System

A system using digital scent data efficiently provides fragrances in real time, addressing the challenge of individual scent delivery by integrating a server for scent management and terminal reproduction with feedback analysis, enhancing user experience in medical and home environments.

JP2026028135APending Publication Date: 2026-02-19SOFTBANK GROUP CORP
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2024130433
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-08-06
Publication Date
2026-02-19

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The digitalization of scents has not progressed sufficiently, making it difficult to provide scents quickly and efficiently according to individual needs, particularly in medical and home settings, and there is a lack of efficient methods for collecting user feedback to improve the scent delivery system.

Method used

A system that utilizes digital data of scents to provide desired fragrances in real time, including a server that manages scent databases, receives and encodes scent requests, and a terminal that decodes and reproduces scents, with feedback collection and analysis capabilities.

Benefits of technology

Enables efficient and flexible provision of scents that meet various medical and home needs, allowing for rapid search and provision of fragrances based on user requests and improving the system with user feedback.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

A system is provided.SOLUTION: A system comprising: receiving means for receiving a required scent as digital data; reproducing means for reproducing the scent based on the digital data; and transmitting means for transmitting the digital data to a scent reproduction device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1
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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] Scents have various effects, such as relaxation and improved concentration, and are used in the fields of medicine and hobbies. However, the digitalization of the sense of smell has not progressed to date, so there are many constraints on the provision of scents. Specifically, there is the problem that it is difficult to provide scents quickly and efficiently according to individual needs. Against this background, there is a demand for the development of a system that can efficiently supply needed scents via a network. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The present invention provides a system that uses digital data of a scent to provide a desired scent in real time. Specifically, the system includes a receiving means for receiving digital data of a scent, a reproduction means for reproducing a scent based on the received digital data, and a transmission means for transmitting the digital data to a scent reproduction device. The system also includes a generating means for generating a scent request based on a user's input and transmitting the request over a network, a searching means for receiving the request and searching for corresponding digital scent data, and a supplying means for providing the searched digital scent data to the user. For medical applications, the system provides a medical request generating means and medical supplying means for generating a scent request based on a diagnosis result and selecting and providing digital scent data based on the diagnosis result, as well as an analyzing means for collecting and analyzing user feedback, thereby enabling the provision of scents that meet a variety of needs.

[0006] "Scent digital data" refers to a data format used to reproduce physical scents.

[0007] "Receiving means" refers to a function or device for receiving digital data from an external source via a network.

[0008] The "reproduction means" refers to a function or device for reproducing a physical scent based on received digital scent data.

[0009] "Transmitting means" refers to a function or device for transmitting data to another device or system.

[0010] The "generation means" refers to a function or device for generating the request data based on the user's input.

[0011] A "search means" is a function or device for searching for target data from a database based on specified conditions.

[0012] "Providing means" refers to a function or device for providing retrieved data to a user or another system.

[0013] The "medical request generation means" refers to a function or device for generating a request for a fragrance based on a diagnosis result or instructions from a medical institution.

[0014] "Medical supply means" refers to a function or device for providing selected digital scent data based on diagnostic results.

[0015] "Analysis means" refers to a function or device for analyzing collected feedback data and deriving results. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [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

[0017] 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.

[0018] First, the terms used in the following description will be explained.

[0019] 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).

[0020] 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.

[0021] 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.

[0022] 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.

[0023] 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."

[0024] [First embodiment]

[0025] FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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).

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] FIG. 2 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart device 14.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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."

[0037] The present invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies the required scents over a network to meet the needs of users. This system uses digital data of the scents to provide scents in real time.

[0038] Server Features

[0039] The server manages a database of scents and stores digital data of the scents. The server has the function of receiving requests from users or medical institutions, searching for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the request, and sending it to the user's device. The digital data of the scent is encoded according to a specific protocol and delivered in a format that can be reproduced on the device.

[0040] Device Features

[0041] The terminal analyzes the digital scent data received from the server and controls a device that reproduces the scent as a physical scent for the user. The terminal has the function of generating a scent request based on the user's preferences and instructions from the medical institution and sending it to the server. Specifically, the terminal receives the scent data, decodes it, and passes it to the reproduction means. The terminal also has the function of collecting user feedback and sending it to the server.

[0042] User operations

[0043] Users can operate the device to select the desired scent and generate a request. In medical applications, specific scents can be requested based on a doctor's instructions. After use, users can provide feedback, which will be used to improve the overall system.

[0044] System processing flow

[0045] The system of the present invention operates according to the following processing flow: First, a user or a medical institution operates a terminal to generate a scent request. This request is sent to a server, which receives the request and searches for corresponding scent digital data. The search result, obtained as a result of the search, is sent from the server to the terminal. The terminal decodes the received data and controls the scent reproduction device to provide the user with the scent. After use, the user provides feedback through the terminal, which is sent to the server. This feedback is used for future improvements.

[0046] Specific examples in the medical field

[0047] For example, a doctor in a hospital prescribes the scent of "lavender" for the purpose of patient relaxation. The doctor operates a terminal to generate a request and sends it to the server. The server receives the request, searches for the lavender scent digital data, and sends it to the medical terminal. The terminal decodes the data and provides the lavender scent to the patient through a scent reproduction device. This process allows the patient to receive the scent effect quickly and appropriately.

[0048] Examples at home

[0049] On the other hand, if a user requests the scent of "green tea" at home, the user operates the device to select the desired scent and transmits the request. Based on this request, the server retrieves the digital data of the green tea scent and transmits it to the device. The device analyzes the data and spreads the green tea scent throughout the room. In this way, the scent environment can be flexibly adjusted to suit the user's needs.

[0050] This system will enable the efficient digitization and utilization of scents, enabling the provision of scents that meet a variety of medical and home needs.

[0051] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0052] Server Processing

[0053] Step 1: Receiving the request

[0054] The server receives a scent request sent from a user or a medical institution.

[0055] Obtain request data in JSON format or other formats through the network interface.

[0056] Analyze the request data and extract the necessary information (user ID, type of scent, purpose of use, etc.).

[0057] Step 2: Database search

[0058] The server searches the scent database based on the extracted information.

[0059] The digital data of the specified scent is retrieved from the database.

[0060] Prepares the results of a database lookup in an encoded format.

[0061] Step 3: Sending scent data

[0062] The server encodes the acquired scent data and converts it into a format that can be transmitted.

[0063] The encoded data is sent associated with the specified user ID.

[0064] Verify that the transmission is complete.

[0065] Terminal handling

[0066] Step 1: Receiving scent data

[0067] The terminal receives the digital scent data transmitted from the server.

[0068] Obtain encoded scent data through a network interface.

[0069] Verify that the data was received.

[0070] Step 2: Analyzing the scent data

[0071] The terminal decodes the received digital scent data.

[0072] The decoded data is converted into a format that can be passed to the reproduction means.

[0073] Verify that the data is in the correct format.

[0074] Step 3: Recreate the scent

[0075] The terminal controls the reproduction means to convert the decoded scent data into a physical scent.

[0076] A scent reproduction device is used to generate the specified scent.

[0077] Check that the scent is accurately reproduced.

[0078] Step 4: Generate and send a request

[0079] The terminal generates a scent request based on the user's input.

[0080] If there are instructions from a medical institution, a request is generated based on those instructions.

[0081] Sends the request data to the server.

[0082] Step 5: Collect and submit feedback

[0083] The device collects feedback from the user through an input form.

[0084] The collected feedback data is analyzed and sent to a server.

[0085] Verify that your feedback has been submitted.

[0086] User operations

[0087] Step 1: Request a scent

[0088] The user operates the terminal to select the desired scent.

[0089] Generate a request based on the scent selected.

[0090] Send the request to the device.

[0091] Step 2: Enjoy the scent

[0092] The user waits for the scent to be provided by the terminal.

[0093] Confirm that the scent has been provided and enjoy it.

[0094] Step 3: Provide feedback

[0095] Users can enter their impressions and results after use through a feedback form on the device.

[0096] Send feedback data to the terminal.

[0097] This series of processes makes it possible to efficiently manage digital data of scents and provide them to users quickly and appropriately.

[0098] Example 1

[0099] 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."

[0100] In modern society, scents play an important role in relaxation and treatment, but there is a lack of efficient and accurate means to deliver scents that meet user needs and medical settings. Furthermore, the process of physically recreating scents based on digital data is complex, making it difficult to deliver scents efficiently and in real time. Furthermore, there are insufficient methods for collecting user feedback on the delivered scents and using it to improve the system. To address these issues and meet the diverse needs of users and medical settings, the present invention aims to provide a system that delivers scents efficiently and accurately.

[0101] 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.

[0102] In this invention, the server includes a receiving means for receiving digital data of a scent, a decoding means for decoding the digital data and transmitting it to the scent reproduction device, and a scent reproduction means for physically reproducing the scent based on the digital data, thereby making it possible to efficiently manage the digital data of a scent and accurately physically reproduce the scent in real time.

[0103] The system also includes a request generation means for generating a fragrance request based on user input and transmitting the request to a server via a network, a search and encoding means for receiving the request, searching for corresponding digital fragrance data from a database, encoding the data, and transmitting it, and a decoding and supply means for receiving the digital fragrance data, decoding the data, and providing the fragrance to the user. This allows for rapid search and provision of fragrances based on user requests.

[0104] Furthermore, the system includes a diagnostic request generation means for generating a fragrance request based on a user's diagnostic results in medical applications, a selection and provision means for selecting digital fragrance data based on the diagnostic results and receiving it from a server to provide it, and a feedback collection and analysis means for collecting user feedback and transmitting it to the server for analysis. This makes it possible to improve the quality of the system by making use of user feedback in medical settings.

[0105] "Digital scent data" is digital data that encodes information for reproducing a physical scent.

[0106] "Receiving means" refers to hardware and software components for receiving data transmitted over a network.

[0107] A "decoding means" is a software or hardware function for converting received digital data from an encoded form into the original information.

[0108] An "aroma reproduction device" is a device for generating a physical aroma based on decoded digital data.

[0109] The "request generation means" is a software or hardware function for generating perfume request data based on user input.

[0110] A "request" is data that includes information such as the type and strength of the fragrance desired by the user.

[0111] A "server" is a computer system that provides services to multiple terminals via a network.

[0112] The "search and encoding means" is a function that identifies the digital data of the scent from the database and encodes it into a format suitable for transmission.

[0113] The "decoding and supplying means" is a means for decoding the received encoded data and supplying the scent to the user.

[0114] A "diagnosis request generator" is a method and apparatus configuration for creating a scent request based on a diagnosis at a medical point of care.

[0115] The "means of selection and provision" refers to the means for selecting the optimal digital data of the fragrance based on the diagnosis results from the server and providing that data.

[0116] "Feedback collection and analysis means" is a general term for methods and devices for collecting users' opinions and evaluations after use, analyzing the data, and using it to improve the system.

[0117] The present invention relates to a system that handles scents as digital data and efficiently provides them over a network. This system is constructed by linking a server, a terminal, and a reproduction device.

[0118] Server Features

[0119] The server has a database that stores digital data of scents. The server has the following main functions:

[0120] Receiving means: A request from a user or a medical institution is received via a network, for example, by using the HTTP protocol.

[0121] Search and encoding method: Based on the received request, the corresponding digital data of the scent is searched from the database, and then this data is encoded using a specific protocol (e.g., Base64 encoding).

[0122] Transmission method: The encoded digital scent data is sent to the terminal using a reliable network communication protocol (e.g., HTTPS).

[0123] Device Features

[0124] The terminal receives data sent from the server and controls the device to provide the scent to the user. Specifically, it has the following functions:

[0125] Request generation method: A scent request is generated based on user input and sent to the server. For example, a touch screen operation or voice input can be used.

[0126] Decoding method: Decodes the encoded data received from the server. For example, Base64 decoding is performed.

[0127] Scent reproduction means: Controls the scent reproduction device based on the decoded digital data and generates a physical scent.

[0128] Feedback collection means: collects user feedback and sends it to the server.

[0129] User operations

[0130] The user operates the device to select a scent and generate a request. For example, if the user desires a "lavender" scent, the user selects it through the device interface and sends the request. After use, the user uses the device to input feedback, which is then sent to the server.

[0131] Specific examples in the medical field

[0132] For example, consider a scenario in which a doctor at a hospital prescribes the scent of "lavender" for the purpose of patient relaxation. The doctor operates a terminal to generate a scent request and sends it to a server. The server receives the request, searches for the corresponding digital data of the scent, and encodes it. The encoded data is sent to a terminal, which receives and decodes the data and controls a scent reproduction device to generate the scent of lavender. The patient can experience a relaxing effect by receiving this scent.

[0133] Examples at home

[0134] Consider a case where a user desires the scent of "green tea" at home. The user operates the device to select the green tea scent and sends a request. The server receives the request, searches for the corresponding data, encodes it, and sends it to the device. The device receives and decodes the data, controls the scent reproduction device, and generates the green tea scent. This process allows the user to instantly enjoy the desired scent at home.

[0135] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0136] "Please explain the steps to provide a pleasant lavender scent in the hospital."

[0137] "Please tell me the specific steps to enjoy the aroma of green tea at home."

[0138] The present invention realizes an efficient and flexible fragrance provision system that uses digital fragrance data, making it possible to provide a fragrance environment that meets a variety of needs in medical and home settings.

[0139] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0140] Step 1:

[0141] The user operates the device to select the desired scent. The user inputs the type and strength of the scent using an interface (e.g., a touchscreen or voice command). The input information is generated as scent request data.

[0142] Input: User's scent selection and strength input

[0143] Data processing: Generate request data based on scent selection and strength information

[0144] Output: Scent request data

[0145] Step 2:

[0146] The device sends the generated scent request data to the server using a reliable network communication protocol (e.g., HTTPS). The server receives the request.

[0147] Input: Scent request data

[0148] Data processing: Send the request data to the server using HTTPS

[0149] Output: The request data received by the server

[0150] Step 3:

[0151] The server searches the database for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the received request data, and after obtaining the search results, encodes them using a specific protocol (e.g., Base64).

[0152] Input: Request data

[0153] Data processing: database searching and encoding of digital data

[0154] Output: Encoded digital scent data

[0155] Step 4:

[0156] The server sends the encoded digital data of the scent to the device, again using the HTTPS protocol.

[0157] Input: Encoded digital scent data

[0158] Data processing: Sending encoded data

[0159] Output: The encoded data received by the device.

[0160] Step 5:

[0161] The terminal decodes the encoded data received from the server using a specific protocol (e.g., Base64 decoding). The decoded data is then sent to the scent reproduction device.

[0162] Input: Encoded digital scent data

[0163] Data processing: Decoding the data and sending it to a reproduction device

[0164] Output: Decoded data sent to the scent reproduction device

[0165] Step 6:

[0166] The scent reproduction device generates a physical scent based on the decoded digital data, for example by heating a liquid essence to release the scent.

[0167] Input: Decoded digital scent data

[0168] Data processing: Physical scent generation based on digital data

[0169] Output: Physical scent

[0170] Step 7:

[0171] After use, users provide feedback using the device, which is input into the device and collected. The collected feedback is then sent to the server.

[0172] Input: User feedback

[0173] Data processing: collecting feedback and sending it to the server

[0174] Output: Feedback data received by the server

[0175] Step 8:

[0176] The server stores the received feedback data in a database and analyzes it, and the analysis results are used to improve the system.

[0177] Input: Feedback data

[0178] Data processing: feedback data storage and analysis

[0179] Output: Information on system improvement based on analysis results

[0180] (Application example 1)

[0181] 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."

[0182] Conventional scent delivery systems have the problem that it is difficult for users to experience scents in real time, and they are unable to sufficiently improve the product purchasing experience, especially in physical stores. Furthermore, it is difficult to efficiently collect feedback and reflect it in the next scent experience.

[0183] 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.

[0184] In this invention, the server includes a receiving means for receiving the required scent as digital data, a reproducing means for reproducing the scent based on the digital data, a transmitting means for transmitting the digital data to the scent reproduction device, a generating means for generating a scent request and transmitting it over a network, a feedback collecting means for collecting and analyzing user feedback, a searching means for searching for and providing scent data related to the product, and a communication means for connecting to the scent reproduction device located in the store to reproduce the scent. This allows users to experience scents related to products in real time in a physical store, and the feedback can be efficiently collected and reflected in the next scent experience.

[0185] The "receiving means" is a device or system that has the function of receiving the required scent as digital data via a network.

[0186] The "reproducing means" is a device or system that has the function of physically reproducing the scent based on the received digital data.

[0187] The "transmission means" is a device or system that has the function of transmitting digital data to the scent reproduction device.

[0188] A "generation means" is a device or system that has the function of generating a scent request and transmitting the request over a network.

[0189] A "feedback collection means" is a device or system that has the function of collecting and analyzing user feedback.

[0190] The "search means" is a device or system that has the function of searching a database for scent data related to a product.

[0191] A "communication means" is a device or system that has the function of connecting to a scent reproduction device placed in the store and sending and receiving data.

[0192] The present invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies the required scents over a network to meet the needs of users. This system uses digital data of the scents to provide scents in real time.

[0193] Server Features

[0194] The server manages a database of scents and stores digital data of the scents. The server has the function of receiving requests from users or physical stores, searching for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the request, and sending it to the user's device. The digital data of the scent is encoded according to a specific protocol and delivered in a format that can be reproduced on the device.

[0195] Device Features

[0196] The device analyzes the digital scent data received from the server and controls a device that reproduces the scent as a physical scent for the user. Specifically, the device receives the scent data, decodes it, and passes it to the reproduction means. The device also has the function of collecting user feedback and sending it to the server.

[0197] Examples of applications in physical stores

[0198] In a physical store, an application is provided that allows users to use their smartphones to experience different scents for each product in the store. Specifically, when a user is near a specific product (e.g., an aroma candle), they request scent data related to that product, and the scent data is transmitted from their smartphone via Bluetooth to a scent reproduction device in the store, which reproduces the scent. In addition, users can enter feedback after the experience into the app, and that feedback will be reflected the next time they visit the store.

[0199] Hardware and software used

[0200] Hardware:

[0201] Smartphone: Used as a user device

[0202] Scent reproduction device: Bluetooth-enabled scent diffuser

[0203] software:

[0204] Server system: An API server that manages the scent database and processes requests. Implemented with Python Flask or Django.

[0205] Smartphone app: Developed for iOS or Android. Implemented in Swift for iOS and Kotlin / Java for Android.

[0206] Specific examples and prompts for the generative AI model

[0207] 1. Scent request prompt:

[0208] If the user is near a specific product (e.g., scented candle), they will see a message that says, "Tap here if you would like to try a scent related to this product."

[0209] Example prompt sentence:

[0210] "Please provide the best scent data related to scented candles."

[0211] 2. Scent Reproduction Prompt:

[0212] The smartphone is connected to the scent reproduction device in the store via Bluetooth, and the received scent data is reproduced.

[0213] Example prompt sentence:

[0214] "Send your next desired product scent to your Bluetooth diffuser."

[0215] 3. Feedback prompt:

[0216] After users try a scent, they are prompted to "provide feedback about the scent you tried."

[0217] Example prompt sentence:

[0218] "What feedback would you like to provide? Please be specific."

[0219] This allows physical stores to offer customers a more engaging and personalized shopping experience: for example, when a customer stops by an aromatherapy booth, the area will be tailored to fill with the perfect scent for that moment.

[0220] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0221] Step 1:

[0222] A user approaches a specific product (e.g., a scented candle) and launches a smartphone app to experience the scent associated with that product.

[0223] Input: Smartphone location and product ID.

[0224] Output: Prompt the user with "Tap here if you would like to try scents related to this product."

[0225] Specific operation: The device displays a scent data request screen based on location information and product ID.

[0226] Step 2:

[0227] The user taps the prompt message to submit a scent request.

[0228] Input: User taps.

[0229] Output: Scent request data (user ID, product ID).

[0230] Specific operation: The device generates scent request data and sends it to the server via the network.

[0231] Step 3:

[0232] The server receives the scent request and searches the database for the corresponding scent digital data.

[0233] Input: Scent request data (user ID, product ID).

[0234] Output: Digital data of the corresponding scent.

[0235] Specific operation: The server analyzes the scent request data, searches the database for the corresponding scent digital data, and sends the found data to the user's device.

[0236] Step 4:

[0237] The terminal receives the digital scent data, decodes the data, and transmits it to the scent reproduction device.

[0238] Input: Digital scent data sent from the server.

[0239] Output: Decoded scent data and notification of completion of transmission to the scent reproduction device.

[0240] Specific operation: The terminal decodes the digital scent data and transmits it via Bluetooth to the scent reproduction device in the store.

[0241] Step 5:

[0242] The scent reproduction device reproduces the scent based on the received data.

[0243] Input: Decoded scent data.

[0244] Output: Diffuses fragrance throughout the store.

[0245] Specific operation: The scent reproduction device generates and diffuses scent based on the received data.

[0246] Step 6:

[0247] Users experience the scent and provide feedback through the app.

[0248] Input: User feedback.

[0249] Output: Feedback data.

[0250] Specific operation: The device collects user feedback and sends it to the server.

[0251] Step 7:

[0252] The server receives and analyzes the feedback data, generating data to be reflected in the next scent offering.

[0253] Input: User feedback data.

[0254] Output: Feedback analysis results and improvement data.

[0255] Specific operation: The server analyzes the feedback data, generates data that will be useful for the next scent delivery, and updates the database as necessary.

[0256] 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.

[0257] This invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies the required scent via a network, and further to a system that combines an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and provides a scent that corresponds to that emotion. This system has the function of managing digital data of scents and providing them to users in real time.

[0258] Server Features

[0259] The server manages a database of scents and stores digital data of the scents. The server has the function of receiving requests from users or medical institutions, searching for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the request, and sending it to the user's device. Furthermore, the server is equipped with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions, and is able to select the optimal scent based on the emotional data.

[0260] Device Features

[0261] The device analyzes the digital scent data received from the server and controls a device that recreates the scent as a physical form. The device generates a scent request based on the user's preferences and instructions from the medical institution, and sends it to the server. The device also has an emotion engine that recognizes emotions based on the user's facial expressions, voice, and other sensor data. This emotion data is sent to the server and used to select a scent.

[0262] User operations

[0263] Users can operate the device to input their desired scent and purpose of use. For medical applications, they can request a specific scent based on a doctor's instructions. In addition, emotion recognition functionality analyzes the user's emotions in real time and provides an appropriate scent based on the results. After use, users can provide feedback, and that data will be used to improve the system in the future.

[0264] System processing flow

[0265] The system of the present invention operates according to the following processing flow. First, a user or a medical institution operates a terminal to generate a scent request. This request is sent to a server, which receives the request, searches for the corresponding scent digital data, and sends it to the user's terminal. The terminal decodes the received data and controls the scent reproduction device to provide the scent to the user. Furthermore, the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions in real time, and feedback corresponding to the emotions is sent to the server. This feedback data is reflected in the scent provided.

[0266] Specific examples in the medical field

[0267] For example, consider the case where a doctor in a hospital prescribes the scent of "lavender" to help a patient relax. The doctor operates a terminal to generate a request and sends it to the server. The server receives the request, searches for digital data on the scent of lavender, and sends it to the medical terminal. The terminal decodes the data and provides the patient with the scent of lavender through a scent reproduction device. Furthermore, the emotion engine can analyze the patient's level of relaxation from their facial expressions and voice, and provide a different scent if necessary.

[0268] Examples at home

[0269] When a user requests the scent of "green tea" at home, they operate the device to select the desired scent and send the request. Based on this request, the server searches for digital data of the green tea scent and sends it to the device. The device analyzes the data and spreads the green tea scent throughout the room. The emotion engine analyzes whether the user is relaxed and can adjust the scent as needed.

[0270] In this way, the system of the present invention can efficiently manage digital data of scents and provide them to users quickly and appropriately. Furthermore, by taking the user's emotions into consideration, more personalized scents can be provided.

[0271] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0272] Server Processing

[0273] Step 1: Receiving the request

[0274] The server receives a scent request sent from a user or a medical institution.

[0275] Acquires and analyzes request data through the network interface.

[0276] Extract the necessary information (user ID, desired scent, purpose of use).

[0277] Step 2: Database search

[0278] The server searches the scent database based on the extracted information.

[0279] The corresponding digital data of the scent is obtained.

[0280] The acquired data is encoded and prepared for transmission.

[0281] Step 3: Sending scent data

[0282] The server transmits the encoded digital scent data to the user's terminal.

[0283] Verify that the data was sent correctly.

[0284] Record transmission logs as needed.

[0285] Step 4: Receiving and analyzing emotion data

[0286] The server receives the user's emotion data.

[0287] The emotion engine is used to analyze the received data.

[0288] To reselect an appropriate scent based on a user's emotional state.

[0289] Terminal handling

[0290] Step 1: Receiving scent data

[0291] The terminal receives the digital scent data transmitted from the server.

[0292] Obtain encoded scent data through a network interface.

[0293] Verify that the data was received.

[0294] Step 2: Analyzing the scent data

[0295] The terminal decodes the received digital scent data.

[0296] The decoded data is converted into a format that can be passed to the reproduction means.

[0297] Verify that the data is in the correct format.

[0298] Step 3: Recreate the scent

[0299] The terminal controls the reproduction means and converts the decoded scent data into a physical scent.

[0300] Activate the scent reproduction device to emit the specified scent.

[0301] Ensure the scent is accurately reproduced.

[0302] Step 4: Collecting emotion data

[0303] The device uses built-in sensors (camera, microphone, etc.) to collect user emotional data.

[0304] The emotion engine analyzes data and recognizes emotional states in real time.

[0305] The collected emotion data is sent to the server.

[0306] Step 5: Generate and Send a Request

[0307] The terminal generates a scent request based on the user's input.

[0308] If there are instructions from a medical institution, a request is generated based on those instructions.

[0309] Sends the request data to the server.

[0310] Step 6: Collect and send feedback

[0311] The device collects feedback from the user through an input form.

[0312] The collected feedback data is analyzed and sent to the server.

[0313] Verify that your feedback has been submitted.

[0314] User operations

[0315] Step 1: Request a scent

[0316] The user operates the terminal to select the desired scent.

[0317] Generate a request based on the scent you select.

[0318] Send the request to the device.

[0319] Step 2: Enjoy the scent

[0320] The user waits for the scent to be provided by the terminal.

[0321] Confirm that the scent has been provided and enjoy it.

[0322] Step 3: Expressing emotions

[0323] The user expresses emotions that naturally arise while using the scent.

[0324] This allows the emotion engine on the device to collect data.

[0325] Step 4: Provide feedback

[0326] Users can enter their impressions and results after use through a feedback form on the device.

[0327] Send feedback data to the terminal.

[0328] This system's processing flow makes scent delivery faster and more efficient, enabling the optimal scent to be delivered in real time according to the user's emotions.

[0329] Example 2

[0330] 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."

[0331] Conventional scent delivery systems have had the problem of being unable to provide personalized scents to individual users, as it is difficult to select an appropriate scent according to the user's emotions. In addition, in medical applications, scents are selected based on the patient's diagnosis results, but the inability to adjust scents to respond to real-time emotional changes has been an issue.

[0332] 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.

[0333] In this invention, the server includes a receiving means for receiving the desired fragrance as digital data, a reproducing means for reproducing the fragrance based on the digital data, a transmitting means for transmitting the digital data to the fragrance reproduction device, and an emotion recognition means for recognizing the user's emotion and transmitting the recognized emotion data to the server, thereby making it possible to provide the optimal fragrance according to the user's emotion.

[0334] The "receiving means" is a function for receiving the required scent as digital data.

[0335] The "reproduction means" is a function for reproducing the scent based on the digital data.

[0336] The "transmission means" is a function for transmitting the digital data to the scent reproduction device.

[0337] The "emotion recognition means" is a function for recognizing the user's emotion and transmitting the recognized emotion data to the server.

[0338] The "generation means" is a function for generating a scent request based on the user's input and transmitting the request over a network.

[0339] The "search means" is a function for receiving the request and searching for the corresponding digital fragrance data.

[0340] The "supply means" is a function for providing the digital fragrance data to the user.

[0341] The "emotion analysis means" is a function for re-evaluating the optimal scent based on emotional data and providing it to the user.

[0342] The "medical request generation means" is a function for generating a fragrance request based on the user's diagnosis results in medical applications.

[0343] The "medical supply means" is a function for selecting and providing digital fragrance data based on the diagnosis results.

[0344] The "analysis means" is a function for collecting user feedback and analyzing said feedback.

[0345] The "emotion optimization means" is a function for optimizing the selection of scents based on emotion data.

[0346] The present invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies a required scent via a network, recognizes a user's emotions, and provides a scent corresponding to the emotion. This system is realized using a combination of multiple hardware and software components. Detailed embodiments of the system are described below.

[0347] Server Features

[0348] The server manages a database of scents and stores digital data of the scents. The server has the function of receiving requests from users or medical institutions, searching for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the request, and sending it to the user's terminal.

[0349] The server is equipped with an emotion engine that analyzes the user's emotional data and selects the most suitable scent. This emotion engine uses an emotion recognition algorithm implemented in Python to analyze the user's emotional state in real time.

[0350] Device Features

[0351] The device analyzes the digital data of the scent received from the server and controls the device that reproduces the scent as a physical scent. The device generates a scent request based on the user's preferences and instructions from the medical institution and sends it to the server.

[0352] The device is also equipped with an emotion engine that recognizes emotions in real time based on the user's facial expressions, voice, and other sensor data. This emotion data is sent to a server and used to select a scent. As a concrete example, the smartphone app "ScentControl" is used as the device.

[0353] User operations

[0354] Users operate the device to input the desired scent and purpose of use. When requesting a specific scent, for example, a user can select the scent of "lavender" using the "ScentControl" app.

[0355] For medical use, specific scents can be requested based on a doctor's instructions. Furthermore, emotion recognition allows for real-time analysis of the user's emotions and provides an appropriate scent based on the results. For example, the scent of lavender can be provided to promote relaxation.

[0356] Specific examples

[0357] Specific examples in the medical field

[0358] If a doctor at a hospital prescribes the scent of "lavender" to help a patient relax, the doctor operates a terminal to generate a request and sends it to the server. The server receives the request, searches for the corresponding digital scent data, and sends it to the medical terminal. The terminal decodes the data and provides the patient with the scent of "lavender" through a scent reproduction device. The emotion engine can also analyze the patient's level of relaxation from their facial expressions and voice, and provide a different scent if necessary.

[0359] Examples at home

[0360] When a user requests the scent of "green tea" at home, they operate the device to select the desired scent and send the request. Based on the request, the server searches for the corresponding digital scent data and sends it to the device. The device analyzes the data and spreads the "green tea" scent throughout the room through the scent reproduction device. The emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions and provides feedback according to their level of relaxation.

[0361] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0362] The input prompt for the generative AI model associated with this system is:

[0363] "Please explain how the server and device work together to provide the appropriate scent based on the user's preferences. Also, please explain how to provide scents that take the user's emotions into consideration."

[0364] is used.

[0365] As described above, the present invention efficiently manages digital data of scents and provides them to users quickly and appropriately. Furthermore, by taking the user's emotions into consideration, the provision of more personalized scents can be realized.

[0366] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0367] Step 1:

[0368] The user operates the device to request the desired scent. The user launches the smartphone app "ScentControl" and selects "lavender" from the scent list. When the user taps the request button, the app generates data about the scent selected by the user as a request and sends that request data to the server. The input is the selection of the scent "lavender," and the output is the transmission of the request data to the server.

[0369] Step 2:

[0370] The server receives a request from the user. The server receives the HTTP request and analyzes the request data. Based on the analyzed data, it searches for the corresponding "lavender" scent data from a digital scent database. The input is the received request data, and the output is the search results for the digital scent data.

[0371] Step 3:

[0372] The server searches for digital scent data and sends it to the user's device. The server then sends the search result, "lavender," as an HTTP response. The input is the search result for the digital scent data, and the output is the data sent to the user's device.

[0373] Step 4:

[0374] The device receives the digital data of the scent sent from the server. The device temporarily stores the received data and checks its accuracy. After confirming that the data is accurate, it proceeds to the next step. The input is the data from the server, and the output is the confirmed digital data of the scent.

[0375] Step 5:

[0376] The terminal decodes the received data and controls the scent reproduction device. The terminal uses data conversion software to analyze the scent data and sends instructions to the "ScentDevice" via Bluetooth. The input is digital data of the confirmed scent, and the output is a control command to the scent reproduction device.

[0377] Step 6:

[0378] The user receives the scent emitted from the scent reproduction device. For example, the user senses the scent of "lavender" in a room. The input is the scent emitted from the scent reproduction device, and the output is the user's sensory experience.

[0379] Step 7:

[0380] The device collects emotional data and performs emotion recognition. The device's built-in camera and microphone are used to collect the user's facial expressions and voice, which are then analyzed in real time by the emotion engine. The input is the user's facial expression and voice data, and the output is emotional data.

[0381] Step 8:

[0382] The device sends the collected emotional data to the server. The collected data is encrypted and sent to the server via an HTTP post request. The input is emotional data, and the output is data sent to the server.

[0383] Step 9:

[0384] The server analyzes the emotional data and re-evaluates the optimal scent. The server runs an emotion recognition algorithm using the received emotional data to determine the next scent based on the user's emotional state. The input is the emotional data, and the output is the re-evaluated scent data.

[0385] Step 10:

[0386] The server transmits new scent data as needed. If new scent data is required as a result of the reevaluation, the server re-references the scent database and transmits the digital data of the selected scent to the terminal. The input is the re-evaluated scent data, and the output is the transmission of the new scent data.

[0387] (Application example 2)

[0388] 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."

[0389] Conventional scent systems provide scents without considering the user's emotions, making it difficult to provide personalized scents. In particular, there is a need to provide scents in real time that match the customer's emotions and preferences in brick-and-mortar stores. Furthermore, there has been no system that can analyze customer emotions in real time using wearable devices such as smart glasses and provide the optimal scent based on that analysis.

[0390] 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.

[0391] In this invention, the server includes a receiving means for receiving the desired fragrance as digital data, a reproducing means for reproducing the fragrance based on the digital data, a transmitting means for transmitting the digital data to the fragrance reproducing device, an emotion recognizing means for recognizing the customer's emotions in real time, and a selecting means for selecting the optimal fragrance based on the data recognized by the emotion recognizing means, thereby making it possible to provide a personalized fragrance according to the customer's emotions.

[0392] The "receiving means" is a means for receiving the required scent as digital data.

[0393] The "reproducing means" is a means for reproducing the scent based on the digital data.

[0394] The "transmission means" is a means for transmitting the digital data to the scent reproduction device.

[0395] An "emotion recognition means" is a means for recognizing a customer's emotions in real time.

[0396] The "selection means" is a means for selecting the most suitable fragrance based on the data recognized by the emotion recognition means.

[0397] The "generation means" is a means for generating a scent request based on a user's input and transmitting the request over a network.

[0398] The "search means" is a means for receiving the request and searching for the corresponding digital fragrance data.

[0399] The "supply means" is a means for providing the digital fragrance data to the user.

[0400] "Data collection means" refers to a means for collecting facial expression data of a customer through an application installed on the smart glasses.

[0401] The "medical request generation means" is a means for generating a request for a fragrance based on the diagnosis results of a user in a medical application.

[0402] The "medical supply means" is a means for selecting and providing digital fragrance data based on the diagnosis results.

[0403] "Analysis means" is a means for collecting user feedback and analyzing said feedback.

[0404] "Emotion analysis means" is a means of analyzing customer emotions in real time in physical stores and providing the optimal fragrance.

[0405] The present invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies digital data of scents over a network, recognizes the emotions of users, and provides scents that correspond to those emotions. The system of the present invention operates through the cooperation of a server and terminals, and can respond to customer emotions in real time, particularly in brick-and-mortar stores.

[0406] Server Features

[0407] The server has a database that stores and manages digital data of fragrances. The server also has the following functions:

[0408] 1. Receiving means: Receive the desired scent as digital data.

[0409] 2. Search means: Receives a scent request and searches for corresponding scent digital data.

[0410] 3. Transmission means: Transmits the digital scent data to the scent reproduction device.

[0411] 4. Emotion recognition: Recognize customer emotions in real time.

[0412] 5. Selection method: Select the best scent based on the emotion recognition results.

[0413] The server receives requests sent from terminals on the network and selects the most suitable digital scent data based on the request. For example, if a customer requests a relaxing scent when entering a store, the server selects digital lavender scent data and sends it to the terminal.

[0414] Device Features

[0415] The device is equipped with a means to analyze the digital data of the scent received from the server and reproduce it as a physical scent. The device also has the following means implemented:

[0416] 1. Generation means: Generates a scent request based on user input and sends it over the network.

[0417] 2. Means of supply: Providing digital scent data to users.

[0418] 3. Data collection method: Smart glasses are used to collect customer facial expression data.

[0419] 4. Transmission means: Send the collected data to the server.

[0420] For example, smart glasses can be used in a brick-and-mortar store to analyze customers' facial expressions and emotions in real time, and the data can be sent to a server. The server can then select an appropriate scent based on this data and send it to a terminal. The terminal can then control a scent reproduction device to provide the optimal scent for the store.

[0421] User operations

[0422] Users can input their desired scent and purpose of use by operating the device. The emotion recognition function analyzes the user's emotions in real time and provides the optimal scent based on the results. For example, if a customer is feeling stressed, the system will operate to provide a relaxing scent.

[0423] Specific examples

[0424] For example, when a customer enters a physical store, smart glasses analyze the customer's facial expression in real time. The smart glasses' cameras and sensors are used to collect emotional data from the customer, which is then sent to a server. Based on the emotion recognition results, the server selects the most appropriate digital scent data based on a prompt, such as "For customers who are relaxed, please provide a relaxing lavender scent." This digital scent data is then sent to the terminal, where the lavender scent is provided in the store through a scent reproduction device. In this way, a personalized scent experience can be provided to the customer.

[0425] The system of the present invention can efficiently manage and provide digital scent data, and can provide personalized scents in real time according to the customer's emotions.

[0426] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0427] Step 1:

[0428] The device collects facial expression data from customers through smart glasses.

[0429] Input: Real-time customer facial expression data

[0430] Output: Customer's facial expression data (image data, etc.)

[0431] Specific operation: Using the camera and sensors built into the device, the customer's facial expression is captured as image data.

[0432] Step 2:

[0433] The facial expression data collected by the device is analyzed using emotion recognition means.

[0434] Input: Customer facial expression data

[0435] Output: Customer emotion recognition result (e.g. "Relaxed" or "Stressed")

[0436] What it does: Your device uses software such as EmotionRecognizer to analyze facial expression data and identify emotions.

[0437] Step 3:

[0438] The device sends the analysis results to the server.

[0439] Input: Customer emotion recognition results

[0440] Output: Emotion recognition result data sent to the server

[0441] Specific operation: Emotion recognition results are sent to the server using an HTTP request, etc.

[0442] Step 4:

[0443] The server receives the emotion recognition result and selects the most suitable digital scent data based on the result.

[0444] Input: Emotion recognition result data

[0445] Output: Optimal fragrance digital data

[0446] Specific operation: The server accesses a database that stores digital scent data and selects the optimal scent based on a prompt from the generative AI model, such as "For customers who are relaxed, please provide the relaxing scent of lavender."

[0447] Step 5:

[0448] The server transmits the selected digital scent data to the terminal.

[0449] Input: Optimal fragrance digital data

[0450] Output: Response containing digital scent data

[0451] Specific operation: The server sends digital scent data in JSON format or similar to the response to the device.

[0452] Step 6:

[0453] The terminal analyzes the received digital scent data and generates a physical scent through a reproduction means.

[0454] Input: Digital scent data

[0455] Output: Physical scent

[0456] Specific operation: The terminal uses software to control the scent reproduction device, analyzes the received digital data, and causes the device to emit a scent.

[0457] Step 7:

[0458] The user experiences the scents provided and provides feedback.

[0459] Input: User feedback (opinions and thoughts)

[0460] Output: Feedback data

[0461] Specific operation: The user inputs feedback about the provided scent through the device interface.

[0462] Step 8:

[0463] The terminal sends the user's feedback to the server, which analyzes it.

[0464] Input: User feedback data

[0465] Output: Analysis results and data points for future system improvements

[0466] How it works: The device sends feedback to the server using an HTTP request, and the server analyzes the feedback using AI models and data analysis tools to improve the system.

[0467] 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.

[0468] 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.

[0469] 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.

[0470] [Second embodiment]

[0471] FIG. 3 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 210 according to the second embodiment.

[0472] 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.

[0473] 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).

[0474] 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.

[0475] 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.

[0476] 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).

[0477] 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.

[0478] 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.

[0479] 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.

[0480] 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.

[0481] 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.

[0482] 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."

[0483] The present invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies the necessary scents over a network to meet the needs of users. This system uses digital data of the scents to provide scents in real time.

[0484] Server Features

[0485] The server manages a database of scents and stores digital data of the scents. The server has the function of receiving requests from users or medical institutions, searching for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the request, and sending it to the user's device. The digital data of the scent is encoded according to a specific protocol and delivered in a format that can be reproduced on the device.

[0486] Device Features

[0487] The terminal analyzes the digital scent data received from the server and controls a device that reproduces the scent as a physical scent for the user. The terminal has the function of generating a scent request based on the user's preferences and instructions from the medical institution and sending it to the server. Specifically, the terminal receives the scent data, decodes it, and passes it to the reproduction means. The terminal also has the function of collecting user feedback and sending it to the server.

[0488] User operations

[0489] Users can operate the device to select the desired scent and generate a request. In medical applications, specific scents can be requested based on a doctor's instructions. After use, users can provide feedback, which will be used to improve the overall system.

[0490] System processing flow

[0491] The system of the present invention operates according to the following processing flow: First, a user or a medical institution operates a terminal to generate a scent request. This request is sent to a server, which receives the request and searches for corresponding scent digital data. The search result, obtained as a result of the search, is sent from the server to the terminal. The terminal decodes the received data and controls the scent reproduction device to provide the user with the scent. After use, the user provides feedback through the terminal, which is sent to the server. This feedback is used for future improvements.

[0492] Specific examples in the medical field

[0493] For example, a doctor in a hospital prescribes the scent of "lavender" for the purpose of patient relaxation. The doctor operates a terminal to generate a request and sends it to the server. The server receives the request, searches for the lavender scent digital data, and sends it to the medical terminal. The terminal decodes the data and provides the lavender scent to the patient through a scent reproduction device. This process allows the patient to receive the scent effect quickly and appropriately.

[0494] Examples at home

[0495] On the other hand, if a user requests the scent of "green tea" at home, the user operates the device to select the desired scent and transmits the request. Based on this request, the server retrieves the digital data of the green tea scent and transmits it to the device. The device analyzes the data and spreads the green tea scent throughout the room. In this way, the scent environment can be flexibly adjusted to suit the user's needs.

[0496] This system will enable the efficient digitization and utilization of scents, enabling the provision of scents that meet a variety of medical and home needs.

[0497] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0498] Server Processing

[0499] Step 1: Receiving the request

[0500] The server receives a scent request sent from a user or a medical institution.

[0501] Obtain request data in JSON format or other formats through the network interface.

[0502] Analyze the request data and extract the necessary information (user ID, type of scent, purpose of use, etc.).

[0503] Step 2: Database search

[0504] The server searches the scent database based on the extracted information.

[0505] The digital data of the specified scent is retrieved from the database.

[0506] Prepares the results of a database lookup in an encoded format.

[0507] Step 3: Sending scent data

[0508] The server encodes the acquired scent data and converts it into a format that can be transmitted.

[0509] The encoded data is sent associated with the specified user ID.

[0510] Verify that the transmission is complete.

[0511] Terminal handling

[0512] Step 1: Receiving scent data

[0513] The terminal receives the digital scent data transmitted from the server.

[0514] Obtain encoded scent data through a network interface.

[0515] Verify that the data was received.

[0516] Step 2: Analyzing the scent data

[0517] The terminal decodes the received digital scent data.

[0518] The decoded data is converted into a format that can be passed to the reproduction means.

[0519] Verify that the data is in the correct format.

[0520] Step 3: Recreate the scent

[0521] The terminal controls the reproduction means to convert the decoded scent data into a physical scent.

[0522] A scent reproduction device is used to generate the specified scent.

[0523] Check that the scent is accurately reproduced.

[0524] Step 4: Generate and send a request

[0525] The terminal generates a scent request based on the user's input.

[0526] If there are instructions from a medical institution, a request is generated based on those instructions.

[0527] Sends the request data to the server.

[0528] Step 5: Collect and submit feedback

[0529] The device collects feedback from the user through an input form.

[0530] The collected feedback data is analyzed and sent to a server.

[0531] Verify that your feedback has been submitted.

[0532] User operations

[0533] Step 1: Request a scent

[0534] The user operates the terminal to select the desired scent.

[0535] Generate a request based on the scent selected.

[0536] Send the request to the device.

[0537] Step 2: Enjoy the scent

[0538] The user waits for the scent to be provided by the terminal.

[0539] Confirm that the scent has been provided and enjoy it.

[0540] Step 3: Provide feedback

[0541] Users can enter their impressions and results after use through a feedback form on the device.

[0542] Send feedback data to the terminal.

[0543] This series of processes makes it possible to efficiently manage digital data of scents and provide them to users quickly and appropriately.

[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] In modern society, scents play an important role in relaxation and treatment, but there is a lack of efficient and accurate means to deliver scents that meet user needs and medical settings. Furthermore, the process of physically recreating scents based on digital data is complex, making it difficult to deliver scents efficiently and in real time. Furthermore, there are insufficient methods for collecting user feedback on the delivered scents and using it to improve the system. To address these issues and meet the diverse needs of users and medical settings, the present invention aims to provide a system that delivers scents efficiently and accurately.

[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 a receiving means for receiving digital data of a scent, a decoding means for decoding the digital data and transmitting it to the scent reproduction device, and a scent reproduction means for physically reproducing the scent based on the digital data, thereby making it possible to efficiently manage the digital data of a scent and accurately physically reproduce the scent in real time.

[0549] The system also includes a request generation means for generating a fragrance request based on user input and transmitting the request to a server via a network, a search and encoding means for receiving the request, searching for corresponding digital fragrance data from a database, encoding the data, and transmitting it, and a decoding and supply means for receiving the digital fragrance data, decoding the data, and providing the fragrance to the user. This allows for rapid search and provision of fragrances based on user requests.

[0550] Furthermore, the system includes a diagnostic request generation means for generating a fragrance request based on a user's diagnostic results in medical applications, a selection and provision means for selecting digital fragrance data based on the diagnostic results and receiving it from a server to provide it, and a feedback collection and analysis means for collecting user feedback and transmitting it to the server for analysis. This makes it possible to improve the quality of the system by making use of user feedback in medical settings.

[0551] "Digital scent data" is digital data that encodes information for reproducing a physical scent.

[0552] "Receiving means" refers to hardware and software components for receiving data transmitted over a network.

[0553] A "decoding means" is a software or hardware function for converting received digital data from an encoded form into the original information.

[0554] An "aroma reproduction device" is a device for generating a physical aroma based on decoded digital data.

[0555] The "request generation means" is a software or hardware function for generating perfume request data based on user input.

[0556] A "request" is data that includes information such as the type and strength of the fragrance desired by the user.

[0557] A "server" is a computer system that provides services to multiple terminals via a network.

[0558] The "search and encoding means" is a function that identifies the digital data of the scent from the database and encodes it into a format suitable for transmission.

[0559] The "decoding and supplying means" is a means for decoding the received encoded data and supplying the scent to the user.

[0560] A "diagnosis request generator" is a method and apparatus configuration for creating a scent request based on a diagnosis at a medical point of care.

[0561] The "means of selection and provision" refers to the means for selecting the optimal digital data of the fragrance based on the diagnosis results from the server and providing that data.

[0562] "Feedback collection and analysis means" is a general term for methods and devices for collecting users' opinions and evaluations after use, analyzing the data, and using it to improve the system.

[0563] The present invention relates to a system that handles scents as digital data and efficiently provides them over a network. This system is constructed by linking a server, a terminal, and a reproduction device.

[0564] Server Features

[0565] The server has a database that stores digital data of scents. The server has the following main functions:

[0566] Receiving means: A request from a user or a medical institution is received via a network, for example, by using the HTTP protocol.

[0567] Search and encoding method: Based on the received request, the corresponding digital data of the scent is searched from the database, and then this data is encoded using a specific protocol (e.g., Base64 encoding).

[0568] Transmission method: The encoded digital scent data is sent to the terminal using a reliable network communication protocol (e.g., HTTPS).

[0569] Device Features

[0570] The terminal receives data sent from the server and controls the device to provide the scent to the user. Specifically, it has the following functions:

[0571] Request generation method: A scent request is generated based on user input and sent to the server. For example, a touch screen operation or voice input can be used.

[0572] Decoding method: Decodes the encoded data received from the server. For example, Base64 decoding is performed.

[0573] Scent reproduction means: Controls the scent reproduction device based on the decoded digital data to generate a physical scent.

[0574] Feedback collection means: collects user feedback and sends it to the server.

[0575] User operations

[0576] The user operates the device to select a scent and generate a request. For example, if the user desires a "lavender" scent, the user selects it through the device interface and sends the request. After use, the user uses the device to input feedback, which is then sent to the server.

[0577] Specific examples in the medical field

[0578] For example, consider a scenario in which a doctor at a hospital prescribes the scent of "lavender" for the purpose of patient relaxation. The doctor operates a terminal to generate a scent request and sends it to a server. The server receives the request, searches for the corresponding digital data of the scent, and encodes it. The encoded data is sent to a terminal, which receives and decodes the data and controls a scent reproduction device to generate the scent of lavender. The patient can experience a relaxing effect by receiving this scent.

[0579] Examples at home

[0580] Consider a case where a user desires the scent of "green tea" at home. The user operates the device to select the green tea scent and sends a request. The server receives the request, searches for the corresponding data, encodes it, and sends it to the device. The device receives and decodes the data, controls the scent reproduction device, and generates the green tea scent. This process allows the user to instantly enjoy the desired scent at home.

[0581] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0582] "Please explain the steps to provide a pleasant lavender scent in the hospital."

[0583] "Please tell me the specific steps to enjoy the aroma of green tea at home."

[0584] The present invention realizes an efficient and flexible fragrance provision system that uses digital fragrance data, making it possible to provide a fragrance environment that meets a variety of needs in medical and home settings.

[0585] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0586] Step 1:

[0587] The user operates the device to select the desired scent. The user inputs the type and strength of the scent using an interface (e.g., a touchscreen or voice command). The input information is generated as scent request data.

[0588] Input: User's scent selection and strength input

[0589] Data processing: Generate request data based on scent selection and strength information

[0590] Output: Scent request data

[0591] Step 2:

[0592] The device sends the generated scent request data to the server using a reliable network communication protocol (e.g., HTTPS). The server receives the request.

[0593] Input: Scent request data

[0594] Data processing: Send the request data to the server using HTTPS

[0595] Output: The request data received by the server

[0596] Step 3:

[0597] The server searches the database for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the received request data, and after obtaining the search results, encodes them using a specific protocol (e.g., Base64).

[0598] Input: Request data

[0599] Data processing: database searching and encoding of digital data

[0600] Output: Encoded digital scent data

[0601] Step 4:

[0602] The server sends the encoded digital data of the scent to the device, again using the HTTPS protocol.

[0603] Input: Encoded digital scent data

[0604] Data processing: Sending encoded data

[0605] Output: The encoded data received by the device.

[0606] Step 5:

[0607] The terminal decodes the encoded data received from the server using a specific protocol (e.g., Base64 decoding). The decoded data is then sent to the scent reproduction device.

[0608] Input: Encoded digital scent data

[0609] Data processing: Decoding the data and sending it to a reproduction device

[0610] Output: Decoded data sent to the scent reproduction device

[0611] Step 6:

[0612] The scent reproduction device generates a physical scent based on the decoded digital data, for example by heating a liquid essence to release the scent.

[0613] Input: Decoded digital scent data

[0614] Data processing: Physical scent generation based on digital data

[0615] Output: Physical scent

[0616] Step 7:

[0617] After use, users provide feedback using the device, which is input into the device and collected. The collected feedback is then sent to the server.

[0618] Input: User feedback

[0619] Data processing: collecting feedback and sending it to the server

[0620] Output: Feedback data received by the server

[0621] Step 8:

[0622] The server stores the received feedback data in a database and analyzes it, and the analysis results are used to improve the system.

[0623] Input: Feedback data

[0624] Data processing: feedback data storage and analysis

[0625] Output: Information on system improvement based on analysis results

[0626] (Application example 1)

[0627] 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."

[0628] Conventional scent delivery systems have the problem that it is difficult for users to experience scents in real time, and they are unable to sufficiently improve the product purchasing experience, especially in physical stores. Furthermore, it is difficult to efficiently collect feedback and reflect it in the next scent experience.

[0629] 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.

[0630] In this invention, the server includes a receiving means for receiving the required scent as digital data, a reproducing means for reproducing the scent based on the digital data, a transmitting means for transmitting the digital data to the scent reproduction device, a generating means for generating a scent request and transmitting it over a network, a feedback collecting means for collecting and analyzing user feedback, a searching means for searching for and providing scent data related to the product, and a communication means for connecting to the scent reproduction device located in the store to reproduce the scent. This allows users to experience scents related to products in real time in a physical store, and the feedback can be efficiently collected and reflected in the next scent experience.

[0631] The "receiving means" is a device or system that has the function of receiving the required scent as digital data via a network.

[0632] The "reproducing means" is a device or system that has the function of physically reproducing the scent based on the received digital data.

[0633] The "transmission means" is a device or system that has the function of transmitting digital data to the scent reproduction device.

[0634] A "generation means" is a device or system that has the function of generating a scent request and transmitting the request over a network.

[0635] A "feedback collection means" is a device or system that has the function of collecting and analyzing user feedback.

[0636] The "search means" is a device or system that has the function of searching a database for scent data related to a product.

[0637] A "communication means" is a device or system that has the function of connecting to a scent reproduction device placed in the store and sending and receiving data.

[0638] The present invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies the necessary scents over a network to meet the needs of users. This system uses digital data of the scents to provide scents in real time.

[0639] Server Features

[0640] The server manages a database of scents and stores digital data of the scents. The server has the function of receiving requests from users or physical stores, searching for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the request, and sending it to the user's device. The digital data of the scent is encoded according to a specific protocol and delivered in a format that can be reproduced on the device.

[0641] Device Features

[0642] The device analyzes the digital scent data received from the server and controls a device that reproduces the scent as a physical scent for the user. Specifically, the device receives the scent data, decodes it, and passes it to the reproduction means. The device also has the function of collecting user feedback and sending it to the server.

[0643] Examples of applications in physical stores

[0644] In a physical store, an application is provided that allows users to use their smartphones to experience different scents for each product in the store. Specifically, when a user is near a specific product (e.g., an aroma candle), they request scent data related to that product, and the scent data is transmitted from their smartphone via Bluetooth to a scent reproduction device in the store, which reproduces the scent. In addition, users can enter feedback after the experience into the app, and that feedback will be reflected the next time they visit the store.

[0645] Hardware and software used

[0646] Hardware:

[0647] Smartphone: Used as a user device

[0648] Scent reproduction device: Bluetooth-enabled scent diffuser

[0649] software:

[0650] Server system: An API server that manages the scent database and processes requests. Implemented with Python Flask or Django.

[0651] Smartphone app: Developed for iOS or Android. Implemented in Swift for iOS and Kotlin / Java for Android.

[0652] Specific examples and prompts for the generative AI model

[0653] 1. Scent request prompt:

[0654] If the user is near a specific product (e.g., scented candle), they will see a message that says, "Tap here if you would like to try a scent related to this product."

[0655] Example prompt sentence:

[0656] "Please provide the best scent data related to scented candles."

[0657] 2. Scent Reproduction Prompt:

[0658] The smartphone is connected to the scent reproduction device in the store via Bluetooth, and the received scent data is reproduced.

[0659] Example prompt sentence:

[0660] "Send your next desired product scent to your Bluetooth diffuser."

[0661] 3. Feedback prompt:

[0662] After users try a scent, they are prompted to "provide feedback about the scent you tried."

[0663] Example prompt sentence:

[0664] "What feedback would you like to provide? Please be specific."

[0665] This allows physical stores to offer customers a more engaging and personalized shopping experience: for example, when a customer stops by an aromatherapy booth, the area will be tailored to fill with the perfect scent for that moment.

[0666] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0667] Step 1:

[0668] A user approaches a specific product (e.g., a scented candle) and launches a smartphone app to experience the scent associated with that product.

[0669] Input: Smartphone location and product ID.

[0670] Output: Prompt the user with "Tap here if you would like to try scents related to this product."

[0671] Specific operation: The device displays a scent data request screen based on location information and product ID.

[0672] Step 2:

[0673] The user taps the prompt message to submit a scent request.

[0674] Input: User taps.

[0675] Output: Scent request data (user ID, product ID).

[0676] Specific operation: The device generates scent request data and sends it to the server via the network.

[0677] Step 3:

[0678] The server receives the scent request and searches the database for the corresponding scent digital data.

[0679] Input: Scent request data (user ID, product ID).

[0680] Output: Digital data of the corresponding scent.

[0681] Specific operation: The server analyzes the scent request data, searches the database for the corresponding scent digital data, and sends the found data to the user's device.

[0682] Step 4:

[0683] The terminal receives the digital scent data, decodes the data, and transmits it to the scent reproduction device.

[0684] Input: Digital scent data sent from the server.

[0685] Output: Decoded scent data and notification of completion of transmission to the scent reproduction device.

[0686] Specific operation: The terminal decodes the digital scent data and transmits it via Bluetooth to the scent reproduction device in the store.

[0687] Step 5:

[0688] The scent reproduction device reproduces the scent based on the received data.

[0689] Input: Decoded scent data.

[0690] Output: Diffuses fragrance throughout the store.

[0691] Specific operation: The scent reproduction device generates and diffuses scent based on the received data.

[0692] Step 6:

[0693] Users experience the scent and provide feedback through the app.

[0694] Input: User feedback.

[0695] Output: Feedback data.

[0696] Specific operation: The device collects user feedback and sends it to the server.

[0697] Step 7:

[0698] The server receives and analyzes the feedback data, generating data to be reflected in the next scent offering.

[0699] Input: User feedback data.

[0700] Output: Feedback analysis results and improvement data.

[0701] Specific operation: The server analyzes the feedback data, generates data that will be useful for the next scent delivery, and updates the database as necessary.

[0702] 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.

[0703] This invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies the required scent via a network, and further to a system that combines an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and provides a scent that corresponds to that emotion. This system has the function of managing digital data of scents and providing them to users in real time.

[0704] Server Features

[0705] The server manages a database of scents and stores digital data of the scents. The server has the function of receiving requests from users or medical institutions, searching for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the request, and sending it to the user's device. Furthermore, the server is equipped with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions, and is able to select the optimal scent based on the emotional data.

[0706] Device Features

[0707] The device analyzes the digital scent data received from the server and controls a device that recreates the scent as a physical form. The device generates a scent request based on the user's preferences and instructions from the medical institution, and sends it to the server. The device also has an emotion engine that recognizes emotions based on the user's facial expressions, voice, and other sensor data. This emotion data is sent to the server and used to select a scent.

[0708] User operations

[0709] Users can operate the device to input their desired scent and purpose of use. For medical applications, they can request a specific scent based on a doctor's instructions. In addition, emotion recognition functionality analyzes the user's emotions in real time and provides an appropriate scent based on the results. After use, users can provide feedback, and that data will be used to improve the system in the future.

[0710] System processing flow

[0711] The system of the present invention operates according to the following processing flow. First, a user or a medical institution operates a terminal to generate a scent request. This request is sent to a server, which receives the request, searches for the corresponding scent digital data, and sends it to the user's terminal. The terminal decodes the received data and controls the scent reproduction device to provide the scent to the user. Furthermore, the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions in real time, and feedback corresponding to the emotions is sent to the server. This feedback data is reflected in the scent provided.

[0712] Specific examples in the medical field

[0713] For example, consider the case where a doctor in a hospital prescribes the scent of "lavender" to help a patient relax. The doctor operates a terminal to generate a request and sends it to the server. The server receives the request, searches for digital data on the scent of lavender, and sends it to the medical terminal. The terminal decodes the data and provides the patient with the scent of lavender through a scent reproduction device. Furthermore, the emotion engine can analyze the patient's level of relaxation from their facial expressions and voice, and provide a different scent if necessary.

[0714] Examples at home

[0715] When a user requests the scent of "green tea" at home, they operate the device to select the desired scent and send the request. Based on this request, the server searches for digital data of the green tea scent and sends it to the device. The device analyzes the data and spreads the green tea scent throughout the room. The emotion engine analyzes whether the user is relaxed and can adjust the scent as needed.

[0716] In this way, the system of the present invention can efficiently manage digital data of scents and provide them to users quickly and appropriately. Furthermore, by taking the user's emotions into consideration, more personalized scents can be provided.

[0717] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0718] Server Processing

[0719] Step 1: Receiving the request

[0720] The server receives a scent request sent from a user or a medical institution.

[0721] Acquires and analyzes request data through the network interface.

[0722] Extract the necessary information (user ID, desired scent, purpose of use).

[0723] Step 2: Database search

[0724] The server searches the scent database based on the extracted information.

[0725] The corresponding digital data of the scent is obtained.

[0726] The acquired data is encoded and prepared for transmission.

[0727] Step 3: Sending scent data

[0728] The server transmits the encoded digital scent data to the user's terminal.

[0729] Verify that the data was sent correctly.

[0730] Record transmission logs as needed.

[0731] Step 4: Receiving and analyzing emotion data

[0732] The server receives the user's emotion data.

[0733] The emotion engine is used to analyze the received data.

[0734] To reselect an appropriate scent based on a user's emotional state.

[0735] Terminal handling

[0736] Step 1: Receiving scent data

[0737] The terminal receives the digital scent data transmitted from the server.

[0738] Obtain encoded scent data through a network interface.

[0739] Verify that the data was received.

[0740] Step 2: Analyzing the scent data

[0741] The terminal decodes the received digital scent data.

[0742] The decoded data is converted into a format that can be passed to the reproduction means.

[0743] Verify that the data is in the correct format.

[0744] Step 3: Recreate the scent

[0745] The terminal controls the reproduction means and converts the decoded scent data into a physical scent.

[0746] Activate the scent reproduction device to emit the specified scent.

[0747] Ensure the scent is accurately reproduced.

[0748] Step 4: Collecting emotion data

[0749] The device uses built-in sensors (camera, microphone, etc.) to collect user emotional data.

[0750] The emotion engine analyzes data and recognizes emotional states in real time.

[0751] The collected emotion data is sent to the server.

[0752] Step 5: Generate and Send a Request

[0753] The terminal generates a scent request based on the user's input.

[0754] If there are instructions from a medical institution, a request is generated based on those instructions.

[0755] Sends the request data to the server.

[0756] Step 6: Collect and send feedback

[0757] The device collects feedback from the user through an input form.

[0758] The collected feedback data is analyzed and sent to the server.

[0759] Verify that your feedback has been submitted.

[0760] User operations

[0761] Step 1: Request a scent

[0762] The user operates the terminal to select the desired scent.

[0763] Generate a request based on the scent you select.

[0764] Send the request to the device.

[0765] Step 2: Enjoy the scent

[0766] The user waits for the scent to be provided by the terminal.

[0767] Confirm that the scent has been provided and enjoy it.

[0768] Step 3: Expressing emotions

[0769] The user expresses emotions that naturally arise while using the scent.

[0770] This allows the emotion engine on the device to collect data.

[0771] Step 4: Provide feedback

[0772] Users can enter their impressions and results after use through a feedback form on the device.

[0773] Send feedback data to the terminal.

[0774] This system's processing flow makes scent delivery faster and more efficient, enabling the optimal scent to be delivered in real time according to the user's emotions.

[0775] Example 2

[0776] 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."

[0777] Conventional scent delivery systems have had the problem of being unable to provide personalized scents to individual users, as it is difficult to select an appropriate scent according to the user's emotions. In addition, in medical applications, scents are selected based on the patient's diagnosis results, but the inability to adjust scents to respond to real-time emotional changes has been an issue.

[0778] 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.

[0779] In this invention, the server includes a receiving means for receiving the desired fragrance as digital data, a reproducing means for reproducing the fragrance based on the digital data, a transmitting means for transmitting the digital data to the fragrance reproduction device, and an emotion recognition means for recognizing the user's emotion and transmitting the recognized emotion data to the server, thereby making it possible to provide the optimal fragrance according to the user's emotion.

[0780] The "receiving means" is a function for receiving the required scent as digital data.

[0781] The "reproduction means" is a function for reproducing the scent based on the digital data.

[0782] The "transmission means" is a function for transmitting the digital data to the scent reproduction device.

[0783] The "emotion recognition means" is a function for recognizing the user's emotion and transmitting the recognized emotion data to the server.

[0784] The "generation means" is a function for generating a scent request based on the user's input and transmitting the request over a network.

[0785] The "search means" is a function for receiving the request and searching for the corresponding digital fragrance data.

[0786] The "supply means" is a function for providing the digital fragrance data to the user.

[0787] The "emotion analysis means" is a function for re-evaluating the optimal scent based on emotional data and providing it to the user.

[0788] The "medical request generation means" is a function for generating a fragrance request based on the user's diagnosis results in medical applications.

[0789] The "medical supply means" is a function for selecting and providing digital fragrance data based on the diagnosis results.

[0790] The "analysis means" is a function for collecting user feedback and analyzing said feedback.

[0791] The "emotion optimization means" is a function for optimizing the selection of scents based on emotion data.

[0792] The present invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies a required scent via a network, recognizes a user's emotions, and provides a scent corresponding to the emotion. This system is realized using a combination of multiple hardware and software components. Detailed embodiments of the system are described below.

[0793] Server Features

[0794] The server manages a database of scents and stores digital data of the scents. The server has the function of receiving requests from users or medical institutions, searching for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the request, and sending it to the user's terminal.

[0795] The server is equipped with an emotion engine that analyzes the user's emotional data and selects the most suitable scent. This emotion engine uses an emotion recognition algorithm implemented in Python to analyze the user's emotional state in real time.

[0796] Device Features

[0797] The device analyzes the digital data of the scent received from the server and controls the device that reproduces the scent as a physical scent. The device generates a scent request based on the user's preferences and instructions from the medical institution and sends it to the server.

[0798] The device is also equipped with an emotion engine that recognizes emotions in real time based on the user's facial expressions, voice, and other sensor data. This emotion data is sent to a server and used to select a scent. As a concrete example, the smartphone app "ScentControl" is used as the device.

[0799] User operations

[0800] Users operate the device to input the desired scent and purpose of use. When requesting a specific scent, for example, a user can select the scent of "lavender" using the "ScentControl" app.

[0801] For medical use, specific scents can be requested based on a doctor's instructions. Furthermore, emotion recognition allows for real-time analysis of the user's emotions and provides an appropriate scent based on the results. For example, the scent of lavender can be provided to promote relaxation.

[0802] Specific examples

[0803] Specific examples in the medical field

[0804] If a doctor at a hospital prescribes the scent of "lavender" to help a patient relax, the doctor operates a terminal to generate a request and sends it to the server. The server receives the request, searches for the corresponding digital scent data, and sends it to the medical terminal. The terminal decodes the data and provides the patient with the scent of "lavender" through a scent reproduction device. The emotion engine can also analyze the patient's level of relaxation from their facial expressions and voice, and provide a different scent if necessary.

[0805] Examples at home

[0806] When a user requests the scent of "green tea" at home, they operate the device to select the desired scent and send the request. Based on the request, the server searches for the corresponding digital scent data and sends it to the device. The device analyzes the data and spreads the "green tea" scent throughout the room through the scent reproduction device. The emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions and provides feedback according to their level of relaxation.

[0807] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0808] The input prompt for the generative AI model associated with this system is:

[0809] "Please explain how the server and device work together to provide the appropriate scent based on the user's preferences. Also, please explain how to provide scents that take the user's emotions into consideration."

[0810] is used.

[0811] As described above, the present invention efficiently manages digital data of scents and provides them to users quickly and appropriately. Furthermore, by taking the user's emotions into consideration, the provision of more personalized scents can be realized.

[0812] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0813] Step 1:

[0814] The user operates the device to request the desired scent. The user launches the smartphone app "ScentControl" and selects "lavender" from the scent list. When the user taps the request button, the app generates data about the scent selected by the user as a request and sends that request data to the server. The input is the selection of the scent "lavender," and the output is the transmission of the request data to the server.

[0815] Step 2:

[0816] The server receives a request from the user. The server receives the HTTP request and analyzes the request data. Based on the analyzed data, it searches for the corresponding "lavender" scent data from a digital scent database. The input is the received request data, and the output is the search results for the digital scent data.

[0817] Step 3:

[0818] The server searches for digital scent data and sends it to the user's device. The server then sends the search result, "lavender," as an HTTP response. The input is the search result for the digital scent data, and the output is the data sent to the user's device.

[0819] Step 4:

[0820] The device receives the digital data of the scent sent from the server. The device temporarily stores the received data and checks its accuracy. After confirming that the data is accurate, it proceeds to the next step. The input is the data from the server, and the output is the confirmed digital data of the scent.

[0821] Step 5:

[0822] The terminal decodes the received data and controls the scent reproduction device. The terminal uses data conversion software to analyze the scent data and sends instructions to the "ScentDevice" via Bluetooth. The input is digital data of the confirmed scent, and the output is a control command to the scent reproduction device.

[0823] Step 6:

[0824] The user receives the scent emitted from the scent reproduction device. For example, the user senses the scent of "lavender" in a room. The input is the scent emitted from the scent reproduction device, and the output is the user's sensory experience.

[0825] Step 7:

[0826] The device collects emotional data and performs emotion recognition. The device's built-in camera and microphone are used to collect the user's facial expressions and voice, which are then analyzed in real time by the emotion engine. The input is the user's facial expression and voice data, and the output is emotional data.

[0827] Step 8:

[0828] The device sends the collected emotional data to the server. The collected data is encrypted and sent to the server via an HTTP post request. The input is emotional data, and the output is data sent to the server.

[0829] Step 9:

[0830] The server analyzes the emotional data and re-evaluates the optimal scent. The server runs an emotion recognition algorithm using the received emotional data to determine the next scent based on the user's emotional state. The input is the emotional data, and the output is the re-evaluated scent data.

[0831] Step 10:

[0832] The server transmits new scent data as needed. If new scent data is required as a result of the reevaluation, the server re-references the scent database and transmits the digital data of the selected scent to the terminal. The input is the re-evaluated scent data, and the output is the transmission of the new scent data.

[0833] (Application example 2)

[0834] 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."

[0835] Conventional scent systems provide scents without considering the user's emotions, making it difficult to provide personalized scents. In particular, there is a need to provide scents in real time that match the customer's emotions and preferences in brick-and-mortar stores. Furthermore, there has been no system that can analyze customer emotions in real time using wearable devices such as smart glasses and provide the optimal scent based on that analysis.

[0836] 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.

[0837] In this invention, the server includes a receiving means for receiving the desired fragrance as digital data, a reproducing means for reproducing the fragrance based on the digital data, a transmitting means for transmitting the digital data to the fragrance reproducing device, an emotion recognizing means for recognizing the customer's emotions in real time, and a selecting means for selecting the optimal fragrance based on the data recognized by the emotion recognizing means, thereby making it possible to provide a personalized fragrance according to the customer's emotions.

[0838] The "receiving means" is a means for receiving the required scent as digital data.

[0839] The "reproducing means" is a means for reproducing the scent based on the digital data.

[0840] The "transmission means" is a means for transmitting the digital data to the scent reproduction device.

[0841] An "emotion recognition means" is a means for recognizing a customer's emotions in real time.

[0842] The "selection means" is a means for selecting the most suitable fragrance based on the data recognized by the emotion recognition means.

[0843] The "generation means" is a means for generating a scent request based on a user's input and transmitting the request over a network.

[0844] The "search means" is a means for receiving the request and searching for the corresponding digital fragrance data.

[0845] The "supply means" is a means for providing the digital fragrance data to the user.

[0846] "Data collection means" refers to a means for collecting facial expression data of a customer through an application installed on the smart glasses.

[0847] The "medical request generation means" is a means for generating a request for a fragrance based on the diagnosis results of a user in a medical application.

[0848] The "medical supply means" is a means for selecting and providing digital fragrance data based on the diagnosis results.

[0849] "Analysis means" is a means for collecting user feedback and analyzing said feedback.

[0850] "Emotion analysis means" is a means of analyzing customer emotions in real time in physical stores and providing the optimal fragrance.

[0851] The present invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies digital data of scents over a network, recognizes the emotions of users, and provides scents that correspond to those emotions. The system of the present invention operates through the cooperation of a server and terminals, and can respond to customer emotions in real time, particularly in brick-and-mortar stores.

[0852] Server Features

[0853] The server has a database that stores and manages digital data of fragrances. The server also has the following functions:

[0854] 1. Receiving means: Receive the desired scent as digital data.

[0855] 2. Search means: Receives a scent request and searches for corresponding scent digital data.

[0856] 3. Transmission means: Transmits the digital scent data to the scent reproduction device.

[0857] 4. Emotion recognition: Recognize customer emotions in real time.

[0858] 5. Selection method: Select the best scent based on the emotion recognition results.

[0859] The server receives requests sent from terminals on the network and selects the most suitable digital scent data based on the request. For example, if a customer requests a relaxing scent when entering a store, the server selects digital lavender scent data and sends it to the terminal.

[0860] Device Features

[0861] The device is equipped with a means to analyze the digital data of the scent received from the server and reproduce it as a physical scent. The device also has the following means implemented:

[0862] 1. Generation means: Generates a scent request based on user input and sends it over the network.

[0863] 2. Means of supply: Providing digital scent data to users.

[0864] 3. Data collection method: Smart glasses are used to collect customer facial expression data.

[0865] 4. Transmission means: Send the collected data to the server.

[0866] For example, smart glasses can be used in a brick-and-mortar store to analyze customers' facial expressions and emotions in real time, and the data can be sent to a server. The server can then select an appropriate scent based on this data and send it to a terminal. The terminal can then control a scent reproduction device to provide the optimal scent for the store.

[0867] User operations

[0868] Users can input their desired scent and purpose of use by operating the device. The emotion recognition function analyzes the user's emotions in real time and provides the optimal scent based on the results. For example, if a customer is feeling stressed, the system will operate to provide a relaxing scent.

[0869] Specific examples

[0870] For example, when a customer enters a physical store, smart glasses analyze the customer's facial expression in real time. The smart glasses' cameras and sensors are used to collect emotional data from the customer, which is then sent to a server. Based on the emotion recognition results, the server selects the most appropriate digital scent data based on a prompt, such as "For customers who are relaxed, please provide a relaxing lavender scent." This digital scent data is then sent to the terminal, where the lavender scent is provided in the store through a scent reproduction device. In this way, a personalized scent experience can be provided to the customer.

[0871] The system of the present invention can efficiently manage and provide digital scent data, and can provide personalized scents in real time according to the customer's emotions.

[0872] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0873] Step 1:

[0874] The device collects facial expression data from customers through smart glasses.

[0875] Input: Real-time customer facial expression data

[0876] Output: Customer's facial expression data (image data, etc.)

[0877] Specific operation: Using the camera and sensors built into the device, the customer's facial expression is captured as image data.

[0878] Step 2:

[0879] The facial expression data collected by the device is analyzed using emotion recognition means.

[0880] Input: Customer facial expression data

[0881] Output: Customer emotion recognition result (e.g. "Relaxed" or "Stressed")

[0882] What it does: Your device uses software such as EmotionRecognizer to analyze facial expression data and identify emotions.

[0883] Step 3:

[0884] The device sends the analysis results to the server.

[0885] Input: Customer emotion recognition results

[0886] Output: Emotion recognition result data sent to the server

[0887] Specific operation: Emotion recognition results are sent to the server using an HTTP request, etc.

[0888] Step 4:

[0889] The server receives the emotion recognition result and selects the most suitable digital scent data based on the result.

[0890] Input: Emotion recognition result data

[0891] Output: Optimal fragrance digital data

[0892] Specific operation: The server accesses a database that stores digital scent data and selects the optimal scent based on a prompt from the generative AI model, such as "For customers who are relaxed, please provide the relaxing scent of lavender."

[0893] Step 5:

[0894] The server transmits the selected digital scent data to the terminal.

[0895] Input: Optimal fragrance digital data

[0896] Output: Response containing digital scent data

[0897] Specific operation: The server sends digital scent data in JSON format or similar to the response to the device.

[0898] Step 6:

[0899] The terminal analyzes the received digital scent data and generates a physical scent through a reproduction means.

[0900] Input: Digital scent data

[0901] Output: Physical scent

[0902] Specific operation: The terminal uses software to control the scent reproduction device, analyzes the received digital data, and causes the device to emit a scent.

[0903] Step 7:

[0904] The user experiences the scents provided and provides feedback.

[0905] Input: User feedback (opinions and thoughts)

[0906] Output: Feedback data

[0907] Specific operation: The user inputs feedback about the provided scent through the device interface.

[0908] Step 8:

[0909] The terminal sends the user's feedback to the server, which analyzes it.

[0910] Input: User feedback data

[0911] Output: Analysis results and data points for future system improvements

[0912] How it works: The device sends feedback to the server using an HTTP request, and the server analyzes the feedback using AI models and data analysis tools to improve the system.

[0913] 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.

[0914] 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.

[0915] 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.

[0916] [Third embodiment]

[0917] FIG. 5 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 310 according to the third embodiment.

[0918] 5, the data processing system 310 includes the data processing device 12 and a headset type terminal 314. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[0919] 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).

[0920] 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.

[0921] 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.

[0922] 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).

[0923] 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.

[0924] 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.

[0925] 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.

[0926] 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.

[0927] 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.

[0928] 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."

[0929] The present invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies the necessary scents over a network to meet the needs of users. This system uses digital data of the scents to provide scents in real time.

[0930] Server Features

[0931] The server manages a database of scents and stores digital data of the scents. The server has the function of receiving requests from users or medical institutions, searching for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the request, and sending it to the user's device. The digital data of the scent is encoded according to a specific protocol and delivered in a format that can be reproduced on the device.

[0932] Device Features

[0933] The terminal analyzes the digital scent data received from the server and controls a device that reproduces the scent as a physical scent for the user. The terminal has the function of generating a scent request based on the user's preferences and instructions from the medical institution and sending it to the server. Specifically, the terminal receives the scent data, decodes it, and passes it to the reproduction means. The terminal also has the function of collecting user feedback and sending it to the server.

[0934] User operations

[0935] Users can operate the device to select the desired scent and generate a request. In medical applications, specific scents can be requested based on a doctor's instructions. After use, users can provide feedback, which will be used to improve the overall system.

[0936] System processing flow

[0937] The system of the present invention operates according to the following processing flow: First, a user or a medical institution operates a terminal to generate a scent request. This request is sent to a server, which receives the request and searches for corresponding scent digital data. The search result, obtained as a result of the search, is sent from the server to the terminal. The terminal decodes the received data and controls the scent reproduction device to provide the user with the scent. After use, the user provides feedback through the terminal, which is sent to the server. This feedback is used for future improvements.

[0938] Specific examples in the medical field

[0939] For example, a doctor in a hospital prescribes the scent of "lavender" for the purpose of patient relaxation. The doctor operates a terminal to generate a request and sends it to the server. The server receives the request, searches for the lavender scent digital data, and sends it to the medical terminal. The terminal decodes the data and provides the lavender scent to the patient through a scent reproduction device. This process allows the patient to receive the scent effect quickly and appropriately.

[0940] Examples at home

[0941] On the other hand, if a user requests the scent of "green tea" at home, the user operates the device to select the desired scent and transmits the request. Based on this request, the server retrieves the digital data of the green tea scent and transmits it to the device. The device analyzes the data and spreads the green tea scent throughout the room. In this way, the scent environment can be flexibly adjusted to suit the user's needs.

[0942] This system will enable the efficient digitization and utilization of scents, enabling the provision of scents that meet a variety of medical and home needs.

[0943] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0944] Server Processing

[0945] Step 1: Receiving the request

[0946] The server receives a scent request sent from a user or a medical institution.

[0947] Obtain request data in JSON format or other formats through the network interface.

[0948] Analyze the request data and extract the necessary information (user ID, type of scent, purpose of use, etc.).

[0949] Step 2: Database search

[0950] The server searches the scent database based on the extracted information.

[0951] The digital data of the specified scent is retrieved from the database.

[0952] Prepares the results of a database lookup in an encoded format.

[0953] Step 3: Sending scent data

[0954] The server encodes the acquired scent data and converts it into a format that can be transmitted.

[0955] The encoded data is sent associated with the specified user ID.

[0956] Verify that the transmission is complete.

[0957] Terminal handling

[0958] Step 1: Receiving scent data

[0959] The terminal receives the digital scent data transmitted from the server.

[0960] Obtain encoded scent data through a network interface.

[0961] Verify that the data was received.

[0962] Step 2: Analyzing the scent data

[0963] The terminal decodes the received digital scent data.

[0964] The decoded data is converted into a format that can be passed to the reproduction means.

[0965] Verify that the data is in the correct format.

[0966] Step 3: Recreate the scent

[0967] The terminal controls the reproduction means to convert the decoded scent data into a physical scent.

[0968] A scent reproduction device is used to generate the specified scent.

[0969] Check that the scent is accurately reproduced.

[0970] Step 4: Generate and send a request

[0971] The terminal generates a scent request based on the user's input.

[0972] If there are instructions from a medical institution, a request is generated based on those instructions.

[0973] Sends the request data to the server.

[0974] Step 5: Collect and submit feedback

[0975] The device collects feedback from the user through an input form.

[0976] The collected feedback data is analyzed and sent to a server.

[0977] Verify that your feedback has been submitted.

[0978] User operations

[0979] Step 1: Request a scent

[0980] The user operates the terminal to select the desired scent.

[0981] Generate a request based on the scent selected.

[0982] Send the request to the device.

[0983] Step 2: Enjoy the scent

[0984] The user waits for the scent to be provided by the terminal.

[0985] Confirm that the scent has been provided and enjoy it.

[0986] Step 3: Provide feedback

[0987] Users can enter their impressions and results after use through a feedback form on the device.

[0988] Send feedback data to the terminal.

[0989] This series of processes makes it possible to efficiently manage digital data of scents and provide them to users quickly and appropriately.

[0990] Example 1

[0991] 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."

[0992] In modern society, scents play an important role in relaxation and treatment, but there is a lack of efficient and accurate means to deliver scents that meet user needs and medical settings. Furthermore, the process of physically recreating scents based on digital data is complex, making it difficult to deliver scents efficiently and in real time. Furthermore, there are insufficient methods for collecting user feedback on the delivered scents and using it to improve the system. To address these issues and meet the diverse needs of users and medical settings, the present invention aims to provide a system that delivers scents efficiently and accurately.

[0993] 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.

[0994] In this invention, the server includes a receiving means for receiving digital data of a scent, a decoding means for decoding the digital data and transmitting it to the scent reproduction device, and a scent reproduction means for physically reproducing the scent based on the digital data, thereby making it possible to efficiently manage the digital data of a scent and accurately physically reproduce the scent in real time.

[0995] The system also includes a request generation means for generating a fragrance request based on user input and transmitting the request to a server via a network, a search and encoding means for receiving the request, searching for corresponding digital fragrance data from a database, encoding the data, and transmitting it, and a decoding and supply means for receiving the digital fragrance data, decoding the data, and providing the fragrance to the user. This allows for rapid search and provision of fragrances based on user requests.

[0996] Furthermore, the system includes a diagnostic request generation means for generating a fragrance request based on a user's diagnostic results in medical applications, a selection and provision means for selecting digital fragrance data based on the diagnostic results and receiving it from a server to provide it, and a feedback collection and analysis means for collecting user feedback and transmitting it to the server for analysis. This makes it possible to improve the quality of the system by making use of user feedback in medical settings.

[0997] "Digital scent data" is digital data that encodes information for reproducing a physical scent.

[0998] "Receiving means" refers to hardware and software components for receiving data transmitted over a network.

[0999] A "decoding means" is a software or hardware function for converting received digital data from an encoded form into the original information.

[1000] An "aroma reproduction device" is a device for generating a physical aroma based on decoded digital data.

[1001] The "request generation means" is a software or hardware function for generating perfume request data based on user input.

[1002] A "request" is data that includes information such as the type and strength of the fragrance desired by the user.

[1003] A "server" is a computer system that provides services to multiple terminals via a network.

[1004] The "search and encoding means" is a function that identifies the digital data of the scent from the database and encodes it into a format suitable for transmission.

[1005] The "decoding and supplying means" is a means for decoding the received encoded data and supplying the scent to the user.

[1006] A "diagnosis request generator" is a method and apparatus configuration for creating a scent request based on a diagnosis at a medical point of care.

[1007] The "means of selection and provision" refers to the means for selecting the optimal digital data of the fragrance based on the diagnosis results from the server and providing that data.

[1008] "Feedback collection and analysis means" is a general term for methods and devices for collecting users' opinions and evaluations after use, analyzing the data, and using it to improve the system.

[1009] The present invention relates to a system that handles scents as digital data and efficiently provides them over a network. This system is constructed by linking a server, a terminal, and a reproduction device.

[1010] Server Features

[1011] The server has a database that stores digital data of scents. The server has the following main functions:

[1012] Receiving means: A request from a user or a medical institution is received via a network, for example, by using the HTTP protocol.

[1013] Search and encoding method: Based on the received request, the corresponding digital data of the scent is searched from the database, and then this data is encoded using a specific protocol (e.g., Base64 encoding).

[1014] Transmission method: The encoded digital scent data is sent to the terminal using a reliable network communication protocol (e.g., HTTPS).

[1015] Device Features

[1016] The terminal receives data sent from the server and controls the device to provide the scent to the user. Specifically, it has the following functions:

[1017] Request generation method: A scent request is generated based on user input and sent to the server. For example, a touch screen operation or voice input can be used.

[1018] Decoding method: Decodes the encoded data received from the server. For example, Base64 decoding is performed.

[1019] Scent reproduction means: Controls the scent reproduction device based on the decoded digital data to generate a physical scent.

[1020] Feedback collection means: collects user feedback and sends it to the server.

[1021] User operations

[1022] The user operates the device to select a scent and generate a request. For example, if the user desires a "lavender" scent, the user selects it through the device interface and sends the request. After use, the user uses the device to input feedback, which is then sent to the server.

[1023] Specific examples in the medical field

[1024] For example, consider a scenario in which a doctor at a hospital prescribes the scent of "lavender" for the purpose of patient relaxation. The doctor operates a terminal to generate a scent request and sends it to a server. The server receives the request, searches for the corresponding digital data of the scent, and encodes it. The encoded data is sent to a terminal, which receives and decodes the data and controls a scent reproduction device to generate the scent of lavender. The patient can experience a relaxing effect by receiving this scent.

[1025] Examples at home

[1026] Consider a case where a user desires the scent of "green tea" at home. The user operates the device to select the green tea scent and sends a request. The server receives the request, searches for the corresponding data, encodes it, and sends it to the device. The device receives and decodes the data, controls the scent reproduction device, and generates the green tea scent. This process allows the user to instantly enjoy the desired scent at home.

[1027] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1028] "Please explain the steps to provide a pleasant lavender scent in the hospital."

[1029] "Please tell me the specific steps to enjoy the aroma of green tea at home."

[1030] The present invention realizes an efficient and flexible fragrance provision system that uses digital fragrance data, making it possible to provide a fragrance environment that meets a variety of needs in medical and home settings.

[1031] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1032] Step 1:

[1033] The user operates the device to select the desired scent. The user inputs the type and strength of the scent using an interface (e.g., a touchscreen or voice command). The input information is generated as scent request data.

[1034] Input: User's scent selection and strength input

[1035] Data processing: Generate request data based on scent selection and strength information

[1036] Output: Scent request data

[1037] Step 2:

[1038] The device sends the generated scent request data to the server using a reliable network communication protocol (e.g., HTTPS). The server receives the request.

[1039] Input: Scent request data

[1040] Data processing: Send the request data to the server using HTTPS

[1041] Output: The request data received by the server

[1042] Step 3:

[1043] The server searches the database for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the received request data, and after obtaining the search results, encodes them using a specific protocol (e.g., Base64).

[1044] Input: Request data

[1045] Data processing: database searching and encoding of digital data

[1046] Output: Encoded digital scent data

[1047] Step 4:

[1048] The server sends the encoded digital data of the scent to the device, again using the HTTPS protocol.

[1049] Input: Encoded digital scent data

[1050] Data processing: Sending encoded data

[1051] Output: The encoded data received by the device.

[1052] Step 5:

[1053] The terminal decodes the encoded data received from the server using a specific protocol (e.g., Base64 decoding). The decoded data is then sent to the scent reproduction device.

[1054] Input: Encoded digital scent data

[1055] Data processing: Decoding the data and sending it to a reproduction device

[1056] Output: Decoded data sent to the scent reproduction device

[1057] Step 6:

[1058] The scent reproduction device generates a physical scent based on the decoded digital data, for example by heating a liquid essence to release the scent.

[1059] Input: Decoded digital scent data

[1060] Data processing: Physical scent generation based on digital data

[1061] Output: Physical scent

[1062] Step 7:

[1063] After use, users provide feedback using the device, which is input into the device and collected. The collected feedback is then sent to the server.

[1064] Input: User feedback

[1065] Data processing: collecting feedback and sending it to the server

[1066] Output: Feedback data received by the server

[1067] Step 8:

[1068] The server stores the received feedback data in a database and analyzes it, and the analysis results are used to improve the system.

[1069] Input: Feedback data

[1070] Data processing: feedback data storage and analysis

[1071] Output: Information on system improvement based on analysis results

[1072] (Application example 1)

[1073] 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."

[1074] Conventional scent delivery systems have the problem that it is difficult for users to experience scents in real time, and they are unable to sufficiently improve the product purchasing experience, especially in physical stores. Furthermore, it is difficult to efficiently collect feedback and reflect it in the next scent experience.

[1075] 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.

[1076] In this invention, the server includes a receiving means for receiving the required scent as digital data, a reproducing means for reproducing the scent based on the digital data, a transmitting means for transmitting the digital data to the scent reproduction device, a generating means for generating a scent request and transmitting it over a network, a feedback collecting means for collecting and analyzing user feedback, a searching means for searching for and providing scent data related to the product, and a communication means for connecting to the scent reproduction device located in the store to reproduce the scent. This allows users to experience scents related to products in real time in a physical store, and the feedback can be efficiently collected and reflected in the next scent experience.

[1077] The "receiving means" is a device or system that has the function of receiving the required scent as digital data via a network.

[1078] The "reproducing means" is a device or system that has the function of physically reproducing the scent based on the received digital data.

[1079] The "transmission means" is a device or system that has the function of transmitting digital data to the scent reproduction device.

[1080] A "generation means" is a device or system that has the function of generating a scent request and transmitting the request over a network.

[1081] A "feedback collection means" is a device or system that has the function of collecting and analyzing user feedback.

[1082] The "search means" is a device or system that has the function of searching a database for scent data related to a product.

[1083] A "communication means" is a device or system that has the function of connecting to a scent reproduction device placed in the store and sending and receiving data.

[1084] The present invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies the necessary scents over a network to meet the needs of users. This system uses digital data of the scents to provide scents in real time.

[1085] Server Features

[1086] The server manages a database of scents and stores digital data of the scents. The server has the function of receiving requests from users or physical stores, searching for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the request, and sending it to the user's device. The digital data of the scent is encoded according to a specific protocol and delivered in a format that can be reproduced on the device.

[1087] Device Features

[1088] The device analyzes the digital scent data received from the server and controls a device that reproduces the scent as a physical scent for the user. Specifically, the device receives the scent data, decodes it, and passes it to the reproduction means. The device also has the function of collecting user feedback and sending it to the server.

[1089] Examples of applications in physical stores

[1090] In a physical store, an application is provided that allows users to use their smartphones to experience different scents for each product in the store. Specifically, when a user is near a specific product (e.g., an aroma candle), they request scent data related to that product, and the scent data is transmitted from their smartphone via Bluetooth to a scent reproduction device in the store, which reproduces the scent. In addition, users can enter feedback after the experience into the app, and that feedback will be reflected the next time they visit the store.

[1091] Hardware and software used

[1092] Hardware:

[1093] Smartphone: Used as a user device

[1094] Scent reproduction device: Bluetooth-enabled scent diffuser

[1095] software:

[1096] Server system: An API server that manages the scent database and processes requests. Implemented with Python Flask or Django.

[1097] Smartphone app: Developed for iOS or Android. Implemented in Swift for iOS and Kotlin / Java for Android.

[1098] Specific examples and prompts for the generative AI model

[1099] 1. Scent request prompt:

[1100] If the user is near a specific product (e.g., scented candle), they will see a message that says, "Tap here if you would like to try a scent related to this product."

[1101] Example prompt sentence:

[1102] "Please provide the best scent data related to scented candles."

[1103] 2. Scent Reproduction Prompt:

[1104] The smartphone is connected to the scent reproduction device in the store via Bluetooth, and the received scent data is reproduced.

[1105] Example prompt sentence:

[1106] "Send your next desired product scent to your Bluetooth diffuser."

[1107] 3. Feedback prompt:

[1108] After users try a scent, they are prompted to "provide feedback about the scent you tried."

[1109] Example prompt sentence:

[1110] "What feedback would you like to provide? Please be specific."

[1111] This allows physical stores to offer customers a more engaging and personalized shopping experience: for example, when a customer stops by an aromatherapy booth, the area will be tailored to fill with the perfect scent for that moment.

[1112] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1113] Step 1:

[1114] A user approaches a specific product (e.g., a scented candle) and launches a smartphone app to experience the scent associated with that product.

[1115] Input: Smartphone location and product ID.

[1116] Output: Prompt the user with "Tap here if you would like to try scents related to this product."

[1117] Specific operation: The device displays a scent data request screen based on location information and product ID.

[1118] Step 2:

[1119] The user taps the prompt message to submit a scent request.

[1120] Input: User taps.

[1121] Output: Scent request data (user ID, product ID).

[1122] Specific operation: The device generates scent request data and sends it to the server via the network.

[1123] Step 3:

[1124] The server receives the scent request and searches the database for the corresponding scent digital data.

[1125] Input: Scent request data (user ID, product ID).

[1126] Output: Digital data of the corresponding scent.

[1127] Specific operation: The server analyzes the scent request data, searches the database for the corresponding scent digital data, and sends the found data to the user's device.

[1128] Step 4:

[1129] The terminal receives the digital scent data, decodes the data, and transmits it to the scent reproduction device.

[1130] Input: Digital scent data sent from the server.

[1131] Output: Decoded scent data and notification of completion of transmission to the scent reproduction device.

[1132] Specific operation: The terminal decodes the digital scent data and transmits it via Bluetooth to the scent reproduction device in the store.

[1133] Step 5:

[1134] The scent reproduction device reproduces the scent based on the received data.

[1135] Input: Decoded scent data.

[1136] Output: Diffuses fragrance throughout the store.

[1137] Specific operation: The scent reproduction device generates and diffuses scent based on the received data.

[1138] Step 6:

[1139] Users experience the scent and provide feedback through the app.

[1140] Input: User feedback.

[1141] Output: Feedback data.

[1142] Specific operation: The device collects user feedback and sends it to the server.

[1143] Step 7:

[1144] The server receives and analyzes the feedback data, generating data to be reflected in the next scent offering.

[1145] Input: User feedback data.

[1146] Output: Feedback analysis results and improvement data.

[1147] Specific operation: The server analyzes the feedback data, generates data that will be useful for the next scent delivery, and updates the database as necessary.

[1148] 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.

[1149] This invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies the required scent via a network, and further to a system that combines an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and provides a scent that corresponds to that emotion. This system has the function of managing digital data of scents and providing them to users in real time.

[1150] Server Features

[1151] The server manages a database of scents and stores digital data of the scents. The server has the function of receiving requests from users or medical institutions, searching for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the request, and sending it to the user's device. Furthermore, the server is equipped with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions, and is able to select the optimal scent based on the emotional data.

[1152] Device Features

[1153] The device analyzes the digital scent data received from the server and controls a device that recreates the scent as a physical form. The device generates a scent request based on the user's preferences and instructions from the medical institution, and sends it to the server. The device also has an emotion engine that recognizes emotions based on the user's facial expressions, voice, and other sensor data. This emotion data is sent to the server and used to select a scent.

[1154] User operations

[1155] Users can operate the device to input their desired scent and purpose of use. For medical applications, they can request a specific scent based on a doctor's instructions. In addition, emotion recognition functionality analyzes the user's emotions in real time and provides an appropriate scent based on the results. After use, users can provide feedback, and that data will be used to improve the system in the future.

[1156] System processing flow

[1157] The system of the present invention operates according to the following processing flow. First, a user or a medical institution operates a terminal to generate a scent request. This request is sent to a server, which receives the request, searches for the corresponding scent digital data, and sends it to the user's terminal. The terminal decodes the received data and controls the scent reproduction device to provide the scent to the user. Furthermore, the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions in real time, and feedback corresponding to the emotions is sent to the server. This feedback data is reflected in the scent provided.

[1158] Specific examples in the medical field

[1159] For example, consider the case where a doctor in a hospital prescribes the scent of "lavender" to help a patient relax. The doctor operates a terminal to generate a request and sends it to the server. The server receives the request, searches for digital data on the scent of lavender, and sends it to the medical terminal. The terminal decodes the data and provides the patient with the scent of lavender through a scent reproduction device. Furthermore, the emotion engine can analyze the patient's level of relaxation from their facial expressions and voice, and provide a different scent if necessary.

[1160] Examples at home

[1161] When a user requests the scent of "green tea" at home, they operate the device to select the desired scent and send the request. Based on this request, the server searches for digital data of the green tea scent and sends it to the device. The device analyzes the data and spreads the green tea scent throughout the room. The emotion engine analyzes whether the user is relaxed and can adjust the scent as needed.

[1162] In this way, the system of the present invention can efficiently manage digital data of scents and provide them to users quickly and appropriately. Furthermore, by taking the user's emotions into consideration, more personalized scents can be provided.

[1163] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1164] Server Processing

[1165] Step 1: Receiving the request

[1166] The server receives a scent request sent from a user or a medical institution.

[1167] Acquires and analyzes request data through the network interface.

[1168] Extract the necessary information (user ID, desired scent, purpose of use).

[1169] Step 2: Database search

[1170] The server searches the scent database based on the extracted information.

[1171] The corresponding digital data of the scent is obtained.

[1172] The acquired data is encoded and prepared for transmission.

[1173] Step 3: Sending scent data

[1174] The server transmits the encoded digital scent data to the user's terminal.

[1175] Verify that the data was sent correctly.

[1176] Record transmission logs as needed.

[1177] Step 4: Receiving and analyzing emotion data

[1178] The server receives the user's emotion data.

[1179] The emotion engine is used to analyze the received data.

[1180] To reselect an appropriate scent based on a user's emotional state.

[1181] Terminal handling

[1182] Step 1: Receiving scent data

[1183] The terminal receives the digital scent data transmitted from the server.

[1184] Obtain encoded scent data through a network interface.

[1185] Verify that the data was received.

[1186] Step 2: Analyzing the scent data

[1187] The terminal decodes the received digital scent data.

[1188] The decoded data is converted into a format that can be passed to the reproduction means.

[1189] Verify that the data is in the correct format.

[1190] Step 3: Recreate the scent

[1191] The terminal controls the reproduction means and converts the decoded scent data into a physical scent.

[1192] Activate the scent reproduction device to emit the specified scent.

[1193] Ensure the scent is accurately reproduced.

[1194] Step 4: Collecting emotion data

[1195] The device uses built-in sensors (camera, microphone, etc.) to collect user emotional data.

[1196] The emotion engine analyzes data and recognizes emotional states in real time.

[1197] The collected emotion data is sent to the server.

[1198] Step 5: Generate and Send a Request

[1199] The terminal generates a scent request based on the user's input.

[1200] If there are instructions from a medical institution, a request is generated based on those instructions.

[1201] Sends the request data to the server.

[1202] Step 6: Collect and submit feedback

[1203] The device collects feedback from the user through an input form.

[1204] The collected feedback data is analyzed and sent to the server.

[1205] Verify that your feedback has been submitted.

[1206] User operations

[1207] Step 1: Request a scent

[1208] The user operates the terminal to select the desired scent.

[1209] Generate a request based on the scent you select.

[1210] Send the request to the device.

[1211] Step 2: Enjoy the scent

[1212] The user waits for the scent to be provided by the terminal.

[1213] Confirm that the scent has been provided and enjoy it.

[1214] Step 3: Expressing emotions

[1215] The user expresses emotions that naturally arise while using the scent.

[1216] This allows the emotion engine on the device to collect data.

[1217] Step 4: Provide feedback

[1218] Users can enter their impressions and results after use through a feedback form on the device.

[1219] Send feedback data to the terminal.

[1220] This system's processing flow makes scent delivery faster and more efficient, enabling the optimal scent to be delivered in real time according to the user's emotions.

[1221] Example 2

[1222] 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."

[1223] Conventional scent delivery systems have had the problem of being unable to provide personalized scents to individual users, as it is difficult to select an appropriate scent according to the user's emotions. In addition, in medical applications, scents are selected based on the patient's diagnosis results, but the inability to adjust scents to respond to real-time emotional changes has been an issue.

[1224] 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.

[1225] In this invention, the server includes a receiving means for receiving the desired fragrance as digital data, a reproducing means for reproducing the fragrance based on the digital data, a transmitting means for transmitting the digital data to the fragrance reproduction device, and an emotion recognition means for recognizing the user's emotion and transmitting the recognized emotion data to the server, thereby making it possible to provide the optimal fragrance according to the user's emotion.

[1226] The "receiving means" is a function for receiving the required scent as digital data.

[1227] The "reproduction means" is a function for reproducing the scent based on the digital data.

[1228] The "transmission means" is a function for transmitting the digital data to the scent reproduction device.

[1229] The "emotion recognition means" is a function for recognizing the user's emotion and transmitting the recognized emotion data to the server.

[1230] The "generation means" is a function for generating a scent request based on the user's input and transmitting the request over a network.

[1231] The "search means" is a function for receiving the request and searching for the corresponding digital fragrance data.

[1232] The "supply means" is a function for providing the digital fragrance data to the user.

[1233] The "emotion analysis means" is a function for re-evaluating the optimal scent based on emotional data and providing it to the user.

[1234] The "medical request generation means" is a function for generating a fragrance request based on the user's diagnosis results in medical applications.

[1235] The "medical supply means" is a function for selecting and providing digital fragrance data based on the diagnosis results.

[1236] The "analysis means" is a function for collecting user feedback and analyzing said feedback.

[1237] The "emotion optimization means" is a function for optimizing the selection of scents based on emotion data.

[1238] The present invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies a required scent via a network, recognizes a user's emotions, and provides a scent corresponding to the emotion. This system is realized using a combination of multiple hardware and software components. Detailed embodiments of the system are described below.

[1239] Server Features

[1240] The server manages a database of scents and stores digital data of the scents. The server has the function of receiving requests from users or medical institutions, searching for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the request, and sending it to the user's terminal.

[1241] The server is equipped with an emotion engine that analyzes the user's emotional data and selects the most suitable scent. This emotion engine uses an emotion recognition algorithm implemented in Python to analyze the user's emotional state in real time.

[1242] Device Features

[1243] The device analyzes the digital data of the scent received from the server and controls the device that reproduces the scent as a physical scent. The device generates a scent request based on the user's preferences and instructions from the medical institution and sends it to the server.

[1244] The device is also equipped with an emotion engine that recognizes emotions in real time based on the user's facial expressions, voice, and other sensor data. This emotion data is sent to a server and used to select a scent. As a concrete example, the smartphone app "ScentControl" is used as the device.

[1245] User operations

[1246] Users operate the device to input the desired scent and purpose of use. When requesting a specific scent, for example, a user can select the scent of "lavender" using the "ScentControl" app.

[1247] For medical use, specific scents can be requested based on a doctor's instructions. Furthermore, emotion recognition allows for real-time analysis of the user's emotions and provides an appropriate scent based on the results. For example, the scent of lavender can be provided to promote relaxation.

[1248] Specific examples

[1249] Specific examples in the medical field

[1250] If a doctor at a hospital prescribes the scent of "lavender" to help a patient relax, the doctor operates a terminal to generate a request and sends it to the server. The server receives the request, searches for the corresponding digital scent data, and sends it to the medical terminal. The terminal decodes the data and provides the patient with the scent of "lavender" through a scent reproduction device. The emotion engine can also analyze the patient's level of relaxation from their facial expressions and voice, and provide a different scent if necessary.

[1251] Examples at home

[1252] When a user requests the scent of "green tea" at home, they operate the device to select the desired scent and send the request. Based on the request, the server searches for the corresponding digital scent data and sends it to the device. The device analyzes the data and spreads the "green tea" scent throughout the room through the scent reproduction device. The emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions and provides feedback according to their level of relaxation.

[1253] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1254] The input prompt for the generative AI model associated with this system is:

[1255] "Please explain how the server and device work together to provide the appropriate scent based on the user's preferences. Also, please explain how to provide scents that take the user's emotions into consideration."

[1256] is used.

[1257] As described above, the present invention efficiently manages digital data of scents and provides them to users quickly and appropriately. Furthermore, by taking the user's emotions into consideration, it is possible to provide more personalized scents.

[1258] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1259] Step 1:

[1260] The user operates the device to request the desired scent. The user launches the smartphone app "ScentControl" and selects "lavender" from the scent list. When the user taps the request button, the app generates data about the scent selected by the user as a request and sends that request data to the server. The input is the selection of the scent "lavender," and the output is the transmission of the request data to the server.

[1261] Step 2:

[1262] The server receives a request from the user. The server receives the HTTP request and analyzes the request data. Based on the analyzed data, it searches for the corresponding "lavender" scent data from a digital scent database. The input is the received request data, and the output is the search results for the digital scent data.

[1263] Step 3:

[1264] The server searches for digital scent data and sends it to the user's device. The server then sends the search result, "lavender," as an HTTP response. The input is the search result for the digital scent data, and the output is the data sent to the user's device.

[1265] Step 4:

[1266] The device receives the digital data of the scent sent from the server. The device temporarily stores the received data and checks its accuracy. After confirming that the data is accurate, it proceeds to the next step. The input is the data from the server, and the output is the confirmed digital data of the scent.

[1267] Step 5:

[1268] The terminal decodes the received data and controls the scent reproduction device. The terminal uses data conversion software to analyze the scent data and sends instructions to the "ScentDevice" via Bluetooth. The input is digital data of the confirmed scent, and the output is a control command to the scent reproduction device.

[1269] Step 6:

[1270] The user receives the scent emitted from the scent reproduction device. For example, the user senses the scent of "lavender" in a room. The input is the scent emitted from the scent reproduction device, and the output is the user's sensory experience.

[1271] Step 7:

[1272] The device collects emotional data and performs emotion recognition. The device's built-in camera and microphone are used to collect the user's facial expressions and voice, which are then analyzed in real time by the emotion engine. The input is the user's facial expression and voice data, and the output is emotional data.

[1273] Step 8:

[1274] The device sends the collected emotional data to the server. The collected data is encrypted and sent to the server via an HTTP post request. The input is emotional data, and the output is data sent to the server.

[1275] Step 9:

[1276] The server analyzes the emotional data and re-evaluates the optimal scent. The server runs an emotion recognition algorithm using the received emotional data to determine the next scent based on the user's emotional state. The input is the emotional data, and the output is the re-evaluated scent data.

[1277] Step 10:

[1278] The server transmits new scent data as needed. If new scent data is required as a result of the re-evaluation, the server re-references the scent database and transmits the digital data of the selected scent to the terminal. The input is the re-evaluated scent data, and the output is the transmission of the new scent data.

[1279] (Application example 2)

[1280] 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."

[1281] Conventional scent systems provide scents without considering the user's emotions, making it difficult to provide personalized scents. In particular, there is a need to provide scents in real time that match the customer's emotions and preferences in brick-and-mortar stores. Furthermore, there has been no system that can analyze customer emotions in real time using wearable devices such as smart glasses and provide the optimal scent based on that analysis.

[1282] 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.

[1283] In this invention, the server includes a receiving means for receiving the desired fragrance as digital data, a reproducing means for reproducing the fragrance based on the digital data, a transmitting means for transmitting the digital data to the fragrance reproducing device, an emotion recognizing means for recognizing the customer's emotions in real time, and a selecting means for selecting the optimal fragrance based on the data recognized by the emotion recognizing means, thereby making it possible to provide a personalized fragrance according to the customer's emotions.

[1284] The "receiving means" is a means for receiving the required scent as digital data.

[1285] The "reproducing means" is a means for reproducing the scent based on the digital data.

[1286] The "transmission means" is a means for transmitting the digital data to the scent reproduction device.

[1287] An "emotion recognition means" is a means for recognizing a customer's emotions in real time.

[1288] The "selection means" is a means for selecting the most suitable fragrance based on the data recognized by the emotion recognition means.

[1289] The "generation means" is a means for generating a scent request based on a user's input and transmitting the request over a network.

[1290] The "search means" is a means for receiving the request and searching for the corresponding digital fragrance data.

[1291] The "supply means" is a means for providing the digital fragrance data to the user.

[1292] "Data collection means" refers to a means for collecting facial expression data of a customer through an application installed on the smart glasses.

[1293] The "medical request generation means" is a means for generating a request for a fragrance based on the diagnosis results of a user in a medical application.

[1294] The "medical supply means" is a means for selecting and providing digital fragrance data based on the diagnosis results.

[1295] "Analysis means" is a means for collecting user feedback and analyzing said feedback.

[1296] "Emotion analysis means" is a means of analyzing customer emotions in real time in physical stores and providing the optimal fragrance.

[1297] The present invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies digital data of scents over a network, recognizes the emotions of users, and provides scents that correspond to those emotions. The system of the present invention operates through the cooperation of a server and terminals, and can respond to customer emotions in real time, particularly in brick-and-mortar stores.

[1298] Server Features

[1299] The server has a database that stores and manages digital data of fragrances. The server also has the following functions:

[1300] 1. Receiving means: Receive the desired scent as digital data.

[1301] 2. Search means: Receives a scent request and searches for corresponding scent digital data.

[1302] 3. Transmission means: Transmits the digital scent data to the scent reproduction device.

[1303] 4. Emotion recognition: Recognize customer emotions in real time.

[1304] 5. Selection method: Select the best scent based on the emotion recognition results.

[1305] The server receives requests sent from terminals on the network and selects the most suitable digital scent data based on the request. For example, if a customer requests a relaxing scent when entering a store, the server selects digital lavender scent data and sends it to the terminal.

[1306] Device Features

[1307] The device is equipped with a means to analyze the digital data of the scent received from the server and reproduce it as a physical scent. The device also has the following means implemented:

[1308] 1. Generation means: Generates a scent request based on user input and sends it over the network.

[1309] 2. Means of supply: Providing digital scent data to users.

[1310] 3. Data collection method: Smart glasses are used to collect customer facial expression data.

[1311] 4. Transmission means: Send the collected data to the server.

[1312] For example, smart glasses can be used in a brick-and-mortar store to analyze customers' facial expressions and emotions in real time, and the data can be sent to a server. The server can then select an appropriate scent based on this data and send it to a terminal. The terminal can then control a scent reproduction device to provide the optimal scent for the store.

[1313] User operations

[1314] Users can input their desired scent and purpose of use by operating the device. The emotion recognition function analyzes the user's emotions in real time and provides the optimal scent based on the results. For example, if a customer is feeling stressed, the system will operate to provide a relaxing scent.

[1315] Specific examples

[1316] For example, when a customer enters a physical store, smart glasses analyze the customer's facial expression in real time. The smart glasses' cameras and sensors are used to collect emotional data from the customer, which is then sent to a server. Based on the emotion recognition results, the server selects the most appropriate digital scent data based on a prompt, such as "For customers who are relaxed, please provide a relaxing lavender scent." This digital scent data is then sent to the terminal, where the lavender scent is provided in the store through a scent reproduction device. In this way, a personalized scent experience can be provided to the customer.

[1317] The system of the present invention can efficiently manage and provide digital scent data, and can provide personalized scents in real time according to the customer's emotions.

[1318] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1319] Step 1:

[1320] The device collects facial expression data from customers through smart glasses.

[1321] Input: Real-time customer facial expression data

[1322] Output: Customer's facial expression data (image data, etc.)

[1323] Specific operation: Using the camera and sensors built into the device, the customer's facial expression is captured as image data.

[1324] Step 2:

[1325] The facial expression data collected by the device is analyzed using emotion recognition means.

[1326] Input: Customer facial expression data

[1327] Output: Customer emotion recognition result (e.g. "Relaxed" or "Stressed")

[1328] What it does: Your device uses software such as EmotionRecognizer to analyze facial expression data and identify emotions.

[1329] Step 3:

[1330] The device sends the analysis results to the server.

[1331] Input: Customer emotion recognition results

[1332] Output: Emotion recognition result data sent to the server

[1333] Specific operation: Emotion recognition results are sent to the server using an HTTP request, etc.

[1334] Step 4:

[1335] The server receives the emotion recognition result and selects the most suitable digital scent data based on the result.

[1336] Input: Emotion recognition result data

[1337] Output: Optimal fragrance digital data

[1338] Specific operation: The server accesses a database that stores digital scent data and selects the optimal scent based on a prompt from the generative AI model, such as "For customers who are relaxed, please provide the relaxing scent of lavender."

[1339] Step 5:

[1340] The server transmits the selected digital scent data to the terminal.

[1341] Input: Optimal fragrance digital data

[1342] Output: Response containing digital scent data

[1343] Specific operation: The server sends digital scent data in JSON format or similar to the response to the device.

[1344] Step 6:

[1345] The terminal analyzes the received digital scent data and generates a physical scent through a reproduction means.

[1346] Input: Digital scent data

[1347] Output: Physical scent

[1348] Specific operation: The terminal uses software to control the scent reproduction device, analyzes the received digital data, and causes the device to emit a scent.

[1349] Step 7:

[1350] The user experiences the scents provided and provides feedback.

[1351] Input: User feedback (opinions and thoughts)

[1352] Output: Feedback data

[1353] Specific operation: The user inputs feedback about the provided scent through the device interface.

[1354] Step 8:

[1355] The terminal sends the user's feedback to the server, which analyzes it.

[1356] Input: User feedback data

[1357] Output: Analysis results and data points for future system improvements

[1358] How it works: The device sends feedback to the server using an HTTP request, and the server analyzes the feedback using AI models and data analysis tools to improve the system.

[1359] 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.

[1360] 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.

[1361] 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.

[1362] [Fourth embodiment]

[1363] FIG. 7 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 410 according to the fourth embodiment.

[1364] 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.

[1365] 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).

[1366] 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.

[1367] 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.

[1368] 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).

[1369] 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.

[1370] 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.

[1371] 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.

[1372] 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.

[1373] 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.

[1374] 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.

[1375] 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."

[1376] The present invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies the necessary scents over a network to meet the needs of users. This system uses digital data of the scents to provide scents in real time.

[1377] Server Features

[1378] The server manages a database of scents and stores digital data of the scents. The server has the function of receiving requests from users or medical institutions, searching for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the request, and sending it to the user's device. The digital data of the scent is encoded according to a specific protocol and delivered in a format that can be reproduced on the device.

[1379] Device Features

[1380] The terminal analyzes the digital scent data received from the server and controls a device that reproduces the scent as a physical scent for the user. The terminal has the function of generating a scent request based on the user's preferences and instructions from the medical institution and sending it to the server. Specifically, the terminal receives the scent data, decodes it, and passes it to the reproduction means. The terminal also has the function of collecting user feedback and sending it to the server.

[1381] User operations

[1382] Users can operate the device to select the desired scent and generate a request. In medical applications, specific scents can be requested based on a doctor's instructions. After use, users can provide feedback, which will be used to improve the overall system.

[1383] System processing flow

[1384] The system of the present invention operates according to the following processing flow: First, a user or a medical institution operates a terminal to generate a scent request. This request is sent to a server, which receives the request and searches for corresponding scent digital data. The search result, obtained as a result of the search, is sent from the server to the terminal. The terminal decodes the received data and controls the scent reproduction device to provide the user with the scent. After use, the user provides feedback through the terminal, which is sent to the server. This feedback is used for future improvements.

[1385] Specific examples in the medical field

[1386] For example, a doctor in a hospital prescribes the scent of "lavender" for the purpose of patient relaxation. The doctor operates a terminal to generate a request and sends it to the server. The server receives the request, searches for the lavender scent digital data, and sends it to the medical terminal. The terminal decodes the data and provides the lavender scent to the patient through a scent reproduction device. This process allows the patient to receive the scent effect quickly and appropriately.

[1387] Examples at home

[1388] On the other hand, if a user requests the scent of "green tea" at home, the user operates the device to select the desired scent and transmits the request. Based on this request, the server retrieves the digital data of the green tea scent and transmits it to the device. The device analyzes the data and spreads the green tea scent throughout the room. In this way, the scent environment can be flexibly adjusted to suit the user's needs.

[1389] This system will enable the efficient digitization and utilization of scents, enabling the provision of scents that meet a variety of medical and home needs.

[1390] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1391] Server Processing

[1392] Step 1: Receiving the request

[1393] The server receives a scent request sent from a user or a medical institution.

[1394] Obtain request data in JSON format or other formats through the network interface.

[1395] Analyze the request data and extract the necessary information (user ID, type of scent, purpose of use, etc.).

[1396] Step 2: Database search

[1397] The server searches the scent database based on the extracted information.

[1398] The digital data of the specified scent is retrieved from the database.

[1399] Prepares the results of a database lookup in an encoded format.

[1400] Step 3: Sending scent data

[1401] The server encodes the acquired scent data and converts it into a format that can be transmitted.

[1402] The encoded data is sent associated with the specified user ID.

[1403] Verify that the transmission is complete.

[1404] Terminal handling

[1405] Step 1: Receiving scent data

[1406] The terminal receives the digital scent data transmitted from the server.

[1407] Obtain encoded scent data through a network interface.

[1408] Verify that the data was received.

[1409] Step 2: Analyzing the scent data

[1410] The terminal decodes the received digital scent data.

[1411] The decoded data is converted into a format that can be passed to the reproduction means.

[1412] Verify that the data is in the correct format.

[1413] Step 3: Recreate the scent

[1414] The terminal controls the reproduction means to convert the decoded scent data into a physical scent.

[1415] A scent reproduction device is used to generate the specified scent.

[1416] Check that the scent is accurately reproduced.

[1417] Step 4: Generate and send a request

[1418] The terminal generates a scent request based on the user's input.

[1419] If there are instructions from a medical institution, a request is generated based on those instructions.

[1420] Sends the request data to the server.

[1421] Step 5: Collect and submit feedback

[1422] The device collects feedback from the user through an input form.

[1423] The collected feedback data is analyzed and sent to a server.

[1424] Verify that your feedback has been submitted.

[1425] User operations

[1426] Step 1: Request a scent

[1427] The user operates the terminal to select the desired scent.

[1428] Generate a request based on the scent selected.

[1429] Send the request to the device.

[1430] Step 2: Enjoy the scent

[1431] The user waits for the scent to be provided by the terminal.

[1432] Confirm that the scent has been provided and enjoy it.

[1433] Step 3: Provide feedback

[1434] Users can enter their impressions and results after use through a feedback form on the device.

[1435] Send feedback data to the terminal.

[1436] This series of processes makes it possible to efficiently manage digital data of scents and provide them to users quickly and appropriately.

[1437] Example 1

[1438] 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."

[1439] In modern society, scents play an important role in relaxation and treatment, but there is a lack of efficient and accurate means to deliver scents that meet user needs and medical settings. Furthermore, the process of physically recreating scents based on digital data is complex, making it difficult to deliver scents efficiently and in real time. Furthermore, there are insufficient methods for collecting user feedback on the delivered scents and using it to improve the system. To address these issues and meet the diverse needs of users and medical settings, the present invention aims to provide a system that delivers scents efficiently and accurately.

[1440] 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.

[1441] In this invention, the server includes a receiving means for receiving digital data of a scent, a decoding means for decoding the digital data and transmitting it to the scent reproduction device, and a scent reproduction means for physically reproducing the scent based on the digital data, thereby making it possible to efficiently manage the digital data of a scent and accurately physically reproduce the scent in real time.

[1442] The system also includes a request generation means for generating a fragrance request based on user input and transmitting the request to a server via a network, a search and encoding means for receiving the request, searching for corresponding digital fragrance data from a database, encoding the data, and transmitting it, and a decoding and supply means for receiving the digital fragrance data, decoding the data, and providing the fragrance to the user. This allows for rapid search and provision of fragrances based on user requests.

[1443] Furthermore, the system includes a diagnostic request generation means for generating a fragrance request based on a user's diagnostic results in medical applications, a selection and provision means for selecting digital fragrance data based on the diagnostic results and receiving it from a server to provide it, and a feedback collection and analysis means for collecting user feedback and transmitting it to the server for analysis. This makes it possible to improve the quality of the system by making use of user feedback in medical settings.

[1444] "Digital scent data" is digital data that encodes information for reproducing a physical scent.

[1445] "Receiving means" refers to hardware and software components for receiving data transmitted over a network.

[1446] A "decoding means" is a software or hardware function for converting received digital data from an encoded form into the original information.

[1447] An "aroma reproduction device" is a device for generating a physical aroma based on decoded digital data.

[1448] The "request generation means" is a software or hardware function for generating perfume request data based on user input.

[1449] A "request" is data that includes information such as the type and strength of the fragrance desired by the user.

[1450] A "server" is a computer system that provides services to multiple terminals via a network.

[1451] The "search and encoding means" is a function that identifies the digital data of the scent from the database and encodes it into a format suitable for transmission.

[1452] The "decoding and supplying means" is a means for decoding the received encoded data and supplying the scent to the user.

[1453] A "diagnosis request generator" is a method and apparatus configuration for creating a scent request based on a diagnosis at a medical point of care.

[1454] The "means of selection and provision" refers to the means for selecting the optimal digital data of the fragrance based on the diagnosis results from the server and providing that data.

[1455] "Feedback collection and analysis means" is a general term for methods and devices for collecting users' opinions and evaluations after use, analyzing the data, and using it to improve the system.

[1456] The present invention relates to a system that handles scents as digital data and efficiently provides them over a network. This system is constructed by linking a server, a terminal, and a reproduction device.

[1457] Server Features

[1458] The server has a database that stores digital data of scents. The server has the following main functions:

[1459] Receiving means: A request from a user or a medical institution is received via a network, for example, by using the HTTP protocol.

[1460] Search and encoding method: Based on the received request, the corresponding digital data of the scent is searched from the database, and then this data is encoded using a specific protocol (e.g., Base64 encoding).

[1461] Transmission method: The encoded digital scent data is sent to the terminal using a reliable network communication protocol (e.g., HTTPS).

[1462] Device Features

[1463] The terminal receives data sent from the server and controls the device to provide the scent to the user. Specifically, it has the following functions:

[1464] Request generation method: A scent request is generated based on user input and sent to the server. For example, a touch screen operation or voice input can be used.

[1465] Decoding method: Decodes the encoded data received from the server. For example, Base64 decoding is performed.

[1466] Scent reproduction means: Controls the scent reproduction device based on the decoded digital data to generate a physical scent.

[1467] Feedback collection means: collects user feedback and sends it to the server.

[1468] User operations

[1469] The user operates the device to select a scent and generate a request. For example, if the user desires a "lavender" scent, the user selects it through the device interface and sends the request. After use, the user uses the device to input feedback, which is then sent to the server.

[1470] Specific examples in the medical field

[1471] For example, consider a scenario in which a doctor at a hospital prescribes the scent of "lavender" for the purpose of patient relaxation. The doctor operates a terminal to generate a scent request and sends it to a server. The server receives the request, searches for the corresponding digital data of the scent, and encodes it. The encoded data is sent to a terminal, which receives and decodes the data and controls a scent reproduction device to generate the scent of lavender. The patient can experience a relaxing effect by receiving this scent.

[1472] Examples at home

[1473] Consider a case where a user desires the scent of "green tea" at home. The user operates the device to select the green tea scent and sends a request. The server receives the request, searches for the corresponding data, encodes it, and sends it to the device. The device receives and decodes the data, controls the scent reproduction device, and generates the green tea scent. This process allows the user to instantly enjoy the desired scent at home.

[1474] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1475] "Please explain the steps to provide a pleasant lavender scent in the hospital."

[1476] "Please tell me the specific steps to enjoy the aroma of green tea at home."

[1477] The present invention realizes an efficient and flexible fragrance provision system that uses digital fragrance data, making it possible to provide a fragrance environment that meets a variety of needs in medical and home settings.

[1478] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1479] Step 1:

[1480] The user operates the device to select the desired scent. The user inputs the type and strength of the scent using an interface (e.g., a touchscreen or voice command). The input information is generated as scent request data.

[1481] Input: User's scent selection and strength input

[1482] Data processing: Generate request data based on scent selection and strength information

[1483] Output: Scent request data

[1484] Step 2:

[1485] The device sends the generated scent request data to the server using a reliable network communication protocol (e.g., HTTPS). The server receives the request.

[1486] Input: Scent request data

[1487] Data processing: Send the request data to the server using HTTPS

[1488] Output: The request data received by the server

[1489] Step 3:

[1490] The server searches the database for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the received request data, and after obtaining the search results, encodes them using a specific protocol (e.g., Base64).

[1491] Input: Request data

[1492] Data processing: database searching and encoding of digital data

[1493] Output: Encoded digital scent data

[1494] Step 4:

[1495] The server sends the encoded digital data of the scent to the device, again using the HTTPS protocol.

[1496] Input: Encoded digital scent data

[1497] Data processing: Sending encoded data

[1498] Output: The encoded data received by the device.

[1499] Step 5:

[1500] The terminal decodes the encoded data received from the server using a specific protocol (e.g., Base64 decoding). The decoded data is then sent to the scent reproduction device.

[1501] Input: Encoded digital scent data

[1502] Data processing: Decoding the data and sending it to a reproduction device

[1503] Output: Decoded data sent to the scent reproduction device

[1504] Step 6:

[1505] The scent reproduction device generates a physical scent based on the decoded digital data, for example by heating a liquid essence to release the scent.

[1506] Input: Decoded digital scent data

[1507] Data processing: Physical scent generation based on digital data

[1508] Output: Physical scent

[1509] Step 7:

[1510] After use, users provide feedback using the device, which is input into the device and collected. The collected feedback is then sent to the server.

[1511] Input: User feedback

[1512] Data processing: collecting feedback and sending it to the server

[1513] Output: Feedback data received by the server

[1514] Step 8:

[1515] The server stores the received feedback data in a database and analyzes it, and the analysis results are used to improve the system.

[1516] Input: Feedback data

[1517] Data processing: feedback data storage and analysis

[1518] Output: Information on system improvement based on analysis results

[1519] (Application example 1)

[1520] 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."

[1521] Conventional scent delivery systems have the problem that it is difficult for users to experience scents in real time, and they are unable to sufficiently improve the product purchasing experience, especially in physical stores. Furthermore, it is difficult to efficiently collect feedback and reflect it in the next scent experience.

[1522] 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.

[1523] In this invention, the server includes a receiving means for receiving the required scent as digital data, a reproducing means for reproducing the scent based on the digital data, a transmitting means for transmitting the digital data to the scent reproduction device, a generating means for generating a scent request and transmitting it over a network, a feedback collecting means for collecting and analyzing user feedback, a searching means for searching for and providing scent data related to the product, and a communication means for connecting to the scent reproduction device located in the store to reproduce the scent. This allows users to experience scents related to products in real time in a physical store, and the feedback can be efficiently collected and reflected in the next scent experience.

[1524] The "receiving means" is a device or system that has the function of receiving the required scent as digital data via a network.

[1525] The "reproducing means" is a device or system that has the function of physically reproducing the scent based on the received digital data.

[1526] The "transmission means" is a device or system that has the function of transmitting digital data to the scent reproduction device.

[1527] A "generation means" is a device or system that has the function of generating a scent request and transmitting the request over a network.

[1528] A "feedback collection means" is a device or system that has the function of collecting and analyzing user feedback.

[1529] The "search means" is a device or system that has the function of searching a database for scent data related to a product.

[1530] A "communication means" is a device or system that has the function of connecting to a scent reproduction device placed in the store and sending and receiving data.

[1531] The present invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies the necessary scents over a network to meet the needs of users. This system uses digital data of the scents to provide scents in real time.

[1532] Server Features

[1533] The server manages a database of scents and stores digital data of the scents. The server has the function of receiving requests from users or physical stores, searching for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the request, and sending it to the user's device. The digital data of the scent is encoded according to a specific protocol and delivered in a format that can be reproduced on the device.

[1534] Device Features

[1535] The device analyzes the digital scent data received from the server and controls a device that reproduces the scent as a physical scent for the user. Specifically, the device receives the scent data, decodes it, and passes it to the reproduction means. The device also has the function of collecting user feedback and sending it to the server.

[1536] Examples of applications in physical stores

[1537] In a physical store, an application is provided that allows users to use their smartphones to experience different scents for each product in the store. Specifically, when a user is near a specific product (e.g., an aroma candle), they request scent data related to that product, and the scent data is transmitted from their smartphone via Bluetooth to a scent reproduction device in the store, which reproduces the scent. In addition, users can enter feedback after the experience into the app, and that feedback will be reflected the next time they visit the store.

[1538] Hardware and software used

[1539] Hardware:

[1540] Smartphone: Used as a user device

[1541] Scent reproduction device: Bluetooth-enabled scent diffuser

[1542] software:

[1543] Server system: An API server that manages the scent database and processes requests. Implemented with Python Flask or Django.

[1544] Smartphone app: Developed for iOS or Android. Implemented in Swift for iOS and Kotlin / Java for Android.

[1545] Specific examples and prompts for the generative AI model

[1546] 1. Scent request prompt:

[1547] If the user is near a specific product (e.g., scented candle), they will see a message that says, "Tap here if you would like to try a scent related to this product."

[1548] Example prompt sentence:

[1549] "Please provide the best scent data related to scented candles."

[1550] 2. Scent Reproduction Prompt:

[1551] The smartphone is connected to the scent reproduction device in the store via Bluetooth, and the received scent data is reproduced.

[1552] Example prompt sentence:

[1553] "Send your next desired product scent to your Bluetooth diffuser."

[1554] 3. Feedback prompt:

[1555] After users try a scent, they are prompted to "provide feedback about the scent you tried."

[1556] Example prompt sentence:

[1557] "What feedback would you like to provide? Please be specific."

[1558] This allows physical stores to offer customers a more engaging and personalized shopping experience: for example, when a customer stops by an aromatherapy booth, the area will be tailored to fill with the perfect scent for that moment.

[1559] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1560] Step 1:

[1561] A user approaches a specific product (e.g., a scented candle) and launches a smartphone app to experience the scent associated with that product.

[1562] Input: Smartphone location and product ID.

[1563] Output: Prompt the user with "Tap here if you would like to try scents related to this product."

[1564] Specific operation: The device displays a scent data request screen based on location information and product ID.

[1565] Step 2:

[1566] The user taps the prompt message to submit a scent request.

[1567] Input: User taps.

[1568] Output: Scent request data (user ID, product ID).

[1569] Specific operation: The device generates scent request data and sends it to the server via the network.

[1570] Step 3:

[1571] The server receives the scent request and searches the database for the corresponding scent digital data.

[1572] Input: Scent request data (user ID, product ID).

[1573] Output: Digital data of the corresponding scent.

[1574] Specific operation: The server analyzes the scent request data, searches the database for the corresponding scent digital data, and sends the found data to the user's device.

[1575] Step 4:

[1576] The terminal receives the digital scent data, decodes the data, and transmits it to the scent reproduction device.

[1577] Input: Digital scent data sent from the server.

[1578] Output: Decoded scent data and notification of completion of transmission to the scent reproduction device.

[1579] Specific operation: The terminal decodes the digital scent data and transmits it via Bluetooth to the scent reproduction device in the store.

[1580] Step 5:

[1581] The scent reproduction device reproduces the scent based on the received data.

[1582] Input: Decoded scent data.

[1583] Output: Diffuses fragrance throughout the store.

[1584] Specific operation: The scent reproduction device generates and diffuses scent based on the received data.

[1585] Step 6:

[1586] Users experience the scent and provide feedback through the app.

[1587] Input: User feedback.

[1588] Output: Feedback data.

[1589] Specific operation: The device collects user feedback and sends it to the server.

[1590] Step 7:

[1591] The server receives and analyzes the feedback data, generating data to be reflected in the next scent offering.

[1592] Input: User feedback data.

[1593] Output: Feedback analysis results and improvement data.

[1594] Specific operation: The server analyzes the feedback data, generates data that will be useful for the next scent delivery, and updates the database as necessary.

[1595] 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.

[1596] This invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies the required scent via a network, and further to a system that combines an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and provides a scent that corresponds to that emotion. This system has the function of managing digital data of scents and providing them to users in real time.

[1597] Server Features

[1598] The server manages a database of scents and stores digital data of the scents. The server has the function of receiving requests from users or medical institutions, searching for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the request, and sending it to the user's device. Furthermore, the server is equipped with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions, and is able to select the optimal scent based on the emotional data.

[1599] Device Features

[1600] The device analyzes the digital scent data received from the server and controls a device that recreates the scent as a physical form. The device generates a scent request based on the user's preferences and instructions from the medical institution, and sends it to the server. The device also has an emotion engine that recognizes emotions based on the user's facial expressions, voice, and other sensor data. This emotion data is sent to the server and used to select a scent.

[1601] User operations

[1602] Users can operate the device to input their desired scent and purpose of use. For medical applications, they can request a specific scent based on a doctor's instructions. In addition, emotion recognition functionality analyzes the user's emotions in real time and provides an appropriate scent based on the results. After use, users can provide feedback, and that data will be used to improve the system in the future.

[1603] System processing flow

[1604] The system of the present invention operates according to the following processing flow. First, a user or a medical institution operates a terminal to generate a scent request. This request is sent to a server, which receives the request, searches for the corresponding scent digital data, and sends it to the user's terminal. The terminal decodes the received data and controls the scent reproduction device to provide the scent to the user. Furthermore, the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions in real time, and feedback corresponding to the emotions is sent to the server. This feedback data is reflected in the scent provided.

[1605] Specific examples in the medical field

[1606] For example, consider the case where a doctor in a hospital prescribes the scent of "lavender" to help a patient relax. The doctor operates a terminal to generate a request and sends it to the server. The server receives the request, searches for digital data on the scent of lavender, and sends it to the medical terminal. The terminal decodes the data and provides the patient with the scent of lavender through a scent reproduction device. Furthermore, the emotion engine can analyze the patient's level of relaxation from their facial expressions and voice, and provide a different scent if necessary.

[1607] Examples at home

[1608] When a user requests the scent of "green tea" at home, they operate the device to select the desired scent and send the request. Based on this request, the server searches for digital data of the green tea scent and sends it to the device. The device analyzes the data and spreads the green tea scent throughout the room. The emotion engine analyzes whether the user is relaxed and can adjust the scent as needed.

[1609] In this way, the system of the present invention can efficiently manage digital data of scents and provide them to users quickly and appropriately. Furthermore, by taking the user's emotions into consideration, more personalized scents can be provided.

[1610] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1611] Server Processing

[1612] Step 1: Receiving the request

[1613] The server receives a scent request sent from a user or a medical institution.

[1614] Acquires and analyzes request data through the network interface.

[1615] Extract the necessary information (user ID, desired scent, purpose of use).

[1616] Step 2: Database search

[1617] The server searches the scent database based on the extracted information.

[1618] The corresponding digital data of the scent is obtained.

[1619] The acquired data is encoded and prepared for transmission.

[1620] Step 3: Sending scent data

[1621] The server transmits the encoded digital scent data to the user's terminal.

[1622] Verify that the data was sent correctly.

[1623] Record transmission logs as needed.

[1624] Step 4: Receiving and analyzing emotion data

[1625] The server receives the user's emotion data.

[1626] The emotion engine is used to analyze the received data.

[1627] To reselect an appropriate scent based on a user's emotional state.

[1628] Terminal handling

[1629] Step 1: Receiving scent data

[1630] The terminal receives the digital scent data transmitted from the server.

[1631] Obtain encoded scent data through a network interface.

[1632] Verify that the data was received.

[1633] Step 2: Analyzing the scent data

[1634] The terminal decodes the received digital scent data.

[1635] The decoded data is converted into a format that can be passed to the reproduction means.

[1636] Verify that the data is in the correct format.

[1637] Step 3: Recreate the scent

[1638] The terminal controls the reproduction means and converts the decoded scent data into a physical scent.

[1639] Activate the scent reproduction device to emit the specified scent.

[1640] Ensure the scent is accurately reproduced.

[1641] Step 4: Collecting emotion data

[1642] The device uses built-in sensors (camera, microphone, etc.) to collect user emotional data.

[1643] The emotion engine analyzes data and recognizes emotional states in real time.

[1644] The collected emotion data is sent to the server.

[1645] Step 5: Generate and Send a Request

[1646] The terminal generates a scent request based on the user's input.

[1647] If there are instructions from a medical institution, a request is generated based on those instructions.

[1648] Sends the request data to the server.

[1649] Step 6: Collect and submit feedback

[1650] The device collects feedback from the user through an input form.

[1651] The collected feedback data is analyzed and sent to the server.

[1652] Verify that your feedback has been submitted.

[1653] User operations

[1654] Step 1: Request a scent

[1655] The user operates the terminal to select the desired scent.

[1656] Generate a request based on the scent you select.

[1657] Send the request to the device.

[1658] Step 2: Enjoy the scent

[1659] The user waits for the scent to be provided by the terminal.

[1660] Confirm that the scent has been provided and enjoy it.

[1661] Step 3: Expressing emotions

[1662] The user expresses emotions that naturally arise while using the scent.

[1663] This allows the emotion engine on the device to collect data.

[1664] Step 4: Provide feedback

[1665] Users can enter their impressions and results after use through a feedback form on the device.

[1666] Send feedback data to the terminal.

[1667] This system's processing flow makes scent delivery faster and more efficient, enabling the optimal scent to be delivered in real time according to the user's emotions.

[1668] Example 2

[1669] 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."

[1670] Conventional scent delivery systems have had the problem of being unable to provide personalized scents to individual users, as it is difficult to select an appropriate scent according to the user's emotions. In addition, in medical applications, scents are selected based on the patient's diagnosis results, but the inability to adjust scents to respond to real-time emotional changes has been an issue.

[1671] 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.

[1672] In this invention, the server includes a receiving means for receiving the desired fragrance as digital data, a reproducing means for reproducing the fragrance based on the digital data, a transmitting means for transmitting the digital data to the fragrance reproduction device, and an emotion recognition means for recognizing the user's emotion and transmitting the recognized emotion data to the server, thereby making it possible to provide the optimal fragrance according to the user's emotion.

[1673] The "receiving means" is a function for receiving the required scent as digital data.

[1674] The "reproduction means" is a function for reproducing the scent based on the digital data.

[1675] The "transmission means" is a function for transmitting the digital data to the scent reproduction device.

[1676] The "emotion recognition means" is a function for recognizing the user's emotion and transmitting the recognized emotion data to the server.

[1677] The "generation means" is a function for generating a scent request based on the user's input and transmitting the request over a network.

[1678] The "search means" is a function for receiving the request and searching for the corresponding digital fragrance data.

[1679] The "supply means" is a function for providing the digital fragrance data to the user.

[1680] The "emotion analysis means" is a function for re-evaluating the optimal scent based on emotional data and providing it to the user.

[1681] The "medical request generation means" is a function for generating a fragrance request based on the user's diagnosis results in medical applications.

[1682] The "medical supply means" is a function for selecting and providing digital fragrance data based on the diagnosis results.

[1683] The "analysis means" is a function for collecting user feedback and analyzing said feedback.

[1684] The "emotion optimization means" is a function for optimizing the selection of scents based on emotion data.

[1685] The present invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies a required scent via a network, recognizes a user's emotions, and provides a scent corresponding to the emotion. This system is realized using a combination of multiple hardware and software components. Detailed embodiments of the system are described below.

[1686] Server Features

[1687] The server manages a database of scents and stores digital data of the scents. The server has the function of receiving requests from users or medical institutions, searching for the corresponding digital data of the scent based on the request, and sending it to the user's terminal.

[1688] The server is equipped with an emotion engine that analyzes the user's emotional data and selects the most suitable scent. This emotion engine uses an emotion recognition algorithm implemented in Python to analyze the user's emotional state in real time.

[1689] Device Features

[1690] The device analyzes the digital data of the scent received from the server and controls the device that reproduces the scent as a physical scent. The device generates a scent request based on the user's preferences and instructions from the medical institution and sends it to the server.

[1691] The device is also equipped with an emotion engine that recognizes emotions in real time based on the user's facial expressions, voice, and other sensor data. This emotion data is sent to a server and used to select a scent. As a concrete example, the smartphone app "ScentControl" is used as the device.

[1692] User operations

[1693] Users operate the device to input the desired scent and purpose of use. When requesting a specific scent, for example, a user can select the scent of "lavender" using the "ScentControl" app.

[1694] For medical use, specific scents can be requested based on a doctor's instructions. Furthermore, emotion recognition allows for real-time analysis of the user's emotions and provides an appropriate scent based on the results. For example, the scent of lavender can be provided to promote relaxation.

[1695] Specific examples

[1696] Specific examples in the medical field

[1697] If a doctor at a hospital prescribes the scent of "lavender" to help a patient relax, the doctor operates a terminal to generate a request and sends it to the server. The server receives the request, searches for the corresponding digital scent data, and sends it to the medical terminal. The terminal decodes the data and provides the patient with the scent of "lavender" through a scent reproduction device. The emotion engine can also analyze the patient's level of relaxation from their facial expressions and voice, and provide a different scent if necessary.

[1698] Examples at home

[1699] When a user requests the scent of "green tea" at home, they operate the device to select the desired scent and send the request. Based on the request, the server searches for the corresponding digital scent data and sends it to the device. The device analyzes the data and spreads the "green tea" scent throughout the room through the scent reproduction device. The emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions and provides feedback according to their level of relaxation.

[1700] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1701] The input prompt for the generative AI model associated with this system is:

[1702] "Please explain how the server and device work together to provide the appropriate scent based on the user's preferences. Also, please explain how to provide scents that take the user's emotions into consideration."

[1703] is used.

[1704] As described above, the present invention efficiently manages digital data of scents and provides them to users quickly and appropriately. Furthermore, by taking the user's emotions into consideration, it is possible to provide more personalized scents.

[1705] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1706] Step 1:

[1707] The user operates the device to request the desired scent. The user launches the smartphone app "ScentControl" and selects "lavender" from the scent list. When the user taps the request button, the app generates data about the scent selected by the user as a request and sends that request data to the server. The input is the selection of the scent "lavender," and the output is the transmission of the request data to the server.

[1708] Step 2:

[1709] The server receives a request from the user. The server receives the HTTP request and analyzes the request data. Based on the analyzed data, it searches for the corresponding "lavender" scent data from a digital scent database. The input is the received request data, and the output is the search results for the digital scent data.

[1710] Step 3:

[1711] The server searches for digital scent data and sends it to the user's device. The server then sends the search result, "lavender," as an HTTP response. The input is the search result for the digital scent data, and the output is the data sent to the user's device.

[1712] Step 4:

[1713] The device receives the digital data of the scent sent from the server. The device temporarily stores the received data and checks its accuracy. After confirming that the data is accurate, it proceeds to the next step. The input is the data from the server, and the output is the confirmed digital data of the scent.

[1714] Step 5:

[1715] The terminal decodes the received data and controls the scent reproduction device. The terminal uses data conversion software to analyze the scent data and sends instructions to the "ScentDevice" via Bluetooth. The input is digital data of the confirmed scent, and the output is a control command to the scent reproduction device.

[1716] Step 6:

[1717] The user receives the scent emitted from the scent reproduction device. For example, the user senses the scent of "lavender" in a room. The input is the scent emitted from the scent reproduction device, and the output is the user's sensory experience.

[1718] Step 7:

[1719] The device collects emotional data and performs emotion recognition. The device's built-in camera and microphone are used to collect the user's facial expressions and voice, which are then analyzed in real time by the emotion engine. The input is the user's facial expression and voice data, and the output is emotional data.

[1720] Step 8:

[1721] The device sends the collected emotional data to the server. The collected data is encrypted and sent to the server via an HTTP post request. The input is emotional data, and the output is data sent to the server.

[1722] Step 9:

[1723] The server analyzes the emotional data and re-evaluates the optimal scent. The server runs an emotion recognition algorithm using the received emotional data to determine the next scent based on the user's emotional state. The input is the emotional data, and the output is the re-evaluated scent data.

[1724] Step 10:

[1725] The server transmits new scent data as needed. If new scent data is required as a result of the re-evaluation, the server re-references the scent database and transmits the digital data of the selected scent to the terminal. The input is the re-evaluated scent data, and the output is the transmission of the new scent data.

[1726] (Application example 2)

[1727] 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."

[1728] Conventional scent systems provide scents without considering the user's emotions, making it difficult to provide personalized scents. In particular, there is a need to provide scents in real time that match the customer's emotions and preferences in brick-and-mortar stores. Furthermore, there has been no system that can analyze customer emotions in real time using wearable devices such as smart glasses and provide the optimal scent based on that analysis.

[1729] 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.

[1730] In this invention, the server includes a receiving means for receiving the desired fragrance as digital data, a reproducing means for reproducing the fragrance based on the digital data, a transmitting means for transmitting the digital data to the fragrance reproducing device, an emotion recognizing means for recognizing the customer's emotions in real time, and a selecting means for selecting the optimal fragrance based on the data recognized by the emotion recognizing means, thereby making it possible to provide a personalized fragrance according to the customer's emotions.

[1731] The "receiving means" is a means for receiving the required scent as digital data.

[1732] The "reproducing means" is a means for reproducing the scent based on the digital data.

[1733] The "transmission means" is a means for transmitting the digital data to the scent reproduction device.

[1734] An "emotion recognition means" is a means for recognizing a customer's emotions in real time.

[1735] The "selection means" is a means for selecting the most suitable fragrance based on the data recognized by the emotion recognition means.

[1736] The "generation means" is a means for generating a scent request based on a user's input and transmitting the request over a network.

[1737] The "search means" is a means for receiving the request and searching for the corresponding digital fragrance data.

[1738] The "supply means" is a means for providing the digital fragrance data to the user.

[1739] "Data collection means" refers to a means for collecting facial expression data of a customer through an application installed on the smart glasses.

[1740] The "medical request generation means" is a means for generating a request for a fragrance based on the diagnosis results of a user in a medical application.

[1741] The "medical supply means" is a means for selecting and providing digital fragrance data based on the diagnosis results.

[1742] "Analysis means" is a means for collecting user feedback and analyzing said feedback.

[1743] "Emotion analysis means" is a means of analyzing customer emotions in real time in physical stores and providing the optimal fragrance.

[1744] The present invention relates to a system that efficiently supplies digital data of scents over a network, recognizes the emotions of users, and provides scents that correspond to those emotions. The system of the present invention operates through the cooperation of a server and terminals, and can respond to customer emotions in real time, particularly in brick-and-mortar stores.

[1745] Server Features

[1746] The server has a database that stores and manages digital data of fragrances. The server also has the following functions:

[1747] 1. Receiving means: Receive the desired scent as digital data.

[1748] 2. Search means: Receives a scent request and searches for corresponding scent digital data.

[1749] 3. Transmission means: Transmits the digital scent data to the scent reproduction device.

[1750] 4. Emotion recognition: Recognize customer emotions in real time.

[1751] 5. Selection method: Select the best scent based on the emotion recognition results.

[1752] The server receives requests sent from terminals on the network and selects the most suitable digital scent data based on the request. For example, if a customer requests a relaxing scent when entering a store, the server selects digital lavender scent data and sends it to the terminal.

[1753] Device Features

[1754] The device is equipped with a means to analyze the digital data of the scent received from the server and reproduce it as a physical scent. The device also has the following means implemented:

[1755] 1. Generation means: Generates a scent request based on user input and sends it over the network.

[1756] 2. Means of supply: Providing digital scent data to users.

[1757] 3. Data collection method: Smart glasses are used to collect customer facial expression data.

[1758] 4. Transmission means: Send the collected data to the server.

[1759] For example, smart glasses can be used in a brick-and-mortar store to analyze customers' facial expressions and emotions in real time, and the data can be sent to a server. The server can then select an appropriate scent based on this data and send it to a terminal. The terminal can then control a scent reproduction device to provide the optimal scent for the store.

[1760] User operations

[1761] Users can input their desired scent and purpose of use by operating the device. The emotion recognition function analyzes the user's emotions in real time and provides the optimal scent based on the results. For example, if a customer is feeling stressed, the system will operate to provide a relaxing scent.

[1762] Specific examples

[1763] For example, when a customer enters a physical store, smart glasses analyze the customer's facial expression in real time. The smart glasses' cameras and sensors are used to collect emotional data from the customer, which is then sent to a server. Based on the emotion recognition results, the server selects the most appropriate digital scent data based on a prompt, such as "For customers who are relaxed, please provide a relaxing lavender scent." This digital scent data is then sent to the terminal, where the lavender scent is provided in the store through a scent reproduction device. In this way, a personalized scent experience can be provided to the customer.

[1764] The system of the present invention can efficiently manage and provide digital scent data, and can provide personalized scents in real time according to the customer's emotions.

[1765] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1766] Step 1:

[1767] The device collects facial expression data from customers through smart glasses.

[1768] Input: Real-time customer facial expression data

[1769] Output: Customer's facial expression data (image data, etc.)

[1770] Specific operation: Using the camera and sensors built into the device, the customer's facial expression is captured as image data.

[1771] Step 2:

[1772] The facial expression data collected by the device is analyzed using emotion recognition means.

[1773] Input: Customer facial expression data

[1774] Output: Customer emotion recognition result (e.g. "Relaxed" or "Stressed")

[1775] What it does: Your device uses software such as EmotionRecognizer to analyze facial expression data and identify emotions.

[1776] Step 3:

[1777] The device sends the analysis results to the server.

[1778] Input: Customer emotion recognition results

[1779] Output: Emotion recognition result data sent to the server

[1780] Specific operation: Emotion recognition results are sent to the server using an HTTP request, etc.

[1781] Step 4:

[1782] The server receives the emotion recognition result and selects the most suitable digital scent data based on the result.

[1783] Input: Emotion recognition result data

[1784] Output: Optimal fragrance digital data

[1785] Specific operation: The server accesses a database that stores digital scent data and selects the optimal scent based on a prompt from the generative AI model, such as "For customers who are relaxed, please provide the relaxing scent of lavender."

[1786] Step 5:

[1787] The server transmits the selected digital scent data to the terminal.

[1788] Input: Optimal fragrance digital data

[1789] Output: Response containing digital scent data

[1790] Specific operation: The server sends digital scent data in JSON format or similar to the response to the device.

[1791] Step 6:

[1792] The terminal analyzes the received digital scent data and generates a physical scent through a reproduction means.

[1793] Input: Digital scent data

[1794] Output: Physical scent

[1795] Specific operation: The terminal uses software to control the scent reproduction device, analyzes the received digital data, and causes the device to emit a scent.

[1796] Step 7:

[1797] The user experiences the scents provided and provides feedback.

[1798] Input: User feedback (opinions and thoughts)

[1799] Output: Feedback data

[1800] Specific operation: The user inputs feedback about the provided scent through the device interface.

[1801] Step 8:

[1802] The terminal sends the user's feedback to the server, which analyzes it.

[1803] Input: User feedback data

[1804] Output: Analysis results and data points for future system improvements

[1805] How it works: The device sends feedback to the server using an HTTP request, and the server analyzes the feedback using AI models and data analysis tools to improve the system.

[1806] 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.

[1807] 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.

[1808] 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.

[1809] 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.

[1810] 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.

[1811] 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.

[1812] 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).

[1813] 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.

[1814] 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."

[1815] 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.

[1816] 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).

[1817] 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.

[1818] 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.

[1819] 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.

[1820] 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.

[1821] 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.

[1822] 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.

[1823] 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.

[1824] 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.

[1825] 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.

[1826] 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.

[1827] The following is further disclosed regarding the above embodiment.

[1828] (Claim 1)

[1829] receiving means for receiving the required scent as digital data;

[1830] a reproduction means for reproducing the scent based on the digital data;

[1831] a transmitting means for transmitting the digital data to a scent reproduction device;

[1832] A system including:

[1833] (Claim 2)

[1834] generating means for generating a scent request based on a user's input and transmitting the request over a network;

[1835] a search means for receiving the request and searching for corresponding digital fragrance data;

[1836] a supply means for providing the digital fragrance data to a user;

[1837] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:

[1838] (Claim 3)

[1839] a medical request generating means for generating a request for a fragrance based on a diagnosis result of a user in a medical application;

[1840] a medical supply means for selecting and providing digital fragrance data based on the diagnosis results;

[1841] analysis means for collecting user feedback and analyzing said feedback;

[1842] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:

[1843] "Example 1"

[1844] Claims

[1845] (Claim 1)

[1846] receiving means for receiving digital data of the scent;

[1847] a decoding means for decoding the digital data and transmitting the same to a scent reproduction device;

[1848] a scent reproduction means for physically reproducing the scent based on the digital data;

[1849] A system including:

[1850] (Claim 2)

[1851] a request generating means for generating a request for a fragrance based on an input from a user and transmitting the request to a server via a network;

[1852] a retrieval and encoding means for receiving the request, retrieving the corresponding digital scent data from a database, encoding the digital scent data, and transmitting the digital scent data;

[1853] a decoding and supplying means for receiving and decoding the fragrance digital data and providing the fragrance to a user;

[1854] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:

[1855] (Claim 3)

[1856] a diagnostic request generating means for generating a request for a fragrance based on a diagnostic result of a user in a medical application;

[1857] a selection and provision means for selecting digital fragrance data based on the diagnosis result, receiving the digital fragrance data from a server, and providing the digital fragrance data;

[1858] a feedback collection and analysis means for collecting user feedback and transmitting it to a server for analysis;

[1859] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:

[1860] "Application Example 1"

[1861] (Claim 1)

[1862] receiving means for receiving the required scent as digital data;

[1863] a reproduction means for reproducing the scent based on the digital data;

[1864] a transmitting means for transmitting the digital data to a scent reproduction device;

[1865] generating means for generating and transmitting a scent request over a network;

[1866] a feedback collection means for collecting and analyzing user feedback;

[1867] a search means for searching and providing scent data related to the product;

[1868] A communication means for connecting to a scent reproduction device installed in the store to reproduce the scent;

[1869] A system including:

[1870] (Claim 2)

[1871] generating means for generating a scent request based on a user's input and transmitting the request over a network;

[1872] a search means for receiving the request and searching for corresponding digital fragrance data;

[1873] a supply means for providing the digital fragrance data to a user;

[1874] and adjusting means for adjusting the scent selection based on the responsive feedback.

[1875] 10. The system of claim 1.

[1876] (Claim 3)

[1877] a medical request generating means for generating a request for a fragrance based on a diagnosis result of a user in a medical application;

[1878] a medical supply means for selecting and providing digital fragrance data based on the diagnosis results;

[1879] analysis means for collecting user feedback and analyzing said feedback;

[1880] A way to request scent data related to a specific product when you approach it in the store, and

[1881] a means for transmitting the scent data to a scent reproduction device in the store via Bluetooth and reproducing the scent;

[1882] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:

[1883] "Example 2: Combining Emotion Engines"

[1884] (Claim 1)

[1885] receiving means for receiving the required scent as digital data;

[1886] a reproduction means for reproducing the scent based on the digital data;

[1887] a transmitting means for transmitting the digital data to a scent reproduction device;

[1888] emotion recognition means for recognizing an emotion of a user and transmitting the recognized emotion data to a server;

[1889] A system including:

[1890] (Claim 2)

[1891] generating means for generating a scent request based on a user's input and transmitting the request over a network;

[1892] a search means for receiving the request and searching for corresponding digital fragrance data;

[1893] a supply means for providing the digital fragrance data to a user;

[1894] an emotion analysis means for re-evaluating the optimal scent based on the emotion data and providing it to the user;

[1895] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:

[1896] (Claim 3)

[1897] a medical request generating means for generating a request for a fragrance based on a diagnosis result of a user in a medical application;

[1898] a medical supply means for selecting and providing digital fragrance data based on the diagnosis results;

[1899] analysis means for collecting user feedback and analyzing said feedback;

[1900] emotion optimization means for optimizing scent selection based on emotion data;

[1901] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:

[1902] "Application example 2 when combining emotion engines"

[1903] (Claim 1)

[1904] receiving means for receiving the required scent as digital data;

[1905] a reproduction means for reproducing the scent based on the digital data;

[1906] a transmitting means for transmitting the digital data to a scent reproduction device;

[1907] an emotion recognition means for recognizing customer emotions in real time;

[1908] a selection means for selecting an optimal fragrance based on the data recognized by the emotion recognition means;

[1909] A system including:

[1910] (Claim 2)

[1911] generating means for generating a scent request based on a user's input and transmitting the request over a network;

[1912] a search means for receiving the request and searching for corresponding digital fragrance data;

[1913] a supply means for providing the digital fragrance data to a user;

[1914] A data collection means for collecting facial expression data of a customer through an application installed on the smart glasses;

[1915] a transmitting means for transmitting the data collected by the data collecting means to a server;

[1916] means for transmitting the digital scent data received from the server to the reproduction means;

[1917] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:

[1918] (Claim 3)

[1919] a medical request generating means for generating a request for a fragrance based on a diagnosis result of a user in a medical application;

[1920] a medical supply means for selecting and providing digital fragrance data based on the diagnosis results;

[1921] analysis means for collecting user feedback and analyzing said feedback;

[1922] A sentiment analysis method to analyze customer emotions in real time in physical stores and provide optimal fragrances;

[1923] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising: [Explanation of symbols]

[1924] 10, 210, 310, 410 Data Processing Systems 12 Data Processing Device 14 Smart Devices 214 Smart Glasses 314 Headset-type terminal 414 Robot< / url:> < / url:> < / url:> < / url:>

Claims

1. receiving means for receiving the required scent as digital data; a reproduction means for reproducing the scent based on the digital data; a transmitting means for transmitting the digital data to a scent reproduction device; A system including:

2. generating means for generating a scent request based on a user's input and transmitting the request over a network; a search means for receiving the request and searching for corresponding digital fragrance data; a supply means for providing the digital fragrance data to a user; The system of claim 1 , comprising:

3. a medical request generating means for generating a request for a fragrance based on a diagnosis result of a user in a medical application; a medical supply means for selecting and providing digital fragrance data based on the diagnosis results; analysis means for collecting user feedback and analyzing said feedback; The system of claim 1 , comprising:

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Persona chatbot control method and system

    JP2022180282A