceased, a means for users to input specific questions, and a means for uploading photos and stories about the deceased. This allows users to enjoy real-time conversations with the deceased and receive specific advice. It also allows users to share memories of the deceased and reduce the burden of sorting out their belongings.
[1092] A "user" is someone who interacts with the server by entering messages, stories, questions, etc. about the deceased.
[1093] A "terminal" is a device (e.g., a smartphone or PC) that a user uses to send input data to a server and receive responses and data from the server.
[1094] "Server" means a computer system used to receive data sent by a user and return analysis, generated responses, and advice.
[1095] A "message" is a sentence or word left behind by a deceased person.
[1096] An "episode" is a specific event or memory associated with the deceased.
[1097] A "database" is a collection of data stored and managed by a server, allowing for efficient searching and retrieval of required data.
[1098] A "conversation request" is a request for dialogue made by a user to a deceased person.
[1099] A "generative AI model" is an artificial intelligence model that generates appropriate responses and advice based on received data and requests.
[1100] A "question" is something a user enters to seek advice from the deceased about a particular problem or question.
[1101] "Advice" refers to advice or suggestions provided to the user by the deceased.
[1102] A "photograph" is image data that depicts the deceased or a scene related to the deceased.
[1103] "Upload" refers to the act of a user sending data from a terminal to a server.
[1104] This invention is a system that allows users to input and save messages and stories about the deceased and communicate with them through that information. Specific embodiments for implementing this system are described below.
[1105] Message storage
[1106] The user uses the device's input form to input messages and stories about the deceased. For example, they can input "a recipe that Grandma taught me." The device then sends this input data to the server, which then stores the received data in a database. This allows the user to view these messages later. Specifically, the input data is stored in a MySQL database.
[1107] Conversation feature
[1108] When a user sends a conversation request such as "How are you doing lately?" from their device, the device sends this request data to a server. The server analyzes the received request and generates an appropriate response from stored data. Using a generative AI model (such as GPT-3), a response such as "I'm fine. I went for a walk today" is generated based on past episodes and messages. The server then sends this response data to the device, where the user can view the response.
[1109] Advice from the deceased
[1110] The user inputs a specific question into the device, such as "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The device then sends this question data to the server. The server analyzes the received question and searches for relevant data on the deceased. Based on the results, specific advice is generated. Using a generative AI model, advice such as "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do" is generated. The server then sends this advice data to the device, where it can be viewed by the user.
[1111] Sharing memories of the deceased
[1112] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased from their device. For example, they upload "photos taken with Grandma." The device sends this data to the server, which then stores the received photos and stories in a database. Image files are stored in cloud storage such as Amazon S3, and metadata is stored in the database. When the user sends a request to view memories, the server searches the database for the corresponding memories and sends the results to the device. The user can then view "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[1113] Reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[1114] The user inputs information about the deceased's belongings into the device. For example, they input "the camera that grandpa used." The device sends this data to the server, which stores it in a database. This allows the information to be managed digitally when sorting through the belongings, reducing the psychological burden.
[1115] Specific examples
[1116] Message save prompt
[1117] "Enter message: Recipe taught to me by my grandma"
[1118] Conversation request prompts
[1119] "Conversation request: What's been going on lately?"
[1120] Advice Request Prompt
[1121] "I need some advice: I'm having trouble with my work..."
[1122] Memories upload prompt
[1123] "Memories Upload: Photos taken with Grandma"
[1124] Prompt for entering personal belongings information
[1125] "Enter information about the belongings: The camera my grandfather used"
[1126] The system stores messages, anecdotes, and advice from the deceased in a database, allowing users to communicate with them. It also uses specific prompts to make input easier for users.
[1127] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[1128] Message retention processing steps
[1129] Step 1:
[1130] The user inputs a message or story about the deceased into the input form on the device. For example, they can input "a recipe my grandmother taught me." This input becomes input data.
[1131] Step 2:
[1132] The terminal receives the data entered by the user, converts it into JSON format data, and sends the converted data to the server.
[1133] Step 3:
[1134] The server receives the JSON data sent from the device, analyzes it, and extracts messages and episodes from the deceased. These extracted information becomes entries in the database.
[1135] Step 4:
[1136] The server stores the parsed data in a database, allowing the user to view the message at a later time.
[1137] Conversation function processing steps
[1138] Step 1:
[1139] The user inputs a conversation request such as "How are you doing lately?" into the conversation input form on the device. This input becomes the request data.
[1140] Step 2:
[1141] The terminal receives the request data entered by the user, converts it into JSON format, and sends it to the server.
[1142] Step 3:
[1143] The server receives the request data sent from the device, analyzes the received data, and interprets the intent. Based on the analysis, the generative AI model generates an appropriate response.
[1144] Step 4:
[1145] The server then transmits the generated response data to the terminal, allowing the user to enjoy a conversation with the deceased based on this response data.
[1146] Step 5:
[1147] The user sees the response displayed on the terminal, for example, "I'm fine. I went for a walk today."
[1148] Steps for processing advice from the deceased
[1149] Step 1:
[1150] The user enters "I'm having trouble with something at work..." into the question input form on the terminal. This input becomes the question data.
[1151] Step 2:
[1152] The terminal receives the question data entered by the user, converts it into JSON format, and sends it to the server.
[1153] Step 3:
[1154] The server receives the question data sent from the terminal, analyzes the question data, and searches for appropriate messages and episodes from the deceased.
[1155] Step 4:
[1156] The server uses a generative AI model to generate advice based on the search results, such as "When in doubt, first think about what you really want to do."
[1157] Step 5:
[1158] The server transmits the generated advice data to the terminal, and the user can receive appropriate advice based on this advice data.
[1159] Process steps for sharing memories of the deceased
[1160] Step 1:
[1161] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased through the terminal. For example, they upload a photo of them with their grandmother. This input becomes the uploaded data.
[1162] Step 2:
[1163] The terminal receives the uploaded data, converts it into JSON format, and sends it to the server.
[1164] Step 3:
[1165] The server receives the uploaded data sent from the device, analyzes the received data, and stores the photos and episodes in a database, allowing users to view these memories later.
[1166] Step 4:
[1167] The user sends a request to view memories from their device, and this request becomes the search data.
[1168] Step 5:
[1169] The server receives the request and searches the database for the corresponding memories, using a search algorithm to extract the relevant data.
[1170] Step 6:
[1171] The server sends the search results to the terminal, and the user can view "Photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[1172] Processing steps to reduce the burden of sorting out belongings
[1173] Step 1:
[1174] The user inputs information about the deceased person's belongings into the terminal. For example, they input "the camera that grandpa used." This input becomes the belongings data.
[1175] Step 2:
[1176] The terminal receives the personal belongings data entered by the user, converts it into JSON format, and sends it to the server.
[1177] Step 3:
[1178] The server receives the personal effects data sent from the device, analyzes the received data, and stores the personal effects information in a database. This storage allows the personal effects information to be managed digitally when sorting the personal effects.
[1179] Step 4:
[1180] The user can view the saved personal effects information later.
[1181] (Application example 1)
[1182] 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."
[1183] There is a need for a system that can digitize memories and messages of the deceased and store and use them for the future. There is also a need for a means that allows users to experience the deceased's messages and stories as if they were having a natural conversation. Conventional systems have limited the ability to communicate and share memories with the deceased, and have not been able to provide a sufficient sense of psychological security.
[1184] 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.
[1185] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting information about the deceased, means for transmitting the input information to a communication device, means for storing the received information in a storage device, means for receiving a request to interact with the deceased, means for generating an appropriate response from the stored information, means for transmitting the generated response, and means for streaming information about the deceased to a user via a smart device, thereby enabling the user to experience memories with the deceased more realistically.
[1186] "Information about the deceased" refers to messages, anecdotes, image data, advice, etc. related to the deceased.
[1187] "Communication device" refers to a device or system for transmitting input information to a server.
[1188] "Storage device" refers to hardware or software for storing received information in a database or the like.
[1189] A "dialogue request" refers to a request sent by a user to a server wishing to converse with a deceased person.
[1190] An "appropriate response" refers to a response to a user's interactive request that is generated based on stored information about the deceased.
[1191] "Smart devices" refers to devices such as smartphones, smart glasses, and head-mounted displays that allow users to view and receive information about the deceased.
[1192] "Streaming" refers to the means of delivering information about a deceased person to a user's smart device in real time.
[1193] "Image data" refers to visual information, such as photographs or videos, related to the deceased.
[1194] An "episode" refers to a specific event, such as a memory or anecdote, related to the deceased.
[1195] The present invention is a system that allows users to input and store information about the deceased in digital form, and allows users to enjoy conversations with the deceased and memories via streaming. This system is realized mainly using a server, a communication device, a storage device, and a smart device.
[1196] First, the user inputs information about the deceased (messages, anecdotes, image data, advice, etc.). For example, the user inputs "a recipe that grandma taught me." The user then uses a smartphone or computer to send this information to a communication device, which then transmits it to a server.
[1197] The server stores the received information in a storage device (e.g., an SQL database), which can then be used by the user to interact with or view the deceased person.
[1198] To have a conversation with a deceased person, the user sends a conversation request to the server from a smart device (such as a smartphone, smart glasses, or head-mounted display). Specifically, when the user enters the question "How are you doing lately?", the request is sent to the server.
[1199] The server analyzes the dialogue request and generates an appropriate response based on the information about the deceased person stored in the storage device. This response is generated using a generative AI model, such as OpenAI's GPT-3. Based on the analyzed prompt, the generative AI model generates a response such as "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." This generated response is then sent from the server to the smart device, allowing the user to receive the response in real time.
[1200] Furthermore, if a user has a specific question, they can input it, for example, "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The server analyzes this question, searches for relevant data on the deceased, and generates advice based on the analysis results. This advice is also generated using a generative AI model. The generated advice, such as "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do," is sent from the server to the smart device.
[1201] Furthermore, users can upload image data and stories related to the deceased. For example, they can upload "photos taken with Grandma." These data are also sent to the server via the communication device and stored in the storage device. When the user sends a request to view these memories, the server searches for the relevant data from the storage device and sends it to the smart device.
[1202] For example, if a user inputs "How are you doing lately?", the server will generate a response of "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." Using this prompt example, the user can enjoy a conversational experience.
[1203] Therefore, this invention allows the user to experience memories of the deceased in a more realistic way, and provides psychological support.
[1204] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
[1205] Step 1:
[1206] The user inputs information about the deceased (messages, anecdotes, image data, advice) from the terminal. The terminal receives the input information and transmits it to the communication device. The input data may include, for example, "recipes that grandma taught me." The communication device then transfers this data to the server.
[1207] Step 2:
[1208] The server stores the information received from the communication device in a storage device. The storage device may be an SQL database or similar, and the received data is stored appropriately. The stored data can then be searched and used later according to the user's request.
[1209] Step 3:
[1210] A user sends a dialogue request to the server from a smart device (smartphone, smart glasses, head-mounted display, etc.). For example, the user inputs a question such as "How are you doing lately?" and sends the request to the server. The input data at this time is the content of the user's question.
[1211] Step 4:
[1212] The server analyzes the dialogue request received from the user and generates an appropriate response from the information about the deceased person stored in the memory device. This analysis and response generation uses a generative AI model such as OpenAI's GPT-3. For example, based on the prompt "How are you doing lately?", it generates a response such as "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." For analysis and generation, the received data is passed to the generative AI as a prompt, and the generated text is received as a response.
[1213] Step 5:
[1214] The server sends the generated response to the smart device, which then displays the received response to the user. This allows the user to enjoy a natural conversation experience with the deceased. The response generated by the generative AI model becomes the output data.
[1215] Step 6:
[1216] A user inputs a specific question into a terminal and sends it to the server, such as "I'm having trouble with something at work..." The terminal sends the question to a communication device, which then forwards it to the server.
[1217] Step 7:
[1218] The server analyzes the specific question and searches for relevant information about the deceased stored in a storage device. Based on the searched data, it uses a generative AI model to generate specific advice. For example, advice such as "When in doubt, first think about what you really want to do" is generated. Based on the search results, the server passes a prompt to the generative AI and receives the generated advice as a response.
[1219] Step 8:
[1220] The server sends the generated advice to the smart device, where the user can confirm the advice. The generated advice becomes output data.
[1221] Step 9:
[1222] The user uploads image data and stories from the terminal and sends them to the server. The uploaded data may include, for example, "photos taken with grandma." The communication device then sends the received data to the server.
[1223] Step 10:
[1224] The server stores the received image data and episodes in a storage device, which can then be searched and distributed at a later time in response to a user request.
[1225] Step 11:
[1226] The user sends a request to view memories from their smart device. The server searches the database for the relevant memories and sends the search results to the smart device. This allows the user to view "Photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival." The searched data is output.
[1227] 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.
[1228] The present invention is a system that allows users to input and save messages and stories from the deceased and enables virtual communication with the deceased, and combines it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and customizes responses based on those emotions. Below, we will explain the embodiments of the present invention.
[1229] Examples of communication with the deceased
[1230] Message storage
[1231] The user inputs messages and stories about the deceased through the device. For example, they input "a recipe that Grandma taught me." The device then sends this input data to the server. The server then stores the received data in a database, allowing the user to view these messages later.
[1232] Conversation feature
[1233] When a user sends a conversation request from their device, such as "How are you doing lately?", the device sends this request data to the server. The server analyzes the received request and generates an appropriate response from the stored data. The generated response might be something like "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." The server then sends this response data to the device, where the user can view the response.
[1234] Examples of advice from the deceased
[1235] The user inputs a specific question from the terminal, such as "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The terminal sends this question data to the server. The server analyzes the received question and searches for related data on the deceased. Based on the results, specific advice is generated. The advice might be something like "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do." The server then sends this advice data to the terminal, where it can be viewed by the user.
[1236] Examples of sharing memories of the deceased
[1237] Upload your memories
[1238] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased from their device. For example, they upload "photos taken with Grandma." The device sends this data to the server, which stores the received photos and stories in a database. When the user sends a request to view memories, the server searches the database for the corresponding memories and sends the results to the device. The user can then view "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[1239] Examples of reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[1240] The user inputs information about the deceased's belongings into the device. For example, they input "the camera that grandpa used." The device sends this data to the server, which stores it in a database. This allows the information to be managed digitally when sorting through the belongings, reducing the psychological burden.
[1241] Example of an Emotion Engine
[1242] emotion recognition
[1243] The device uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotions in response to messages or questions entered by the user. For example, if the user enters "I've been feeling very lonely lately," the emotion engine will recognize that the user is feeling "sad."
[1244] Response Customization
[1245] The server receives the emotion data from the emotion engine and customizes the response based on the recognized emotion. For example, if the recognized emotion is "sad," the response might be something like, "That's so hard, I felt the same way."
[1246] Storing Emotional Data
[1247] The server stores the recognized emotion data in a database, allowing it to refer to the user's emotion history in the future and provide more appropriate responses.
[1248] As a result, this system can recognize the user's emotions and provide appropriate content and advice, deepening the connection with the deceased and providing psychological support.
[1249] The processing flow will be explained below.
[1250] Communicating with the deceased
[1251] Message storage
[1252] Step 1:
[1253] The user can input a message or story about the deceased through the device, for example, "A recipe that grandma taught me."
[1254] Step 2:
[1255] The terminal transmits the input data to the server.
[1256] Step 3:
[1257] The server stores the received data in a database.
[1258] Conversation feature
[1259] Step 1:
[1260] The user sends a conversation request to the deceased from their device, for example, "How are you doing lately?"
[1261] Step 2:
[1262] The terminal sends a conversation request to the server.
[1263] Step 3:
[1264] The server analyzes the received request.
[1265] Step 4:
[1266] The server retrieves the relevant data from the database.
[1267] Step 5:
[1268] The server uses natural language processing techniques to generate an appropriate response, such as "I'm fine. I went for a walk today."
[1269] Step 6:
[1270] The server generates a response and sends it to the terminal.
[1271] Step 7:
[1272] The user confirms the response through the terminal.
[1273] Advice from the deceased
[1274] Step 1:
[1275] The user inputs a specific problem or question into the terminal, for example, "I'm having trouble with something at work..."
[1276] Step 2:
[1277] The terminal sends the entered question to the server.
[1278] Step 3:
[1279] The server parses the received query.
[1280] Step 4:
[1281] The server retrieves the relevant deceased person's data from the database.
[1282] Step 5:
[1283] The server generates appropriate advice based on the deceased's data, such as "When in doubt, first think about what you really want to do."
[1284] Step 6:
[1285] The server sends the generated advice to the terminal.
[1286] Step 7:
[1287] The user checks the advice through the terminal.
[1288] Sharing memories of the deceased
[1289] Upload your memories
[1290] Step 1:
[1291] Users upload photos and stories about the deceased from their devices. For example, they can upload a photo of themselves with their grandmother.
[1292] Step 2:
[1293] The device sends the upload data to the server.
[1294] Step 3:
[1295] The server stores the received data in a database.
[1296] View and share your memories
[1297] Step 1:
[1298] The user sends a request to view memories from their device to the server. For example, they may request, "I want to see memories with my grandma."
[1299] Step 2:
[1300] The device sends a request to the server.
[1301] Step 3:
[1302] The server searches the database for the relevant memories.
[1303] Step 4:
[1304] The server sends the search results to the terminal.
[1305] Step 5:
[1306] The user browses through their device memories, for example, browsing "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[1307] Reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[1308] Digital Archive of Relics
[1309] Step 1:
[1310] The user inputs data about the deceased's belongings into the terminal. For example, the user inputs "the camera that grandpa used."
[1311] Step 2:
[1312] The terminal transmits the entered personal effects data to the server.
[1313] Step 3:
[1314] The server stores the received data in a database.
[1315] Example of an Emotion Engine
[1316] emotion recognition
[1317] Step 1:
[1318] A user-input message or question is entered into the terminal. For example, the user might type, "I've been feeling very lonely lately."
[1319] Step 2:
[1320] The terminal sends the entered message or question to the server.
[1321] Step 3:
[1322] The server receives the input data and analyzes the user's emotions using an emotion engine, which recognizes the "sad" emotion from the message content.
[1323] Response Customization
[1324] Step 1:
[1325] The server generates a response based on the results of the emotion engine. For example, if the recognized emotion is "sad," the server generates a response such as "That's terrible, I felt the same way."
[1326] Step 2:
[1327] The server sends the generated response to the terminal.
[1328] Step 3:
[1329] The user confirms the customized response through the terminal.
[1330] Storing Emotional Data
[1331] Step 1:
[1332] The server stores the recognized emotion data in a database, allowing future reference of the user's emotion history.
[1333] Through these steps, the system recognizes the user's emotions and provides responses based on those emotions, thereby deepening the connection with the deceased and strengthening emotional support.
[1334] Example 2
[1335] 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."
[1336] In a system that virtually enables communication with the deceased and provides psychological support by allowing users to converse with and receive advice from the deceased, it is necessary to recognize the user's emotions and provide appropriate responses accordingly. However, existing systems lack the ability to understand the user's emotions and customize responses based on those emotions, which leads to a problem of users not being able to achieve sufficient satisfaction.
[1337] The identification process by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for inputting messages and episodes from the deceased, means for transmitting the input messages and episodes to the server, means for storing the received messages and episodes in a database, means for receiving a conversation request with the deceased, means for generating an appropriate response from the stored data, means for transmitting the generated response, means for analyzing the message or question input by the user and recognizing emotions, means for customizing a response based on the recognized emotions, and means for storing the recognized emotion data in a database. This makes it possible to understand the user's emotions and provide an appropriate and satisfying response based on them.
[1338] "Deceased" refers to individuals covered by this system who have passed away.
[1339] "Messages and episodes" refers to textual information and stories related to the deceased.
[1340] "User" refers to a person who uses this system to virtually communicate with a deceased person.
[1341] "Terminal" refers to an electronic device that allows a user to access the system and input, view, and send messages and episodes.
[1342] "Server" means a computer system capable of receiving, storing, and analyzing input data, and generating and transmitting an appropriate response.
[1343] "Database" refers to an information storage system managed by a server for storing messages, episodes, and emotional data.
[1344] "Conversation Request" refers to a request that a user enters and submits to initiate a virtual conversation with a deceased person.
[1345] A "response" is a message generated by the server based on a conversation request or input data, and refers to the content sent in reply to the user.
[1346] "Analysis" refers to the process of understanding the text data entered by the user and extracting their intent and emotions.
[1347] "Emotion recognition" refers to the technology of identifying emotions from user input data.
[1348] "Response customization" refers to the process of tailoring the content of the responses generated by the system based on perceived emotions.
[1349] "Emotion data" refers to emotional information analyzed from user input and stored in a database.
[1350] An "appropriate response" refers to a reply that is useful and emotionally relevant to the user, generated in consideration of the stored message, episode, and the user's emotions.
[1351] "Advice" refers to answers to users' questions or problems that are generated based on past messages and stories from the deceased.
[1352] "Uploading" refers to the act of a user sending data such as photos and stories about the deceased to a server.
[1353] The present invention provides a system that enables virtual communication with a deceased person, and includes a function that recognizes the user's emotions and customizes responses according to those emotions. This system is realized using a server, a terminal, and a database.
[1354] System Configuration
[1355] The system consists of the following main components:
[1356] Server: A computer system that receives, analyzes, stores, and generates a response to data.
[1357] Device: The electronic device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, PC) through which a user accesses the system and inputs and receives data.
[1358] Database: An information storage system that stores messages and stories from the deceased, as well as user emotional data.
[1359] Hardware and Software
[1360] Hardware: A server is a computer with a powerful processor and large storage capacity that efficiently processes requests from multiple users. A terminal is a typical user device.
[1361] Software: The server analyzes text data using natural language processing (NLP) technology. Specifically, it uses a generative AI model (e.g., GPT-3) to understand natural language and generate appropriate responses. The emotion engine is a module for recognizing emotions from user input.
[1362] Message storage examples
[1363] The user inputs messages and stories about the deceased through the device. For example, they input "a recipe that grandma taught me." The device then sends this data to the server, which stores the received data in a database. This allows the user to view these messages later.
[1364] Conversation feature examples
[1365] The user sends a conversation request from the device, asking "How are you doing lately?" The device sends this request data to the server. The server analyzes the received request and generates an appropriate response from the stored data. The generated response might be something like "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." The server then sends this response data to the device, where the user can view the response.
[1366] Examples of advice from the deceased
[1367] The user inputs a question from the device, such as "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The device then sends this question data to the server. The server analyzes the received question and searches for relevant data on the deceased. Based on the results, it generates specific advice. For example, it could say, "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do." The server then sends this advice data to the device, where it can be viewed by the user.
[1368] Examples of sharing memories of the deceased
[1369] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased from their device. For example, they upload "photos taken with Grandma." The device sends this data to the server, which stores the received photos and stories in a database. When the user sends a request to view memories, the server searches the database for the corresponding memories and sends the results to the device. The user can then view "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[1370] Examples of emotion engines
[1371] The device uses an emotion engine to analyze the emotions expressed in messages and questions entered by the user. For example, if a user enters "I've been feeling very lonely lately," the engine recognizes this as "sad." The server receives the emotion data from the emotion engine and customizes a response based on that emotion. For example, if the user's emotion is "sad," the response might be something like "That's tough, I used to feel the same way." The recognized emotion data is also stored in a database, allowing the user's emotion history to be referenced in the future.
[1372] Prompt Sentence Examples
[1373] Do you want to save "Grandma's Recipes"?
[1374] Start a conversation: "How are you doing these days?"
[1375] Seeking advice from the deceased: "I'm having trouble with my work..."
[1376] This allows the system to recognize the user's emotions and provide appropriate content and advice, deepening the connection with the deceased and providing psychological support.
[1377] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[1378] Step 1:
[1379] Enter your message
[1380] The user inputs a message or story about the deceased through the device's interface. For example, they input "a recipe that Grandma taught me." The input data (in text format) is sent to the device. Input: Text data from the user. Output: Formatted input data. In concrete terms, the device uses an input form and voice recognition software.
[1381] Step 2:
[1382] Sending data
[1383] The terminal converts the input data into an appropriate format (for example, JSON format) and sends it to the server using an HTTP request. Input: Formatted input data. Output: Request to the server. Specifically, the terminal uses SSL / TLS encrypted communication to send data safely.
[1384] Step 3:
[1385] Data storage
[1386] The server validates the received data (for example, escaping special characters and checking the data format) and then stores it in the database. Input: Data sent to the server. Output: Records stored in the database. Specifically, the server inserts the data using a database management system (DBMS).
[1387] Step 4:
[1388] Entering a conversation request
[1389] The user enters a conversation request such as "What's up lately?" into the terminal and clicks the send button. Input: User's conversation request (text format). Output: Formatted request data from the terminal. Specifically, the terminal captures the user's input and generates request data.
[1390] Step 5:
[1391] Submitting a Request
[1392] The terminal sends the request data to the server. Input: Formatted request data. Output: Request to the server. As a specific operation, the terminal again sends the data using the HTTPS protocol.
[1393] Step 6:
[1394] Parsing the request
[1395] The server analyzes the received request data. It uses NLP techniques to understand the intent of the request and extract information to generate an appropriate message. Input: Request data sent to the server. Output: Analysis results. Specifically, the server processes the request data using a generative AI model.
[1396] Step 7:
[1397] Generating a response
[1398] The server searches for appropriate messages and episodes from a stored database and generates a response according to the user's request. Input: Analysis results and database contents. Output: Generated response text. Specifically, the server uses the generative AI model to generate an appropriate response message.
[1399] Step 8:
[1400] Sending a Response
[1401] The server sends the generated response to the terminal. Input: Generated response text. Output: HTTP response to the terminal. Specifically, the server sends the response data using the HTTPS protocol.
[1402] Step 9:
[1403] Viewing the response
[1404] The terminal displays the received response data to the user. It is displayed in text format, so the user can check the response content. Input: Received response data. Output: Text displayed on the terminal display. Specifically, the terminal displays the text using a GUI.
[1405] Step 10:
[1406] emotion recognition
[1407] The device analyzes messages and questions entered by the user and recognizes emotions using an emotion engine. Input: User input such as "I've been feeling very lonely lately." Output: Recognized emotion (e.g., "sad"). Specific operations of the device include using emotion recognition software.
[1408] Step 11:
[1409] Sending emotional data
[1410] The device sends the results of the emotion engine to the server. Input: Recognized emotion data. Output: HTTP request to the server. Specifically, the device sends the emotion data via HTTPS.
[1411] Step 12:
[1412] Storing Emotional Data
[1413] The server stores the recognized emotion data in a database. Input: Emotion data sent to the server. Output: Emotion record stored in the database. Specifically, the server inserts data into the database using a DBMS.
[1414] Step 13:
[1415] Customizing the response
[1416] The server customizes the response based on the emotional data stored in the database. Input: Recognized emotional data and database contents. Output: Customized response. Specifically, the server uses the generative AI model again to generate an emotionally relevant response.
[1417] Step 14:
[1418] Sending and Viewing Customized Responses
[1419] The server sends the customized response to the terminal, which displays it to the user. Input: Customized response data. Output: Displayed response text on the terminal. As a specific operation, the server and the terminal perform the sending and display procedures described above again.
[1420] (Application example 2)
[1421] 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."
[1422] The present invention aims to provide more effective psychological support to users by recognizing their emotions and customizing responses based on those emotions in a system that virtually recreates the memories and opinions of the deceased. It also aims to provide a virtual shopping experience in which users can receive advice from the deceased and reminisce about their memories through virtual communication with the deceased.
[1423] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.
[1424] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting messages and events from the deceased, means for transmitting the input messages and events to the server, means for storing the received messages and events in a database, means for receiving a conversation request with the deceased, means for generating an appropriate response from the stored data, means for transmitting the generated response, means for recognizing the user's emotions, and means for customizing the response based on the recognized emotions. This allows the user to receive psychological support through a conversation with the deceased and obtain an appropriate response according to their emotions.
[1425] "Deceased" refers to a person who has died during their lifetime.
[1426] "Communication content" refers to information such as messages, advice, and anecdotes left by the deceased during their lifetime.
[1427] "Events" refer to specific experiences and memories related to the deceased.
[1428] "Server" refers to a computer system for storing and analyzing data.
[1429] "Database" refers to an information system for storing and managing received communications and events.
[1430] A "conversation request" refers to a request indicating a user's desire to virtually interact with a deceased person.
[1431] "Response" refers to a message or reply from a deceased person generated based on a user's request.
[1432] "Emotion" refers to the psychological state or feeling of a user.
[1433] "Means for recognizing emotions" refers to technologies and systems for analyzing and identifying a user's emotional state from their input.
[1434] "Means for customizing responses" refers to methods and techniques for generating more appropriate responses based on the recognized user sentiment.
[1435] A "prompt" is a piece of text that instructs a generative AI model on what response to generate.
[1436] A "generative AI model" refers to an artificial intelligence model that generates appropriate responses based on user input and emotions.
[1437] The present invention is a system that provides virtual communication with a deceased person and customizes responses based on the user's emotions. This system is equipped with a series of means for the user to input messages and stories about the deceased, and to store and utilize the data. In addition, by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions, it is possible to generate more appropriate responses.
[1438] To realize this system, the following main components are required:
[1439] 1. Input and transmission methods:
[1440] Users use devices such as smartphones or head-mounted displays (HMDs) to input messages, stories, photos, etc. about the deceased. This data is then sent from the device to the server.
[1441] 2. Data storage means:
[1442] The server stores received data such as messages, episodes, and photos in a database, which serves as the basis for generating responses to issued requests.
[1443] 3. Emotion recognition means:
[1444] The server analyzes the messages and questions entered by the user and uses the emotion engine to recognize the user's emotion. For example, if the user enters "I've been feeling very lonely lately," the emotion engine will recognize the user's emotion as "sad."
[1445] 4. Response Generation Method:
[1446] The server generates an appropriate response based on the recognized emotion, which is in tune with the user's emotions and allows for a virtual conversation with the deceased.
[1447] 5. Prompt generation:
[1448] The server generates a prompt to generate an appropriate response for the generative AI model. The following is an example of a prompt:
[1449] "News! Sentiment analysis needed: User typed 'I've been feeling very lonely lately'."
[1450] "News! User says 'I've been feeling really lonely lately'. Recognized emotion is 'sad'. Generate an appropriate response."
[1451] This allows users to receive psychological support through virtual conversations with the deceased. Sharing memories with the deceased also helps users find peace of mind. This system is built using a complex technology that includes a smartphone, a head-mounted display (HMD), a server, a database, an emotion engine, and a generative AI model.
[1452] For example, if a user inputs "a recipe that my grandmother taught me" and stores that information in a database, when the user later requests "Tell me my grandmother's recipes," the appropriate recipe information will be provided as a response. In this way, virtual communication between the user and the deceased is realized.
[1453] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
[1454] Step 1:
[1455] The user inputs a message or story about the deceased into the device. The input data includes text and images. This is the input data.
[1456] Step 2:
[1457] The device sends the entered messages, episodes, and images to the server, where the data is properly formatted and sent over the Internet.
[1458] Step 3:
[1459] The server stores the received data in a database, which stores messages, stories, and images of the deceased for each user in a structured manner.
[1460] Step 4:
[1461] The user sends a conversation request through the terminal. For example, the user types, "Tell me how you've been lately." This input data is sent to the server.
[1462] Step 5:
[1463] The server analyzes the received conversation request and determines the appropriate response by searching the database for related messages and stories about the deceased person and generating appropriate response data.
[1464] Step 6:
[1465] The server sends the generated response data to the generative AI model as a prompt sentence. An example of a prompt sentence is "News! The user entered 'Tell me how you've been lately.'"
[1466] Step 7:
[1467] The generative AI model generates a response based on the prompt sentence, and the generated response is text data expressed in natural language.
[1468] Step 8:
[1469] The server receives the response data returned by the generative AI model and sends it to the device. This response data is customized to make the conversation natural for the user.
[1470] Step 9:
[1471] The terminal displays the received response data to the user, allowing the user to have a virtual conversation with the deceased.
[1472] Step 10:
[1473] If the user enters an additional question or message, the process repeats from step 4 to step 9, allowing for a continuous dialogue.
[1474] 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.
[1475] 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.
[1476] 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.
[1477] [Fourth embodiment]
[1478] FIG. 7 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 410 according to the fourth embodiment.
[1479] 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.
[1480] 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).
[1481] 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.
[1482] 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.
[1483] 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).
[1484] 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.
[1485] 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.
[1486] 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.
[1487] 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.
[1488] 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.
[1489] 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.
[1490] 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."
[1491] The present invention relates to a system that allows a deceased person to input and store messages and stories about the deceased and communicate with them. Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[1492] Communicating with the deceased
[1493] Message storage
[1494] The user inputs messages and stories about the deceased through the device. For example, they input "a recipe that Grandma taught me." The device then sends this input data to the server. The server then stores the received data in a database, allowing the user to view these messages later.
[1495] Conversation feature
[1496] When a user sends a conversation request from their device, such as "How are you doing lately?", the device sends this request data to the server. The server analyzes the received request and generates an appropriate response from the stored data. The generated response might be something like "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." The server then sends this response data to the device, where the user can view the response.
[1497] Advice from the deceased
[1498] The user inputs a specific question from the terminal, such as "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The terminal sends this question data to the server. The server analyzes the received question and searches for related data on the deceased. Based on the results, specific advice is generated. The advice might be something like "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do." The server then sends this advice data to the terminal, where it can be viewed by the user.
[1499] Sharing memories of the deceased
[1500] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased from their device. For example, they upload "photos taken with Grandma." The device sends this data to the server, which stores the received photos and stories in a database. When the user sends a request to view memories, the server searches the database for the corresponding memories and sends the results to the device. The user can then view "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[1501] Reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[1502] The user inputs information about the deceased's belongings into the device. For example, they input "the camera that grandpa used." The device sends this data to the server, which stores it in a database. This allows the information to be managed digitally when sorting through the belongings, reducing the psychological burden.
[1503] The system of this invention stores memories, messages, and advice from the deceased in a database and allows users to view and use them at any time, allowing people to maintain a connection with the deceased and receive psychological support.
[1504] The processing flow will be explained below.
[1505] Communicating with the deceased
[1506] Message storage
[1507] Step 1:
[1508] The user inputs messages and stories about the deceased through the terminal.
[1509] Step 2:
[1510] The terminal transmits the input data to the server.
[1511] Step 3:
[1512] The server stores the received data in a database.
[1513] Conversation feature
[1514] Step 1:
[1515] The user sends a request to talk to the deceased person from the terminal to the server.
[1516] Step 2:
[1517] The terminal sends a conversation request to the server.
[1518] Step 3:
[1519] The server analyzes the received request.
[1520] Step 4:
[1521] The server retrieves the relevant data from the database.
[1522] Step 5:
[1523] The server uses natural language processing techniques to generate an appropriate response.
[1524] Step 6:
[1525] The server generates a response and sends it to the terminal.
[1526] Step 7:
[1527] The user confirms the response through the terminal.
[1528] Advice from the deceased
[1529] Step 1:
[1530] The user enters a specific problem or question into the terminal.
[1531] Step 2:
[1532] The terminal sends the entered question to the server.
[1533] Step 3:
[1534] The server parses the received query.
[1535] Step 4:
[1536] The server retrieves the relevant deceased person's data from the database.
[1537] Step 5:
[1538] The server generates advice based on the deceased person's data.
[1539] Step 6:
[1540] The server sends the generated advice to the terminal.
[1541] Step 7:
[1542] The user checks the advice through the terminal.
[1543] Sharing memories of the deceased
[1544] Upload your memories
[1545] Step 1:
[1546] Users upload photos and stories about the deceased from their devices.
[1547] Step 2:
[1548] The device sends the upload data to the server.
[1549] Step 3:
[1550] The server stores the received data in a database.
[1551] View and share your memories
[1552] Step 1:
[1553] The user sends a request to view memories from the terminal to the server.
[1554] Step 2:
[1555] The device sends a request to the server.
[1556] Step 3:
[1557] The server searches the database for the relevant memories.
[1558] Step 4:
[1559] The server sends the search results to the terminal.
[1560] Step 5:
[1561] The user browses the memories through the device.
[1562] Reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[1563] Digital Archive of Relics
[1564] Step 1:
[1565] The user inputs data about the deceased's belongings from the terminal.
[1566] Step 2:
[1567] The terminal transmits the entered personal effects data to the server.
[1568] Step 3:
[1569] The server stores the received data in a database.
[1570] This detailed description of each step aids in understanding the operation of the overall system.
[1571] Example 1
[1572] 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."
[1573] This system allows people to maintain a connection with the deceased and receive psychological support by storing memories, messages, and advice from the deceased in a database and making them available for users to view and use at any time. It provides appropriate responses and advice in real time, enabling conversations and sharing of memories with the deceased. Another challenge is to provide a method for managing personal belongings in a digital format, reducing the burden of sorting through the deceased's belongings.
[1574] 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.
[1575] In this invention, the server includes a means for users to input messages and stories about the deceased, a means for users to input requests to talk to the deceased, a means for users to input specific questions, and a means for uploading photos and stories about the deceased. This allows users to enjoy real-time conversations with the deceased and receive specific advice. It also allows users to share memories of the deceased and reduce the burden of sorting out their belongings.
[1576] A "user" is someone who interacts with the server by entering messages, stories, questions, etc. about the deceased.
[1577] A "terminal" is a device (e.g., a smartphone or PC) that a user uses to send input data to a server and receive responses and data from the server.
[1578] "Server" means a computer system used to receive data sent by a user and return analysis, generated responses, and advice.
[1579] A "message" is a sentence or word left behind by a deceased person.
[1580] An "episode" is a specific event or memory associated with the deceased.
[1581] A "database" is a collection of data stored and managed by a server, allowing for efficient searching and retrieval of required data.
[1582] A "conversation request" is a request for dialogue made by a user to a deceased person.
[1583] A "generative AI model" is an artificial intelligence model that generates appropriate responses and advice based on received data and requests.
[1584] A "question" is something a user enters to seek advice from the deceased about a particular problem or question.
[1585] "Advice" refers to advice or suggestions provided to the user by the deceased.
[1586] A "photograph" is image data that depicts the deceased or a scene related to the deceased.
[1587] "Upload" refers to the act of a user sending data from a terminal to a server.
[1588] This invention is a system that allows users to input and save messages and stories about the deceased and communicate with them through that information. Specific embodiments for implementing this system are described below.
[1589] Message storage
[1590] The user uses the device's input form to input messages and stories about the deceased. For example, they can input "a recipe that Grandma taught me." The device then sends this input data to the server, which then stores the received data in a database. This allows the user to view these messages later. Specifically, the input data is stored in a MySQL database.
[1591] Conversation feature
[1592] When a user sends a conversation request such as "How are you doing lately?" from their device, the device sends this request data to a server. The server analyzes the received request and generates an appropriate response from stored data. Using a generative AI model (such as GPT-3), a response such as "I'm fine. I went for a walk today" is generated based on past episodes and messages. The server then sends this response data to the device, where the user can view the response.
[1593] Advice from the deceased
[1594] The user inputs a specific question into the device, such as "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The device then sends this question data to the server. The server analyzes the received question and searches for relevant data on the deceased. Based on the results, specific advice is generated. Using a generative AI model, advice such as "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do" is generated. The server then sends this advice data to the device, where it can be viewed by the user.
[1595] Sharing memories of the deceased
[1596] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased from their device. For example, they upload "photos taken with Grandma." The device sends this data to the server, which then stores the received photos and stories in a database. Image files are stored in cloud storage such as Amazon S3, and metadata is stored in the database. When the user sends a request to view memories, the server searches the database for the corresponding memories and sends the results to the device. The user can then view "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[1597] Reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[1598] The user inputs information about the deceased's belongings into the device. For example, they input "the camera that grandpa used." The device sends this data to the server, which stores it in a database. This allows the information to be managed digitally when sorting through the belongings, reducing the psychological burden.
[1599] Specific examples
[1600] Message save prompt
[1601] "Enter message: Recipe taught to me by my grandma"
[1602] Conversation request prompts
[1603] "Conversation request: What's been going on lately?"
[1604] Advice Request Prompt
[1605] "I need some advice: I'm having trouble with my work..."
[1606] Memories upload prompt
[1607] "Memories Upload: Photos taken with Grandma"
[1608] Prompt for entering personal belongings information
[1609] "Enter information about the belongings: The camera my grandfather used"
[1610] The system stores messages, anecdotes, and advice from the deceased in a database, allowing users to communicate with them. It also uses specific prompts to make input easier for users.
[1611] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[1612] Message retention processing steps
[1613] Step 1:
[1614] The user inputs a message or story about the deceased into the input form on the device. For example, they can input "a recipe my grandmother taught me." This input becomes input data.
[1615] Step 2:
[1616] The terminal receives the data entered by the user, converts it into JSON format data, and sends the converted data to the server.
[1617] Step 3:
[1618] The server receives the JSON data sent from the device, analyzes it, and extracts messages and episodes from the deceased. These extracted information becomes entries in the database.
[1619] Step 4:
[1620] The server stores the parsed data in a database, allowing the user to view the message at a later time.
[1621] Conversation function processing steps
[1622] Step 1:
[1623] The user inputs a conversation request such as "How are you doing lately?" into the conversation input form on the device. This input becomes the request data.
[1624] Step 2:
[1625] The terminal receives the request data entered by the user, converts it into JSON format, and sends it to the server.
[1626] Step 3:
[1627] The server receives the request data sent from the device, analyzes the received data, and interprets the intent. Based on the analysis, the generative AI model generates an appropriate response.
[1628] Step 4:
[1629] The server then transmits the generated response data to the terminal, allowing the user to enjoy a conversation with the deceased based on this response data.
[1630] Step 5:
[1631] The user sees the response displayed on the terminal, for example, "I'm fine. I went for a walk today."
[1632] Steps for processing advice from the deceased
[1633] Step 1:
[1634] The user enters "I'm having trouble with something at work..." into the question input form on the terminal. This input becomes the question data.
[1635] Step 2:
[1636] The terminal receives the question data entered by the user, converts it into JSON format, and sends it to the server.
[1637] Step 3:
[1638] The server receives the question data sent from the terminal, analyzes the question data, and searches for appropriate messages and episodes from the deceased.
[1639] Step 4:
[1640] The server uses a generative AI model to generate advice based on the search results, such as "When in doubt, first think about what you really want to do."
[1641] Step 5:
[1642] The server transmits the generated advice data to the terminal, and the user can receive appropriate advice based on this advice data.
[1643] Process steps for sharing memories of the deceased
[1644] Step 1:
[1645] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased through the terminal. For example, they upload a photo of them with their grandmother. This input becomes the uploaded data.
[1646] Step 2:
[1647] The terminal receives the uploaded data, converts it into JSON format, and sends it to the server.
[1648] Step 3:
[1649] The server receives the uploaded data sent from the device, analyzes the received data, and stores the photos and episodes in a database, allowing users to view these memories later.
[1650] Step 4:
[1651] The user sends a request to view memories from their device, and this request becomes the search data.
[1652] Step 5:
[1653] The server receives the request and searches the database for the corresponding memories, using a search algorithm to extract the relevant data.
[1654] Step 6:
[1655] The server sends the search results to the terminal, and the user can view "Photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[1656] Processing steps to reduce the burden of sorting out belongings
[1657] Step 1:
[1658] The user inputs information about the deceased person's belongings into the terminal. For example, they input "the camera that grandpa used." This input becomes the belongings data.
[1659] Step 2:
[1660] The terminal receives the personal belongings data entered by the user, converts it into JSON format, and sends it to the server.
[1661] Step 3:
[1662] The server receives the personal effects data sent from the device, analyzes the received data, and stores the personal effects information in a database. This storage allows the personal effects information to be managed digitally when sorting the personal effects.
[1663] Step 4:
[1664] The user can view the saved personal effects information later.
[1665] (Application example 1)
[1666] 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."
[1667] There is a need for a system that can digitize memories and messages of the deceased and store and use them for the future. There is also a need for a means that allows users to experience the deceased's messages and stories as if they were having a natural conversation. Conventional systems have limited the ability to communicate and share memories with the deceased, and have not been able to provide a sufficient sense of psychological security.
[1668] 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.
[1669] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting information about the deceased, means for transmitting the input information to a communication device, means for storing the received information in a storage device, means for receiving a request to interact with the deceased, means for generating an appropriate response from the stored information, means for transmitting the generated response, and means for streaming information about the deceased to a user via a smart device, thereby enabling the user to experience memories with the deceased more realistically.
[1670] "Information about the deceased" refers to messages, anecdotes, image data, advice, etc. related to the deceased.
[1671] "Communication device" refers to a device or system for transmitting input information to a server.
[1672] "Storage device" refers to hardware or software for storing received information in a database or the like.
[1673] A "dialogue request" refers to a request sent by a user to a server wishing to converse with a deceased person.
[1674] An "appropriate response" refers to a response to a user's interactive request that is generated based on stored information about the deceased.
[1675] "Smart devices" refers to devices such as smartphones, smart glasses, and head-mounted displays that allow users to view and receive information about the deceased.
[1676] "Streaming" refers to the means of delivering information about a deceased person to a user's smart device in real time.
[1677] "Image data" refers to visual information, such as photographs or videos, related to the deceased.
[1678] An "episode" refers to a specific event, such as a memory or anecdote, related to the deceased.
[1679] The present invention is a system that allows users to input and store information about the deceased in digital form, and allows users to enjoy conversations with the deceased and memories via streaming. This system is realized mainly using a server, a communication device, a storage device, and a smart device.
[1680] First, the user inputs information about the deceased (messages, anecdotes, image data, advice, etc.). For example, the user inputs "a recipe that grandma taught me." The user then uses a smartphone or computer to send this information to a communication device, which then transmits it to a server.
[1681] The server stores the received information in a storage device (e.g., an SQL database), which can then be used by the user to interact with or view the deceased person.
[1682] To have a conversation with a deceased person, the user sends a conversation request to the server from a smart device (such as a smartphone, smart glasses, or head-mounted display). Specifically, when the user enters the question "How are you doing lately?", the request is sent to the server.
[1683] The server analyzes the dialogue request and generates an appropriate response based on the information about the deceased person stored in the storage device. This response is generated using a generative AI model, such as OpenAI's GPT-3. Based on the analyzed prompt, the generative AI model generates a response such as "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." This generated response is then sent from the server to the smart device, allowing the user to receive the response in real time.
[1684] Furthermore, if a user has a specific question, they can input it, for example, "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The server analyzes this question, searches for relevant data on the deceased, and generates advice based on the analysis results. This advice is also generated using a generative AI model. The generated advice, such as "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do," is sent from the server to the smart device.
[1685] Furthermore, users can upload image data and stories related to the deceased. For example, they can upload "photos taken with Grandma." These data are also sent to the server via the communication device and stored in the storage device. When the user sends a request to view these memories, the server searches for the relevant data from the storage device and sends it to the smart device.
[1686] For example, if a user inputs "How are you doing lately?", the server will generate a response of "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." Using this prompt example, the user can enjoy a conversational experience.
[1687] Therefore, this invention allows the user to experience memories of the deceased in a more realistic way, and provides psychological support.
[1688] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
[1689] Step 1:
[1690] The user inputs information about the deceased (messages, anecdotes, image data, advice) from the terminal. The terminal receives the input information and transmits it to the communication device. The input data may include, for example, "recipes that grandma taught me." The communication device then transfers this data to the server.
[1691] Step 2:
[1692] The server stores the information received from the communication device in a storage device. The storage device may be an SQL database or similar, and the received data is stored appropriately. The stored data can then be searched and used later according to the user's request.
[1693] Step 3:
[1694] A user sends a dialogue request to the server from a smart device (smartphone, smart glasses, head-mounted display, etc.). For example, the user inputs a question such as "How are you doing lately?" and sends the request to the server. The input data at this time is the content of the user's question.
[1695] Step 4:
[1696] The server analyzes the dialogue request received from the user and generates an appropriate response from the information about the deceased person stored in the memory device. This analysis and response generation uses a generative AI model such as OpenAI's GPT-3. For example, based on the prompt "How are you doing lately?", it generates a response such as "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." For analysis and generation, the received data is passed to the generative AI as a prompt, and the generated text is received as a response.
[1697] Step 5:
[1698] The server sends the generated response to the smart device, which then displays the received response to the user. This allows the user to enjoy a natural conversation experience with the deceased. The response generated by the generative AI model becomes the output data.
[1699] Step 6:
[1700] A user inputs a specific question into a terminal and sends it to the server, such as "I'm having trouble with something at work..." The terminal sends the question to a communication device, which then forwards it to the server.
[1701] Step 7:
[1702] The server analyzes the specific question and searches for relevant information about the deceased stored in a storage device. Based on the searched data, it uses a generative AI model to generate specific advice. For example, advice such as "When in doubt, first think about what you really want to do" is generated. Based on the search results, the server passes a prompt to the generative AI and receives the generated advice as a response.
[1703] Step 8:
[1704] The server sends the generated advice to the smart device, where the user can confirm the advice. The generated advice becomes output data.
[1705] Step 9:
[1706] The user uploads image data and stories from the terminal and sends them to the server. The uploaded data may include, for example, "photos taken with grandma." The communication device then sends the received data to the server.
[1707] Step 10:
[1708] The server stores the received image data and episodes in a storage device, which can then be searched and distributed at a later time in response to a user request.
[1709] Step 11:
[1710] The user sends a request to view memories from their smart device. The server searches the database for the relevant memories and sends the search results to the smart device. This allows the user to view "Photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival." The searched data is output.
[1711] 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.
[1712] The present invention is a system that allows users to input and save messages and stories from the deceased and enables virtual communication with the deceased, and combines it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and customizes responses based on those emotions. Below, we will explain the embodiments of the present invention.
[1713] Examples of communication with the deceased
[1714] Message storage
[1715] The user inputs messages and stories about the deceased through the device. For example, they input "a recipe that Grandma taught me." The device then sends this input data to the server. The server then stores the received data in a database, allowing the user to view these messages later.
[1716] Conversation feature
[1717] When a user sends a conversation request from their device, such as "How are you doing lately?", the device sends this request data to the server. The server analyzes the received request and generates an appropriate response from the stored data. The generated response might be something like "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." The server then sends this response data to the device, where the user can view the response.
[1718] Examples of advice from the deceased
[1719] The user inputs a specific question from the terminal, such as "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The terminal sends this question data to the server. The server analyzes the received question and searches for related data on the deceased. Based on the results, specific advice is generated. The advice might be something like "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do." The server then sends this advice data to the terminal, where it can be viewed by the user.
[1720] Examples of sharing memories of the deceased
[1721] Upload your memories
[1722] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased from their device. For example, they upload "photos taken with Grandma." The device sends this data to the server, which stores the received photos and stories in a database. When the user sends a request to view memories, the server searches the database for the corresponding memories and sends the results to the device. The user can then view "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[1723] Examples of reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[1724] The user inputs information about the deceased's belongings into the device. For example, they input "the camera that grandpa used." The device sends this data to the server, which stores it in a database. This allows the information to be managed digitally when sorting through the belongings, reducing the psychological burden.
[1725] Example of an Emotion Engine
[1726] emotion recognition
[1727] The device uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotions in response to messages or questions entered by the user. For example, if the user enters "I've been feeling very lonely lately," the emotion engine will recognize that the user is feeling "sad."
[1728] Response Customization
[1729] The server receives the emotion data from the emotion engine and customizes the response based on the recognized emotion. For example, if the recognized emotion is "sad," the response might be something like, "That's so hard, I felt the same way."
[1730] Storing Emotional Data
[1731] The server stores the recognized emotion data in a database, allowing it to refer to the user's emotion history in the future and provide more appropriate responses.
[1732] As a result, this system can recognize the user's emotions and provide appropriate content and advice, deepening the connection with the deceased and providing psychological support.
[1733] The processing flow will be explained below.
[1734] Communicating with the deceased
[1735] Message storage
[1736] Step 1:
[1737] The user can input a message or story about the deceased through the device, for example, "A recipe that grandma taught me."
[1738] Step 2:
[1739] The terminal transmits the input data to the server.
[1740] Step 3:
[1741] The server stores the received data in a database.
[1742] Conversation feature
[1743] Step 1:
[1744] The user sends a conversation request to the deceased from their device, for example, "How are you doing lately?"
[1745] Step 2:
[1746] The terminal sends a conversation request to the server.
[1747] Step 3:
[1748] The server analyzes the received request.
[1749] Step 4:
[1750] The server retrieves the relevant data from the database.
[1751] Step 5:
[1752] The server uses natural language processing techniques to generate an appropriate response, such as "I'm fine. I went for a walk today."
[1753] Step 6:
[1754] The server generates a response and sends it to the terminal.
[1755] Step 7:
[1756] The user confirms the response through the terminal.
[1757] Advice from the deceased
[1758] Step 1:
[1759] The user inputs a specific problem or question into the terminal, for example, "I'm having trouble with something at work..."
[1760] Step 2:
[1761] The terminal sends the entered question to the server.
[1762] Step 3:
[1763] The server parses the received query.
[1764] Step 4:
[1765] The server retrieves the relevant deceased person's data from the database.
[1766] Step 5:
[1767] The server generates appropriate advice based on the deceased's data, such as "When in doubt, first think about what you really want to do."
[1768] Step 6:
[1769] The server sends the generated advice to the terminal.
[1770] Step 7:
[1771] The user checks the advice through the terminal.
[1772] Sharing memories of the deceased
[1773] Upload your memories
[1774] Step 1:
[1775] Users upload photos and stories about the deceased from their devices. For example, they can upload a photo of themselves with their grandmother.
[1776] Step 2:
[1777] The device sends the upload data to the server.
[1778] Step 3:
[1779] The server stores the received data in a database.
[1780] View and share your memories
[1781] Step 1:
[1782] The user sends a request to view memories from their device to the server. For example, they may request, "I want to see memories with my grandma."
[1783] Step 2:
[1784] The device sends a request to the server.
[1785] Step 3:
[1786] The server searches the database for the relevant memories.
[1787] Step 4:
[1788] The server sends the search results to the terminal.
[1789] Step 5:
[1790] The user browses through their device memories, for example, browsing "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[1791] Reducing the burden of sorting out belongings
[1792] Digital Archive of Relics
[1793] Step 1:
[1794] The user inputs data about the deceased's belongings into the terminal. For example, the user inputs "the camera that grandpa used."
[1795] Step 2:
[1796] The terminal transmits the entered personal effects data to the server.
[1797] Step 3:
[1798] The server stores the received data in a database.
[1799] Example of an Emotion Engine
[1800] emotion recognition
[1801] Step 1:
[1802] A user-input message or question is entered into the terminal. For example, the user might type, "I've been feeling very lonely lately."
[1803] Step 2:
[1804] The terminal sends the entered message or question to the server.
[1805] Step 3:
[1806] The server receives the input data and analyzes the user's emotions using an emotion engine, which recognizes the "sad" emotion from the message content.
[1807] Response Customization
[1808] Step 1:
[1809] The server generates a response based on the results of the emotion engine. For example, if the recognized emotion is "sad," the server generates a response such as "That's terrible, I felt the same way."
[1810] Step 2:
[1811] The server sends the generated response to the terminal.
[1812] Step 3:
[1813] The user confirms the customized response through the terminal.
[1814] Storing Emotional Data
[1815] Step 1:
[1816] The server stores the recognized emotion data in a database, allowing future reference of the user's emotion history.
[1817] Through these steps, the system recognizes the user's emotions and provides responses based on those emotions, thereby deepening the connection with the deceased and strengthening emotional support.
[1818] Example 2
[1819] 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."
[1820] In a system that virtually enables communication with the deceased and provides psychological support by allowing users to converse with and receive advice from the deceased, it is necessary to recognize the user's emotions and provide appropriate responses accordingly. However, existing systems lack the ability to understand the user's emotions and customize responses based on those emotions, which leads to a problem of users not being able to achieve sufficient satisfaction.
[1821] The identification process by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for inputting messages and episodes from the deceased, means for transmitting the input messages and episodes to the server, means for storing the received messages and episodes in a database, means for receiving a conversation request with the deceased, means for generating an appropriate response from the stored data, means for transmitting the generated response, means for analyzing the message or question input by the user and recognizing emotions, means for customizing a response based on the recognized emotions, and means for storing the recognized emotion data in a database. This makes it possible to understand the user's emotions and provide an appropriate and satisfying response based on them.
[1822] "Deceased" refers to individuals covered by this system who have passed away.
[1823] "Messages and episodes" refers to textual information and stories related to the deceased.
[1824] "User" refers to a person who uses this system to virtually communicate with a deceased person.
[1825] "Terminal" refers to an electronic device that allows a user to access the system and input, view, and send messages and episodes.
[1826] "Server" means a computer system capable of receiving, storing, and analyzing input data, and generating and transmitting an appropriate response.
[1827] "Database" refers to an information storage system managed by a server for storing messages, episodes, and emotional data.
[1828] "Conversation Request" refers to a request that a user enters and submits to initiate a virtual conversation with a deceased person.
[1829] A "response" is a message generated by the server based on a conversation request or input data, and refers to the content sent in reply to the user.
[1830] "Analysis" refers to the process of understanding the text data entered by the user and extracting their intent and emotions.
[1831] "Emotion recognition" refers to the technology of identifying emotions from user input data.
[1832] "Response customization" refers to the process of tailoring the content of the responses generated by the system based on perceived emotions.
[1833] "Emotion data" refers to emotional information analyzed from user input and stored in a database.
[1834] An "appropriate response" refers to a reply that is useful and emotionally relevant to the user, generated in consideration of the stored message, episode, and the user's emotions.
[1835] "Advice" refers to answers to users' questions or problems that are generated based on past messages and stories from the deceased.
[1836] "Uploading" refers to the act of a user sending data such as photos and stories about the deceased to a server.
[1837] The present invention provides a system that enables virtual communication with a deceased person, and includes a function that recognizes the user's emotions and customizes responses according to those emotions. This system is realized using a server, a terminal, and a database.
[1838] System Configuration
[1839] The system consists of the following main components:
[1840] Server: A computer system that receives, analyzes, stores, and generates a response to data.
[1841] Device: The electronic device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, PC) through which a user accesses the system and inputs and receives data.
[1842] Database: An information storage system that stores messages and stories from the deceased, as well as user emotional data.
[1843] Hardware and Software
[1844] Hardware: A server is a computer with a powerful processor and large storage capacity that efficiently processes requests from multiple users. A terminal is a typical user device.
[1845] Software: The server analyzes text data using natural language processing (NLP) technology. Specifically, it uses a generative AI model (e.g., GPT-3) to understand natural language and generate appropriate responses. The emotion engine is a module for recognizing emotions from user input.
[1846] Message storage examples
[1847] The user inputs messages and stories about the deceased through the device. For example, they input "a recipe that grandma taught me." The device then sends this data to the server, which stores the received data in a database. This allows the user to view these messages later.
[1848] Conversation feature examples
[1849] The user sends a conversation request from the device, asking "How are you doing lately?" The device sends this request data to the server. The server analyzes the received request and generates an appropriate response from the stored data. The generated response might be something like "I'm fine. I went for a walk today." The server then sends this response data to the device, where the user can view the response.
[1850] Examples of advice from the deceased
[1851] The user inputs a question from the device, such as "I'm having trouble deciding what to do at work..." The device then sends this question data to the server. The server analyzes the received question and searches for relevant data on the deceased. Based on the results, it generates specific advice. For example, it could say, "When you're unsure, first think about what you really want to do." The server then sends this advice data to the device, where it can be viewed by the user.
[1852] Examples of sharing memories of the deceased
[1853] The user uploads photos and stories about the deceased from their device. For example, they upload "photos taken with Grandma." The device sends this data to the server, which stores the received photos and stories in a database. When the user sends a request to view memories, the server searches the database for the corresponding memories and sends the results to the device. The user can then view "photos taken with Grandma at the summer festival."
[1854] Examples of emotion engines
[1855] The device uses an emotion engine to analyze the emotions expressed in messages and questions entered by the user. For example, if a user enters "I've been feeling very lonely lately," the engine recognizes this as "sad." The server receives the emotion data from the emotion engine and customizes a response based on that emotion. For example, if the user's emotion is "sad," the response might be something like "That's tough, I used to feel the same way." The recognized emotion data is also stored in a database, allowing the user's emotion history to be referenced in the future.
[1856] Prompt Sentence Examples
[1857] Do you want to save "Grandma's Recipes"?
[1858] Start a conversation: "How are you doing these days?"
[1859] Seeking advice from the deceased: "I'm having trouble with my work..."
[1860] This allows the system to recognize the user's emotions and provide appropriate content and advice, deepening the connection with the deceased and providing psychological support.
[1861] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[1862] Step 1:
[1863] Enter your message
[1864] The user inputs a message or story about the deceased through the device's interface. For example, they input "a recipe that Grandma taught me." The input data (in text format) is sent to the device. Input: Text data from the user. Output: Formatted input data. In concrete terms, the device uses an input form and voice recognition software.
[1865] Step 2:
[1866] Sending data
[1867] The terminal converts the input data into an appropriate format (for example, JSON format) and sends it to the server using an HTTP request. Input: Formatted input data. Output: Request to the server. Specifically, the terminal uses SSL / TLS encrypted communication to send data safely.
[1868] Step 3:
[1869] Data storage
[1870] The server validates the received data (for example, escaping special characters and checking the data format) and then stores it in the database. Input: Data sent to the server. Output: Records stored in the database. Specifically, the server inserts the data using a database management system (DBMS).
[1871] Step 4:
[1872] Entering a conversation request
[1873] The user enters a conversation request such as "What's up lately?" into the terminal and clicks the send button. Input: User's conversation request (text format). Output: Formatted request data from the terminal. Specifically, the terminal captures the user's input and generates request data.
[1874] Step 5:
[1875] Submitting a Request
[1876] The terminal sends the request data to the server. Input: Formatted request data. Output: Request to the server. As a specific operation, the terminal again sends the data using the HTTPS protocol.
[1877] Step 6:
[1878] Parsing the request
[1879] The server analyzes the received request data. It uses NLP techniques to understand the intent of the request and extract information to generate an appropriate message. Input: Request data sent to the server. Output: Analysis results. Specifically, the server processes the request data using a generative AI model.
[1880] Step 7:
[1881] Generating a response
[1882] The server searches for appropriate messages and episodes from a stored database and generates a response according to the user's request. Input: Analysis results and database contents. Output: Generated response text. Specifically, the server uses the generative AI model to generate an appropriate response message.
[1883] Step 8:
[1884] Sending a Response
[1885] The server sends the generated response to the terminal. Input: Generated response text. Output: HTTP response to the terminal. Specifically, the server sends the response data using the HTTPS protocol.
[1886] Step 9:
[1887] Viewing the response
[1888] The terminal displays the received response data to the user. It is displayed in text format, so the user can check the response content. Input: Received response data. Output: Text displayed on the terminal display. Specifically, the terminal displays the text using a GUI.
[1889] Step 10:
[1890] emotion recognition
[1891] The device analyzes messages and questions entered by the user and recognizes emotions using an emotion engine. Input: User input such as "I've been feeling very lonely lately." Output: Recognized emotion (e.g., "sad"). Specific operations of the device include using emotion recognition software.
[1892] Step 11:
[1893] Sending emotional data
[1894] The device sends the results of the emotion engine to the server. Input: Recognized emotion data. Output: HTTP request to the server. Specifically, the device sends the emotion data via HTTPS.
[1895] Step 12:
[1896] Storing Emotional Data
[1897] The server stores the recognized emotion data in a database. Input: Emotion data sent to the server. Output: Emotion record stored in the database. Specifically, the server inserts data into the database using a DBMS.
[1898] Step 13:
[1899] Customizing the response
[1900] The server customizes the response based on the emotional data stored in the database. Input: Recognized emotional data and database contents. Output: Customized response. Specifically, the server uses the generative AI model again to generate an emotionally relevant response.
[1901] Step 14:
[1902] Sending and Viewing Customized Responses
[1903] The server sends the customized response to the terminal, which displays it to the user. Input: Customized response data. Output: Displayed response text on the terminal. As a specific operation, the server and the terminal perform the sending and display procedures described above again.
[1904] (Application example 2)
[1905] 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."
[1906] The present invention aims to provide more effective psychological support to users by recognizing their emotions and customizing responses based on those emotions in a system that virtually recreates the memories and opinions of the deceased. It also aims to provide a virtual shopping experience in which users can receive advice from the deceased and reminisce about their memories through virtual communication with the deceased.
[1907] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.
[1908] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting messages and events from the deceased, means for transmitting the input messages and events to the server, means for storing the received messages and events in a database, means for receiving a conversation request with the deceased, means for generating an appropriate response from the stored data, means for transmitting the generated response, means for recognizing the user's emotions, and means for customizing the response based on the recognized emotions. This allows the user to receive psychological support through a conversation with the deceased and obtain an appropriate response according to their emotions.
[1909] "Deceased" refers to a person who has died during their lifetime.
[1910] "Communication content" refers to information such as messages, advice, and anecdotes left by the deceased during their lifetime.
[1911] "Events" refer to specific experiences and memories related to the deceased.
[1912] "Server" refers to a computer system for storing and analyzing data.
[1913] "Database" refers to an information system for storing and managing received communications and events.
[1914] A "conversation request" refers to a request indicating a user's desire to virtually interact with a deceased person.
[1915] "Response" refers to a message or reply from a deceased person generated based on a user's request.
[1916] "Emotion" refers to the psychological state or feeling of a user.
[1917] "Means for recognizing emotions" refers to technologies and systems for analyzing and identifying a user's emotional state from their input.
[1918] "Means for customizing responses" refers to methods and techniques for generating more appropriate responses based on the recognized user sentiment.
[1919] A "prompt" is a piece of text that instructs a generative AI model on what response to generate.
[1920] A "generative AI model" refers to an artificial intelligence model that generates appropriate responses based on user input and emotions.
[1921] The present invention is a system that provides virtual communication with a deceased person and customizes responses based on the user's emotions. This system is equipped with a series of means for the user to input messages and stories about the deceased, and to store and utilize the data. In addition, by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions, it is possible to generate more appropriate responses.
[1922] To realize this system, the following main components are required:
[1923] 1. Input and transmission methods:
[1924] Users use devices such as smartphones or head-mounted displays (HMDs) to input messages, stories, photos, etc. about the deceased. This data is then sent from the device to the server.
[1925] 2. Data storage means:
[1926] The server stores received data such as messages, episodes, and photos in a database, which serves as the basis for generating responses to issued requests.
[1927] 3. Emotion recognition means:
[1928] The server analyzes the messages and questions entered by the user and uses the emotion engine to recognize the user's emotion. For example, if the user enters "I've been feeling very lonely lately," the emotion engine will recognize the user's emotion as "sad."
[1929] 4. Response Generation Method:
[1930] The server generates an appropriate response based on the recognized emotion, which is in tune with the user's emotions and allows for a virtual conversation with the deceased.
[1931] 5. Prompt generation:
[1932] The server generates a prompt to generate an appropriate response for the generative AI model. The following is an example of a prompt:
[1933] "News! Sentiment analysis needed: User typed 'I've been feeling very lonely lately'."
[1934] "News! User says 'I've been feeling really lonely lately'. Recognized emotion is 'sad'. Generate an appropriate response."
[1935] This allows users to receive psychological support through virtual conversations with the deceased. Sharing memories with the deceased also helps users find peace of mind. This system is built using a complex technology that includes a smartphone, a head-mounted display (HMD), a server, a database, an emotion engine, and a generative AI model.
[1936] For example, if a user inputs "a recipe that my grandmother taught me" and stores that information in a database, when the user later requests "Tell me my grandmother's recipes," the appropriate recipe information will be provided as a response. In this way, virtual communication between the user and the deceased is realized.
[1937] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
[1938] Step 1:
[1939] The user inputs a message or story about the deceased into the device. The input data includes text and images. This is the input data.
[1940] Step 2:
[1941] The device sends the entered messages, episodes, and images to the server, where the data is properly formatted and sent over the Internet.
[1942] Step 3:
[1943] The server stores the received data in a database, which stores messages, stories, and images of the deceased for each user in a structured manner.
[1944] Step 4:
[1945] The user sends a conversation request through the terminal. For example, the user types, "Tell me how you've been lately." This input data is sent to the server.
[1946] Step 5:
[1947] The server analyzes the received conversation request and determines the appropriate response by searching the database for related messages and stories about the deceased person and generating appropriate response data.
[1948] Step 6:
[1949] The server sends the generated response data to the generative AI model as a prompt sentence. An example of a prompt sentence is "News! The user entered 'Tell me how you've been lately.'"
[1950] Step 7:
[1951] The generative AI model generates a response based on the prompt sentence, and the generated response is text data expressed in natural language.
[1952] Step 8:
[1953] The server receives the response data returned by the generative AI model and sends it to the device. This response data is customized to make the conversation natural for the user.
[1954] Step 9:
[1955] The terminal displays the received response data to the user, allowing the user to have a virtual conversation with the deceased.
[1956] Step 10:
[1957] If the user enters an additional question or message, the process repeats from step 4 to step 9, allowing for a continuous dialogue.
[1958] 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.
[1959] 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.
[1960] 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 robot 414.
[1961] 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.
[1962] 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.
[1963] 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.
[1964] 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).
[1965] 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.
[1966] 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."
[1967] 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.
[1968] 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).
[1969] 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.
[1970] 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.
[1971] 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.
[1972] 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.
[1973] 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.
[1974] 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.
[1975] 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.
[1976] 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.
[1977] 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.
[1978] 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.
[1979] The following is further disclosed regarding the above embodiment.
[1980] (Claim 1)
[1981] a means for inputting messages and stories from the deceased;
[1982] means for transmitting the input message and episode to a server;
[1983] a means for storing received messages and episodes in a database;
[1984] a means for receiving a request to talk to the deceased;
[1985] means for generating an appropriate response from the stored data;
[1986] means for transmitting the generated response;
[1987] A system including:
[1988] (Claim 2)
[1989] a means of inputting specific problems or questions;
[1990] means for analyzing relevant deceased data based on the questions;
[1991] means for generating advice based on the analysis results;
[1992] means for transmitting the generated advice;
[1993] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:
[1994] (Claim 3)
[1995] A way to upload photos and stories,
[1996] means for transmitting the uploaded data to a server;
[1997] A means of storing received photos and episodes in a database;
[1998] means for retrieving and transmitting the stored data;
[1999] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:
[2000] (Claim 4)
[2001] a means for inputting data relating to the remains;
[2002] A means for transmitting the input data to a server and storing it in a database;
[2003] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:
[2004] "Example 1"
[2005] (Claim 1)
[2006] A means for a user to input a message and anecdotes about the deceased;
[2007] means for transmitting the input message and episode from the terminal to a server;
[2008] a means for storing received messages and episodes in a database;
[2009] a means for a user to input a request to talk to the deceased;
[2010] a means for using a generative AI model to generate an appropriate response from the stored data;
[2011] means for transmitting the generated response to the terminal;
[2012] A system including:
[2013] (Claim 2)
[2014] means for inputting a specific question by the user;
[2015] means for transmitting the input question from the terminal to a server;
[2016] means for analyzing relevant deceased data based on the questions;
[2017] a means for using a generative AI model to generate advice based on the analysis results;
[2018] means for transmitting the generated advice to a terminal;
[2019] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:
[2020] (Claim 3)
[2021] A means for users to upload photos and stories about the deceased;
[2022] means for transmitting the uploaded data from the terminal to a server;
[2023] A means of storing received photos and episodes in a database;
[2024] a means for inputting a user's memory viewing request;
[2025] means for retrieving the stored data and transmitting relevant data to the terminal;
[2026] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:
[2027] "Application Example 1"
[2028] (Claim 1)
[2029] a means for entering information about the deceased;
[2030] means for transmitting the input information to a communication device;
[2031] means for storing the received information in a storage device;
[2032] means for receiving a request to interact with the deceased;
[2033] means for generating an appropriate response from the stored information;
[2034] means for transmitting the generated response;
[2035] means for streaming information of the deceased person to a user via a smart device;
[2036] A system including:
[2037] (Claim 2)
[2038] a means for inputting a specific question;
[2039] means for analyzing relevant deceased information based on the questions;
[2040] means for generating advice based on the analysis results;
[2041] means for transmitting the generated advice;
[2042] a means for streaming the generated advice via a smart device;
[2043] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:
[2044] (Claim 3)
[2045] A means to upload image data and episodes,
[2046] means for transmitting the uploaded data to a communication device;
[2047] means for storing the received image data and episodes in a storage device;
[2048] means for retrieving and transmitting the stored data;
[2049] A means to stream stored memories via smart devices;
[2050] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:
[2051] "Example 2: Combining Emotion Engines"
[2052] (Claim 1)
[2053] a means for inputting messages and stories from the deceased;
[2054] means for transmitting the input message and episode to a server;
[2055] a means for storing received messages and episodes in a database;
[2056] a means for receiving a request to talk to the deceased;
[2057] means for generating an appropriate response from the stored data;
[2058] means for transmitting the generated response;
[2059] A means for analyzing messages and questions entered by users and recognizing their emotions;
[2060] a means for customizing responses based on the perceived emotion;
[2061] a means for storing the recognized emotion data in a database;
[2062] A system including:
[2063] (Claim 2)
[2064] a means of inputting specific problems or questions;
[2065] means for analyzing relevant deceased data based on the questions;
[2066] means for generating advice based on the analysis results;
[2067] means for transmitting the generated advice;
[2068] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:
[2069] (Claim 3)
[2070] A way to upload photos and stories,
[2071] means for transmitting the uploaded data to a server;
[2072] A means of storing received photos and episodes in a database;
[2073] means for retrieving and transmitting the stored data;
[2074] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:
[2075] "Application example 2 when combining emotion engines"
[2076] (Claim 1)
[2077] a means for inputting communications and events made by the deceased;
[2078] means for transmitting the input communications and events to a server;
[2079] means for storing received communications and events in a database;
[2080] a means for receiving a request to talk to the deceased;
[2081] means for generating an appropriate response from the stored data;
[2082] means for transmitting the generated response;
[2083] means for recognizing a user's emotion;
[2084] a means for customizing responses based on the perceived emotion;
[2085] A system including:
[2086] (Claim 2)
[2087] a means of inputting specific problems or questions;
[2088] means for analyzing relevant deceased data based on the questions;
[2089] means for generating advice based on the analysis results;
[2090] means for transmitting the generated advice;
[2091] a means for generating a prompt sentence from the generative AI model;
[2092] 10. The system of claim 1.
[2093] (Claim 3)
[2094] A way to upload images and events,
[2095] means for transmitting the uploaded data to a server;
[2096] a means of storing received images and events in a database;
[2097] means for retrieving and transmitting the stored data;
[2098] 10. The system of claim 1. [Explanation of symbols]
[2099] 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 inputting messages and stories from the deceased; means for transmitting the input message and episode to a server; a means for storing received messages and episodes in a database; a means for receiving a request to talk to the deceased; means for generating an appropriate response from the stored data; means for transmitting the generated response; A system including:
2. a means of inputting specific problems or questions; means for analyzing relevant deceased data based on the questions; means for generating advice based on the analysis results; means for transmitting the generated advice; The system of claim 1 , comprising:
3. A way to upload photos and stories, means for transmitting the uploaded data to a server; A means of storing received photos and episodes in a database; means for retrieving and transmitting the stored data; The system of claim 1 , comprising:
4. a means for inputting data relating to the remains; A means for transmitting the input data to a server and storing it in a database; The system of claim 1 , comprising:
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Persona chatbot control method and system
JP2022180282A