System
The system addresses high carbon emissions and inefficient energy use in food supply chains by matching local producers with consumer demand, optimizing transport routes, and promoting eco-friendly packaging, resulting in a sustainable and environmentally friendly food supply chain.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2024128462
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-08-02
- Publication Date
- 2026-02-16
AI Technical Summary
The conventional food supply chain faces high carbon dioxide emissions due to long-distance transportation, inefficient energy use, and insufficient adoption of sustainable production methods, with a lack of support for local communities and excessive environmental impact from refrigerated transport and plastic packaging.
A system that matches local producers with consumer demand, recommends sustainable production methods, optimizes refrigerated and frozen transport routes, improves energy efficiency, promotes eco-friendly packaging materials, and provides environmental information to consumers, using a server to acquire and analyze data and provide recommendations.
This system builds an efficient and sustainable food supply chain that minimizes environmental impact by optimizing supply and demand, promoting sustainable practices, and reducing energy consumption and plastic use.
Smart Images

Figure 2026025653000001_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] The conventional food supply chain has a problem of high carbon dioxide emissions due to long-distance transportation and inefficient energy use, which has a negative impact on the environment. Furthermore, the adoption of sustainable production methods has not progressed, and support for local communities is insufficient. Refrigerated and frozen transportation consumes a lot of energy, and the use of plastic packaging also places a burden on the environment. The purpose of this invention is to solve these problems and build a carbon-neutral food supply chain while minimizing the environmental burden. [Means for solving the problem]
[0005] This invention provides a system that matches local producers with consumer demand, recommends sustainable production methods, optimizes refrigerated and frozen transport routes, improves energy efficiency, promotes the adoption of eco-friendly packaging materials, and provides environmental information to consumers. Specifically, a server acquires producer supply information and consumer demand information and matches supply and demand based on these information. Next, the server acquires farm production information and recommends sustainable agricultural practices such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management. Furthermore, the server acquires current transport route information for transport vehicles and recalculates routes based on the shortest distance and minimum time. The server also acquires energy consumption information for food production facilities and warehouses and recommends the introduction of energy-efficient equipment. Finally, the server acquires information on currently used packaging materials and recommends biodegradable packaging materials. Finally, the server provides information on environmental considerations via an application, collects consumer feedback, and improves the quality and content of the information provided. This results in an efficient and sustainable food supply chain and minimizes environmental impact.
[0006] "Local producer" refers to an individual or group that produces agricultural or food products in a nearby geographic area.
[0007] "Consumer" refers to the end user who purchases and uses food and services.
[0008] "Matching" refers to the process of coordinating and matching supply and demand between suppliers and consumers.
[0009] "Sustainable production methods" refer to agricultural and food production methods that maintain long-term productivity while minimizing the burden on the environment.
[0010] "Refrigerated and frozen transport" refers to the transport of food that requires temperature control in a cooled or frozen state to keep it fresh.
[0011] "Route optimization" refers to the process of efficiently planning the routes of transport vehicles to minimize distance, time and energy consumption.
[0012] "Energy efficiency" refers to the ability to minimize energy use and maximize effectiveness.
[0013] "Eco-packaging materials" refers to packaging materials that are environmentally friendly, degradable or recyclable.
[0014] "Environmental information" refers to knowledge and data about environmental impacts and sustainable options.
[0015] "Application" means software that runs on a computer or mobile device and provides specific functions or services.
[0016] "Feedback" refers to reactions and opinions from users that help improve systems and services. [Brief explanation of the drawings]
[0017] [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
[0018] 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.
[0019] First, the terms used in the following description will be explained.
[0020] 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).
[0021] 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.
[0022] 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.
[0023] 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.
[0024] 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."
[0025] [First embodiment]
[0026] FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 10 according to the first embodiment.
[0027] 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.
[0028] 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).
[0029] 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.
[0030] 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.
[0031] 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.
[0032] 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.
[0033] FIG. 2 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart device 14.
[0034] 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.
[0035] 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.
[0036] 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.
[0037] 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."
[0038] This invention is a system for building a carbon-neutral food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact. The system includes means for matching local producers with consumer demand, encouraging sustainable production methods, optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes, improving energy efficiency, promoting the adoption of eco-packaging materials, and providing environmental information to consumers.
[0039] Program Description
[0040] Building a local food supply network
[0041] 1. The server gets supply information from local producers and demand information from consumers. For example, the server inputs that producer A supplies 50 apples and consumer B needs 50 apples.
[0042] 2. The server matches supply and demand information to build an efficient supply chain. The matched information is stored in a database and used to manage supply and demand.
[0043] Adoption of sustainable production methods
[0044] 1. The server obtains farm production information and recommends sustainable production methods. For example, if Farm C uses chemical fertilizers, the server recommends sustainable methods such as organic farming and crop rotation.
[0045] 2. The server will monitor the implementation of recommended sustainable production practices and evaluate their effectiveness.
[0046] Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport
[0047] 1. The server obtains the current transport route information of the refrigerated transport vehicle. For example, the server obtains the route of refrigerated vehicle X from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[0048] 2. The server calculates the optimal transport route based on the acquired route information and notifies the transport vehicle, thereby realizing transport with minimal energy consumption.
[0049] Improved energy efficiency
[0050] 1. The server acquires energy consumption information from food production facilities and warehouses and recommends efficient energy usage methods. For example, the server suggests installing a high-efficiency heating and cooling system for Warehouse D.
[0051] 2. The server monitors the energy consumption of new equipment that has been installed and evaluates its efficiency.
[0052] Reducing plastic
[0053] 1. The server obtains information about the packaging materials currently in use and recommends eco-friendly packaging materials. For example, if product E uses single-use plastic, the server recommends using biodegradable materials.
[0054] 2. The server will monitor the implementation status of the recommended eco-packaging materials and evaluate their effectiveness.
[0055] consumer education
[0056] 1. The server provides environmental information to consumers and raises their awareness. For example, the server provides consumer F with information about options with a low carbon footprint through an application.
[0057] 2. The server collects consumer feedback and improves the quality and content of the information it provides. Based on the feedback from consumer F, it updates the system to provide even more useful information.
[0058] In this way, each function works together with the server at its core, aiming to build an efficient and sustainable food supply chain. Specific operations are realized through the server's information collection, analysis, recommendations, and monitoring. This system makes it possible to efficiently match supply and demand in the local community while significantly reducing environmental impact.
[0059] The processing flow will be explained below.
[0060] Step 1:
[0061] The server gets supply information from local producers, for example, producer A supplies 50 apples.
[0062] Step 2:
[0063] The server receives demand information from consumers. For example, it receives information that consumer B needs 50 apples.
[0064] Step 3:
[0065] The server matches supply and demand based on the acquired supply and demand information, and checks whether producer A's supply matches consumer B's demand.
[0066] Step 4:
[0067] The server stores the matched supply and demand information in a database. For example, it is determined that producer A will supply 50 apples to consumer B.
[0068] Step 5:
[0069] The server obtains farm production information and recommends sustainable production methods. For example, it identifies that Farm C uses chemical fertilizers and suggests that they adopt organic farming.
[0070] Step 6:
[0071] The server monitors the implementation of sustainable production methods: it checks whether Farm C has actually adopted organic farming.
[0072] Step 7:
[0073] The server obtains the current route information of refrigerated transport vehicles. It analyzes the route of refrigerated vehicle X from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[0074] Step 8:
[0075] The server optimizes the transportation route, recalculates the transportation route with the shortest distance and the shortest time, and notifies refrigerated vehicle X of the new route.
[0076] Step 9:
[0077] The server obtains energy consumption information for food production facilities and warehouses. It is determined that Warehouse D uses an outdated heating and cooling system.
[0078] Step 10:
[0079] The server proposes the installation of a new, highly efficient heating and cooling system to improve energy efficiency. The server provides advice to Warehouse D on reducing energy consumption.
[0080] Step 11:
[0081] The server retrieves information about the packaging materials currently in use. It verifies that product E uses single-use plastic.
[0082] Step 12:
[0083] The server recommends the use of biodegradable packaging materials. The server proposes the introduction of eco-friendly packaging materials for product E.
[0084] Step 13:
[0085] The server provides environmental information to consumers, for example, providing consumer F with information about options with a low carbon footprint through an application.
[0086] Step 14:
[0087] The user (consumer F) browses the environmental information provided through the application and selects environmentally conscious options.
[0088] Step 15:
[0089] The server collects feedback from consumers and improves the quality and content of the information it provides. Based on the feedback from consumer F, it updates the system to provide even more useful information.
[0090] Example 1
[0091] 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."
[0092] The current food supply chain has a high environmental impact and lacks sustainability. It also faces serious problems such as a mismatch between supply and demand between consumers and producers, low energy efficiency, and environmental pollution caused by packaging materials such as plastic. Furthermore, consumers have low environmental awareness, and eco-friendly options are not sufficiently available. This calls for efficient matching and optimization to realize a sustainable, carbon-neutral food supply chain.
[0093] 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.
[0094] In this invention, the server includes means for matching producer and consumer demand, means for recommending sustainable production methods, means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transportation routes, means for improving energy efficiency, means for promoting the introduction of environmentally friendly packaging materials, means for providing environmental information to consumers, means for acquiring, storing, analyzing, and notifying information, means for generating a supply chain optimization plan, and means for collecting feedback and improving the information provision system, thereby enabling the construction of an efficient and sustainable food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact.
[0095] "Producer" refers to a person who produces and supplies food products.
[0096] "Consumer" refers to a person who purchases and uses food products.
[0097] "Supply information" is information that indicates the types and quantities of food that producers can supply.
[0098] "Demand information" is information that indicates the types and quantities of food items that consumers need.
[0099] "Sustainable production methods" refers to environmentally friendly agricultural practices such as organic farming, crop rotation and integrated pest management.
[0100] "Route optimization for refrigerated and frozen transport" refers to calculating and executing the optimal transport route to improve energy efficiency.
[0101] "Energy efficiency" refers to achieving maximum effect with minimum energy consumption.
[0102] "Environmentally friendly packaging materials" refers to environmentally friendly packaging materials such as biodegradable materials.
[0103] "Environmental information" refers to useful information about the environment, such as options with a low carbon footprint.
[0104] "Acquiring information" refers to collecting necessary data from producers, consumers, etc.
[0105] "Storing information" refers to recording acquired data in a database or the like.
[0106] "Information analysis" refers to analyzing acquired data and extracting meaningful information.
[0107] "Notification of information" refers to informing relevant parties of the results of the analysis.
[0108] "Supply Chain Optimization Plan" refers to a plan for building an efficient food supply chain.
[0109] "Feedback collection" refers to collecting ratings and opinions from consumers.
[0110] "Improving the information provision system" refers to improving the system's functions and the information provided based on collected feedback.
[0111] This invention is a system for building a carbon-neutral food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact. This system is designed with a server, a terminal, and a user as its main components.
[0112] ---
[0113] System Configuration
[0114] 1. Server
[0115] The server plays a central role and performs the following functions:
[0116] Data acquisition and storage: The server acquires supply and demand information from producers and consumers and stores it in a database.
[0117] Data analysis and matching: The server analyzes the acquired data and performs matching to build an efficient supply chain.
[0118] Recommend and inform: The server recommends and informs stakeholders about sustainable production methods, energy-efficient methods, optimal transport routes, and environmentally friendly packaging materials.
[0119] Monitoring and Evaluation: The server will monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of any new methods or equipment introduced.
[0120] Feedback collection: The server collects feedback from consumers to help improve the system.
[0121] 2. Terminal
[0122] The terminal provides an interface for the user to enter and view information.
[0123] Data entry: Producers, consumers, drivers, and facility managers enter necessary information through terminals, including supply information, demand information, transport route information, energy consumption information, and packaging material information.
[0124] Viewing and updating information: Users receive recommendations and notifications from the server through their devices and update information as needed.
[0125] 3. Users
[0126] Users are individuals or organizations who play roles such as producers, consumers, drivers, and facility managers.
[0127] Providing information: The user enters the necessary information according to their role into the terminal and sends it to the server.
[0128] Implementing recommendations: Implementing recommendations sent by the server and providing feedback on their implementation and effectiveness.
[0129] ---
[0130] software
[0131] The software used in this system includes the following:
[0132] Database Management System (DBMS): Used to efficiently store and manage acquired data.
[0133] Analysis algorithms: The algorithms used to analyze and match the data.
[0134] Notification system: A system for quickly notifying users of recommendations and information.
[0135] Monitoring tools: Tools to track and evaluate the effectiveness of implemented methods and equipment.
[0136] ---
[0137] Specific examples
[0138] 1. Matching supply and demand
[0139] The server receives information that producer A can supply 50 apples and that consumer B needs 50 apples. The server then matches this supply with demand and generates a plan to optimize the supply chain.
[0140] 2. Promoting sustainable production methods
[0141] The server obtains information on Farm C's use of chemical fertilizers and recommends organic farming and crop rotation. It notifies the producer of the recommendations and monitors their adoption.
[0142] 3. Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport
[0143] The server obtains the transport route information from Sapporo to Tokyo entered by Driver X, calculates the optimal route, and notifies the driver.
[0144] 4. Improved energy efficiency
[0145] The server acquires energy consumption information for Warehouse D and proposes the introduction of a highly efficient heating and cooling system. The effectiveness of the introduced equipment is monitored and evaluated.
[0146] 5. Reduce plastic
[0147] The server obtains information that product E uses single-use plastic and recommends the use of biodegradable materials. The effect of the introduction is monitored and evaluated.
[0148] 6. Consumer education
[0149] The server provides environmental information about options with a low carbon footprint to consumer F. Consumer feedback is collected and the information provision system is improved.
[0150] ---
[0151] Prompt Sentence Examples
[0152] Examples of input prompts for a generative AI model include:
[0153] Prompt: "If a local producer supplies 50 apples and a consumer needs 50 apples, explain how to create an efficient supply chain."
[0154] In this way, the system efficiently processes diverse information and provides concrete means for building a sustainable food supply chain.
[0155] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[0156] Building a local food supply network
[0157] Step 1: Obtain supply and demand information
[0158] The user (producer) uses a terminal to input supply information (e.g., 50 apples).
[0159] A user (consumer) uses a terminal to input demand information (e.g., 50 apples).
[0160] The server receives this input information and stores it in a database. The input data is represented in JSON format and stored in the database.
[0161] Step 2: Matching supply and demand information
[0162] The server retrieves supply and demand information from a database.
[0163] The server runs a supply and demand matching algorithm to generate an efficient supply chain.
[0164] The matching results are stored in a database and then notified to the producer and consumer.
[0165] ---
[0166] Adoption of sustainable production methods
[0167] Step 1: Obtaining production information
[0168] The user (producer) uses a terminal to input information about the current production method and materials being used (e.g., the use of chemical fertilizers).
[0169] The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[0170] Step 2: Recommend and monitor
[0171] The server analyzes the production information in the database.
[0172] The server recommends sustainable production methods such as organic farming and crop rotation and notifies producers of these recommendations.
[0173] Monitor whether recommendations have been implemented and record this in a database.
[0174] The effectiveness will also be evaluated in parallel.
[0175] ---
[0176] Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport
[0177] Step 1: Obtaining transport route information
[0178] The user (driver) uses the terminal to input the current location and destination information of the transport vehicle (for example, from Sapporo to Tokyo).
[0179] The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[0180] Step 2: Calculate the optimal route
[0181] The server retrieves the transportation route information in the database and uses analytical algorithms to calculate the optimal route.
[0182] Once the optimal route is calculated, the server notifies the driver of the results and updates the transportation instructions.
[0183] ---
[0184] Improved energy efficiency
[0185] Step 1: Obtaining energy consumption information
[0186] A user (facility manager) uses a terminal to input energy consumption information (e.g., power consumption) for a facility or warehouse.
[0187] The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[0188] Step 2: Recommend efficient energy usage
[0189] The server analyzes the energy consumption information in the database and recommends efficient energy usage methods, such as high-efficiency heating and cooling systems.
[0190] Communicate recommendations to facility managers and monitor their implementation.
[0191] The effectiveness of the installed equipment is evaluated and recorded in a database.
[0192] ---
[0193] Reducing plastic
[0194] Step 1: Obtaining information on packaging materials
[0195] The user (product manager) uses a terminal to input information about the packaging material currently being used (e.g., single-use plastic).
[0196] The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[0197] Step 2: Recommending and monitoring eco-friendly packaging materials
[0198] The server analyzes packaging material information in the database and recommends eco-friendly packaging materials such as biodegradable materials.
[0199] Communicate recommendations to product managers and monitor their implementation.
[0200] Evaluate the effectiveness and record it in a database.
[0201] ---
[0202] consumer education
[0203] Step 1: Provide environmental information
[0204] The server generates environmental information for consumers (e.g., options with a low carbon footprint) and provides it through the application.
[0205] Step 2: Gather feedback and update the system
[0206] The user (consumer) inputs feedback on the information provided through the application.
[0207] The server collects the feedback and stores it in a database.
[0208] The information provision system will be updated based on the analysis results.
[0209] This allows the elements of servers, terminals and users to work together to create a sustainable and efficient food supply chain.
[0210] (Application example 1)
[0211] 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."
[0212] Traditional food supply chains are based on global logistics, placing a heavy burden on the environment. There are also many sustainability concerns, such as declining energy efficiency and increasing plastic waste. To address these issues, it is necessary to efficiently match local producers with consumer demand, promote sustainable production methods, and optimize refrigerated and frozen transportation routes.
[0213] 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.
[0214] In this invention, the server includes means for matching local producers with consumer demand, means for recommending sustainable production methods, means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transportation routes, means for improving energy efficiency, means for promoting the introduction of eco-packaging materials, means for providing environmental information to consumers, means for matching supply and demand through a matching algorithm using a food delivery application for smartphones, means for optimizing delivery vehicle routes, and means for providing consumers with information on eco-friendly options through the application, thereby enabling optimal matching of local producers with consumer demand and the construction of a sustainable food supply chain.
[0215] A "local producer" is a producer whose production activities are within a specific geographic area.
[0216] "Consumer" means the person or entity who ultimately uses the products or services supplied.
[0217] A "demand matching tool" is a method or tool for collecting consumer demand information and finding and connecting it with matching producer supply information.
[0218] "Sustainable production methods" are production techniques and practices that are sustainable over the long term while minimizing the burden on the environment.
[0219] "Means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes" refers to a method or system for selecting an efficient route while maintaining food at the appropriate temperature.
[0220] An "energy efficiency measure" is a method or tool used to maximize efficiency while reducing energy consumption.
[0221] "Eco-packaging materials" are packaging materials that are environmentally friendly, degradable or recyclable.
[0222] "Means for providing environmental information to consumers" are methods or tools for informing consumers about environmental impacts and sustainable options.
[0223] A "food delivery application for smartphones" is application software that runs on a smartphone to order food, deliver food, provide information, etc.
[0224] A "matching algorithm" is a procedure or calculation method for comparing supply and demand information to find the optimal combination.
[0225] A "means for optimizing delivery vehicle routes" is a method or system that calculates and indicates the most efficient route for a delivery vehicle to travel.
[0226] An "eco-friendly choice" is one that takes environmental protection into consideration and involves choosing sustainable materials and methods.
[0227] This invention is a system using a food delivery application for smartphones and includes the following elements:
[0228] Overall system configuration
[0229] 1. A means of matching local producers with consumer demand
[0230] 2. Measures to promote sustainable production methods
[0231] 3. Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes
[0232] 4. Energy Efficiency Measures
[0233] 5. Measures to promote the adoption of eco-packaging materials
[0234] 6. Means of providing environmental information to consumers
[0235] 7. Matching supply and demand using a matching algorithm with a smartphone food delivery application
[0236] 8. Measures to optimize delivery vehicle routes
[0237] 9. A means to inform consumers about eco-friendly choices through apps
[0238] Hardware and software used
[0239] Server: Database management, information processing
[0240] Smartphone: User interface, GPS data
[0241] AI models (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch): matching and optimization algorithms
[0242] Google Maps API: Route Optimization
[0243] Processing Description
[0244] The server obtains supply information from local producers and demand information from consumers. For example, the server receives input from a producer that offers 50 apples and information from a consumer that requires 50 apples.
[0245] The server performs matching based on supply and demand information to build an efficient supply chain. For example, using an AI model (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch), if consumer A needs 10 apples and producer B can provide 20 apples, the optimal matching and route are calculated.
[0246] Delivery vehicle routes are optimized using Google Maps APIs to maximize energy efficiency. For example, when a vehicle travels from Sapporo to Tokyo, real-time traffic information is used to calculate the optimal route.
[0247] Consumers are offered eco-friendly options through a smartphone application, which notifies them of the low environmental impact of products that use eco-friendly packaging, for example.
[0248] Specific examples
[0249] Example prompt sentence:
[0250] "What information can be provided to consumers to help them choose the sustainable option? Consumer A needs 10 apples, and local producer B can provide 20 apples."
[0251] This application makes it possible to optimally match local producers with consumer demand and achieve a sustainable food supply chain. The entire system is designed to be efficient and minimize environmental impact.
[0252] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
[0253] Step 1:
[0254] The server collects supply and demand information from local producers and consumers, respectively. Specifically, it receives as input the types and quantities of food provided by producers and the types and quantities of food required by consumers. This data is stored in a database for later processing.
[0255] Input: Producer supply information, consumer demand information
[0256] Output: Supply and demand information stored in a database
[0257] Step 2:
[0258] The server uses a matching algorithm to create an optimal supply chain based on the collected supply and demand information. During this process, a generative AI model (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) is used to calculate the optimal supply-demand match. For example, if consumer A needs 10 apples and producer B can provide 20 apples, the model will output the optimal match.
[0259] Input: Output data from Step 1 (supply information, demand information)
[0260] Output: Best match information
[0261] Step 3:
[0262] The server then recommends sustainable production methods to producers based on the optimized matching information. Specifically, it acquires the producers' production information and suggests sustainable agricultural practices such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management, thereby minimizing the environmental impact.
[0263] Input: Optimal matching information, producer production information
[0264] Output: Recommended sustainable production methods
[0265] Step 4:
[0266] To optimize delivery vehicle routes, the server retrieves current traffic and geographical data, and uses the Google Maps API to calculate and output the optimal route based on the collected information to maximize energy efficiency.
[0267] Input: Current traffic information, geographic data
[0268] Output: Optimized delivery route
[0269] Step 5:
[0270] To promote the use of eco-friendly packaging materials, the server collects information on currently used packaging materials and recommends environmentally friendly packaging materials. Specifically, it proposes biodegradable and recycled materials and monitors their adoption.
[0271] Input: Current packaging material information
[0272] Output: Recommended eco-packaging material information
[0273] Step 6:
[0274] The server sends notifications to consumers through a smartphone application to provide them with environmental information and eco-friendly choices. For example, if a consumer chooses a product that uses eco-friendly packaging, the server sends a notification informing them of its low environmental impact.
[0275] Input: Eco-Friendly Choice Information
[0276] Output: Notice to consumer
[0277] Example prompt:
[0278] "What information can be provided to consumers to help them choose the sustainable option? Consumer A needs 10 apples, and local producer B can provide 20 apples."
[0279] 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.
[0280] This invention is a system that combines a means of matching local producers with consumer demand, a means of recommending sustainable production methods, a means of optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes, a means of improving energy efficiency, a means of promoting the adoption of eco-packaging materials, a means of providing environmental information to consumers, and an emotion engine that recognizes user emotions. This makes it possible to build a carbon-neutral food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact.
[0281] Program Description
[0282] Building a local food supply network
[0283] 1. The server obtains supply information from local producers. For example, the server receives information that producer A will supply 50 apples.
[0284] 2. The server receives demand information from consumers. For example, the server receives information that consumer B needs 50 apples.
[0285] 3. The server performs matching based on supply and demand information. It checks whether the supply of producer A matches the demand of consumer B.
[0286] 4. The server stores the matching results in a database and manages supply and demand.
[0287] Adoption of sustainable production methods
[0288] 1. The server obtains production information for the farm. For example, the server checks whether Farm C uses chemical fertilizer.
[0289] 2. The server recommends sustainable production methods, such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management, to Farm C.
[0290] 3. The server monitors the implementation of sustainable production methods: Check whether Farm C has adopted organic farming.
[0291] Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport
[0292] 1. The server obtains the current route information of the refrigerated transport vehicle. For example, the server obtains the route information of refrigerated vehicle X going from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[0293] 2. The server calculates the optimal transportation route, calculating the route with the shortest distance and time, and notifies refrigerated vehicle X.
[0294] Improved energy efficiency
[0295] 1. The server obtains energy consumption information for food production facilities and warehouses. For example, it determines that Warehouse D uses an outdated heating and cooling system.
[0296] 2. The server recommends the introduction of energy-efficient equipment. The server proposes the introduction of a high-efficiency heating and cooling system to Warehouse D.
[0297] 3. The server monitors the progress of energy efficiency improvements to ensure that new equipment is actually reducing energy consumption.
[0298] Reducing plastic
[0299] 1. The server obtains information on packaging materials currently in use. It checks that product E uses single-use plastic.
[0300] 2. The server recommends biodegradable packaging materials and proposes the introduction of eco-friendly packaging materials for product E.
[0301] 3. The server monitors the progress of plastic reduction and checks whether product E has been changed to eco-friendly packaging materials.
[0302] consumer education
[0303] 1. The server provides environmental information to consumers. For example, it provides consumer F with options and benefits that result in a lower carbon footprint through an application.
[0304] 2. The user (Consumer F) views the environmental information provided through the application and selects environmentally conscious options.
[0305] Implementing the Emotion Engine
[0306] 1. The server is equipped with an emotion engine to collect user emotions, for example, to collect emotion data while the user is using the application.
[0307] 2. The server analyzes the collected emotion data and customizes the information provided to the user. For example, if the user expresses positive emotion toward the environmental information, the server provides more detailed information.
[0308] 3. The server enhances the content provided based on the user's emotions. Based on the user's feedback and emotional data, the server improves the way it provides environmental information.
[0309] This allows the system to provide optimal environmental information to each individual user while taking into account the user's emotions. Specific operations are carried out through information acquisition, analysis, suggestions, and monitoring. This system enables consumers to make more effective environmentally conscious choices, significantly reducing the environmental burden.
[0310] The processing flow will be explained below.
[0311] Step 1:
[0312] The server obtains supply information from local producers. For example, the server receives information that producer A will supply 50 apples.
[0313] Step 2:
[0314] The server receives demand information from consumers. For example, the server receives information that consumer B needs 50 apples.
[0315] Step 3:
[0316] The server matches supply and demand based on the acquired supply and demand information. Specifically, it checks whether the supply of producer A matches the demand of consumer B.
[0317] Step 4:
[0318] The server stores the matched supply and demand information in a database. For example, it is determined that producer A will supply 50 apples to consumer B.
[0319] Step 5:
[0320] The server obtains farm production information. For example, the server checks whether Farm C uses chemical fertilizer.
[0321] Step 6:
[0322] The server recommends sustainable production practices, such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management for Farm C.
[0323] Step 7:
[0324] The server monitors the implementation of sustainable production methods. It periodically checks whether Farm C has actually adopted organic farming.
[0325] Step 8:
[0326] The server obtains the current route information of the refrigerated transport vehicle. For example, the server obtains the route information of refrigerated vehicle X going from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[0327] Step 9:
[0328] The server calculates the optimal transportation route, specifically the route with the shortest distance and time, and notifies refrigerated vehicle X of the new route information.
[0329] Step 10:
[0330] The server acquires energy consumption information for food production facilities and warehouses. For example, it checks that Warehouse D uses an outdated heating and cooling system.
[0331] Step 11:
[0332] The server recommends the introduction of energy-efficient equipment. Specifically, it proposes the introduction of a highly efficient heating and cooling system in Warehouse D.
[0333] Step 12:
[0334] The server monitors the progress of energy efficiency improvements to ensure that new equipment is actually reducing energy consumption.
[0335] Step 13:
[0336] The server obtains information about the packaging materials currently in use, for example, whether product E uses single-use plastic.
[0337] Step 14:
[0338] The server recommends the use of eco-friendly packaging materials, specifically, the introduction of biodegradable packaging materials for product E.
[0339] Step 15:
[0340] The server monitors the progress of plastic reduction and checks whether product E has been changed to eco-friendly packaging materials.
[0341] Step 16:
[0342] The server provides environmental information to consumers. For example, it provides consumer F with information about options with a low carbon footprint and their benefits through an application.
[0343] Step 17:
[0344] The user (consumer F) browses the environmental information provided through the application and selects environmentally conscious options.
[0345] Step 18:
[0346] The server activates an emotion engine to collect user emotions. Emotion data is collected while the user is using the application.
[0347] Step 19:
[0348] The server analyzes the collected emotion data, specifically, it analyzes what emotion the user is expressing in response to the provided environmental information.
[0349] Step 20:
[0350] The server customizes the information it provides based on the emotion data, for example, providing more detailed environmental information if the user is expressing positive emotion.
[0351] Step 21:
[0352] The server improves the quality and content of the information it provides based on user feedback and emotion data. Specifically, it optimizes the way it provides information by reflecting feedback from user F.
[0353] Example 2
[0354] 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."
[0355] The current food supply chain not only lacks efficiency, but also has a significant environmental impact. Specifically, it faces a mismatch between producer and consumer demand, unsustainable production methods, inefficient refrigerated and frozen transportation routes, low-energy-efficiency facilities, excessive use of plastic, and a lack of environmental awareness among consumers. Another issue is the lack of information provided based on consumer emotions and interests. These challenges exacerbate the negative impact on the environment and hinder the realization of a carbon-neutral supply chain.
[0356] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the second embodiment is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes a means for matching local producers with consumer demand, a means for recommending sustainable production methods, a means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transportation routes, a means for improving energy efficiency, a means for promoting the introduction of eco-packaging materials, a means for providing environmental information to consumers, and a means for collecting and analyzing user sentiment data and customizing the information to be provided. This increases the efficiency of the food supply chain, reduces the environmental burden, and enables the construction of a carbon-neutral supply chain.
[0357] A "local producer" is an individual or organization that produces agricultural or food products within a specific geographic area.
[0358] "Consumer" means any person or entity that uses or consumes food or agricultural products.
[0359] A "demand matching means" is a method or device for collecting producer supply information and consumer demand information, and collating and matching them.
[0360] "Sustainable production methods" are environmentally friendly methods for maintaining agricultural production over the long term, including organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management.
[0361] "Means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes" refers to a method or device for calculating the shortest route and the shortest time when transporting refrigerated or frozen food, thereby maximizing transport efficiency.
[0362] "Measures to improve energy efficiency" refers to methods or devices that introduce highly efficient equipment or systems in order to reduce energy consumption.
[0363] "Eco-packaging materials" refers to packaging made from materials that have a low impact on the environment, such as being biodegradable or reusable.
[0364] "Means for providing environmental information to consumers" refers to a method or device for conveying useful information about the environment to consumers.
[0365] "Means for collecting and analyzing emotional data and customizing the information provided" refers to a method or device for collecting and analyzing data on a user's emotions to identify areas and information in which the user is interested and provide appropriate information based on that information.
[0366] This invention is a system that combines means to match local producers with consumer demand, recommend sustainable production methods, optimize refrigerated and frozen transport routes, improve energy efficiency, promote the adoption of eco-packaging materials, provide environmental information to consumers, and collect and analyze user sentiment data to customize the information provided. This system makes it possible to build a carbon-neutral food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact.
[0367] First, to match local producers with consumer demand, the server uses a dedicated application to obtain supply information from producers and demand information from consumers. For example, a producer inputs information such as "50 apples available," and at the same time, a consumer inputs a request such as "50 apples needed." The server then collects this information and matches supply and demand based on this information. The matching results are stored in a database and notified to the relevant parties.
[0368] Next, to recommend sustainable production methods, the server collects farm production information and recommends sustainable agricultural practices. For example, the server checks whether a farm uses chemical fertilizers and suggests sustainable methods such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management. The server monitors progress and helps each farm improve its sustainability.
[0369] In addition, to optimize refrigerated transport routes, the server obtains current route information from the GPS devices installed in refrigerated transport vehicles and calculates the optimal transport route. For example, when a refrigerated vehicle heads from Sapporo to Tokyo, it can calculate the shortest time and distance and issue instructions to change the route.
[0370] To improve energy efficiency, the server collects energy consumption information from food production facilities and warehouses and recommends the introduction of more efficient energy equipment. For example, it identifies that a warehouse is using an outdated heating and cooling system and suggests the introduction of a more efficient system.
[0371] To achieve this, the server collects information on currently used packaging materials and makes recommendations to promote the introduction of biodegradable packaging materials. For example, it can propose the introduction of eco-friendly packaging materials for products and monitor the progress of such efforts.
[0372] Furthermore, for consumer education, a dedicated application is used in which the server provides environmental information to consumers, allowing them to view the information and choose environmentally friendly options.
[0373] Finally, to collect and analyze the user's emotional data and customize the information provided, the server uses an emotion engine to collect and analyze the user's emotional data. Based on the collected data, customized information can be provided to the user. For example, if the user has a positive reaction to the environmental information, more detailed information can be provided.
[0374] For example, if a farmer enters "I harvested 50 apples" through the application and a consumer requests "I need 50 apples," the server instantly matches the information and notifies both parties. It can also ensure that farms adopt new organic farming techniques and monitor progress through monthly reports.
[0375] An example prompt might be, "Matching local producers with consumer demand and recommending sustainable production methods. For example, if one farm supplies 50 apples and another consumer needs 50 apples, how does the system connect these pieces of information?"
[0376] In this way, the system can function efficiently and effectively, significantly reducing the environmental impact. For example, a carbon-neutral supply chain can be achieved by matching local producers with consumer demand, adopting sustainable production methods, optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes, improving energy efficiency, introducing eco-packaging materials, and providing environmental information to consumers.
[0377] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[0378] Step 1:
[0379] Input: Supply information from producer (e.g., 50 apples)
[0380] Processing: The server acquires supply information entered by producers through a dedicated application. Specifically, it collects data such as the type of agricultural product, quantity, and supply period.
[0381] Output: The supply information is stored in a database and is available for use.
[0382] Specific operation: When a producer enters "50 apples available" into the application, the server receives the data and stores it in the database.
[0383] Step 2:
[0384] Input: Demand information from consumers (e.g., 50 apples)
[0385] Processing: The server receives demand information entered by the consumer through a dedicated application, specifically collecting data such as the type of produce needed, quantity, and desired delivery period.
[0386] Output: Demand information is stored in a database and made available.
[0387] Specific operation: When a consumer enters "I need 50 apples" into the application, the server receives the data and stores it in the database.
[0388] Step 3:
[0389] Input: Supply and Demand Information
[0390] Processing: The server checks the supply and demand information in the database to find matching pairs. It uses an algorithm to check whether the supply and demand quantities match and then matches them.
[0391] Output: The matching results are notified to both parties and stored in a database.
[0392] Specific operation: The server confirms that the producer's supply information "50 apples" and the consumer's demand information "50 apples" match, and notifies the producer and consumer.
[0393] Step 4:
[0394] Input: Farm production information (e.g., use of chemical fertilizers)
[0395] Processing: The server obtains production information from the farm and suggests sustainable production methods, such as checking the use of chemical fertilizers and cultivation methods, and recommending organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management.
[0396] Output: Recommended sustainable production practices are communicated to the farm and stored in a database.
[0397] Specific behavior: When a farm inputs "using chemical fertilizers," the server suggests adopting organic farming and notifies the farmer that "organic farming is recommended."
[0398] Step 5:
[0399] Input: Refrigerated and frozen transport vehicle route information
[0400] Processing: The server obtains the current route information from the GPS devices installed in the transport vehicles and calculates the optimal route. It uses an algorithm to derive the route with the shortest distance and minimum time.
[0401] Output: The optimal route is communicated to the transport vehicle and stored in a database.
[0402] Specific operation: Obtain information that refrigerated vehicle X is "heading from Sapporo to Tokyo," calculate the "shortest route," and notify the driver.
[0403] Step 6:
[0404] Input: Energy consumption data for food production facilities and warehouses
[0405] Processing: The server collects and analyzes energy consumption data from sensors installed in the facility, and proposes renovation plans for efficient energy consumption.
[0406] Output: Energy-efficient equipment installations are proposed for the facility and stored in a database.
[0407] Specific action: Check the "outdated heating and cooling system" in Warehouse D and propose "the introduction of a highly efficient heating and cooling system."
[0408] Step 7:
[0409] Input: Packaging material information (e.g., single-use plastic)
[0410] Processing: The server acquires information about the product's packaging materials and suggests eco-friendly packaging materials, such as biodegradable packaging materials.
[0411] Output: The recommended eco-packaging materials are notified to the company and stored in a database.
[0412] Specific action: If product E uses "single-use plastic," propose "biodegradable packaging."
[0413] Step 8:
[0414] Input: Environmental information to consumers
[0415] Processing: The server uses the application to provide useful environmental information to consumers, who can browse environmentally friendly options.
[0416] Output: Consumers can view environmental information and make appropriate choices.
[0417] Specific actions: Consumer F uses the application to browse and select "products with low carbon footprints."
[0418] Step 9:
[0419] Input: User emotion data
[0420] Processing: The server uses an emotion engine to collect and analyze the user's emotion data, and customizes the information provided based on that data.
[0421] Output: The customized information is provided to the user and stored in a database.
[0422] Specific behavior: Collect "positive emotions" from users while using the application and provide "relevant detailed information."
[0423] (Application example 2)
[0424] 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."
[0425] The current food supply chain is complex and inefficient, with difficulties in matching supply and demand between local producers and consumers. Furthermore, the spread of sustainable production methods has been slow, and efforts to optimize refrigerated and frozen transportation, improve energy efficiency, and promote the use of eco-friendly packaging materials have not been sufficient. Furthermore, environmental information provided to consumers is insufficient, and the information provided is not customized to reflect user preferences. There is a need to solve these problems and build a carbon-neutral food supply chain.
[0426] 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.
[0427] In this invention, the server includes means for matching local producers with consumer demand, means for recommending sustainable production methods, means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes, means for improving energy efficiency, means for promoting the use of eco-packaging materials, means for providing environmental information to consumers, and means for recognizing user emotions and customizing the provided information. This makes it possible to efficiently match local producers with consumers and promote sustainable production methods while minimizing environmental impact. Furthermore, optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport, improving energy efficiency, and promoting the use of eco-packaging materials can realize a carbon-neutral food supply chain. Furthermore, providing environmental information to consumers and customizing the information according to user emotions can more effectively raise environmental awareness.
[0428] A "local producer" is an individual or group that produces food or agricultural products within a particular geographic area.
[0429] A "consumer" is an individual or group who purchases and uses food and agricultural products provided by local producers.
[0430] A "demand matching means" is a system or method that collects supply information provided by local producers and consumer demand information, and links supply and demand based on that information.
[0431] "Measures promoting sustainable production practices" are systems or methods that promote environmentally friendly practices and efficient use of resources in agriculture and food production.
[0432] A "means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes" is a system or method for planning and adjusting travel routes for refrigerated and frozen vehicles to transport food efficiently.
[0433] "Energy efficiency measures" are systems or methods for reducing energy consumption and increasing energy efficiency in food production facilities, warehouses, etc.
[0434] "Measures to promote the introduction of eco-packaging materials" refers to systems or methods that encourage the use of environmentally friendly packaging materials (e.g., biodegradable packaging materials) and promote their introduction.
[0435] "Means for providing environmental information to consumers" refers to a system or method that provides consumers with environmental information, such as production methods and carbon footprints of food and agricultural products.
[0436] "Means for recognizing user emotions and customizing information provided" refers to a system or method that collects and analyzes emotional data displayed by users when using an application, and adjusts the information provided based on that data to suit the individual preferences and emotions of the user.
[0437] The system for implementing this invention has the following main functions: It efficiently matches local producers with consumers, promotes sustainable production methods, improves energy efficiency, and promotes the use of eco-friendly packaging materials. It also provides environmental information to consumers and customizes the information provided based on the user's emotions.
[0438] A means of matching local producers with consumer demand
[0439] The server collects supply information from local producers and consumer demand information. Based on the collected information, it matches supply and demand and creates an optimal delivery plan. This process is performed, for example, when a producer supplies 50 apples and a consumer demands the same amount.
[0440] Promoting sustainable production methods
[0441] The server collects production information from production facilities and uses that information to recommend sustainable agricultural practices such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management. For example, it checks whether a farm uses chemical fertilizers and suggests switching to organic farming.
[0442] Optimize refrigerated and frozen transport routes
[0443] The server obtains the current route information of refrigerated and frozen vehicles and calculates the route with the shortest distance and time. This increases energy efficiency and reduces transportation costs. For example, it proposes the optimal route for a refrigerated vehicle traveling from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[0444] Improved energy efficiency
[0445] The server collects energy consumption information from food production facilities and warehouses and recommends the installation of high-efficiency heating and cooling systems. For example, it suggests installing energy-efficient equipment in warehouses that use outdated heating and cooling systems.
[0446] Promoting the introduction of eco-friendly packaging materials
[0447] The server collects information on currently used packaging materials and promotes the introduction of biodegradable packaging materials, for example, by suggesting a change to eco-friendly packaging materials for products that use single-use plastics.
[0448] Providing environmental information to consumers
[0449] The server provides consumers with environmental information, including low-carbon footprint options and their benefits, for example by allowing consumers to browse environmentally friendly options through an application.
[0450] A means of recognizing user emotions and customizing the information provided
[0451] The server collects and analyzes the user's emotional data through the application, and customizes the information provided based on the user's emotions. For example, if the user responds positively to environmental information, the server may provide more detailed environmental information.
[0452] For example, the following prompt can be used:
[0453] "A local grower supplies 50 apples and a consumer demands the same quantity. Suggest organic farming as a sustainable production method, optimize transport routes, and introduce biodegradable packaging. Also, provide carbon footprint information to the consumer and use the user sentiment engine to provide customized environmental information."
[0454] This invention is implemented by combining hardware such as servers, smartphones, smart glasses, and head-mounted displays with software such as Python and SQL databases. The system efficiently matches local producers with consumers through information acquisition, analysis, proposals, and monitoring, realizing a sustainable food supply.
[0455] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
[0456] Step 1:
[0457] The server obtains supply information from local producers. Specifically, it collects product names, quantities, location information, etc. provided by producers. During this process, the server receives the producers' supply information as input data and stores it in a database.
[0458] Step 2:
[0459] The server acquires demand information from consumers. Specifically, it collects information such as the product name, quantity, and location information required by the consumer. During this process, the server receives the consumer demand information as input data and stores it in a database.
[0460] Step 3:
[0461] The server performs matching based on the acquired supply and demand information. Specifically, it searches for combinations where supply and demand match and performs optimal matching. Supply and demand information are used as input data, and the matching results are obtained as output data.
[0462] Step 4:
[0463] The server creates a delivery plan based on the matching results. Specifically, it calculates the optimal delivery route from the supplier to the destination. This is done using a geographic information system (GIS) or similar. The matching results and location information are used as input data, and the optimal delivery route is obtained as output data.
[0464] Step 5:
[0465] The server obtains production information and recommends sustainable production methods. Specifically, it monitors the production methods used by production facilities and proposes sustainable production methods. Production information is used as input data, and sustainable production method proposals are obtained as output data.
[0466] Step 6:
[0467] The server optimizes refrigerated and frozen transport routes. Specifically, it obtains current transport route information and calculates the most efficient route. Transport route information is used as input data, and the optimal route is obtained as output data.
[0468] Step 7:
[0469] The server collects energy consumption information from food production facilities and warehouses and recommends improvements to energy efficiency. Specifically, it proposes the introduction of high-efficiency equipment to facilities that use outdated equipment. Energy consumption information is used as input data, and efficiency improvement proposals are obtained as output data.
[0470] Step 8:
[0471] The server acquires information on packaging materials and promotes the adoption of eco-friendly packaging materials. Specifically, it checks the packaging materials currently in use and suggests the use of biodegradable packaging materials. Packaging material information is used as input data, and eco-friendly packaging material recommendations are obtained as output data.
[0472] Step 9:
[0473] The server provides environmental information to consumers. Specifically, it presents low-carbon footprint options and their benefits through an application. Environmental information is used as input data, and environmental information provided to consumers is obtained as output data.
[0474] Step 10:
[0475] The server collects user emotion data and customizes the information provided. Specifically, it collects user emotion through the application and adjusts the information provided based on the analysis results. Emotion data is used as input data, and customized information is obtained as output data.
[0476] 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.
[0477] 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.
[0478] 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.
[0479] [Second embodiment]
[0480] FIG. 3 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 210 according to the second embodiment.
[0481] 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.
[0482] 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).
[0483] 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.
[0484] 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.
[0485] 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).
[0486] 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.
[0487] 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.
[0488] 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.
[0489] 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.
[0490] 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.
[0491] 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."
[0492] This invention is a system for building a carbon-neutral food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact. The system includes means for matching local producers with consumer demand, encouraging sustainable production methods, optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes, improving energy efficiency, promoting the adoption of eco-packaging materials, and providing environmental information to consumers.
[0493] Program Description
[0494] Building a local food supply network
[0495] 1. The server gets supply information from local producers and demand information from consumers. For example, the server inputs that producer A supplies 50 apples and consumer B needs 50 apples.
[0496] 2. The server matches supply and demand information to build an efficient supply chain. The matched information is stored in a database and used to manage supply and demand.
[0497] Adoption of sustainable production methods
[0498] 1. The server obtains farm production information and recommends sustainable production methods. For example, if Farm C uses chemical fertilizers, the server recommends sustainable methods such as organic farming and crop rotation.
[0499] 2. The server will monitor the implementation of recommended sustainable production practices and evaluate their effectiveness.
[0500] Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport
[0501] 1. The server obtains the current transport route information of the refrigerated transport vehicle. For example, the server obtains the route of refrigerated vehicle X from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[0502] 2. The server calculates the optimal transport route based on the acquired route information and notifies the transport vehicle, thereby realizing transport with minimal energy consumption.
[0503] Improved energy efficiency
[0504] 1. The server acquires energy consumption information from food production facilities and warehouses and recommends efficient energy usage methods. For example, the server suggests installing a high-efficiency heating and cooling system for Warehouse D.
[0505] 2. The server monitors the energy consumption of new equipment that has been installed and evaluates its efficiency.
[0506] Reducing plastic
[0507] 1. The server obtains information about the packaging materials currently in use and recommends eco-friendly packaging materials. For example, if product E uses single-use plastic, the server recommends using biodegradable materials.
[0508] 2. The server will monitor the implementation status of the recommended eco-packaging materials and evaluate their effectiveness.
[0509] consumer education
[0510] 1. The server provides environmental information to consumers and raises their awareness. For example, the server provides consumer F with information about options with a low carbon footprint through an application.
[0511] 2. The server collects consumer feedback and improves the quality and content of the information it provides. Based on the feedback from consumer F, it updates the system to provide even more useful information.
[0512] In this way, each function works together with the server at its core, aiming to build an efficient and sustainable food supply chain. Specific operations are realized through the server's information collection, analysis, recommendations, and monitoring. This system makes it possible to efficiently match supply and demand in the local community while significantly reducing environmental impact.
[0513] The processing flow will be explained below.
[0514] Step 1:
[0515] The server gets supply information from local producers, for example, producer A supplies 50 apples.
[0516] Step 2:
[0517] The server receives demand information from consumers. For example, it receives information that consumer B needs 50 apples.
[0518] Step 3:
[0519] The server matches supply and demand based on the acquired supply and demand information, and checks whether producer A's supply matches consumer B's demand.
[0520] Step 4:
[0521] The server stores the matched supply and demand information in a database. For example, it is determined that producer A will supply 50 apples to consumer B.
[0522] Step 5:
[0523] The server obtains farm production information and recommends sustainable production methods. For example, it identifies that Farm C uses chemical fertilizers and suggests that they adopt organic farming.
[0524] Step 6:
[0525] The server monitors the implementation of sustainable production methods: it checks whether Farm C has actually adopted organic farming.
[0526] Step 7:
[0527] The server obtains the current route information of refrigerated transport vehicles. It analyzes the route of refrigerated vehicle X from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[0528] Step 8:
[0529] The server optimizes the transportation route, recalculates the transportation route with the shortest distance and the shortest time, and notifies refrigerated vehicle X of the new route.
[0530] Step 9:
[0531] The server obtains energy consumption information for food production facilities and warehouses. It is determined that Warehouse D uses an outdated heating and cooling system.
[0532] Step 10:
[0533] The server proposes the installation of a new, highly efficient heating and cooling system to improve energy efficiency. The server provides advice to Warehouse D on reducing energy consumption.
[0534] Step 11:
[0535] The server retrieves information about the packaging materials currently in use. It verifies that product E uses single-use plastic.
[0536] Step 12:
[0537] The server recommends the use of biodegradable packaging materials. The server proposes the introduction of eco-friendly packaging materials for product E.
[0538] Step 13:
[0539] The server provides environmental information to consumers, for example, providing consumer F with information about options with a low carbon footprint through an application.
[0540] Step 14:
[0541] The user (consumer F) browses the environmental information provided through the application and selects environmentally conscious options.
[0542] Step 15:
[0543] The server collects feedback from consumers and improves the quality and content of the information it provides. Based on the feedback from consumer F, it updates the system to provide even more useful information.
[0544] Example 1
[0545] 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."
[0546] The current food supply chain has a high environmental impact and lacks sustainability. It also faces serious problems such as a mismatch between supply and demand between consumers and producers, low energy efficiency, and environmental pollution caused by packaging materials such as plastic. Furthermore, consumers have low environmental awareness, and eco-friendly options are not sufficiently available. This calls for efficient matching and optimization to realize a sustainable, carbon-neutral food supply chain.
[0547] 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.
[0548] In this invention, the server includes means for matching producer and consumer demand, means for recommending sustainable production methods, means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transportation routes, means for improving energy efficiency, means for promoting the introduction of environmentally friendly packaging materials, means for providing environmental information to consumers, means for acquiring, storing, analyzing, and notifying information, means for generating a supply chain optimization plan, and means for collecting feedback and improving the information provision system, thereby enabling the construction of an efficient and sustainable food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact.
[0549] "Producer" refers to a person who produces and supplies food products.
[0550] "Consumer" refers to a person who purchases and uses food products.
[0551] "Supply information" is information that indicates the types and quantities of food that producers can supply.
[0552] "Demand information" is information that indicates the types and quantities of food items that consumers need.
[0553] "Sustainable production methods" refers to environmentally friendly agricultural practices such as organic farming, crop rotation and integrated pest management.
[0554] "Route optimization for refrigerated and frozen transport" refers to calculating and executing the optimal transport route to improve energy efficiency.
[0555] "Energy efficiency" refers to achieving maximum effect with minimum energy consumption.
[0556] "Environmentally friendly packaging materials" refers to environmentally friendly packaging materials such as biodegradable materials.
[0557] "Environmental information" refers to useful information about the environment, such as options with a low carbon footprint.
[0558] "Acquiring information" refers to collecting necessary data from producers, consumers, etc.
[0559] "Storing information" refers to recording acquired data in a database or the like.
[0560] "Information analysis" refers to analyzing acquired data and extracting meaningful information.
[0561] "Notification of information" refers to informing relevant parties of the results of the analysis.
[0562] "Supply Chain Optimization Plan" refers to a plan for building an efficient food supply chain.
[0563] "Feedback collection" refers to collecting ratings and opinions from consumers.
[0564] "Improving the information provision system" refers to improving the system's functions and the information provided based on collected feedback.
[0565] This invention is a system for building a carbon-neutral food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact. This system is designed with a server, a terminal, and a user as its main components.
[0566] ---
[0567] System Configuration
[0568] 1. Server
[0569] The server plays a central role and performs the following functions:
[0570] Data acquisition and storage: The server acquires supply and demand information from producers and consumers and stores it in a database.
[0571] Data analysis and matching: The server analyzes the acquired data and performs matching to build an efficient supply chain.
[0572] Recommend and inform: The server recommends and informs stakeholders about sustainable production methods, energy-efficient methods, optimal transport routes, and environmentally friendly packaging materials.
[0573] Monitoring and Evaluation: The server will monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of any new methods or equipment introduced.
[0574] Feedback collection: The server collects feedback from consumers to help improve the system.
[0575] 2. Terminal
[0576] The terminal provides an interface for the user to enter and view information.
[0577] Data entry: Producers, consumers, drivers, and facility managers enter necessary information through terminals, including supply information, demand information, transport route information, energy consumption information, and packaging material information.
[0578] Viewing and updating information: Users receive recommendations and notifications from the server through their devices and update information as needed.
[0579] 3. Users
[0580] Users are individuals or organizations who play roles such as producers, consumers, drivers, and facility managers.
[0581] Providing information: The user enters the necessary information according to their role into the terminal and sends it to the server.
[0582] Implementing recommendations: Implementing recommendations sent by the server and providing feedback on their implementation and effectiveness.
[0583] ---
[0584] software
[0585] The software used in this system includes the following:
[0586] Database Management System (DBMS): Used to efficiently store and manage acquired data.
[0587] Analysis algorithms: The algorithms used to analyze and match the data.
[0588] Notification system: A system for quickly notifying users of recommendations and information.
[0589] Monitoring tools: Tools to track and evaluate the effectiveness of implemented methods and equipment.
[0590] ---
[0591] Specific examples
[0592] 1. Matching supply and demand
[0593] The server receives information that producer A can supply 50 apples and that consumer B needs 50 apples. The server then matches this supply with demand and generates a plan to optimize the supply chain.
[0594] 2. Promoting sustainable production methods
[0595] The server obtains information on Farm C's use of chemical fertilizers and recommends organic farming and crop rotation. It notifies the producer of the recommendations and monitors their adoption.
[0596] 3. Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport
[0597] The server obtains the transport route information from Sapporo to Tokyo entered by Driver X, calculates the optimal route, and notifies the driver.
[0598] 4. Improved energy efficiency
[0599] The server acquires energy consumption information for Warehouse D and proposes the introduction of a highly efficient heating and cooling system. The effectiveness of the introduced equipment is monitored and evaluated.
[0600] 5. Reduce plastic
[0601] The server obtains information that product E uses single-use plastic and recommends the use of biodegradable materials. The effect of the introduction is monitored and evaluated.
[0602] 6. Consumer education
[0603] The server provides environmental information about options with a low carbon footprint to consumer F. Consumer feedback is collected and the information provision system is improved.
[0604] ---
[0605] Prompt Sentence Examples
[0606] Examples of input prompts for a generative AI model include:
[0607] Prompt: "If a local producer supplies 50 apples and a consumer needs 50 apples, explain how to create an efficient supply chain."
[0608] In this way, the system efficiently processes diverse information and provides concrete means for building a sustainable food supply chain.
[0609] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[0610] Building a local food supply network
[0611] Step 1: Obtain supply and demand information
[0612] The user (producer) uses a terminal to input supply information (e.g., 50 apples).
[0613] A user (consumer) uses a terminal to input demand information (e.g., 50 apples).
[0614] The server receives this input information and stores it in a database. The input data is represented in JSON format and stored in the database.
[0615] Step 2: Matching supply and demand information
[0616] The server retrieves supply and demand information from a database.
[0617] The server runs a supply and demand matching algorithm to generate an efficient supply chain.
[0618] The matching results are stored in a database and then notified to the producer and consumer.
[0619] ---
[0620] Adoption of sustainable production methods
[0621] Step 1: Obtaining production information
[0622] The user (producer) uses a terminal to input information about the current production method and materials being used (e.g., the use of chemical fertilizers).
[0623] The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[0624] Step 2: Recommend and monitor
[0625] The server analyzes the production information in the database.
[0626] The server recommends sustainable production methods such as organic farming and crop rotation and notifies producers of these recommendations.
[0627] Monitor whether recommendations have been implemented and record this in a database.
[0628] The effectiveness will also be evaluated in parallel.
[0629] ---
[0630] Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport
[0631] Step 1: Obtaining transport route information
[0632] The user (driver) uses the terminal to input the current location and destination information of the transport vehicle (for example, from Sapporo to Tokyo).
[0633] The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[0634] Step 2: Calculate the optimal route
[0635] The server retrieves the transportation route information in the database and uses analytical algorithms to calculate the optimal route.
[0636] Once the optimal route is calculated, the server notifies the driver of the results and updates the transportation instructions.
[0637] ---
[0638] Improved energy efficiency
[0639] Step 1: Obtaining energy consumption information
[0640] A user (facility manager) uses a terminal to input energy consumption information (e.g., power consumption) for a facility or warehouse.
[0641] The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[0642] Step 2: Recommend efficient energy usage
[0643] The server analyzes the energy consumption information in the database and recommends efficient energy usage methods, such as high-efficiency heating and cooling systems.
[0644] Communicate recommendations to facility managers and monitor their implementation.
[0645] The effectiveness of the installed equipment is evaluated and recorded in a database.
[0646] ---
[0647] Reducing plastic
[0648] Step 1: Obtaining information on packaging materials
[0649] The user (product manager) uses a terminal to input information about the packaging material currently being used (e.g., single-use plastic).
[0650] The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[0651] Step 2: Recommending and monitoring eco-friendly packaging materials
[0652] The server analyzes packaging material information in the database and recommends eco-friendly packaging materials such as biodegradable materials.
[0653] Communicate recommendations to product managers and monitor their implementation.
[0654] Evaluate the effectiveness and record it in a database.
[0655] ---
[0656] consumer education
[0657] Step 1: Provide environmental information
[0658] The server generates environmental information for consumers (e.g., options with a low carbon footprint) and provides it through the application.
[0659] Step 2: Gather feedback and update the system
[0660] The user (consumer) inputs feedback on the information provided through the application.
[0661] The server collects the feedback and stores it in a database.
[0662] The information provision system will be updated based on the analysis results.
[0663] This allows the elements of servers, terminals and users to work together to create a sustainable and efficient food supply chain.
[0664] (Application example 1)
[0665] 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."
[0666] Traditional food supply chains are based on global logistics, placing a heavy burden on the environment. There are also many sustainability concerns, such as declining energy efficiency and increasing plastic waste. To address these issues, it is necessary to efficiently match local producers with consumer demand, promote sustainable production methods, and optimize refrigerated and frozen transportation routes.
[0667] 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.
[0668] In this invention, the server includes means for matching local producers with consumer demand, means for recommending sustainable production methods, means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transportation routes, means for improving energy efficiency, means for promoting the introduction of eco-packaging materials, means for providing environmental information to consumers, means for matching supply and demand through a matching algorithm using a food delivery application for smartphones, means for optimizing delivery vehicle routes, and means for providing consumers with information on eco-friendly options through the application, thereby enabling optimal matching of local producers with consumer demand and the construction of a sustainable food supply chain.
[0669] A "local producer" is a producer whose production activities are within a specific geographic area.
[0670] "Consumer" means the person or entity who ultimately uses the products or services supplied.
[0671] A "demand matching tool" is a method or tool for collecting consumer demand information and finding and connecting it with matching producer supply information.
[0672] "Sustainable production methods" are production techniques and practices that are sustainable over the long term while minimizing the burden on the environment.
[0673] "Means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes" refers to a method or system for selecting an efficient route while maintaining food at the appropriate temperature.
[0674] An "energy efficiency measure" is a method or tool used to maximize efficiency while reducing energy consumption.
[0675] "Eco-packaging materials" are packaging materials that are environmentally friendly, degradable or recyclable.
[0676] "Means for providing environmental information to consumers" are methods or tools for informing consumers about environmental impacts and sustainable options.
[0677] A "food delivery application for smartphones" is application software that runs on a smartphone to order food, deliver food, provide information, etc.
[0678] A "matching algorithm" is a procedure or calculation method for comparing supply and demand information to find the optimal combination.
[0679] A "means for optimizing delivery vehicle routes" is a method or system that calculates and indicates the most efficient route for a delivery vehicle to travel.
[0680] An "eco-friendly choice" is one that takes environmental protection into consideration and involves choosing sustainable materials and methods.
[0681] This invention is a system using a food delivery application for smartphones and includes the following elements:
[0682] Overall system configuration
[0683] 1. A means of matching local producers with consumer demand
[0684] 2. Measures to promote sustainable production methods
[0685] 3. Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes
[0686] 4. Energy Efficiency Measures
[0687] 5. Measures to promote the adoption of eco-packaging materials
[0688] 6. Means of providing environmental information to consumers
[0689] 7. Matching supply and demand using a matching algorithm with a smartphone food delivery application
[0690] 8. Measures to optimize delivery vehicle routes
[0691] 9. A means to inform consumers about eco-friendly choices through apps
[0692] Hardware and software used
[0693] Server: Database management, information processing
[0694] Smartphone: User interface, GPS data
[0695] AI models (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch): matching and optimization algorithms
[0696] Google Maps API: Route Optimization
[0697] Processing Description
[0698] The server obtains supply information from local producers and demand information from consumers. For example, the server receives input from a producer that offers 50 apples and information from a consumer that requires 50 apples.
[0699] The server performs matching based on supply and demand information to build an efficient supply chain. For example, using an AI model (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch), if consumer A needs 10 apples and producer B can provide 20 apples, the optimal matching and route are calculated.
[0700] Delivery vehicle routes are optimized using Google Maps APIs to maximize energy efficiency. For example, when a vehicle travels from Sapporo to Tokyo, real-time traffic information is used to calculate the optimal route.
[0701] Consumers are offered eco-friendly options through a smartphone application, which notifies them of the low environmental impact of products that use eco-friendly packaging, for example.
[0702] Specific examples
[0703] Example prompt sentence:
[0704] "What information can be provided to consumers to help them choose the sustainable option? Consumer A needs 10 apples, and local producer B can provide 20 apples."
[0705] This application makes it possible to optimally match local producers with consumer demand and achieve a sustainable food supply chain. The entire system is designed to be efficient and minimize environmental impact.
[0706] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
[0707] Step 1:
[0708] The server collects supply and demand information from local producers and consumers, respectively. Specifically, it receives as input the types and quantities of food provided by producers and the types and quantities of food required by consumers. This data is stored in a database for later processing.
[0709] Input: Producer supply information, consumer demand information
[0710] Output: Supply and demand information stored in a database
[0711] Step 2:
[0712] The server uses a matching algorithm to create an optimal supply chain based on the collected supply and demand information. During this process, a generative AI model (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) is used to calculate the optimal supply-demand match. For example, if consumer A needs 10 apples and producer B can provide 20 apples, the model will output the optimal match.
[0713] Input: Output data from Step 1 (supply information, demand information)
[0714] Output: Best match information
[0715] Step 3:
[0716] The server then recommends sustainable production methods to producers based on the optimized matching information. Specifically, it acquires the producers' production information and suggests sustainable agricultural practices such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management, thereby minimizing the environmental impact.
[0717] Input: Optimal matching information, producer production information
[0718] Output: Recommended sustainable production methods
[0719] Step 4:
[0720] To optimize delivery vehicle routes, the server retrieves current traffic and geographical data, and uses the Google Maps API to calculate and output the optimal route based on the collected information to maximize energy efficiency.
[0721] Input: Current traffic information, geographic data
[0722] Output: Optimized delivery route
[0723] Step 5:
[0724] To promote the use of eco-friendly packaging materials, the server collects information on currently used packaging materials and recommends environmentally friendly packaging materials. Specifically, it proposes biodegradable and recycled materials and monitors their adoption.
[0725] Input: Current packaging material information
[0726] Output: Recommended eco-packaging material information
[0727] Step 6:
[0728] The server sends notifications to consumers through a smartphone application to provide them with environmental information and eco-friendly choices. For example, if a consumer chooses a product that uses eco-friendly packaging, the server sends a notification informing them of its low environmental impact.
[0729] Input: Eco-Friendly Choice Information
[0730] Output: Notice to consumer
[0731] Example prompt:
[0732] "What information can be provided to consumers to help them choose the sustainable option? Consumer A needs 10 apples, and local producer B can provide 20 apples."
[0733] 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.
[0734] This invention is a system that combines a means of matching local producers with consumer demand, a means of recommending sustainable production methods, a means of optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes, a means of improving energy efficiency, a means of promoting the adoption of eco-packaging materials, a means of providing environmental information to consumers, and an emotion engine that recognizes user emotions. This makes it possible to build a carbon-neutral food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact.
[0735] Program Description
[0736] Building a local food supply network
[0737] 1. The server obtains supply information from local producers. For example, the server receives information that producer A will supply 50 apples.
[0738] 2. The server receives demand information from consumers. For example, the server receives information that consumer B needs 50 apples.
[0739] 3. The server performs matching based on supply and demand information. It checks whether the supply of producer A matches the demand of consumer B.
[0740] 4. The server stores the matching results in a database and manages supply and demand.
[0741] Adoption of sustainable production methods
[0742] 1. The server obtains production information for the farm. For example, the server checks whether Farm C uses chemical fertilizer.
[0743] 2. The server recommends sustainable production methods, such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management, to Farm C.
[0744] 3. The server monitors the implementation of sustainable production methods: Check whether Farm C has adopted organic farming.
[0745] Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport
[0746] 1. The server obtains the current route information of the refrigerated transport vehicle. For example, the server obtains the route information of refrigerated vehicle X going from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[0747] 2. The server calculates the optimal transportation route, calculating the route with the shortest distance and time, and notifies refrigerated vehicle X.
[0748] Improved energy efficiency
[0749] 1. The server obtains energy consumption information for food production facilities and warehouses. For example, it determines that Warehouse D uses an outdated heating and cooling system.
[0750] 2. The server recommends the introduction of energy-efficient equipment. The server proposes the introduction of a high-efficiency heating and cooling system to Warehouse D.
[0751] 3. The server monitors the progress of energy efficiency improvements to ensure that new equipment is actually reducing energy consumption.
[0752] Reducing plastic
[0753] 1. The server obtains information on packaging materials currently in use. It checks that product E uses single-use plastic.
[0754] 2. The server recommends biodegradable packaging materials and proposes the introduction of eco-friendly packaging materials for product E.
[0755] 3. The server monitors the progress of plastic reduction and checks whether product E has been changed to eco-friendly packaging materials.
[0756] consumer education
[0757] 1. The server provides environmental information to consumers. For example, it provides consumer F with options and benefits that result in a lower carbon footprint through an application.
[0758] 2. The user (Consumer F) views the environmental information provided through the application and selects environmentally conscious options.
[0759] Implementing the Emotion Engine
[0760] 1. The server is equipped with an emotion engine to collect user emotions, for example, to collect emotion data while the user is using the application.
[0761] 2. The server analyzes the collected emotion data and customizes the information provided to the user. For example, if the user expresses positive emotion toward the environmental information, the server provides more detailed information.
[0762] 3. The server enhances the content provided based on the user's emotions. Based on the user's feedback and emotional data, the server improves the way it provides environmental information.
[0763] This allows the system to provide optimal environmental information to each individual user while taking into account the user's emotions. Specific operations are carried out through information acquisition, analysis, suggestions, and monitoring. This system enables consumers to make more effective environmentally conscious choices, significantly reducing the environmental burden.
[0764] The processing flow will be explained below.
[0765] Step 1:
[0766] The server obtains supply information from local producers. For example, the server receives information that producer A will supply 50 apples.
[0767] Step 2:
[0768] The server receives demand information from consumers. For example, the server receives information that consumer B needs 50 apples.
[0769] Step 3:
[0770] The server matches supply and demand based on the acquired supply and demand information. Specifically, it checks whether the supply of producer A matches the demand of consumer B.
[0771] Step 4:
[0772] The server stores the matched supply and demand information in a database. For example, it is determined that producer A will supply 50 apples to consumer B.
[0773] Step 5:
[0774] The server obtains farm production information. For example, the server checks whether Farm C uses chemical fertilizer.
[0775] Step 6:
[0776] The server recommends sustainable production practices, such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management for Farm C.
[0777] Step 7:
[0778] The server monitors the implementation of sustainable production methods. It periodically checks whether Farm C has actually adopted organic farming.
[0779] Step 8:
[0780] The server obtains the current route information of the refrigerated transport vehicle. For example, the server obtains the route information of refrigerated vehicle X going from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[0781] Step 9:
[0782] The server calculates the optimal transportation route, specifically the route with the shortest distance and time, and notifies refrigerated vehicle X of the new route information.
[0783] Step 10:
[0784] The server acquires energy consumption information for food production facilities and warehouses. For example, it checks that Warehouse D uses an outdated heating and cooling system.
[0785] Step 11:
[0786] The server recommends the introduction of energy-efficient equipment. Specifically, it proposes the introduction of a highly efficient heating and cooling system in Warehouse D.
[0787] Step 12:
[0788] The server monitors the progress of energy efficiency improvements to ensure that new equipment is actually reducing energy consumption.
[0789] Step 13:
[0790] The server obtains information about the packaging materials currently in use, for example, whether product E uses single-use plastic.
[0791] Step 14:
[0792] The server recommends the use of eco-friendly packaging materials, specifically, the introduction of biodegradable packaging materials for product E.
[0793] Step 15:
[0794] The server monitors the progress of plastic reduction and checks whether product E has been changed to eco-friendly packaging materials.
[0795] Step 16:
[0796] The server provides environmental information to consumers. For example, it provides consumer F with information about options with a low carbon footprint and their benefits through an application.
[0797] Step 17:
[0798] The user (consumer F) browses the environmental information provided through the application and selects environmentally conscious options.
[0799] Step 18:
[0800] The server activates an emotion engine to collect user emotions. Emotion data is collected while the user is using the application.
[0801] Step 19:
[0802] The server analyzes the collected emotion data, specifically, it analyzes what emotion the user is expressing in response to the provided environmental information.
[0803] Step 20:
[0804] The server customizes the information it provides based on the emotion data, for example, providing more detailed environmental information if the user is expressing positive emotion.
[0805] Step 21:
[0806] The server improves the quality and content of the information it provides based on user feedback and emotion data. Specifically, it optimizes the way it provides information by reflecting feedback from user F.
[0807] Example 2
[0808] 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."
[0809] The current food supply chain not only lacks efficiency, but also has a significant environmental impact. Specifically, it faces a mismatch between producer and consumer demand, unsustainable production methods, inefficient refrigerated and frozen transportation routes, low-energy-efficiency facilities, excessive use of plastic, and a lack of environmental awareness among consumers. Another issue is the lack of information provided based on consumer emotions and interests. These challenges exacerbate the negative impact on the environment and hinder the realization of a carbon-neutral supply chain.
[0810] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the second embodiment is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes a means for matching local producers with consumer demand, a means for recommending sustainable production methods, a means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transportation routes, a means for improving energy efficiency, a means for promoting the introduction of eco-packaging materials, a means for providing environmental information to consumers, and a means for collecting and analyzing user sentiment data and customizing the information to be provided. This increases the efficiency of the food supply chain, reduces the environmental burden, and enables the construction of a carbon-neutral supply chain.
[0811] A "local producer" is an individual or organization that produces agricultural or food products within a specific geographic area.
[0812] "Consumer" means any person or entity that uses or consumes food or agricultural products.
[0813] A "demand matching means" is a method or device for collecting producer supply information and consumer demand information, and collating and matching them.
[0814] "Sustainable production methods" are environmentally friendly methods for maintaining agricultural production over the long term, including organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management.
[0815] "Means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes" refers to a method or device for calculating the shortest route and the shortest time when transporting refrigerated or frozen food, thereby maximizing transport efficiency.
[0816] "Measures to improve energy efficiency" refers to methods or devices that introduce highly efficient equipment or systems in order to reduce energy consumption.
[0817] "Eco-packaging materials" refers to packaging made from materials that have a low impact on the environment, such as being biodegradable or reusable.
[0818] "Means for providing environmental information to consumers" refers to a method or device for conveying useful information about the environment to consumers.
[0819] "Means for collecting and analyzing emotional data and customizing the information provided" refers to a method or device for collecting and analyzing data on a user's emotions to identify areas and information in which the user is interested and provide appropriate information based on that information.
[0820] This invention is a system that combines means to match local producers with consumer demand, recommend sustainable production methods, optimize refrigerated and frozen transport routes, improve energy efficiency, promote the adoption of eco-packaging materials, provide environmental information to consumers, and collect and analyze user sentiment data to customize the information provided. This system makes it possible to build a carbon-neutral food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact.
[0821] First, to match local producers with consumer demand, the server uses a dedicated application to obtain supply information from producers and demand information from consumers. For example, a producer inputs information such as "50 apples available," and at the same time, a consumer inputs a request such as "50 apples needed." The server then collects this information and matches supply and demand based on this information. The matching results are stored in a database and notified to the relevant parties.
[0822] Next, to recommend sustainable production methods, the server collects farm production information and recommends sustainable agricultural practices. For example, the server checks whether a farm uses chemical fertilizers and suggests sustainable methods such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management. The server monitors progress and helps each farm improve its sustainability.
[0823] In addition, to optimize refrigerated transport routes, the server obtains current route information from the GPS devices installed in refrigerated transport vehicles and calculates the optimal transport route. For example, when a refrigerated vehicle heads from Sapporo to Tokyo, it can calculate the shortest time and distance and issue instructions to change the route.
[0824] To improve energy efficiency, the server collects energy consumption information from food production facilities and warehouses and recommends the introduction of more efficient energy equipment. For example, it identifies that a warehouse is using an outdated heating and cooling system and suggests the introduction of a more efficient system.
[0825] To achieve this, the server collects information on currently used packaging materials and makes recommendations to promote the introduction of biodegradable packaging materials. For example, it can propose the introduction of eco-friendly packaging materials for products and monitor the progress of such efforts.
[0826] Furthermore, for consumer education, a dedicated application is used in which the server provides environmental information to consumers, allowing them to view the information and choose environmentally friendly options.
[0827] Finally, to collect and analyze the user's emotional data and customize the information provided, the server uses an emotion engine to collect and analyze the user's emotional data. Based on the collected data, customized information can be provided to the user. For example, if the user has a positive reaction to the environmental information, more detailed information can be provided.
[0828] For example, if a farmer enters "I harvested 50 apples" through the application and a consumer requests "I need 50 apples," the server instantly matches the information and notifies both parties. It can also ensure that farms adopt new organic farming techniques and monitor progress through monthly reports.
[0829] An example prompt might be, "Matching local producers with consumer demand and recommending sustainable production methods. For example, if one farm supplies 50 apples and another consumer needs 50 apples, how does the system connect these pieces of information?"
[0830] In this way, the system can function efficiently and effectively, significantly reducing the environmental impact. For example, a carbon-neutral supply chain can be achieved by matching local producers with consumer demand, adopting sustainable production methods, optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes, improving energy efficiency, introducing eco-packaging materials, and providing environmental information to consumers.
[0831] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[0832] Step 1:
[0833] Input: Supply information from producer (e.g., 50 apples)
[0834] Processing: The server acquires supply information entered by producers through a dedicated application. Specifically, it collects data such as the type of agricultural product, quantity, and supply period.
[0835] Output: The supply information is stored in a database and is available for use.
[0836] Specific operation: When a producer enters "50 apples available" into the application, the server receives the data and stores it in the database.
[0837] Step 2:
[0838] Input: Demand information from consumers (e.g., 50 apples)
[0839] Processing: The server receives demand information entered by the consumer through a dedicated application, specifically collecting data such as the type of produce needed, quantity, and desired delivery period.
[0840] Output: Demand information is stored in a database and made available.
[0841] Specific operation: When a consumer enters "I need 50 apples" into the application, the server receives the data and stores it in the database.
[0842] Step 3:
[0843] Input: Supply and Demand Information
[0844] Processing: The server checks the supply and demand information in the database to find matching pairs. It uses an algorithm to check whether the supply and demand quantities match and then matches them.
[0845] Output: The matching results are notified to both parties and stored in a database.
[0846] Specific operation: The server confirms that the producer's supply information "50 apples" and the consumer's demand information "50 apples" match, and notifies the producer and consumer.
[0847] Step 4:
[0848] Input: Farm production information (e.g., use of chemical fertilizers)
[0849] Processing: The server obtains production information from the farm and suggests sustainable production methods, such as checking the use of chemical fertilizers and cultivation methods, and recommending organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management.
[0850] Output: Recommended sustainable production practices are communicated to the farm and stored in a database.
[0851] Specific behavior: When a farm inputs "using chemical fertilizers," the server suggests adopting organic farming and notifies the farmer that "organic farming is recommended."
[0852] Step 5:
[0853] Input: Refrigerated and frozen transport vehicle route information
[0854] Processing: The server obtains the current route information from the GPS devices installed in the transport vehicles and calculates the optimal route. It uses an algorithm to derive the route with the shortest distance and minimum time.
[0855] Output: The optimal route is communicated to the transport vehicle and stored in a database.
[0856] Specific operation: Obtain information that refrigerated vehicle X is "heading from Sapporo to Tokyo," calculate the "shortest route," and notify the driver.
[0857] Step 6:
[0858] Input: Energy consumption data for food production facilities and warehouses
[0859] Processing: The server collects and analyzes energy consumption data from sensors installed in the facility, and proposes renovation plans for efficient energy consumption.
[0860] Output: Energy-efficient equipment installations are proposed for the facility and stored in a database.
[0861] Specific action: Check the "outdated heating and cooling system" in Warehouse D and propose "the introduction of a highly efficient heating and cooling system."
[0862] Step 7:
[0863] Input: Packaging material information (e.g., single-use plastic)
[0864] Processing: The server acquires information about the product's packaging materials and suggests eco-friendly packaging materials, such as biodegradable packaging materials.
[0865] Output: The recommended eco-packaging materials are notified to the company and stored in a database.
[0866] Specific action: If product E uses "single-use plastic," propose "biodegradable packaging."
[0867] Step 8:
[0868] Input: Environmental information to consumers
[0869] Processing: The server uses the application to provide useful environmental information to consumers, who can browse environmentally friendly options.
[0870] Output: Consumers can view environmental information and make appropriate choices.
[0871] Specific actions: Consumer F uses the application to browse and select "products with low carbon footprints."
[0872] Step 9:
[0873] Input: User emotion data
[0874] Processing: The server uses an emotion engine to collect and analyze the user's emotion data, and customizes the information provided based on that data.
[0875] Output: The customized information is provided to the user and stored in a database.
[0876] Specific behavior: Collect "positive emotions" from users while using the application and provide "relevant detailed information."
[0877] (Application example 2)
[0878] 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."
[0879] The current food supply chain is complex and inefficient, with difficulties in matching supply and demand between local producers and consumers. Furthermore, the spread of sustainable production methods has been slow, and efforts to optimize refrigerated and frozen transportation, improve energy efficiency, and promote the use of eco-friendly packaging materials have not been sufficient. Furthermore, environmental information provided to consumers is insufficient, and the information provided is not customized to reflect user preferences. There is a need to solve these problems and build a carbon-neutral food supply chain.
[0880] 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.
[0881] In this invention, the server includes means for matching local producers with consumer demand, means for recommending sustainable production methods, means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes, means for improving energy efficiency, means for promoting the use of eco-packaging materials, means for providing environmental information to consumers, and means for recognizing user emotions and customizing the provided information. This makes it possible to efficiently match local producers with consumers and promote sustainable production methods while minimizing environmental impact. Furthermore, optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport, improving energy efficiency, and promoting the use of eco-packaging materials can realize a carbon-neutral food supply chain. Furthermore, providing environmental information to consumers and customizing the information according to user emotions can more effectively raise environmental awareness.
[0882] A "local producer" is an individual or group that produces food or agricultural products within a particular geographic area.
[0883] A "consumer" is an individual or group who purchases and uses food and agricultural products provided by local producers.
[0884] A "demand matching means" is a system or method that collects supply information provided by local producers and consumer demand information, and links supply and demand based on that information.
[0885] "Measures promoting sustainable production practices" are systems or methods that promote environmentally friendly practices and efficient use of resources in agriculture and food production.
[0886] A "means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes" is a system or method for planning and adjusting travel routes for refrigerated and frozen vehicles to transport food efficiently.
[0887] "Energy efficiency measures" are systems or methods for reducing energy consumption and increasing energy efficiency in food production facilities, warehouses, etc.
[0888] "Measures to promote the introduction of eco-packaging materials" refers to systems or methods that encourage the use of environmentally friendly packaging materials (e.g., biodegradable packaging materials) and promote their introduction.
[0889] "Means for providing environmental information to consumers" refers to a system or method that provides consumers with environmental information, such as production methods and carbon footprints of food and agricultural products.
[0890] "Means for recognizing user emotions and customizing information provided" refers to a system or method that collects and analyzes emotional data displayed by users when using an application, and adjusts the information provided based on that data to suit the individual preferences and emotions of the user.
[0891] The system for implementing this invention has the following main functions: It efficiently matches local producers with consumers, promotes sustainable production methods, improves energy efficiency, and promotes the use of eco-friendly packaging materials. It also provides environmental information to consumers and customizes the information provided based on the user's emotions.
[0892] A means of matching local producers with consumer demand
[0893] The server collects supply information from local producers and consumer demand information. Based on the collected information, it matches supply and demand and creates an optimal delivery plan. This process is performed, for example, when a producer supplies 50 apples and a consumer demands the same amount.
[0894] Promoting sustainable production methods
[0895] The server collects production information from production facilities and uses that information to recommend sustainable agricultural practices such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management. For example, it checks whether a farm uses chemical fertilizers and suggests switching to organic farming.
[0896] Optimize refrigerated and frozen transport routes
[0897] The server obtains the current route information of refrigerated and frozen vehicles and calculates the route with the shortest distance and time. This increases energy efficiency and reduces transportation costs. For example, it proposes the optimal route for a refrigerated vehicle traveling from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[0898] Improved energy efficiency
[0899] The server collects energy consumption information from food production facilities and warehouses and recommends the installation of high-efficiency heating and cooling systems. For example, it suggests installing energy-efficient equipment in warehouses that use outdated heating and cooling systems.
[0900] Promoting the introduction of eco-friendly packaging materials
[0901] The server collects information on currently used packaging materials and promotes the introduction of biodegradable packaging materials, for example, by suggesting a change to eco-friendly packaging materials for products that use single-use plastics.
[0902] Providing environmental information to consumers
[0903] The server provides consumers with environmental information, including low-carbon footprint options and their benefits, for example by allowing consumers to browse environmentally friendly options through an application.
[0904] A means of recognizing user emotions and customizing the information provided
[0905] The server collects and analyzes the user's emotional data through the application, and customizes the information provided based on the user's emotions. For example, if the user responds positively to environmental information, the server may provide more detailed environmental information.
[0906] For example, the following prompt can be used:
[0907] "A local grower supplies 50 apples and a consumer demands the same quantity. Suggest organic farming as a sustainable production method, optimize transport routes, and introduce biodegradable packaging. Also, provide carbon footprint information to the consumer and use the user sentiment engine to provide customized environmental information."
[0908] This invention is implemented by combining hardware such as servers, smartphones, smart glasses, and head-mounted displays with software such as Python and SQL databases. The system efficiently matches local producers with consumers through information acquisition, analysis, proposals, and monitoring, realizing a sustainable food supply.
[0909] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
[0910] Step 1:
[0911] The server obtains supply information from local producers. Specifically, it collects product names, quantities, location information, etc. provided by producers. During this process, the server receives the producers' supply information as input data and stores it in a database.
[0912] Step 2:
[0913] The server acquires demand information from consumers. Specifically, it collects information such as the product name, quantity, and location information required by the consumer. During this process, the server receives the consumer demand information as input data and stores it in a database.
[0914] Step 3:
[0915] The server performs matching based on the acquired supply and demand information. Specifically, it searches for combinations where supply and demand match and performs optimal matching. Supply and demand information are used as input data, and the matching results are obtained as output data.
[0916] Step 4:
[0917] The server creates a delivery plan based on the matching results. Specifically, it calculates the optimal delivery route from the supplier to the destination. This is done using a geographic information system (GIS) or similar. The matching results and location information are used as input data, and the optimal delivery route is obtained as output data.
[0918] Step 5:
[0919] The server obtains production information and recommends sustainable production methods. Specifically, it monitors the production methods used by production facilities and proposes sustainable production methods. Production information is used as input data, and sustainable production method proposals are obtained as output data.
[0920] Step 6:
[0921] The server optimizes refrigerated and frozen transport routes. Specifically, it obtains current transport route information and calculates the most efficient route. Transport route information is used as input data, and the optimal route is obtained as output data.
[0922] Step 7:
[0923] The server collects energy consumption information from food production facilities and warehouses and recommends improvements to energy efficiency. Specifically, it proposes the introduction of high-efficiency equipment to facilities that use outdated equipment. Energy consumption information is used as input data, and efficiency improvement proposals are obtained as output data.
[0924] Step 8:
[0925] The server acquires information on packaging materials and promotes the adoption of eco-friendly packaging materials. Specifically, it checks the packaging materials currently in use and suggests the use of biodegradable packaging materials. Packaging material information is used as input data, and eco-friendly packaging material recommendations are obtained as output data.
[0926] Step 9:
[0927] The server provides environmental information to consumers. Specifically, it presents low-carbon footprint options and their benefits through an application. Environmental information is used as input data, and environmental information provided to consumers is obtained as output data.
[0928] Step 10:
[0929] The server collects user emotion data and customizes the information provided. Specifically, it collects user emotion through the application and adjusts the information provided based on the analysis results. Emotion data is used as input data, and customized information is obtained as output data.
[0930] 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.
[0931] 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.
[0932] 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.
[0933] [Third embodiment]
[0934] FIG. 5 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 310 according to the third embodiment.
[0935] 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.
[0936] 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).
[0937] 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.
[0938] 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.
[0939] 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).
[0940] 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.
[0941] 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.
[0942] 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.
[0943] 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.
[0944] 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.
[0945] 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."
[0946] This invention is a system for building a carbon-neutral food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact. The system includes means for matching local producers with consumer demand, encouraging sustainable production methods, optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes, improving energy efficiency, promoting the adoption of eco-packaging materials, and providing environmental information to consumers.
[0947] Program Description
[0948] Building a local food supply network
[0949] 1. The server gets supply information from local producers and demand information from consumers. For example, the server inputs that producer A supplies 50 apples and consumer B needs 50 apples.
[0950] 2. The server matches supply and demand information to build an efficient supply chain. The matched information is stored in a database and used to manage supply and demand.
[0951] Adoption of sustainable production methods
[0952] 1. The server obtains farm production information and recommends sustainable production methods. For example, if Farm C uses chemical fertilizers, the server recommends sustainable methods such as organic farming and crop rotation.
[0953] 2. The server will monitor the implementation of recommended sustainable production practices and evaluate their effectiveness.
[0954] Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport
[0955] 1. The server obtains the current transport route information of the refrigerated transport vehicle. For example, the server obtains the route of refrigerated vehicle X from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[0956] 2. The server calculates the optimal transport route based on the acquired route information and notifies the transport vehicle, thereby realizing transport with minimal energy consumption.
[0957] Improved energy efficiency
[0958] 1. The server acquires energy consumption information from food production facilities and warehouses and recommends efficient energy usage methods. For example, the server suggests installing a high-efficiency heating and cooling system for Warehouse D.
[0959] 2. The server monitors the energy consumption of new equipment that has been installed and evaluates its efficiency.
[0960] Reducing plastic
[0961] 1. The server obtains information about the packaging materials currently in use and recommends eco-friendly packaging materials. For example, if product E uses single-use plastic, the server recommends using biodegradable materials.
[0962] 2. The server will monitor the implementation status of the recommended eco-packaging materials and evaluate their effectiveness.
[0963] consumer education
[0964] 1. The server provides environmental information to consumers and raises their awareness. For example, the server provides consumer F with information about options with a low carbon footprint through an application.
[0965] 2. The server collects consumer feedback and improves the quality and content of the information it provides. Based on the feedback from consumer F, it updates the system to provide even more useful information.
[0966] In this way, each function works together with the server at its core, aiming to build an efficient and sustainable food supply chain. Specific operations are realized through the server's information collection, analysis, recommendations, and monitoring. This system makes it possible to efficiently match supply and demand in the local community while significantly reducing environmental impact.
[0967] The processing flow will be explained below.
[0968] Step 1:
[0969] The server gets supply information from local producers, for example, producer A supplies 50 apples.
[0970] Step 2:
[0971] The server receives demand information from consumers. For example, it receives information that consumer B needs 50 apples.
[0972] Step 3:
[0973] The server matches supply and demand based on the acquired supply and demand information, and checks whether producer A's supply matches consumer B's demand.
[0974] Step 4:
[0975] The server stores the matched supply and demand information in a database. For example, it is determined that producer A will supply 50 apples to consumer B.
[0976] Step 5:
[0977] The server obtains farm production information and recommends sustainable production methods. For example, it identifies that Farm C uses chemical fertilizers and suggests that they adopt organic farming.
[0978] Step 6:
[0979] The server monitors the implementation of sustainable production methods: it checks whether Farm C has actually adopted organic farming.
[0980] Step 7:
[0981] The server obtains the current route information of refrigerated transport vehicles. It analyzes the route of refrigerated vehicle X from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[0982] Step 8:
[0983] The server optimizes the transportation route, recalculates the transportation route with the shortest distance and the shortest time, and notifies refrigerated vehicle X of the new route.
[0984] Step 9:
[0985] The server obtains energy consumption information for food production facilities and warehouses. It is determined that Warehouse D uses an outdated heating and cooling system.
[0986] Step 10:
[0987] The server proposes the installation of a new, highly efficient heating and cooling system to improve energy efficiency. The server provides advice to Warehouse D on reducing energy consumption.
[0988] Step 11:
[0989] The server retrieves information about the packaging materials currently in use. It verifies that product E uses single-use plastic.
[0990] Step 12:
[0991] The server recommends the use of biodegradable packaging materials. The server proposes the introduction of eco-friendly packaging materials for product E.
[0992] Step 13:
[0993] The server provides environmental information to consumers, for example, providing consumer F with information about options with a low carbon footprint through an application.
[0994] Step 14:
[0995] The user (consumer F) browses the environmental information provided through the application and selects environmentally conscious options.
[0996] Step 15:
[0997] The server collects feedback from consumers and improves the quality and content of the information it provides. Based on the feedback from consumer F, it updates the system to provide even more useful information.
[0998] Example 1
[0999] 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."
[1000] The current food supply chain has a high environmental impact and lacks sustainability. It also faces serious problems such as a mismatch between supply and demand between consumers and producers, low energy efficiency, and environmental pollution caused by packaging materials such as plastic. Furthermore, consumers have low environmental awareness, and eco-friendly options are not sufficiently available. This calls for efficient matching and optimization to realize a sustainable, carbon-neutral food supply chain.
[1001] 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.
[1002] In this invention, the server includes means for matching producer and consumer demand, means for recommending sustainable production methods, means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transportation routes, means for improving energy efficiency, means for promoting the introduction of environmentally friendly packaging materials, means for providing environmental information to consumers, means for acquiring, storing, analyzing, and notifying information, means for generating a supply chain optimization plan, and means for collecting feedback and improving the information provision system, thereby enabling the construction of an efficient and sustainable food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact.
[1003] "Producer" refers to a person who produces and supplies food products.
[1004] "Consumer" refers to a person who purchases and uses food products.
[1005] "Supply information" is information that indicates the types and quantities of food that producers can supply.
[1006] "Demand information" is information that indicates the types and quantities of food items that consumers need.
[1007] "Sustainable production methods" refers to environmentally friendly agricultural practices such as organic farming, crop rotation and integrated pest management.
[1008] "Route optimization for refrigerated and frozen transport" refers to calculating and executing the optimal transport route to improve energy efficiency.
[1009] "Energy efficiency" refers to achieving maximum effect with minimum energy consumption.
[1010] "Environmentally friendly packaging materials" refers to environmentally friendly packaging materials such as biodegradable materials.
[1011] "Environmental information" refers to useful information about the environment, such as options with a low carbon footprint.
[1012] "Acquiring information" refers to collecting necessary data from producers, consumers, etc.
[1013] "Storing information" refers to recording acquired data in a database or the like.
[1014] "Information analysis" refers to analyzing acquired data and extracting meaningful information.
[1015] "Notification of information" refers to informing relevant parties of the results of the analysis.
[1016] "Supply Chain Optimization Plan" refers to a plan for building an efficient food supply chain.
[1017] "Feedback collection" refers to collecting ratings and opinions from consumers.
[1018] "Improving the information provision system" refers to improving the system's functions and the information provided based on collected feedback.
[1019] This invention is a system for building a carbon-neutral food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact. This system is designed with a server, a terminal, and a user as its main components.
[1020] ---
[1021] System Configuration
[1022] 1. Server
[1023] The server plays a central role and performs the following functions:
[1024] Data acquisition and storage: The server acquires supply and demand information from producers and consumers and stores it in a database.
[1025] Data analysis and matching: The server analyzes the acquired data and performs matching to build an efficient supply chain.
[1026] Recommend and inform: The server recommends and informs stakeholders about sustainable production methods, energy-efficient methods, optimal transport routes, and environmentally friendly packaging materials.
[1027] Monitoring and Evaluation: The server will monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of any new methods or equipment introduced.
[1028] Feedback collection: The server collects feedback from consumers to help improve the system.
[1029] 2. Terminal
[1030] The terminal provides an interface for the user to enter and view information.
[1031] Data entry: Producers, consumers, drivers, and facility managers enter necessary information through terminals, including supply information, demand information, transport route information, energy consumption information, and packaging material information.
[1032] Viewing and updating information: Users receive recommendations and notifications from the server through their devices and update information as needed.
[1033] 3. Users
[1034] Users are individuals or organizations who play roles such as producers, consumers, drivers, and facility managers.
[1035] Providing information: The user enters the necessary information according to their role into the terminal and sends it to the server.
[1036] Implementing recommendations: Implementing recommendations sent by the server and providing feedback on their implementation and effectiveness.
[1037] ---
[1038] software
[1039] The software used in this system includes the following:
[1040] Database Management System (DBMS): Used to efficiently store and manage acquired data.
[1041] Analysis algorithms: The algorithms used to analyze and match the data.
[1042] Notification system: A system for quickly notifying users of recommendations and information.
[1043] Monitoring tools: Tools to track and evaluate the effectiveness of implemented methods and equipment.
[1044] ---
[1045] Specific examples
[1046] 1. Matching supply and demand
[1047] The server receives information that producer A can supply 50 apples and that consumer B needs 50 apples. The server then matches this supply with demand and generates a plan to optimize the supply chain.
[1048] 2. Promoting sustainable production methods
[1049] The server obtains information on Farm C's use of chemical fertilizers and recommends organic farming and crop rotation. It notifies the producer of the recommendations and monitors their adoption.
[1050] 3. Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport
[1051] The server obtains the transport route information from Sapporo to Tokyo entered by Driver X, calculates the optimal route, and notifies the driver.
[1052] 4. Improved energy efficiency
[1053] The server acquires energy consumption information for Warehouse D and proposes the introduction of a highly efficient heating and cooling system. The effectiveness of the introduced equipment is monitored and evaluated.
[1054] 5. Reduce plastic
[1055] The server obtains information that product E uses single-use plastic and recommends the use of biodegradable materials. The effect of the introduction is monitored and evaluated.
[1056] 6. Consumer education
[1057] The server provides environmental information about options with a low carbon footprint to consumer F. Consumer feedback is collected and the information provision system is improved.
[1058] ---
[1059] Prompt Sentence Examples
[1060] Examples of input prompts for a generative AI model include:
[1061] Prompt: "If a local producer supplies 50 apples and a consumer needs 50 apples, explain how to create an efficient supply chain."
[1062] In this way, the system efficiently processes diverse information and provides concrete means for building a sustainable food supply chain.
[1063] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[1064] Building a local food supply network
[1065] Step 1: Obtain supply and demand information
[1066] The user (producer) uses a terminal to input supply information (e.g., 50 apples).
[1067] A user (consumer) uses a terminal to input demand information (e.g., 50 apples).
[1068] The server receives this input information and stores it in a database. The input data is represented in JSON format and stored in the database.
[1069] Step 2: Matching supply and demand information
[1070] The server retrieves supply and demand information from a database.
[1071] The server runs a supply and demand matching algorithm to generate an efficient supply chain.
[1072] The matching results are stored in a database and then notified to the producer and consumer.
[1073] ---
[1074] Adoption of sustainable production methods
[1075] Step 1: Obtaining production information
[1076] The user (producer) uses a terminal to input information about the current production method and materials being used (e.g., the use of chemical fertilizers).
[1077] The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[1078] Step 2: Recommend and monitor
[1079] The server analyzes the production information in the database.
[1080] The server recommends sustainable production methods such as organic farming and crop rotation and notifies producers of these recommendations.
[1081] Monitor whether recommendations have been implemented and record this in a database.
[1082] The effectiveness will also be evaluated in parallel.
[1083] ---
[1084] Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport
[1085] Step 1: Obtaining transport route information
[1086] The user (driver) uses the terminal to input the current location and destination information of the transport vehicle (for example, from Sapporo to Tokyo).
[1087] The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[1088] Step 2: Calculate the optimal route
[1089] The server retrieves the transportation route information in the database and uses analytical algorithms to calculate the optimal route.
[1090] Once the optimal route is calculated, the server notifies the driver of the results and updates the transportation instructions.
[1091] ---
[1092] Improved energy efficiency
[1093] Step 1: Obtaining energy consumption information
[1094] A user (facility manager) uses a terminal to input energy consumption information (e.g., power consumption) for a facility or warehouse.
[1095] The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[1096] Step 2: Recommend efficient energy usage
[1097] The server analyzes the energy consumption information in the database and recommends efficient energy usage methods, such as high-efficiency heating and cooling systems.
[1098] Communicate recommendations to facility managers and monitor their implementation.
[1099] The effectiveness of the installed equipment is evaluated and recorded in a database.
[1100] ---
[1101] Reducing plastic
[1102] Step 1: Obtaining information on packaging materials
[1103] The user (product manager) uses a terminal to input information about the packaging material currently being used (e.g., single-use plastic).
[1104] The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[1105] Step 2: Recommending and monitoring eco-friendly packaging materials
[1106] The server analyzes packaging material information in the database and recommends eco-friendly packaging materials such as biodegradable materials.
[1107] Communicate recommendations to product managers and monitor their implementation.
[1108] Evaluate the effectiveness and record it in a database.
[1109] ---
[1110] consumer education
[1111] Step 1: Provide environmental information
[1112] The server generates environmental information for consumers (e.g., options with a low carbon footprint) and provides it through the application.
[1113] Step 2: Gather feedback and update the system
[1114] The user (consumer) inputs feedback on the information provided through the application.
[1115] The server collects the feedback and stores it in a database.
[1116] The information provision system will be updated based on the analysis results.
[1117] This allows the elements of servers, terminals and users to work together to create a sustainable and efficient food supply chain.
[1118] (Application example 1)
[1119] 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."
[1120] Traditional food supply chains are based on global logistics, placing a heavy burden on the environment. There are also many sustainability concerns, such as declining energy efficiency and increasing plastic waste. To address these issues, it is necessary to efficiently match local producers with consumer demand, promote sustainable production methods, and optimize refrigerated and frozen transportation routes.
[1121] 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.
[1122] In this invention, the server includes means for matching local producers with consumer demand, means for recommending sustainable production methods, means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transportation routes, means for improving energy efficiency, means for promoting the introduction of eco-packaging materials, means for providing environmental information to consumers, means for matching supply and demand through a matching algorithm using a food delivery application for smartphones, means for optimizing delivery vehicle routes, and means for providing consumers with information on eco-friendly options through the application, thereby enabling optimal matching of local producers with consumer demand and the construction of a sustainable food supply chain.
[1123] A "local producer" is a producer whose production activities are within a specific geographic area.
[1124] "Consumer" means the person or entity who ultimately uses the products or services supplied.
[1125] A "demand matching tool" is a method or tool for collecting consumer demand information and finding and connecting it with matching producer supply information.
[1126] "Sustainable production methods" are production techniques and practices that are sustainable over the long term while minimizing the burden on the environment.
[1127] "Means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes" refers to a method or system for selecting an efficient route while maintaining food at the appropriate temperature.
[1128] An "energy efficiency measure" is a method or tool used to maximize efficiency while reducing energy consumption.
[1129] "Eco-packaging materials" are packaging materials that are environmentally friendly, degradable or recyclable.
[1130] "Means for providing environmental information to consumers" are methods or tools for informing consumers about environmental impacts and sustainable options.
[1131] A "food delivery application for smartphones" is application software that runs on a smartphone to order food, deliver food, provide information, etc.
[1132] A "matching algorithm" is a procedure or calculation method for comparing supply and demand information to find the optimal combination.
[1133] A "means for optimizing delivery vehicle routes" is a method or system that calculates and indicates the most efficient route for a delivery vehicle to travel.
[1134] An "eco-friendly choice" is one that takes environmental protection into consideration and involves choosing sustainable materials and methods.
[1135] This invention is a system using a food delivery application for smartphones and includes the following elements:
[1136] Overall system configuration
[1137] 1. A means of matching local producers with consumer demand
[1138] 2. Measures to promote sustainable production methods
[1139] 3. Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes
[1140] 4. Energy Efficiency Measures
[1141] 5. Measures to promote the adoption of eco-packaging materials
[1142] 6. Means of providing environmental information to consumers
[1143] 7. Matching supply and demand using a matching algorithm with a smartphone food delivery application
[1144] 8. Measures to optimize delivery vehicle routes
[1145] 9. A means to inform consumers about eco-friendly choices through apps
[1146] Hardware and software used
[1147] Server: Database management, information processing
[1148] Smartphone: User interface, GPS data
[1149] AI models (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch): matching and optimization algorithms
[1150] Google Maps API: Route Optimization
[1151] Processing Description
[1152] The server obtains supply information from local producers and demand information from consumers. For example, the server receives input from a producer that offers 50 apples and information from a consumer that requires 50 apples.
[1153] The server performs matching based on supply and demand information to build an efficient supply chain. For example, using an AI model (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch), if consumer A needs 10 apples and producer B can provide 20 apples, the optimal matching and route are calculated.
[1154] Delivery vehicle routes are optimized using Google Maps APIs to maximize energy efficiency. For example, when a vehicle travels from Sapporo to Tokyo, real-time traffic information is used to calculate the optimal route.
[1155] Consumers are offered eco-friendly options through a smartphone application, which notifies them of the low environmental impact of products that use eco-friendly packaging, for example.
[1156] Specific examples
[1157] Example prompt sentence:
[1158] "What information can be provided to consumers to help them choose the sustainable option? Consumer A needs 10 apples, and local producer B can provide 20 apples."
[1159] This application makes it possible to optimally match local producers with consumer demand and achieve a sustainable food supply chain. The entire system is designed to be efficient and minimize environmental impact.
[1160] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
[1161] Step 1:
[1162] The server collects supply and demand information from local producers and consumers, respectively. Specifically, it receives as input the types and quantities of food provided by producers and the types and quantities of food required by consumers. This data is stored in a database for later processing.
[1163] Input: Producer supply information, consumer demand information
[1164] Output: Supply and demand information stored in a database
[1165] Step 2:
[1166] The server uses a matching algorithm to create an optimal supply chain based on the collected supply and demand information. During this process, a generative AI model (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) is used to calculate the optimal supply-demand match. For example, if consumer A needs 10 apples and producer B can provide 20 apples, the model will output the optimal match.
[1167] Input: Output data from Step 1 (supply information, demand information)
[1168] Output: Best match information
[1169] Step 3:
[1170] The server then recommends sustainable production methods to producers based on the optimized matching information. Specifically, it acquires the producers' production information and suggests sustainable agricultural practices such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management, thereby minimizing the environmental impact.
[1171] Input: Optimal matching information, producer production information
[1172] Output: Recommended sustainable production methods
[1173] Step 4:
[1174] To optimize delivery vehicle routes, the server retrieves current traffic and geographical data, and uses the Google Maps API to calculate and output the optimal route based on the collected information to maximize energy efficiency.
[1175] Input: Current traffic information, geographic data
[1176] Output: Optimized delivery route
[1177] Step 5:
[1178] To promote the use of eco-friendly packaging materials, the server collects information on currently used packaging materials and recommends environmentally friendly packaging materials. Specifically, it proposes biodegradable and recycled materials and monitors their adoption.
[1179] Input: Current packaging material information
[1180] Output: Recommended eco-packaging material information
[1181] Step 6:
[1182] The server sends notifications to consumers through a smartphone application to provide them with environmental information and eco-friendly choices. For example, if a consumer chooses a product that uses eco-friendly packaging, the server sends a notification informing them of its low environmental impact.
[1183] Input: Eco-Friendly Choice Information
[1184] Output: Notice to consumer
[1185] Example prompt:
[1186] "What information can be provided to consumers to help them choose the sustainable option? Consumer A needs 10 apples, and local producer B can provide 20 apples."
[1187] 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.
[1188] This invention is a system that combines a means of matching local producers with consumer demand, a means of recommending sustainable production methods, a means of optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes, a means of improving energy efficiency, a means of promoting the adoption of eco-packaging materials, a means of providing environmental information to consumers, and an emotion engine that recognizes user emotions. This makes it possible to build a carbon-neutral food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact.
[1189] Program Description
[1190] Building a local food supply network
[1191] 1. The server obtains supply information from local producers. For example, the server receives information that producer A will supply 50 apples.
[1192] 2. The server receives demand information from consumers. For example, the server receives information that consumer B needs 50 apples.
[1193] 3. The server performs matching based on supply and demand information. It checks whether the supply of producer A matches the demand of consumer B.
[1194] 4. The server stores the matching results in a database and manages supply and demand.
[1195] Adoption of sustainable production methods
[1196] 1. The server obtains production information for the farm. For example, the server checks whether Farm C uses chemical fertilizer.
[1197] 2. The server recommends sustainable production methods, such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management, to Farm C.
[1198] 3. The server monitors the implementation of sustainable production methods: Check whether Farm C has adopted organic farming.
[1199] Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport
[1200] 1. The server obtains the current route information of the refrigerated transport vehicle. For example, the server obtains the route information of refrigerated vehicle X going from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[1201] 2. The server calculates the optimal transportation route, calculating the route with the shortest distance and time, and notifies refrigerated vehicle X.
[1202] Improved energy efficiency
[1203] 1. The server obtains energy consumption information for food production facilities and warehouses. For example, it determines that Warehouse D uses an outdated heating and cooling system.
[1204] 2. The server recommends the introduction of energy-efficient equipment. The server proposes the introduction of a high-efficiency heating and cooling system to Warehouse D.
[1205] 3. The server monitors the progress of energy efficiency improvements to ensure that new equipment is actually reducing energy consumption.
[1206] Reducing plastic
[1207] 1. The server obtains information on packaging materials currently in use. It checks that product E uses single-use plastic.
[1208] 2. The server recommends biodegradable packaging materials and proposes the introduction of eco-friendly packaging materials for product E.
[1209] 3. The server monitors the progress of plastic reduction and checks whether product E has been changed to eco-friendly packaging materials.
[1210] consumer education
[1211] 1. The server provides environmental information to consumers. For example, it provides consumer F with options and benefits that result in a lower carbon footprint through an application.
[1212] 2. The user (Consumer F) views the environmental information provided through the application and selects environmentally conscious options.
[1213] Implementing the Emotion Engine
[1214] 1. The server is equipped with an emotion engine to collect user emotions, for example, to collect emotion data while the user is using the application.
[1215] 2. The server analyzes the collected emotion data and customizes the information provided to the user. For example, if the user expresses positive emotion toward the environmental information, the server provides more detailed information.
[1216] 3. The server enhances the content provided based on the user's emotions. Based on the user's feedback and emotional data, the server improves the way it provides environmental information.
[1217] This allows the system to provide optimal environmental information to each individual user while taking into account the user's emotions. Specific operations are carried out through information acquisition, analysis, suggestions, and monitoring. This system enables consumers to make more effective environmentally conscious choices, significantly reducing the environmental burden.
[1218] The processing flow will be explained below.
[1219] Step 1:
[1220] The server obtains supply information from local producers. For example, the server receives information that producer A will supply 50 apples.
[1221] Step 2:
[1222] The server receives demand information from consumers. For example, the server receives information that consumer B needs 50 apples.
[1223] Step 3:
[1224] The server matches supply and demand based on the acquired supply and demand information. Specifically, it checks whether the supply of producer A matches the demand of consumer B.
[1225] Step 4:
[1226] The server stores the matched supply and demand information in a database. For example, it is determined that producer A will supply 50 apples to consumer B.
[1227] Step 5:
[1228] The server obtains farm production information. For example, the server checks whether Farm C uses chemical fertilizer.
[1229] Step 6:
[1230] The server recommends sustainable production practices, such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management for Farm C.
[1231] Step 7:
[1232] The server monitors the implementation of sustainable production methods. It periodically checks whether Farm C has actually adopted organic farming.
[1233] Step 8:
[1234] The server obtains the current route information of the refrigerated transport vehicle. For example, the server obtains the route information of refrigerated vehicle X going from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[1235] Step 9:
[1236] The server calculates the optimal transportation route, specifically the route with the shortest distance and time, and notifies refrigerated vehicle X of the new route information.
[1237] Step 10:
[1238] The server acquires energy consumption information for food production facilities and warehouses. For example, it checks that Warehouse D uses an outdated heating and cooling system.
[1239] Step 11:
[1240] The server recommends the introduction of energy-efficient equipment. Specifically, it proposes the introduction of a highly efficient heating and cooling system in Warehouse D.
[1241] Step 12:
[1242] The server monitors the progress of energy efficiency improvements to ensure that new equipment is actually reducing energy consumption.
[1243] Step 13:
[1244] The server obtains information about the packaging materials currently in use, for example, whether product E uses single-use plastic.
[1245] Step 14:
[1246] The server recommends the use of eco-friendly packaging materials, specifically, the introduction of biodegradable packaging materials for product E.
[1247] Step 15:
[1248] The server monitors the progress of plastic reduction and checks whether product E has been changed to eco-friendly packaging materials.
[1249] Step 16:
[1250] The server provides environmental information to consumers. For example, it provides consumer F with information about options with a low carbon footprint and their benefits through an application.
[1251] Step 17:
[1252] The user (consumer F) browses the environmental information provided through the application and selects environmentally conscious options.
[1253] Step 18:
[1254] The server activates an emotion engine to collect user emotions. Emotion data is collected while the user is using the application.
[1255] Step 19:
[1256] The server analyzes the collected emotion data, specifically, it analyzes what emotion the user is expressing in response to the provided environmental information.
[1257] Step 20:
[1258] The server customizes the information it provides based on the emotion data, for example, providing more detailed environmental information if the user is expressing positive emotion.
[1259] Step 21:
[1260] The server improves the quality and content of the information it provides based on user feedback and emotion data. Specifically, it optimizes the way it provides information by reflecting feedback from user F.
[1261] Example 2
[1262] 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."
[1263] The current food supply chain not only lacks efficiency, but also has a significant environmental impact. Specifically, it faces a mismatch between producer and consumer demand, unsustainable production methods, inefficient refrigerated and frozen transportation routes, low-energy-efficiency facilities, excessive use of plastic, and a lack of environmental awareness among consumers. Another issue is the lack of information provided based on consumer emotions and interests. These challenges exacerbate the negative impact on the environment and hinder the realization of a carbon-neutral supply chain.
[1264] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the second embodiment is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes a means for matching local producers with consumer demand, a means for recommending sustainable production methods, a means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transportation routes, a means for improving energy efficiency, a means for promoting the introduction of eco-packaging materials, a means for providing environmental information to consumers, and a means for collecting and analyzing user sentiment data and customizing the information to be provided. This increases the efficiency of the food supply chain, reduces the environmental burden, and enables the construction of a carbon-neutral supply chain.
[1265] A "local producer" is an individual or organization that produces agricultural or food products within a specific geographic area.
[1266] "Consumer" means any person or entity that uses or consumes food or agricultural products.
[1267] A "demand matching means" is a method or device for collecting producer supply information and consumer demand information, and collating and matching them.
[1268] "Sustainable production methods" are environmentally friendly methods for maintaining agricultural production over the long term, including organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management.
[1269] "Means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes" refers to a method or device for calculating the shortest route and the shortest time when transporting refrigerated or frozen food, thereby maximizing transport efficiency.
[1270] "Measures to improve energy efficiency" refers to methods or devices that introduce highly efficient equipment or systems in order to reduce energy consumption.
[1271] "Eco-packaging materials" refers to packaging made from materials that have a low impact on the environment, such as being biodegradable or reusable.
[1272] "Means for providing environmental information to consumers" refers to a method or device for conveying useful information about the environment to consumers.
[1273] "Means for collecting and analyzing emotional data and customizing the information provided" refers to a method or device for collecting and analyzing data on a user's emotions to identify areas and information in which the user is interested and provide appropriate information based on that information.
[1274] This invention is a system that combines means to match local producers with consumer demand, recommend sustainable production methods, optimize refrigerated and frozen transport routes, improve energy efficiency, promote the adoption of eco-packaging materials, provide environmental information to consumers, and collect and analyze user sentiment data to customize the information provided. This system makes it possible to build a carbon-neutral food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact.
[1275] First, to match local producers with consumer demand, the server uses a dedicated application to obtain supply information from producers and demand information from consumers. For example, a producer inputs information such as "50 apples available," and at the same time, a consumer inputs a request such as "50 apples needed." The server then collects this information and matches supply and demand based on this information. The matching results are stored in a database and notified to the relevant parties.
[1276] Next, to recommend sustainable production methods, the server collects farm production information and recommends sustainable agricultural practices. For example, the server checks whether a farm uses chemical fertilizers and suggests sustainable methods such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management. The server monitors progress and helps each farm improve its sustainability.
[1277] In addition, to optimize refrigerated transport routes, the server obtains current route information from the GPS devices installed in refrigerated transport vehicles and calculates the optimal transport route. For example, when a refrigerated vehicle heads from Sapporo to Tokyo, it can calculate the shortest time and distance and issue instructions to change the route.
[1278] To improve energy efficiency, the server collects energy consumption information from food production facilities and warehouses and recommends the introduction of more efficient energy equipment. For example, it identifies that a warehouse is using an outdated heating and cooling system and suggests the introduction of a more efficient system.
[1279] To achieve this, the server collects information on currently used packaging materials and makes recommendations to promote the introduction of biodegradable packaging materials. For example, it can propose the introduction of eco-friendly packaging materials for products and monitor the progress of such efforts.
[1280] Furthermore, for consumer education, a dedicated application is used in which the server provides environmental information to consumers, allowing them to view the information and choose environmentally friendly options.
[1281] Finally, to collect and analyze the user's emotional data and customize the information provided, the server uses an emotion engine to collect and analyze the user's emotional data. Based on the collected data, customized information can be provided to the user. For example, if the user has a positive reaction to the environmental information, more detailed information can be provided.
[1282] For example, if a farmer enters "I harvested 50 apples" through the application and a consumer requests "I need 50 apples," the server instantly matches the information and notifies both parties. It can also ensure that farms adopt new organic farming techniques and monitor progress through monthly reports.
[1283] An example prompt might be, "Matching local producers with consumer demand and recommending sustainable production methods. For example, if one farm supplies 50 apples and another consumer needs 50 apples, how does the system connect these pieces of information?"
[1284] In this way, the system can function efficiently and effectively, significantly reducing the environmental impact. For example, a carbon-neutral supply chain can be achieved by matching local producers with consumer demand, adopting sustainable production methods, optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes, improving energy efficiency, introducing eco-packaging materials, and providing environmental information to consumers.
[1285] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[1286] Step 1:
[1287] Input: Supply information from producer (e.g., 50 apples)
[1288] Processing: The server acquires supply information entered by producers through a dedicated application. Specifically, it collects data such as the type of agricultural product, quantity, and supply period.
[1289] Output: The supply information is stored in a database and is available for use.
[1290] Specific operation: When a producer enters "50 apples available" into the application, the server receives the data and stores it in the database.
[1291] Step 2:
[1292] Input: Demand information from consumers (e.g., 50 apples)
[1293] Processing: The server receives demand information entered by the consumer through a dedicated application, specifically collecting data such as the type of produce needed, quantity, and desired delivery period.
[1294] Output: Demand information is stored in a database and made available.
[1295] Specific operation: When a consumer enters "I need 50 apples" into the application, the server receives the data and stores it in the database.
[1296] Step 3:
[1297] Input: Supply and Demand Information
[1298] Processing: The server checks the supply and demand information in the database to find matching pairs. It uses an algorithm to check whether the supply and demand quantities match and then matches them.
[1299] Output: The matching results are notified to both parties and stored in a database.
[1300] Specific operation: The server confirms that the producer's supply information "50 apples" and the consumer's demand information "50 apples" match, and notifies the producer and consumer.
[1301] Step 4:
[1302] Input: Farm production information (e.g., use of chemical fertilizers)
[1303] Processing: The server obtains production information from the farm and suggests sustainable production methods, such as checking the use of chemical fertilizers and cultivation methods, and recommending organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management.
[1304] Output: Recommended sustainable production practices are communicated to the farm and stored in a database.
[1305] Specific behavior: When a farm inputs "using chemical fertilizers," the server suggests adopting organic farming and notifies the farmer that "organic farming is recommended."
[1306] Step 5:
[1307] Input: Refrigerated and frozen transport vehicle route information
[1308] Processing: The server obtains the current route information from the GPS devices installed in the transport vehicles and calculates the optimal route. It uses an algorithm to derive the route with the shortest distance and minimum time.
[1309] Output: The optimal route is communicated to the transport vehicle and stored in a database.
[1310] Specific operation: Obtain information that refrigerated vehicle X is "heading from Sapporo to Tokyo," calculate the "shortest route," and notify the driver.
[1311] Step 6:
[1312] Input: Energy consumption data for food production facilities and warehouses
[1313] Processing: The server collects and analyzes energy consumption data from sensors installed in the facility, and proposes renovation plans for efficient energy consumption.
[1314] Output: Energy-efficient equipment installations are proposed for the facility and stored in a database.
[1315] Specific action: Check the "outdated heating and cooling system" in Warehouse D and propose "the introduction of a highly efficient heating and cooling system."
[1316] Step 7:
[1317] Input: Packaging material information (e.g., single-use plastic)
[1318] Processing: The server acquires information about the product's packaging materials and suggests eco-friendly packaging materials, such as biodegradable packaging materials.
[1319] Output: The recommended eco-packaging materials are notified to the company and stored in a database.
[1320] Specific action: If product E uses "single-use plastic," propose "biodegradable packaging."
[1321] Step 8:
[1322] Input: Environmental information to consumers
[1323] Processing: The server uses the application to provide useful environmental information to consumers, who can browse environmentally friendly options.
[1324] Output: Consumers can view environmental information and make appropriate choices.
[1325] Specific actions: Consumer F uses the application to browse and select "products with low carbon footprints."
[1326] Step 9:
[1327] Input: User emotion data
[1328] Processing: The server uses an emotion engine to collect and analyze the user's emotion data, and customizes the information provided based on that data.
[1329] Output: The customized information is provided to the user and stored in a database.
[1330] Specific behavior: Collect "positive emotions" from users while using the application and provide "relevant detailed information."
[1331] (Application example 2)
[1332] 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."
[1333] The current food supply chain is complex and inefficient, with difficulties in matching supply and demand between local producers and consumers. Furthermore, the spread of sustainable production methods has been slow, and efforts to optimize refrigerated and frozen transportation, improve energy efficiency, and promote the use of eco-friendly packaging materials have not been sufficient. Furthermore, environmental information provided to consumers is insufficient, and the information provided is not customized to reflect user preferences. There is a need to solve these problems and build a carbon-neutral food supply chain.
[1334] 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.
[1335] In this invention, the server includes means for matching local producers with consumer demand, means for recommending sustainable production methods, means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes, means for improving energy efficiency, means for promoting the use of eco-packaging materials, means for providing environmental information to consumers, and means for recognizing user emotions and customizing the provided information. This makes it possible to efficiently match local producers with consumers and promote sustainable production methods while minimizing environmental impact. Furthermore, optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport, improving energy efficiency, and promoting the use of eco-packaging materials can realize a carbon-neutral food supply chain. Furthermore, providing environmental information to consumers and customizing the information according to user emotions can more effectively raise environmental awareness.
[1336] A "local producer" is an individual or group that produces food or agricultural products within a particular geographic area.
[1337] A "consumer" is an individual or group who purchases and uses food and agricultural products provided by local producers.
[1338] A "demand matching means" is a system or method that collects supply information provided by local producers and consumer demand information, and links supply and demand based on that information.
[1339] "Measures promoting sustainable production practices" are systems or methods that promote environmentally friendly practices and efficient use of resources in agriculture and food production.
[1340] A "means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes" is a system or method for planning and adjusting travel routes for refrigerated and frozen vehicles to transport food efficiently.
[1341] "Energy efficiency measures" are systems or methods for reducing energy consumption and increasing energy efficiency in food production facilities, warehouses, etc.
[1342] "Measures to promote the introduction of eco-packaging materials" refers to systems or methods that encourage the use of environmentally friendly packaging materials (e.g., biodegradable packaging materials) and promote their introduction.
[1343] "Means for providing environmental information to consumers" refers to a system or method that provides consumers with environmental information, such as production methods and carbon footprints of food and agricultural products.
[1344] "Means for recognizing user emotions and customizing information provided" refers to a system or method that collects and analyzes emotional data displayed by users when using an application, and adjusts the information provided based on that data to suit the individual preferences and emotions of the user.
[1345] The system for implementing this invention has the following main functions: It efficiently matches local producers with consumers, promotes sustainable production methods, improves energy efficiency, and promotes the use of eco-friendly packaging materials. It also provides environmental information to consumers and customizes the information provided based on the user's emotions.
[1346] A means of matching local producers with consumer demand
[1347] The server collects supply information from local producers and consumer demand information. Based on the collected information, it matches supply and demand and creates an optimal delivery plan. This process is performed, for example, when a producer supplies 50 apples and a consumer demands the same amount.
[1348] Promoting sustainable production methods
[1349] The server collects production information from production facilities and uses that information to recommend sustainable agricultural practices such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management. For example, it checks whether a farm uses chemical fertilizers and suggests switching to organic farming.
[1350] Optimize refrigerated and frozen transport routes
[1351] The server obtains the current route information of refrigerated and frozen vehicles and calculates the route with the shortest distance and time. This increases energy efficiency and reduces transportation costs. For example, it proposes the optimal route for a refrigerated vehicle traveling from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[1352] Improved energy efficiency
[1353] The server collects energy consumption information from food production facilities and warehouses and recommends the installation of high-efficiency heating and cooling systems. For example, it suggests installing energy-efficient equipment in warehouses that use outdated heating and cooling systems.
[1354] Promoting the introduction of eco-friendly packaging materials
[1355] The server collects information on currently used packaging materials and promotes the introduction of biodegradable packaging materials, for example, by suggesting a change to eco-friendly packaging materials for products that use single-use plastics.
[1356] Providing environmental information to consumers
[1357] The server provides consumers with environmental information, including low-carbon footprint options and their benefits, for example by allowing consumers to browse environmentally friendly options through an application.
[1358] A means of recognizing user emotions and customizing the information provided
[1359] The server collects and analyzes the user's emotional data through the application, and customizes the information provided based on the user's emotions. For example, if the user responds positively to environmental information, the server may provide more detailed environmental information.
[1360] For example, the following prompt can be used:
[1361] "A local grower supplies 50 apples and a consumer demands the same quantity. Suggest organic farming as a sustainable production method, optimize transport routes, and introduce biodegradable packaging. Also, provide carbon footprint information to the consumer and use the user sentiment engine to provide customized environmental information."
[1362] This invention is implemented by combining hardware such as servers, smartphones, smart glasses, and head-mounted displays with software such as Python and SQL databases. The system efficiently matches local producers with consumers through information acquisition, analysis, proposals, and monitoring, realizing a sustainable food supply.
[1363] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
[1364] Step 1:
[1365] The server obtains supply information from local producers. Specifically, it collects product names, quantities, location information, etc. provided by producers. During this process, the server receives the producers' supply information as input data and stores it in a database.
[1366] Step 2:
[1367] The server acquires demand information from consumers. Specifically, it collects information such as the product name, quantity, and location information required by the consumer. During this process, the server receives the consumer demand information as input data and stores it in a database.
[1368] Step 3:
[1369] The server performs matching based on the acquired supply and demand information. Specifically, it searches for combinations where supply and demand match and performs optimal matching. Supply and demand information are used as input data, and the matching results are obtained as output data.
[1370] Step 4:
[1371] The server creates a delivery plan based on the matching results. Specifically, it calculates the optimal delivery route from the supplier to the destination. This is done using a geographic information system (GIS) or similar. The matching results and location information are used as input data, and the optimal delivery route is obtained as output data.
[1372] Step 5:
[1373] The server obtains production information and recommends sustainable production methods. Specifically, it monitors the production methods used by production facilities and proposes sustainable production methods. Production information is used as input data, and sustainable production method proposals are obtained as output data.
[1374] Step 6:
[1375] The server optimizes refrigerated and frozen transport routes. Specifically, it obtains current transport route information and calculates the most efficient route. Transport route information is used as input data, and the optimal route is obtained as output data.
[1376] Step 7:
[1377] The server collects energy consumption information from food production facilities and warehouses and recommends improvements to energy efficiency. Specifically, it proposes the introduction of high-efficiency equipment to facilities that use outdated equipment. Energy consumption information is used as input data, and efficiency improvement proposals are obtained as output data.
[1378] Step 8:
[1379] The server acquires information on packaging materials and promotes the adoption of eco-friendly packaging materials. Specifically, it checks the packaging materials currently in use and suggests the use of biodegradable packaging materials. Packaging material information is used as input data, and eco-friendly packaging material recommendations are obtained as output data.
[1380] Step 9:
[1381] The server provides environmental information to consumers. Specifically, it presents low-carbon footprint options and their benefits through an application. Environmental information is used as input data, and environmental information provided to consumers is obtained as output data.
[1382] Step 10:
[1383] The server collects user emotion data and customizes the information provided. Specifically, it collects user emotion through the application and adjusts the information provided based on the analysis results. Emotion data is used as input data, and customized information is obtained as output data.
[1384] 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.
[1385] 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.
[1386] 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.
[1387] [Fourth embodiment]
[1388] FIG. 7 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 410 according to the fourth embodiment.
[1389] 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.
[1390] 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).
[1391] 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.
[1392] 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.
[1393] 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).
[1394] 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.
[1395] 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.
[1396] 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.
[1397] 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.
[1398] 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.
[1399] 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.
[1400] 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."
[1401] This invention is a system for building a carbon-neutral food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact. The system includes means for matching local producers with consumer demand, encouraging sustainable production methods, optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes, improving energy efficiency, promoting the adoption of eco-packaging materials, and providing environmental information to consumers.
[1402] Program Description
[1403] Building a local food supply network
[1404] 1. The server gets supply information from local producers and demand information from consumers. For example, the server inputs that producer A supplies 50 apples and consumer B needs 50 apples.
[1405] 2. The server matches supply and demand information to build an efficient supply chain. The matched information is stored in a database and used to manage supply and demand.
[1406] Adoption of sustainable production methods
[1407] 1. The server obtains farm production information and recommends sustainable production methods. For example, if Farm C uses chemical fertilizers, the server recommends sustainable methods such as organic farming and crop rotation.
[1408] 2. The server will monitor the implementation of recommended sustainable production practices and evaluate their effectiveness.
[1409] Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport
[1410] 1. The server obtains the current transport route information of the refrigerated transport vehicle. For example, the server obtains the route of refrigerated vehicle X from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[1411] 2. The server calculates the optimal transport route based on the acquired route information and notifies the transport vehicle, thereby realizing transport with minimal energy consumption.
[1412] Improved energy efficiency
[1413] 1. The server acquires energy consumption information from food production facilities and warehouses and recommends efficient energy usage methods. For example, the server suggests installing a high-efficiency heating and cooling system for Warehouse D.
[1414] 2. The server monitors the energy consumption of new equipment that has been installed and evaluates its efficiency.
[1415] Reducing plastic
[1416] 1. The server obtains information about the packaging materials currently in use and recommends eco-friendly packaging materials. For example, if product E uses single-use plastic, the server recommends using biodegradable materials.
[1417] 2. The server will monitor the implementation status of the recommended eco-packaging materials and evaluate their effectiveness.
[1418] consumer education
[1419] 1. The server provides environmental information to consumers and raises their awareness. For example, the server provides consumer F with information about options with a low carbon footprint through an application.
[1420] 2. The server collects consumer feedback and improves the quality and content of the information it provides. Based on the feedback from consumer F, it updates the system to provide even more useful information.
[1421] In this way, each function works together with the server at its core, aiming to build an efficient and sustainable food supply chain. Specific operations are realized through the server's information collection, analysis, recommendations, and monitoring. This system makes it possible to efficiently match supply and demand in the local community while significantly reducing environmental impact.
[1422] The processing flow will be explained below.
[1423] Step 1:
[1424] The server gets supply information from local producers, for example, producer A supplies 50 apples.
[1425] Step 2:
[1426] The server receives demand information from consumers. For example, it receives information that consumer B needs 50 apples.
[1427] Step 3:
[1428] The server matches supply and demand based on the acquired supply and demand information, and checks whether producer A's supply matches consumer B's demand.
[1429] Step 4:
[1430] The server stores the matched supply and demand information in a database. For example, it is determined that producer A will supply 50 apples to consumer B.
[1431] Step 5:
[1432] The server obtains farm production information and recommends sustainable production methods. For example, it identifies that Farm C uses chemical fertilizers and suggests that they adopt organic farming.
[1433] Step 6:
[1434] The server monitors the implementation of sustainable production methods: it checks whether Farm C has actually adopted organic farming.
[1435] Step 7:
[1436] The server obtains the current route information of refrigerated transport vehicles. It analyzes the route of refrigerated vehicle X from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[1437] Step 8:
[1438] The server optimizes the transportation route, recalculates the transportation route with the shortest distance and the shortest time, and notifies refrigerated vehicle X of the new route.
[1439] Step 9:
[1440] The server obtains energy consumption information for food production facilities and warehouses. It is determined that Warehouse D uses an outdated heating and cooling system.
[1441] Step 10:
[1442] The server proposes the installation of a new, highly efficient heating and cooling system to improve energy efficiency. The server provides advice to Warehouse D on reducing energy consumption.
[1443] Step 11:
[1444] The server retrieves information about the packaging materials currently in use. It verifies that product E uses single-use plastic.
[1445] Step 12:
[1446] The server recommends the use of biodegradable packaging materials. The server proposes the introduction of eco-friendly packaging materials for product E.
[1447] Step 13:
[1448] The server provides environmental information to consumers, for example, providing consumer F with information about options with a low carbon footprint through an application.
[1449] Step 14:
[1450] The user (consumer F) browses the environmental information provided through the application and selects environmentally conscious options.
[1451] Step 15:
[1452] The server collects feedback from consumers and improves the quality and content of the information it provides. Based on the feedback from consumer F, it updates the system to provide even more useful information.
[1453] Example 1
[1454] 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."
[1455] The current food supply chain has a high environmental impact and lacks sustainability. It also faces serious problems such as a mismatch between supply and demand between consumers and producers, low energy efficiency, and environmental pollution caused by packaging materials such as plastic. Furthermore, consumers have low environmental awareness, and eco-friendly options are not sufficiently available. This calls for efficient matching and optimization to realize a sustainable, carbon-neutral food supply chain.
[1456] 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.
[1457] In this invention, the server includes means for matching producer and consumer demand, means for recommending sustainable production methods, means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transportation routes, means for improving energy efficiency, means for promoting the introduction of environmentally friendly packaging materials, means for providing environmental information to consumers, means for acquiring, storing, analyzing, and notifying information, means for generating a supply chain optimization plan, and means for collecting feedback and improving the information provision system, thereby enabling the construction of an efficient and sustainable food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact.
[1458] "Producer" refers to a person who produces and supplies food products.
[1459] "Consumer" refers to a person who purchases and uses food products.
[1460] "Supply information" is information that indicates the types and quantities of food that producers can supply.
[1461] "Demand information" is information that indicates the types and quantities of food items that consumers need.
[1462] "Sustainable production methods" refers to environmentally friendly agricultural practices such as organic farming, crop rotation and integrated pest management.
[1463] "Route optimization for refrigerated and frozen transport" refers to calculating and executing the optimal transport route to improve energy efficiency.
[1464] "Energy efficiency" refers to achieving maximum effect with minimum energy consumption.
[1465] "Environmentally friendly packaging materials" refers to environmentally friendly packaging materials such as biodegradable materials.
[1466] "Environmental information" refers to useful information about the environment, such as options with a low carbon footprint.
[1467] "Acquiring information" refers to collecting necessary data from producers, consumers, etc.
[1468] "Storing information" refers to recording acquired data in a database or the like.
[1469] "Information analysis" refers to analyzing acquired data and extracting meaningful information.
[1470] "Notification of information" refers to informing relevant parties of the results of the analysis.
[1471] "Supply Chain Optimization Plan" refers to a plan for building an efficient food supply chain.
[1472] "Feedback collection" refers to collecting ratings and opinions from consumers.
[1473] "Improving the information provision system" refers to improving the system's functions and the information provided based on collected feedback.
[1474] This invention is a system for building a carbon-neutral food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact. This system is designed with a server, a terminal, and a user as its main components.
[1475] ---
[1476] System Configuration
[1477] 1. Server
[1478] The server plays a central role and performs the following functions:
[1479] Data acquisition and storage: The server acquires supply and demand information from producers and consumers and stores it in a database.
[1480] Data analysis and matching: The server analyzes the acquired data and performs matching to build an efficient supply chain.
[1481] Recommend and inform: The server recommends and informs stakeholders about sustainable production methods, energy-efficient methods, optimal transport routes, and environmentally friendly packaging materials.
[1482] Monitoring and Evaluation: The server will monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of any new methods or equipment introduced.
[1483] Feedback collection: The server collects feedback from consumers to help improve the system.
[1484] 2. Terminal
[1485] The terminal provides an interface for the user to enter and view information.
[1486] Data entry: Producers, consumers, drivers, and facility managers enter necessary information through terminals, including supply information, demand information, transport route information, energy consumption information, and packaging material information.
[1487] Viewing and updating information: Users receive recommendations and notifications from the server through their devices and update information as needed.
[1488] 3. Users
[1489] Users are individuals or organizations who play roles such as producers, consumers, drivers, and facility managers.
[1490] Providing information: The user enters the necessary information according to their role into the terminal and sends it to the server.
[1491] Implementing recommendations: Implementing recommendations sent by the server and providing feedback on their implementation and effectiveness.
[1492] ---
[1493] software
[1494] The software used in this system includes the following:
[1495] Database Management System (DBMS): Used to efficiently store and manage acquired data.
[1496] Analysis algorithms: The algorithms used to analyze and match the data.
[1497] Notification system: A system for quickly notifying users of recommendations and information.
[1498] Monitoring tools: Tools to track and evaluate the effectiveness of implemented methods and equipment.
[1499] ---
[1500] Specific examples
[1501] 1. Matching supply and demand
[1502] The server receives information that producer A can supply 50 apples and that consumer B needs 50 apples. The server then matches this supply with demand and generates a plan to optimize the supply chain.
[1503] 2. Promoting sustainable production methods
[1504] The server obtains information on Farm C's use of chemical fertilizers and recommends organic farming and crop rotation. It notifies the producer of the recommendations and monitors their adoption.
[1505] 3. Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport
[1506] The server obtains the transport route information from Sapporo to Tokyo entered by Driver X, calculates the optimal route, and notifies the driver.
[1507] 4. Improved energy efficiency
[1508] The server acquires energy consumption information for Warehouse D and proposes the introduction of a highly efficient heating and cooling system. The effectiveness of the introduced equipment is monitored and evaluated.
[1509] 5. Reduce plastic
[1510] The server obtains information that product E uses single-use plastic and recommends the use of biodegradable materials. The effect of the introduction is monitored and evaluated.
[1511] 6. Consumer education
[1512] The server provides environmental information about options with a low carbon footprint to consumer F. Consumer feedback is collected and the information provision system is improved.
[1513] ---
[1514] Prompt Sentence Examples
[1515] Examples of input prompts for a generative AI model include:
[1516] Prompt: "If a local producer supplies 50 apples and a consumer needs 50 apples, explain how to create an efficient supply chain."
[1517] In this way, the system efficiently processes diverse information and provides concrete means for building a sustainable food supply chain.
[1518] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[1519] Building a local food supply network
[1520] Step 1: Obtain supply and demand information
[1521] The user (producer) uses a terminal to input supply information (e.g., 50 apples).
[1522] A user (consumer) uses a terminal to input demand information (e.g., 50 apples).
[1523] The server receives this input information and stores it in a database. The input data is represented in JSON format and stored in the database.
[1524] Step 2: Matching supply and demand information
[1525] The server retrieves supply and demand information from a database.
[1526] The server runs a supply and demand matching algorithm to generate an efficient supply chain.
[1527] The matching results are stored in a database and then notified to the producer and consumer.
[1528] ---
[1529] Adoption of sustainable production methods
[1530] Step 1: Obtaining production information
[1531] The user (producer) uses a terminal to input information about the current production method and materials being used (e.g., the use of chemical fertilizers).
[1532] The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[1533] Step 2: Recommend and monitor
[1534] The server analyzes the production information in the database.
[1535] The server recommends sustainable production methods such as organic farming and crop rotation and notifies producers of these recommendations.
[1536] Monitor whether recommendations have been implemented and record this in a database.
[1537] The effectiveness will also be evaluated in parallel.
[1538] ---
[1539] Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport
[1540] Step 1: Obtaining transport route information
[1541] The user (driver) uses the terminal to input the current location and destination information of the transport vehicle (for example, from Sapporo to Tokyo).
[1542] The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[1543] Step 2: Calculate the optimal route
[1544] The server retrieves the transportation route information in the database and uses analytical algorithms to calculate the optimal route.
[1545] Once the optimal route is calculated, the server notifies the driver of the results and updates the transportation instructions.
[1546] ---
[1547] Improved energy efficiency
[1548] Step 1: Obtaining energy consumption information
[1549] A user (facility manager) uses a terminal to input energy consumption information (e.g., power consumption) for a facility or warehouse.
[1550] The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[1551] Step 2: Recommend efficient energy usage
[1552] The server analyzes the energy consumption information in the database and recommends efficient energy usage methods, such as high-efficiency heating and cooling systems.
[1553] Communicate recommendations to facility managers and monitor their implementation.
[1554] The effectiveness of the installed equipment is evaluated and recorded in a database.
[1555] ---
[1556] Reducing plastic
[1557] Step 1: Obtaining information on packaging materials
[1558] The user (product manager) uses a terminal to input information about the packaging material currently being used (e.g., single-use plastic).
[1559] The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[1560] Step 2: Recommending and monitoring eco-friendly packaging materials
[1561] The server analyzes packaging material information in the database and recommends eco-friendly packaging materials such as biodegradable materials.
[1562] Communicate recommendations to product managers and monitor their implementation.
[1563] Evaluate the effectiveness and record it in a database.
[1564] ---
[1565] consumer education
[1566] Step 1: Provide environmental information
[1567] The server generates environmental information for consumers (e.g., options with a low carbon footprint) and provides it through the application.
[1568] Step 2: Gather feedback and update the system
[1569] The user (consumer) inputs feedback on the information provided through the application.
[1570] The server collects the feedback and stores it in a database.
[1571] The information provision system will be updated based on the analysis results.
[1572] This allows the elements of servers, terminals and users to work together to create a sustainable and efficient food supply chain.
[1573] (Application example 1)
[1574] 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."
[1575] Traditional food supply chains are based on global logistics, placing a heavy burden on the environment. There are also many sustainability concerns, such as declining energy efficiency and increasing plastic waste. To address these issues, it is necessary to efficiently match local producers with consumer demand, promote sustainable production methods, and optimize refrigerated and frozen transportation routes.
[1576] 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.
[1577] In this invention, the server includes means for matching local producers with consumer demand, means for recommending sustainable production methods, means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transportation routes, means for improving energy efficiency, means for promoting the introduction of eco-packaging materials, means for providing environmental information to consumers, means for matching supply and demand through a matching algorithm using a food delivery application for smartphones, means for optimizing delivery vehicle routes, and means for providing consumers with information on eco-friendly options through the application, thereby enabling optimal matching of local producers with consumer demand and the construction of a sustainable food supply chain.
[1578] A "local producer" is a producer whose production activities are within a specific geographic area.
[1579] "Consumer" means the person or entity who ultimately uses the products or services supplied.
[1580] A "demand matching tool" is a method or tool for collecting consumer demand information and finding and connecting it with matching producer supply information.
[1581] "Sustainable production methods" are production techniques and practices that are sustainable over the long term while minimizing the burden on the environment.
[1582] "Means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes" refers to a method or system for selecting an efficient route while maintaining food at the appropriate temperature.
[1583] An "energy efficiency measure" is a method or tool used to maximize efficiency while reducing energy consumption.
[1584] "Eco-packaging materials" are packaging materials that are environmentally friendly, degradable or recyclable.
[1585] "Means for providing environmental information to consumers" are methods or tools for informing consumers about environmental impacts and sustainable options.
[1586] A "food delivery application for smartphones" is application software that runs on a smartphone to order food, deliver food, provide information, etc.
[1587] A "matching algorithm" is a procedure or calculation method for comparing supply and demand information to find the optimal combination.
[1588] A "means for optimizing delivery vehicle routes" is a method or system that calculates and indicates the most efficient route for a delivery vehicle to travel.
[1589] An "eco-friendly choice" is one that takes environmental protection into consideration and involves choosing sustainable materials and methods.
[1590] This invention is a system using a food delivery application for smartphones and includes the following elements:
[1591] Overall system configuration
[1592] 1. A means of matching local producers with consumer demand
[1593] 2. Measures to promote sustainable production methods
[1594] 3. Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes
[1595] 4. Energy Efficiency Measures
[1596] 5. Measures to promote the adoption of eco-packaging materials
[1597] 6. Means of providing environmental information to consumers
[1598] 7. Matching supply and demand using a matching algorithm with a smartphone food delivery application
[1599] 8. Measures to optimize delivery vehicle routes
[1600] 9. A means to inform consumers about eco-friendly choices through apps
[1601] Hardware and software used
[1602] Server: Database management, information processing
[1603] Smartphone: User interface, GPS data
[1604] AI models (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch): matching and optimization algorithms
[1605] Google Maps API: Route Optimization
[1606] Processing Description
[1607] The server obtains supply information from local producers and demand information from consumers. For example, the server receives input from a producer that offers 50 apples and information from a consumer that requires 50 apples.
[1608] The server performs matching based on supply and demand information to build an efficient supply chain. For example, using an AI model (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch), if consumer A needs 10 apples and producer B can provide 20 apples, the optimal matching and route are calculated.
[1609] Delivery vehicle routes are optimized using Google Maps APIs to maximize energy efficiency. For example, when a vehicle travels from Sapporo to Tokyo, real-time traffic information is used to calculate the optimal route.
[1610] Consumers are offered eco-friendly options through a smartphone application, which notifies them of the low environmental impact of products that use eco-friendly packaging, for example.
[1611] Specific examples
[1612] Example prompt sentence:
[1613] "What information can be provided to consumers to help them choose the sustainable option? Consumer A needs 10 apples, and local producer B can provide 20 apples."
[1614] This application makes it possible to optimally match local producers with consumer demand and achieve a sustainable food supply chain. The entire system is designed to be efficient and minimize environmental impact.
[1615] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
[1616] Step 1:
[1617] The server collects supply and demand information from local producers and consumers, respectively. Specifically, it receives as input the types and quantities of food provided by producers and the types and quantities of food required by consumers. This data is stored in a database for later processing.
[1618] Input: Producer supply information, consumer demand information
[1619] Output: Supply and demand information stored in a database
[1620] Step 2:
[1621] The server uses a matching algorithm to create an optimal supply chain based on the collected supply and demand information. During this process, a generative AI model (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) is used to calculate the optimal supply-demand match. For example, if consumer A needs 10 apples and producer B can provide 20 apples, the model will output the optimal match.
[1622] Input: Output data from Step 1 (supply information, demand information)
[1623] Output: Best match information
[1624] Step 3:
[1625] The server then recommends sustainable production methods to producers based on the optimized matching information. Specifically, it acquires the producers' production information and suggests sustainable agricultural practices such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management, thereby minimizing the environmental impact.
[1626] Input: Optimal matching information, producer production information
[1627] Output: Recommended sustainable production methods
[1628] Step 4:
[1629] To optimize delivery vehicle routes, the server retrieves current traffic and geographical data, and uses the Google Maps API to calculate and output the optimal route based on the collected information to maximize energy efficiency.
[1630] Input: Current traffic information, geographic data
[1631] Output: Optimized delivery route
[1632] Step 5:
[1633] To promote the use of eco-friendly packaging materials, the server collects information on currently used packaging materials and recommends environmentally friendly packaging materials. Specifically, it proposes biodegradable and recycled materials and monitors their adoption.
[1634] Input: Current packaging material information
[1635] Output: Recommended eco-packaging material information
[1636] Step 6:
[1637] The server sends notifications to consumers through a smartphone application to provide them with environmental information and eco-friendly choices. For example, if a consumer chooses a product that uses eco-friendly packaging, the server sends a notification informing them of its low environmental impact.
[1638] Input: Eco-Friendly Choice Information
[1639] Output: Notice to consumer
[1640] Example prompt:
[1641] "What information can be provided to consumers to help them choose the sustainable option? Consumer A needs 10 apples, and local producer B can provide 20 apples."
[1642] 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.
[1643] This invention is a system that combines a means of matching local producers with consumer demand, a means of recommending sustainable production methods, a means of optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes, a means of improving energy efficiency, a means of promoting the adoption of eco-packaging materials, a means of providing environmental information to consumers, and an emotion engine that recognizes user emotions. This makes it possible to build a carbon-neutral food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact.
[1644] Program Description
[1645] Building a local food supply network
[1646] 1. The server obtains supply information from local producers. For example, the server receives information that producer A will supply 50 apples.
[1647] 2. The server receives demand information from consumers. For example, the server receives information that consumer B needs 50 apples.
[1648] 3. The server performs matching based on supply and demand information. It checks whether the supply of producer A matches the demand of consumer B.
[1649] 4. The server stores the matching results in a database and manages supply and demand.
[1650] Adoption of sustainable production methods
[1651] 1. The server obtains production information for the farm. For example, the server checks whether Farm C uses chemical fertilizer.
[1652] 2. The server recommends sustainable production methods, such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management, to Farm C.
[1653] 3. The server monitors the implementation of sustainable production methods: Check whether Farm C has adopted organic farming.
[1654] Optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport
[1655] 1. The server obtains the current route information of the refrigerated transport vehicle. For example, the server obtains the route information of refrigerated vehicle X going from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[1656] 2. The server calculates the optimal transportation route, calculating the route with the shortest distance and time, and notifies refrigerated vehicle X.
[1657] Improved energy efficiency
[1658] 1. The server obtains energy consumption information for food production facilities and warehouses. For example, it determines that Warehouse D uses an outdated heating and cooling system.
[1659] 2. The server recommends the introduction of energy-efficient equipment. The server proposes the introduction of a high-efficiency heating and cooling system to Warehouse D.
[1660] 3. The server monitors the progress of energy efficiency improvements to ensure that new equipment is actually reducing energy consumption.
[1661] Reducing plastic
[1662] 1. The server obtains information on packaging materials currently in use. It checks that product E uses single-use plastic.
[1663] 2. The server recommends biodegradable packaging materials and proposes the introduction of eco-friendly packaging materials for product E.
[1664] 3. The server monitors the progress of plastic reduction and checks whether product E has been changed to eco-friendly packaging materials.
[1665] consumer education
[1666] 1. The server provides environmental information to consumers. For example, it provides consumer F with options and benefits that result in a lower carbon footprint through an application.
[1667] 2. The user (Consumer F) views the environmental information provided through the application and selects environmentally conscious options.
[1668] Implementing the Emotion Engine
[1669] 1. The server is equipped with an emotion engine to collect user emotions, for example, to collect emotion data while the user is using the application.
[1670] 2. The server analyzes the collected emotion data and customizes the information provided to the user. For example, if the user expresses positive emotion toward the environmental information, the server provides more detailed information.
[1671] 3. The server enhances the content provided based on the user's emotions. Based on the user's feedback and emotional data, the server improves the way it provides environmental information.
[1672] This allows the system to provide optimal environmental information to each individual user while taking into account the user's emotions. Specific operations are carried out through information acquisition, analysis, suggestions, and monitoring. This system enables consumers to make more effective environmentally conscious choices, significantly reducing the environmental burden.
[1673] The processing flow will be explained below.
[1674] Step 1:
[1675] The server obtains supply information from local producers. For example, the server receives information that producer A will supply 50 apples.
[1676] Step 2:
[1677] The server receives demand information from consumers. For example, the server receives information that consumer B needs 50 apples.
[1678] Step 3:
[1679] The server matches supply and demand based on the acquired supply and demand information. Specifically, it checks whether the supply of producer A matches the demand of consumer B.
[1680] Step 4:
[1681] The server stores the matched supply and demand information in a database. For example, it is determined that producer A will supply 50 apples to consumer B.
[1682] Step 5:
[1683] The server obtains farm production information. For example, the server checks whether Farm C uses chemical fertilizer.
[1684] Step 6:
[1685] The server recommends sustainable production practices, such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management for Farm C.
[1686] Step 7:
[1687] The server monitors the implementation of sustainable production methods. It periodically checks whether Farm C has actually adopted organic farming.
[1688] Step 8:
[1689] The server obtains the current route information of the refrigerated transport vehicle. For example, the server obtains the route information of refrigerated vehicle X going from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[1690] Step 9:
[1691] The server calculates the optimal transportation route, specifically the route with the shortest distance and time, and notifies refrigerated vehicle X of the new route information.
[1692] Step 10:
[1693] The server acquires energy consumption information for food production facilities and warehouses. For example, it checks that Warehouse D uses an outdated heating and cooling system.
[1694] Step 11:
[1695] The server recommends the introduction of energy-efficient equipment. Specifically, it proposes the introduction of a highly efficient heating and cooling system in Warehouse D.
[1696] Step 12:
[1697] The server monitors the progress of energy efficiency improvements to ensure that new equipment is actually reducing energy consumption.
[1698] Step 13:
[1699] The server obtains information about the packaging materials currently in use, for example, whether product E uses single-use plastic.
[1700] Step 14:
[1701] The server recommends the use of eco-friendly packaging materials, specifically, the introduction of biodegradable packaging materials for product E.
[1702] Step 15:
[1703] The server monitors the progress of plastic reduction and checks whether product E has been changed to eco-friendly packaging materials.
[1704] Step 16:
[1705] The server provides environmental information to consumers. For example, it provides consumer F with information about options with a low carbon footprint and their benefits through an application.
[1706] Step 17:
[1707] The user (consumer F) browses the environmental information provided through the application and selects environmentally conscious options.
[1708] Step 18:
[1709] The server activates an emotion engine to collect user emotions. Emotion data is collected while the user is using the application.
[1710] Step 19:
[1711] The server analyzes the collected emotion data, specifically, it analyzes what emotion the user is expressing in response to the provided environmental information.
[1712] Step 20:
[1713] The server customizes the information it provides based on the emotion data, for example, providing more detailed environmental information if the user is expressing positive emotion.
[1714] Step 21:
[1715] The server improves the quality and content of the information it provides based on user feedback and emotion data. Specifically, it optimizes the way it provides information by reflecting feedback from user F.
[1716] Example 2
[1717] 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."
[1718] The current food supply chain not only lacks efficiency, but also has a significant environmental impact. Specifically, it faces a mismatch between producer and consumer demand, unsustainable production methods, inefficient refrigerated and frozen transportation routes, low-energy-efficiency facilities, excessive use of plastic, and a lack of environmental awareness among consumers. Another issue is the lack of information provided based on consumer emotions and interests. These challenges exacerbate the negative impact on the environment and hinder the realization of a carbon-neutral supply chain.
[1719] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the second embodiment is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes a means for matching local producers with consumer demand, a means for recommending sustainable production methods, a means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transportation routes, a means for improving energy efficiency, a means for promoting the introduction of eco-packaging materials, a means for providing environmental information to consumers, and a means for collecting and analyzing user sentiment data and customizing the information to be provided. This increases the efficiency of the food supply chain, reduces the environmental burden, and enables the construction of a carbon-neutral supply chain.
[1720] A "local producer" is an individual or organization that produces agricultural or food products within a specific geographic area.
[1721] "Consumer" means any person or entity that uses or consumes food or agricultural products.
[1722] A "demand matching means" is a method or device for collecting producer supply information and consumer demand information, and collating and matching them.
[1723] "Sustainable production methods" are environmentally friendly methods for maintaining agricultural production over the long term, including organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management.
[1724] "Means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes" refers to a method or device for calculating the shortest route and the shortest time when transporting refrigerated or frozen food, thereby maximizing transport efficiency.
[1725] "Measures to improve energy efficiency" refers to methods or devices that introduce highly efficient equipment or systems in order to reduce energy consumption.
[1726] "Eco-packaging materials" refers to packaging made from materials that have a low impact on the environment, such as being biodegradable or reusable.
[1727] "Means for providing environmental information to consumers" refers to a method or device for conveying useful information about the environment to consumers.
[1728] "Means for collecting and analyzing emotional data and customizing the information provided" refers to a method or device for collecting and analyzing data on a user's emotions to identify areas and information in which the user is interested and provide appropriate information based on that information.
[1729] This invention is a system that combines means to match local producers with consumer demand, recommend sustainable production methods, optimize refrigerated and frozen transport routes, improve energy efficiency, promote the adoption of eco-packaging materials, provide environmental information to consumers, and collect and analyze user sentiment data to customize the information provided. This system makes it possible to build a carbon-neutral food supply chain while minimizing environmental impact.
[1730] First, to match local producers with consumer demand, the server uses a dedicated application to obtain supply information from producers and demand information from consumers. For example, a producer inputs information such as "50 apples available," and at the same time, a consumer inputs a request such as "50 apples needed." The server then collects this information and matches supply and demand based on this information. The matching results are stored in a database and notified to the relevant parties.
[1731] Next, to recommend sustainable production methods, the server collects farm production information and recommends sustainable agricultural practices. For example, the server checks whether a farm uses chemical fertilizers and suggests sustainable methods such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management. The server monitors progress and helps each farm improve its sustainability.
[1732] In addition, to optimize refrigerated transport routes, the server obtains current route information from the GPS devices installed in refrigerated transport vehicles and calculates the optimal transport route. For example, when a refrigerated vehicle heads from Sapporo to Tokyo, it can calculate the shortest time and distance and issue instructions to change the route.
[1733] To improve energy efficiency, the server collects energy consumption information from food production facilities and warehouses and recommends the introduction of more efficient energy equipment. For example, it identifies that a warehouse is using an outdated heating and cooling system and suggests the introduction of a more efficient system.
[1734] To achieve this, the server collects information on currently used packaging materials and makes recommendations to promote the introduction of biodegradable packaging materials. For example, it can propose the introduction of eco-friendly packaging materials for products and monitor the progress of such efforts.
[1735] Furthermore, for consumer education, a dedicated application is used in which the server provides environmental information to consumers, allowing them to view the information and choose environmentally friendly options.
[1736] Finally, to collect and analyze the user's emotional data and customize the information provided, the server uses an emotion engine to collect and analyze the user's emotional data. Based on the collected data, customized information can be provided to the user. For example, if the user has a positive reaction to the environmental information, more detailed information can be provided.
[1737] For example, if a farmer enters "I harvested 50 apples" through the application and a consumer requests "I need 50 apples," the server instantly matches the information and notifies both parties. It can also ensure that farms adopt new organic farming techniques and monitor progress through monthly reports.
[1738] An example prompt might be, "Matching local producers with consumer demand and recommending sustainable production methods. For example, if one farm supplies 50 apples and another consumer needs 50 apples, how does the system connect these pieces of information?"
[1739] In this way, the system can function efficiently and effectively, significantly reducing the environmental impact. For example, a carbon-neutral supply chain can be achieved by matching local producers with consumer demand, adopting sustainable production methods, optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes, improving energy efficiency, introducing eco-packaging materials, and providing environmental information to consumers.
[1740] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[1741] Step 1:
[1742] Input: Supply information from producer (e.g., 50 apples)
[1743] Processing: The server acquires supply information entered by producers through a dedicated application. Specifically, it collects data such as the type of agricultural product, quantity, and supply period.
[1744] Output: The supply information is stored in a database and is available for use.
[1745] Specific operation: When a producer enters "50 apples available" into the application, the server receives the data and stores it in the database.
[1746] Step 2:
[1747] Input: Demand information from consumers (e.g., 50 apples)
[1748] Processing: The server receives demand information entered by the consumer through a dedicated application, specifically collecting data such as the type of produce needed, quantity, and desired delivery period.
[1749] Output: Demand information is stored in a database and made available.
[1750] Specific operation: When a consumer enters "I need 50 apples" into the application, the server receives the data and stores it in the database.
[1751] Step 3:
[1752] Input: Supply and Demand Information
[1753] Processing: The server checks the supply and demand information in the database to find matching pairs. It uses an algorithm to check whether the supply and demand quantities match and then matches them.
[1754] Output: The matching results are notified to both parties and stored in a database.
[1755] Specific operation: The server confirms that the producer's supply information "50 apples" and the consumer's demand information "50 apples" match, and notifies the producer and consumer.
[1756] Step 4:
[1757] Input: Farm production information (e.g., use of chemical fertilizers)
[1758] Processing: The server obtains production information from the farm and suggests sustainable production methods, such as checking the use of chemical fertilizers and cultivation methods, and recommending organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management.
[1759] Output: Recommended sustainable production practices are communicated to the farm and stored in a database.
[1760] Specific behavior: When a farm inputs "using chemical fertilizers," the server suggests adopting organic farming and notifies the farmer that "organic farming is recommended."
[1761] Step 5:
[1762] Input: Refrigerated and frozen transport vehicle route information
[1763] Processing: The server obtains the current route information from the GPS devices installed in the transport vehicles and calculates the optimal route. It uses an algorithm to derive the route with the shortest distance and minimum time.
[1764] Output: The optimal route is communicated to the transport vehicle and stored in a database.
[1765] Specific operation: Obtain information that refrigerated vehicle X is "heading from Sapporo to Tokyo," calculate the "shortest route," and notify the driver.
[1766] Step 6:
[1767] Input: Energy consumption data for food production facilities and warehouses
[1768] Processing: The server collects and analyzes energy consumption data from sensors installed in the facility, and proposes renovation plans for efficient energy consumption.
[1769] Output: Energy-efficient equipment installations are proposed for the facility and stored in a database.
[1770] Specific action: Check the "outdated heating and cooling system" in Warehouse D and propose "the introduction of a highly efficient heating and cooling system."
[1771] Step 7:
[1772] Input: Packaging material information (e.g., single-use plastic)
[1773] Processing: The server acquires information about the product's packaging materials and suggests eco-friendly packaging materials, such as biodegradable packaging materials.
[1774] Output: The recommended eco-packaging materials are notified to the company and stored in a database.
[1775] Specific action: If product E uses "single-use plastic," propose "biodegradable packaging."
[1776] Step 8:
[1777] Input: Environmental information to consumers
[1778] Processing: The server uses the application to provide useful environmental information to consumers, who can browse environmentally friendly options.
[1779] Output: Consumers can view environmental information and make appropriate choices.
[1780] Specific actions: Consumer F uses the application to browse and select "products with low carbon footprints."
[1781] Step 9:
[1782] Input: User emotion data
[1783] Processing: The server uses an emotion engine to collect and analyze the user's emotion data, and customizes the information provided based on that data.
[1784] Output: The customized information is provided to the user and stored in a database.
[1785] Specific behavior: Collect "positive emotions" from users while using the application and provide "relevant detailed information."
[1786] (Application example 2)
[1787] 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."
[1788] The current food supply chain is complex and inefficient, with difficulties in matching supply and demand between local producers and consumers. Furthermore, the spread of sustainable production methods has been slow, and efforts to optimize refrigerated and frozen transportation, improve energy efficiency, and promote the use of eco-friendly packaging materials have not been sufficient. Furthermore, environmental information provided to consumers is insufficient, and the information provided is not customized to reflect user preferences. There is a need to solve these problems and build a carbon-neutral food supply chain.
[1789] 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.
[1790] In this invention, the server includes means for matching local producers with consumer demand, means for recommending sustainable production methods, means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes, means for improving energy efficiency, means for promoting the use of eco-packaging materials, means for providing environmental information to consumers, and means for recognizing user emotions and customizing the provided information. This makes it possible to efficiently match local producers with consumers and promote sustainable production methods while minimizing environmental impact. Furthermore, optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport, improving energy efficiency, and promoting the use of eco-packaging materials can realize a carbon-neutral food supply chain. Furthermore, providing environmental information to consumers and customizing the information according to user emotions can more effectively raise environmental awareness.
[1791] A "local producer" is an individual or group that produces food or agricultural products within a particular geographic area.
[1792] A "consumer" is an individual or group who purchases and uses food and agricultural products provided by local producers.
[1793] A "demand matching means" is a system or method that collects supply information provided by local producers and consumer demand information, and links supply and demand based on that information.
[1794] "Measures promoting sustainable production practices" are systems or methods that promote environmentally friendly practices and efficient use of resources in agriculture and food production.
[1795] A "means for optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes" is a system or method for planning and adjusting travel routes for refrigerated and frozen vehicles to transport food efficiently.
[1796] "Energy efficiency measures" are systems or methods for reducing energy consumption and increasing energy efficiency in food production facilities, warehouses, etc.
[1797] "Measures to promote the introduction of eco-packaging materials" refers to systems or methods that encourage the use of environmentally friendly packaging materials (e.g., biodegradable packaging materials) and promote their introduction.
[1798] "Means for providing environmental information to consumers" refers to a system or method that provides consumers with environmental information, such as production methods and carbon footprints of food and agricultural products.
[1799] "Means for recognizing user emotions and customizing information provided" refers to a system or method that collects and analyzes emotional data displayed by users when using an application, and adjusts the information provided based on that data to suit the individual preferences and emotions of the user.
[1800] The system for implementing this invention has the following main functions: It efficiently matches local producers with consumers, promotes sustainable production methods, improves energy efficiency, and promotes the use of eco-friendly packaging materials. It also provides environmental information to consumers and customizes the information provided based on the user's emotions.
[1801] A means of matching local producers with consumer demand
[1802] The server collects supply information from local producers and consumer demand information. Based on the collected information, it matches supply and demand and creates an optimal delivery plan. This process is performed, for example, when a producer supplies 50 apples and a consumer demands the same amount.
[1803] Promoting sustainable production methods
[1804] The server collects production information from production facilities and uses that information to recommend sustainable agricultural practices such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management. For example, it checks whether a farm uses chemical fertilizers and suggests switching to organic farming.
[1805] Optimize refrigerated and frozen transport routes
[1806] The server obtains the current route information of refrigerated and frozen vehicles and calculates the route with the shortest distance and time. This increases energy efficiency and reduces transportation costs. For example, it proposes the optimal route for a refrigerated vehicle traveling from Sapporo to Tokyo.
[1807] Improved energy efficiency
[1808] The server collects energy consumption information from food production facilities and warehouses and recommends the installation of high-efficiency heating and cooling systems. For example, it suggests installing energy-efficient equipment in warehouses that use outdated heating and cooling systems.
[1809] Promoting the introduction of eco-friendly packaging materials
[1810] The server collects information on currently used packaging materials and promotes the introduction of biodegradable packaging materials, for example, by suggesting a change to eco-friendly packaging materials for products that use single-use plastics.
[1811] Providing environmental information to consumers
[1812] The server provides consumers with environmental information, including low-carbon footprint options and their benefits, for example by allowing consumers to browse environmentally friendly options through an application.
[1813] A means of recognizing user emotions and customizing the information provided
[1814] The server collects and analyzes the user's emotional data through the application, and customizes the information provided based on the user's emotions. For example, if the user responds positively to environmental information, the server may provide more detailed environmental information.
[1815] For example, the following prompt can be used:
[1816] "A local grower supplies 50 apples and a consumer demands the same quantity. Suggest organic farming as a sustainable production method, optimize transport routes, and introduce biodegradable packaging. Also, provide carbon footprint information to the consumer and use the user sentiment engine to provide customized environmental information."
[1817] This invention is implemented by combining hardware such as servers, smartphones, smart glasses, and head-mounted displays with software such as Python and SQL databases. The system efficiently matches local producers with consumers through information acquisition, analysis, proposals, and monitoring, realizing a sustainable food supply.
[1818] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
[1819] Step 1:
[1820] The server obtains supply information from local producers. Specifically, it collects product names, quantities, location information, etc. provided by producers. During this process, the server receives the producers' supply information as input data and stores it in a database.
[1821] Step 2:
[1822] The server acquires demand information from consumers. Specifically, it collects information such as the product name, quantity, and location information required by the consumer. During this process, the server receives the consumer demand information as input data and stores it in a database.
[1823] Step 3:
[1824] The server performs matching based on the acquired supply and demand information. Specifically, it searches for combinations where supply and demand match and performs optimal matching. Supply and demand information are used as input data, and the matching results are obtained as output data.
[1825] Step 4:
[1826] The server creates a delivery plan based on the matching results. Specifically, it calculates the optimal delivery route from the supplier to the destination. This is done using a geographic information system (GIS) or similar. The matching results and location information are used as input data, and the optimal delivery route is obtained as output data.
[1827] Step 5:
[1828] The server obtains production information and recommends sustainable production methods. Specifically, it monitors the production methods used by production facilities and proposes sustainable production methods. Production information is used as input data, and sustainable production method proposals are obtained as output data.
[1829] Step 6:
[1830] The server optimizes refrigerated and frozen transport routes. Specifically, it obtains current transport route information and calculates the most efficient route. Transport route information is used as input data, and the optimal route is obtained as output data.
[1831] Step 7:
[1832] The server collects energy consumption information from food production facilities and warehouses and recommends improvements to energy efficiency. Specifically, it proposes the introduction of high-efficiency equipment to facilities that use outdated equipment. Energy consumption information is used as input data, and efficiency improvement proposals are obtained as output data.
[1833] Step 8:
[1834] The server acquires information on packaging materials and promotes the adoption of eco-friendly packaging materials. Specifically, it checks the packaging materials currently in use and suggests the use of biodegradable packaging materials. Packaging material information is used as input data, and eco-friendly packaging material recommendations are obtained as output data.
[1835] Step 9:
[1836] The server provides environmental information to consumers. Specifically, it presents low-carbon footprint options and their benefits through an application. Environmental information is used as input data, and environmental information provided to consumers is obtained as output data.
[1837] Step 10:
[1838] The server collects user emotion data and customizes the information provided. Specifically, it collects user emotion through the application and adjusts the information provided based on the analysis results. Emotion data is used as input data, and customized information is obtained as output data.
[1839] 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.
[1840] 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.
[1841] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the specific processing is performed by the data processing device 12, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the specific processing may be performed by the robot 414.
[1842] 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.
[1843] 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.
[1844] 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.
[1845] 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).
[1846] 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.
[1847] 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."
[1848] 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.
[1849] 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).
[1850] 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.
[1851] 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.
[1852] 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.
[1853] 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.
[1854] 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.
[1855] 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.
[1856] 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.
[1857] 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.
[1858] 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.
[1859] 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.
[1860] The following is further disclosed regarding the above embodiment.
[1861] (Claim 1)
[1862] a means of matching local producers with consumer demand;
[1863] measures to encourage sustainable production methods;
[1864] Measures to optimize refrigerated and frozen transport routes;
[1865] Measures to improve energy efficiency;
[1866] measures to promote the adoption of eco-packaging materials;
[1867] means of providing environmental information to consumers;
[1868] A system including:
[1869] (Claim 2)
[1870] 2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the means for matching local producers with consumer demand includes means for acquiring producer supply information and consumer demand information and matching supply and demand based thereon.
[1871] (Claim 3)
[1872] 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the means for recommending sustainable production methods comprises means for obtaining farm production information and recommending sustainable agricultural practices such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management.
[1873] (Claim 4)
[1874] 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the means for optimizing the refrigerated and frozen transport route includes means for obtaining current transport route information of the transport vehicle and recalculating the route based on the shortest distance and minimum time.
[1875] (Claim 5)
[1876] 2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the means for improving energy efficiency includes means for acquiring energy consumption information of food production facilities and warehouses and recommending the introduction of energy-efficient equipment.
[1877] (Claim 6)
[1878] 2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the means for promoting the introduction of eco-packaging materials includes means for obtaining information on packaging materials currently in use and recommending biodegradable packaging materials.
[1879] (Claim 7)
[1880] 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the means for providing environmental information to the consumer includes means for providing information about environmental considerations via an application.
[1881] (Claim 8)
[1882] 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the means for providing environmental information to the consumer includes means for collecting consumer feedback and improving the quality and content of the information provided.
[1883] "Example 1"
[1884] (Claim 1)
[1885] A means of matching producer and consumer demand,
[1886] measures to encourage sustainable production methods;
[1887] Measures to optimize refrigerated and frozen transport routes;
[1888] Measures to improve energy efficiency;
[1889] measures to promote the introduction of environmentally friendly packaging materials;
[1890] means of providing environmental information to consumers;
[1891] the means to capture, store, analyze and communicate information;
[1892] a means for generating a supply chain optimization plan;
[1893] a means of gathering feedback and improving the information delivery system;
[1894] A system including:
[1895] (Claim 2)
[1896] 2. The system according to claim 1, further comprising means for acquiring supply information from producers and demand information from consumers, and matching supply and demand based thereon.
[1897] (Claim 3)
[1898] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for obtaining production information and recommending sustainable agricultural practices such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management.
[1899] "Application Example 1"
[1900] (Claim 1)
[1901] a means of matching local producers with consumer demand;
[1902] measures to encourage sustainable production methods;
[1903] Measures to optimize refrigerated and frozen transport routes;
[1904] Measures to improve energy efficiency;
[1905] measures to promote the adoption of eco-packaging materials;
[1906] means of providing environmental information to consumers;
[1907] A means of matching supply and demand using a matching algorithm using a smartphone food delivery application;
[1908] a means for optimizing delivery vehicle routes;
[1909] A means to inform consumers about eco-friendly options through an application;
[1910] A system including:
[1911] (Claim 2)
[1912] 2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the means for matching local producers with consumer demand includes means for acquiring producer supply information and consumer demand information and matching supply and demand based thereon.
[1913] (Claim 3)
[1914] 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the means for recommending sustainable production methods comprises means for obtaining farm production information and recommending sustainable agricultural practices such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management.
[1915] "Example 2: Combining Emotion Engines"
[1916] (Claim 1)
[1917] a means of matching local producers with consumer demand;
[1918] measures to encourage sustainable production methods;
[1919] Measures to optimize refrigerated and frozen transport routes;
[1920] Measures to improve energy efficiency;
[1921] measures to promote the adoption of eco-packaging materials;
[1922] means of providing environmental information to consumers;
[1923] a means for collecting and analyzing user emotional data to customize the information provided;
[1924] A system including:
[1925] (Claim 2)
[1926] The system of claim 1, wherein the means for matching local producers with consumer demand includes means for acquiring producer supply information and consumer demand information, matching supply and demand based on the information, and storing and managing the results in a database.
[1927] (Claim 3)
[1928] 2. The system of claim 1, ...
Claims
1. a means of matching local producers with consumer demand; measures to encourage sustainable production methods; A means of optimizing refrigerated and frozen transport routes; Measures to improve energy efficiency; measures to promote the adoption of eco-packaging materials; means of providing environmental information to consumers; A system including:
2. 2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the means for matching local producers with consumer demand includes means for acquiring producer supply information and consumer demand information and matching supply and demand based thereon.
3. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the means for recommending sustainable production methods comprises means for obtaining farm production information and recommending sustainable agricultural practices such as organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management.
4. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the means for optimizing the refrigerated / frozen transport route includes means for obtaining current transport route information of the transport vehicle and recalculating the route based on the shortest distance and the shortest time.
5. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the means for improving energy efficiency includes means for acquiring energy consumption information of a food production facility or warehouse and recommending the introduction of energy-efficient equipment.
6. 2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the means for promoting the introduction of eco-packaging materials includes means for acquiring information on packaging materials currently in use and recommending biodegradable packaging materials.
7. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the means for providing environmental information to the consumer includes means for providing information about environmental considerations via an application.
8. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the means for providing environmental information to the consumer includes means for collecting consumer feedback and improving the quality and content of the information provided.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Persona chatbot control method and system
JP2022180282A