System

Abstract

A system is provided.SOLUTION: The system includes a means for proposing the optimum funeral company based on the request of the user, a means for retrieving a database including information on the funeral company, a means for presenting the retrieval result to the user, a means for receiving the selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral company of the selection, and a means for receiving and storing the information on the advance reservation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The technology of the present disclosure relates to a system. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a persona chatbot control method performed by at least one processor, the method including the steps of receiving a user utterance, adding the user utterance to a prompt including an instruction sentence related to a description of the chatbot character, encoding the prompt, and inputting the encoded prompt into a language model to generate a chatbot utterance in response to the user utterance. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-180282 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In modern society, people face challenges when planning a funeral, such as not knowing where to begin, finding it difficult to discuss sensitive topics with others, not having time to search for a funeral company, having few options for funeral styles, and wanting to leave their own funeral wishes before they die. These challenges often involve mental stress and time constraints, preventing users from selecting the optimal funeral plan. The present invention aims to solve these challenges and help users select the optimal funeral plan with peace of mind. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The present invention provides a system that includes a means for suggesting the most suitable funeral company based on the user's requests, a means for searching a database containing information on funeral companies, a means for presenting the search results to the user, a means for accepting the user's selection and notifying the selected funeral company, and a means for receiving and saving information on pre-death reservations. The system also includes a means for accommodating remote funerals and digital viewings using digital technology, and a means for providing funeral plans that accommodate diverse religions and cultures, allowing users to select a funeral plan that meets their diverse needs. This system allows users to effortlessly select the most suitable plan from multiple funeral companies and prepare for their funeral while reducing the mental burden.

[0006] "User" refers to the entity that selects a funeral plan and holds the funeral, and is the person who uses this system.

[0007] A "funeral company" is a business that provides funeral-related services and refers to a company or organization that proposes funeral plans to users.

[0008] "Requests" refer to the user's wishes and conditions regarding the funeral, including details regarding funeral style, budget, religion, culture, etc.

[0009] A "database" refers to an information system that structures, stores, and makes searchable information about funeral companies.

[0010] "Search" refers to the process of locating information in the database based on the user's request and identifying the appropriate funeral home.

[0011] "Presenting" refers to the act of displaying the searched funeral company information to the user so that they can compare and select.

[0012] "Selection" refers to the act of the user deciding on the most suitable funeral plan or funeral company from among the multiple funeral plans and funeral companies presented.

[0013] "Notification" refers to the act of informing the funeral home selected by the user of the selection.

[0014] "Pre-death reservations" refers to users deciding on their funeral wishes before they die and registering that information in the system in advance.

[0015] A "remote funeral" refers to a type of funeral that allows participants who are physically far away to take part in the funeral using digital technology such as the internet.

[0016] "Digital tour" refers to a service that allows you to tour a funeral venue via the Internet.

[0017] "Religion" refers to a concept that includes religious practices and ritual forms that must be taken into consideration when conducting a funeral.

[0018] "Culture" refers to a concept that includes regional and ethnic customs and traditions that must be taken into consideration when conducting a funeral.

[0019] The "platform" refers to the entire system for matching funeral companies with users. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and a smart device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and smart glasses according to a second embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 6]FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and a headset-type terminal according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and a robot according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] 1 shows an emotion map onto which multiple emotions are mapped. [Figure 10] 1 shows an emotion map onto which multiple emotions are mapped. [Figure 11] FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram showing a processing flow of the data processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the data processing system in Application Example 1. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the data processing system according to the second embodiment when an emotion engine is combined. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the data processing system in Application Example 2 when an emotion engine is combined. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] An example of an embodiment of a system according to the technology of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0022] First, the terms used in the following description will be explained.

[0023] In the following embodiments, a coded processor (hereinafter simply referred to as a "processor") may be a single arithmetic device or a combination of multiple arithmetic devices. Furthermore, a processor may be a single type of arithmetic device or a combination of multiple types of arithmetic devices. Examples of arithmetic devices include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a GPGPU (General-Purpose computing on Graphics Processing Units), and an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit).

[0024] In the following embodiments, a coded RAM (Random Access Memory) is a memory in which information is temporarily stored and is used as a working memory by a processor.

[0025] In the following embodiments, the coded storage is one or more non-volatile storage devices that store various programs, various parameters, etc. Examples of non-volatile storage devices include flash memory (SSD (Solid State Drive)), magnetic disks (e.g., hard disks), and magnetic tapes.

[0026] In the following embodiments, a communication I / F (Interface) with a symbol is an interface including a communication processor, an antenna, etc. The communication I / F controls communication between multiple computers. Examples of communication standards applied to the communication I / F include wireless communication standards including 5G (5th Generation Mobile Communication System), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc.

[0027] In the following embodiments, "A and / or B" is synonymous with "at least one of A and B." In other words, "A and / or B" means that it may be only A, only B, or a combination of A and B. Furthermore, in this specification, the same concept as "A and / or B" is also applied when three or more things are expressed connected by "and / or."

[0028] [First embodiment]

[0029] FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0030] 1, a data processing system 10 includes a data processing device 12 and a smart device 14. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[0031] The data processing device 12 includes a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication I / F 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The computer 22 includes a processor 28, a RAM 30, and a storage 32. The processor 28, the RAM 30, and the storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication I / F 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication I / F 26 is connected to a network 54. Examples of the network 54 include a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0032] The smart device 14 includes a computer 36, a reception device 38, an output device 40, a camera 42, and a communication I / F 44. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, a RAM 48, and a storage 50. The processor 46, the RAM 48, and the storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The reception device 38, the output device 40, and the camera 42 are also connected to the bus 52.

[0033] The reception device 38 includes a touch panel 38A, a microphone 38B, and the like, and receives user input. The touch panel 38A detects contact with an indicator (for example, a pen or a finger) to receive user input by the touch of the indicator. The microphone 38B detects the user's voice to receive user input by voice. The control unit 46A transmits data indicating the user input received by the touch panel 38A and the microphone 38B to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the data indicating the user input.

[0034] The output device 40 includes a display 40A and a speaker 40B, and presents data to the user 20 by outputting the data in a form of expression that the user 20 can perceive (for example, audio and / or text). The display 40A displays visible information such as text and images in accordance with instructions from the processor 46. The speaker 40B outputs audio in accordance with instructions from the processor 46. The camera 42 is a compact digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an imaging element such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor.

[0035] The communication I / F 44 is connected to a network 54. The communication I / Fs 44 and 26 control the exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 via the network 54.

[0036] FIG. 2 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart device 14.

[0037] 2, in the data processing device 12, a specific process is performed by the processor 28. A specific processing program 56 is stored in the storage 32. The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific process is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.

[0038] The storage 32 stores a data generation model 58 and an emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.

[0039] In the smart device 14, the processor 46 performs the reception output process. The storage 50 stores a reception output program 60. The reception output program 60 is used in conjunction with the specific processing program 56 by the data processing system 10. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output process is realized by the processor 46 operating as the control unit 46A in accordance with the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.

[0040] Next, a description will be given of the specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0041] This invention is a platform that matches funeral companies with users who will be holding funerals, and is a system that allows for efficient funeral preparations. The system aims to enable smooth collaboration between users and funeral companies.

[0042] Explaining program processing in natural language

[0043] 1. User Registration and Login

[0044] When a user accesses the system for the first time, they open the user registration screen from their device and register by entering the required information such as their name, email address, and password.

[0045] The registered information is validated by the server and stored in a database. Once registration is complete, the user logs in using their email address and password.

[0046] 2. Enter your request and budget

[0047] After logging in, users can proceed to a request form and enter details such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether remote service is available.

[0048] The entered information is received by the server, validated, and then stored in a database.

[0049] 3. Funeral company matching

[0050] The server searches the funeral home information in the database and lists funeral homes that match the user's requests.

[0051] Information about the listed funeral companies (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) is sent to the terminal.

[0052] 4. Compare and choose a plan

[0053] The user compares the multiple funeral plans presented and checks the detailed information of each funeral company.

[0054] After selecting the best plan, the selection is sent to the server, which notifies the funeral home of the selection.

[0055] 5. Pre-death reservation function

[0056] If a user wishes to register their funeral wishes before they die, they can enter their wishes into a special form and submit it.

[0057] The information entered is validated by the server and stored in a database in a secure format.

[0058] Specific examples

[0059] Let's take the example of User A using this system to prepare for his parent's funeral.

[0060] 1. User A registers and logs in

[0061] User A accesses the system for the first time and completes user registration by entering his / her name, email address, and password on a terminal.

[0062] After completing the registration, log in to the system using your email address and password.

[0063] 2. Enter your request and budget

[0064] After logging in, User A enters information about the desired funeral style (e.g., Buddhism), budget (e.g., 500,000 to 800,000 yen), whether remote service is possible, religion, and culture.

[0065] This information is sent to the server, validated, and then stored in a database.

[0066] 3. Funeral company matching

[0067] The server searches the database and lists five funeral companies that meet User A's requirements.

[0068] Information including plan details, costs, and reviews of each funeral company is sent to User A's terminal.

[0069] 4. Compare and choose a plan

[0070] User A compares multiple funeral plans and selects the most suitable plan based on the service content, cost, and reviews.

[0071] The selection is sent to the server and the selected funeral home is also notified.

[0072] 5. Use of pre-death reservation function

[0073] User A enters his or her funeral wishes into a dedicated form and completes the pre-death reservation.

[0074] The information entered is validated by the server and securely stored in a database.

[0075] This system allows users to prepare for funerals efficiently and with peace of mind. It also allows users to select plans that meet a variety of needs, and remote funerals and digital viewings that utilize digital technology are particularly convenient for users.

[0076] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0077] Step 1:

[0078] When a user accesses the system for the first time, they click the "User Registration" button on their terminal.

[0079] Step 2:

[0080] The device displays a user registration form and prompts the user to enter required information such as name, email address, and password.

[0081] Step 3:

[0082] The user simply enters the required information and clicks the "Submit" button.

[0083] Step 4:

[0084] The device sends the entered information to the server.

[0085] Step 5:

[0086] The server validates the received user information and, if validation is successful, saves the user information in the database.

[0087] Step 6:

[0088] After registration is complete, the server generates a "Registration Complete" message and sends it to the device.

[0089] Step 7:

[0090] Users log in through the system's login page using their email address and password.

[0091] Step 8:

[0092] The device sends the email address and password to the server.

[0093] Step 9:

[0094] The server checks the email address and password against information in a database, and if they match, generates an authentication token and returns it to the device.

[0095] Step 10:

[0096] After logging in, users proceed to the request input form and enter information such as the desired funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not remote service is available.

[0097] Step 11:

[0098] The device sends the input to the server.

[0099] Step 12:

[0100] The server validates the received request information and, if successful, stores it in the database.

[0101] Step 13:

[0102] The server searches the database for funeral company information and lists funeral companies that match the user's requirements.

[0103] Step 14:

[0104] The server sends information about the listed funeral companies (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) to the terminal.

[0105] Step 15:

[0106] The device displays the search results to the user.

[0107] Step 16:

[0108] Users can compare the multiple funeral plans presented and check detailed information about each funeral company.

[0109] Step 17:

[0110] Users simply select the plan that best suits them and click the "Select" button.

[0111] Step 18:

[0112] The device sends the selection to the server.

[0113] Step 19:

[0114] The server notifies the selected funeral home of the selection and simultaneously sends a confirmation message to the user.

[0115] Step 20:

[0116] If a user wishes to make a reservation in advance, they can enter their funeral wishes into a special form.

[0117] Step 21:

[0118] The device sends the input to the server.

[0119] Step 22:

[0120] The server validates the received request and, if successful, stores it in a database in a secure format.

[0121] Step 23:

[0122] The server will confirm that the request has been saved and send a notification message to the user.

[0123] In this way, the entire system processes smoothly, allowing users to prepare for their funeral efficiently and with peace of mind.

[0124] Example 1

[0125] 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."

[0126] Preparing for a funeral requires a great deal of time and effort, and a quick response is especially necessary when news of a death arrives suddenly. It can also be difficult to select the appropriate funeral company based on the funeral content, budget, region, and religious background. Furthermore, it is desirable to hold a funeral that accurately reflects the individual's wishes by registering their funeral wishes before death. There is also a need for remote funerals using digital technology and flexible plans that accommodate diverse religions and cultures. A system that can efficiently meet these needs is needed.

[0127] 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.

[0128] In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and validating registration information from a user, means for suggesting the most suitable funeral company based on the user's requests, means for searching a database containing funeral company information, means for presenting the search results to the user, means for accepting a selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral company, and means for receiving, validating, and saving information on pre-death reservations. This allows for quick and effective funeral preparations. It also allows for the provision of optimal funeral plans tailored to diverse needs and backgrounds, significantly improving user convenience, including new services utilizing digital technology.

[0129] "User registration information" refers to basic information such as name, email address, and password entered by the user to use the system.

[0130] "Validation" is the process of checking whether entered data conforms to format and requirements.

[0131] "User requests" refer to the entire range of conditions and requirements desired by the user, such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not remote services are available.

[0132] The "means of suggesting the most suitable funeral company" is a system that selects and suggests the funeral company that best meets the user's needs based on the information in the database.

[0133] "Means for searching the database" refers to the system's ability to search for information in the database and extract the required information.

[0134] "Means for presenting search results to users" refers to a function that displays information obtained from a database search on the user's terminal.

[0135] "Means for accepting a selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral company" refers to a mechanism for receiving information about the funeral company selected by the user and notifying the relevant funeral company of the selection.

[0136] "Information about advance reservation requests" is information that allows users to register their own funeral requests and specific wishes in advance.

[0137] A "remote funeral using digital technology" is a system that uses the internet and digital communication technology to allow people to participate in a funeral from a remote location.

[0138] "Digital Tour" is a function that allows you to check detailed information about funeral venues and other information online.

[0139] A "funeral plan that accommodates diverse religions and cultures" is a plan that provides funeral content and procedures that are appropriate for users with different religious or cultural backgrounds.

[0140] This invention is a system that allows users to efficiently prepare for a funeral. Users can input detailed requests for their own funeral or that of their relatives and select the most suitable funeral company. A pre-death reservation function also allows users to register their funeral wishes in advance. This system is composed of three elements: the user, the server, and the terminal, each of which plays an important role.

[0141] A user first accesses the system using a terminal. When a user accesses the system for the first time, a user registration screen appears and the user enters the required information such as name, email address, and password. This information is sent from the terminal to the server, where it is validated. Information that passes validation is stored in a database, and the user can then log in to the system using their email address and password.

[0142] After logging in, the user proceeds to the request input form and enters details such as the desired funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not remote support is available. This information is sent back to the server, validated, and then saved in a database. Based on the information in the database, the server creates a list of funeral companies that best match the user's requests and sends this information to the device. The user can then compare multiple plans and select the most suitable one. The selection is sent back to the server, which notifies the relevant funeral company.

[0143] The pre-death reservation feature also allows users to register their funeral wishes in advance. This information is also validated on the server and securely stored in a database. The system also uses digital technology to support remote funerals and digital viewings, and offers flexible plans to suit diverse religions and cultures.

[0144] As a concrete example, consider the case where User A uses this system to prepare for a parent's funeral. User A accesses the system for the first time and completes user registration by entering their name, email address, and password. After logging in, User A enters information about the desired funeral style (e.g., Buddhism), budget (e.g., 500,000 to 800,000 yen), whether remote support is available, and religious and cultural information. Based on this information, the server creates a list of the most suitable funeral companies and sends the information to User A's device. Finally, User A selects the most suitable plan, and the selection is notified to the funeral company via the server.

[0145] Below are some example prompts to input to a generative AI model:

[0146] 1. Prompt: "I want to build a system that will help people make funeral arrangements more efficiently. Please explain the process from user registration to matching with a funeral company."

[0147] 2. Prompt: "Tell me about the process by which users can input their desired funeral style and budget to find the best funeral company."

[0148] 3. Prompt: "This system allows people to register their funeral wishes before they die. Please explain the specific steps and how it is processed on the server."

[0149] By inputting prompt sentences such as those above into a generative AI model, it is possible to automatically generate an explanation of the system's detailed processing flow and operating procedures.

[0150] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0151] System program processing flow

[0152] Step 1: User Registration

[0153] 1.1 A user accesses the system.

[0154] Input: User's name, email address, and password

[0155] Output: Display of input form screen

[0156] 1.2 The user enters and submits registration information.

[0157] Input: Name, email address, password

[0158] Output: Information sent to the server

[0159] 1.3 The server validates the input.

[0160] Input: Submitted user registration information

[0161] Data processing: Check the format of email addresses, check password strength

[0162] Output: Validation result (pass or fail)

[0163] 1.4 The server saves the validated information to the database.

[0164] Input: User information that has passed validation

[0165] Data processing: Encryption and storage of information

[0166] Output: Registration successful notification

[0167] 1.5 The user is redirected to the login screen.

[0168] Input: None (automatic transition)

[0169] Output: Login screen displayed

[0170] Step 2: Enter your requirements and budget

[0171] 2.1 The user logs in.

[0172] Input: Email address, password

[0173] Output: Dashboard screen after successful login

[0174] 2.2 The user opens the request form.

[0175] Input: None (button operation)

[0176] Output: Display of request input form

[0177] 2.3 The user enters details about funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and remote options and submits.

[0178] Input: Funeral style, budget, religion, culture, remote availability

[0179] Data processing: converting to appropriate format, filling in missing data

[0180] Output: Send to server

[0181] 2.4 The server validates the input and saves it to the database.

[0182] Input: Request data sent

[0183] Data processing: categorizing information, checking for inconsistencies

[0184] Output: Validation result (success or failure), notification of successful save

[0185] Step 3: Matching funeral companies

[0186] 3.1 The server searches the database and lists the most suitable funeral companies.

[0187] Input: User's desired data

[0188] Data processing: Querying the database and applying matching algorithms

[0189] Output: Matching results (list of funeral companies)

[0190] 3.2 The server sends the funeral home information to the user's terminal.

[0191] Input: Matching results (list of funeral companies)

[0192] Data processing: organizing and formatting information

[0193] Output: Send to terminal, list view

[0194] Step 4: Compare and choose a plan

[0195] 4.1 A user compares multiple funeral plans.

[0196] Input: List of proposed funeral plans

[0197] Output: Comparison screen display

[0198] 4.2 The user selects the best plan and submits it.

[0199] Input: Selected plan information

[0200] Data processing: Sending selections to the system

[0201] Output: Send to server

[0202] 4.3 The server notifies the funeral home of the selection.

[0203] Input: Selected plan information

[0204] Data processing: Notification message generation

[0205] Output: Notification to funeral home

[0206] Step 5: Pre-death reservation function

[0207] 5.1 The user opens the pre-need reservation form.

[0208] Input: None (button operation)

[0209] Output: Display of pre-need reservation form

[0210] 5.2 The user enters and submits their funeral wishes.

[0211] Input: Funeral style, preferred arrangements, specific wishes

[0212] Data processing: organizing and formatting information

[0213] Output: Send to server

[0214] 5.3 The server validates the input and stores it in the database.

[0215] Input: Submitted pre-death reservation information

[0216] Data processing: categorizing information, format check

[0217] Output: Validation result (success or failure), notification of successful save

[0218] (Application example 1)

[0219] 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."

[0220] Conventional funeral planning systems have the problem that it is difficult for users to easily view and compare funeral plans in a virtual space. In addition, they are unable to provide a visual and interactive experience, which means they are unable to fully meet user needs.

[0221] 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.

[0222] In this invention, the server includes means for suggesting the most suitable funeral company based on the user's requests, means for searching a database containing information on funeral companies, means for presenting the search results to the user, means for accepting a selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral company, means for receiving and saving information on pre-death reservation requests, means for viewing, comparing, and selecting funeral plans in a visually interactive virtual space, and means for transmitting operations in the virtual space to the server and saving them in a database. This allows users to easily visually check funeral plans in the virtual space, interactively compare them, and select the most suitable plan.

[0223] "User" refers to an individual or their representative seeking to use funeral services.

[0224] "Funeral company" refers to a company or business that provides funeral-related services.

[0225] "Means of making suggestions" refers to systems and methods for analyzing users' requests and presenting the most suitable funeral company and plan options.

[0226] "Database" refers to an information storage medium or system for storing, searching, and managing information about funeral companies and user requests.

[0227] "Searching means" refers to a method or system for querying information in a database and extracting information that meets a user's requirements.

[0228] "Presentation means" refers to a method or system for displaying or communicating search results to users in an easy-to-understand manner.

[0229] "Means for accepting a selection" refers to a method or system for accepting input from a user in selecting a particular plan or funeral provider from the options presented.

[0230] "Means for notifying" refers to a system or method for communicating a user's selection to the funeral home selected by the user.

[0231] "Pre-reservation" refers to a user registering their funeral wishes in advance.

[0232] "Means for storage" refers to a system or method for safely storing pre-death reservations and selections, etc., and making them available for retrieval as needed.

[0233] "Virtual space" refers to a three-dimensional digital environment created by computer simulation.

[0234] "Interactive" refers to a mechanism that allows users and systems to interact with each other.

[0235] "Operation in virtual space" refers to actions such as input and selection that users perform within the virtual space.

[0236] A "server" refers to a computer system that processes requests from multiple users and provides the necessary information.

[0237] This invention is a system that proposes the most suitable funeral company based on the user's requests and realizes interactive funeral planning using virtual space. A specific embodiment of this system is described below.

[0238] System Overview

[0239] First, the user accesses the system using a smartphone or head-mounted display (HMD). The user registers by entering required information such as name, email address, and password. This information is validated by the server and stored in the database.

[0240] After logging in, users are directed to a request form where they enter details such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, remote availability, etc. The information entered is validated by the server and stored in a database.

[0241] The server uses the stored information to search its database for funeral companies that match the user's requests and generates a list. The generated list is sent to the user's terminal, where the user can visually check it.

[0242] Users can compare the displayed funeral plans and check detailed information about each funeral company (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) Once the most suitable plan is selected, the selection is sent to the server and the selected funeral company is also notified.

[0243] In particular, this system utilizes a virtual space, allowing users to visually inspect and interactively manipulate the funeral setup within the virtual space, providing a more tangible and realistic experience.

[0244] Hardware and software used

[0245] 1. Server: This is the central computer system of this system, which processes, stores, searches, and notifies data. The software used is Python and Flask.

[0246] 2. Smartphone: The device that users use as an interface. React Native is used for the front end.

[0247] 3. Head-mounted display (HMD): A device that allows users to enter a virtual space. VR applications using Unity run on it.

[0248] 4. Database: A system for storing information about funeral companies and users. A relational database such as MySQL (registered trademark) is used.

[0249] What the program does

[0250] The server validates the user's input information in real time and stores it in a database. When a request is made, the server searches the database and generates the best matching results. The results are sent to the user's device, and when the user makes a selection, the selection is saved in the database and the relevant funeral home is notified.

[0251] Examples of concrete examples and prompts

[0252] For example, suppose User A uses this system to prepare for a parent's funeral. After logging in, User A requests a Buddhist-style funeral with a budget of 500,000 to 800,000 yen, and enters this information into the system. The server then lists information on five funeral companies that match User A's requests and sends this to User A's terminal.

[0253] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0254] Create specific instructions for a virtual funeral planning system that allows users to select a Buddhist-style funeral and set a budget of 500,000 to 800,000 yen.

[0255] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0256] Step 1: User Registration and Login

[0257] Users access the system using a smartphone or head-mounted display and enter necessary information such as their name, email address, and password. The entered information is sent from the device to the server.

[0258] The server validates the information it receives and stores it in a database, including checking the format of the email address and the strength of the password.

[0259] If validation is successful, user registration is complete and the user logs in using their email address and password. The login information is verified on the server, and only if authentication is successful will the screen to proceed to the next step be displayed on the terminal.

[0260] Step 2: Enter your requirements and budget

[0261] After logging in, users proceed to the request input form and enter details such as the desired funeral style, budget, religion, culture, whether remote support is available, etc. The entered information is sent from the terminal to the server.

[0262] The server validates the information it receives and stores it in a database, including ensuring the budget is reasonable and the style and religion choices are correct.

[0263] If validation is successful, instructions for proceeding to the next step will be displayed on the terminal.

[0264] Step 3: Matching funeral companies

[0265] The server searches the database for funeral company information and lists funeral companies that match the user's requirements, using criteria such as style, budget, religion, culture, and remote support provided by the user.

[0266] The search results (a list of funeral companies) are sent to the terminal, where the user can visually check them.

[0267] Step 4: Compare and choose a plan

[0268] The user compares the multiple funeral plans presented and checks the detailed information of each funeral company (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.). After checking, the user selects the most suitable plan. These operations are performed on the device, and the selection results are sent from the device to the server.

[0269] The server receives the selection and notifies the funeral home of the selected plan, including details of the customer's selection and contact information.

[0270] Step 5: Pre-death reservation function

[0271] When a user wishes to register their funeral wishes before they die, they enter their wishes into a special form and submit it. This information is then sent from the terminal to the server.

[0272] The server validates the information it receives and stores it securely in a database. Validation includes ensuring that the information entered is accurate and complete.

[0273] The stored information is managed so that it can be retrieved or updated later as needed.

[0274] Step 6: Use visual and interactive virtual spaces

[0275] Users can use the virtual space to interactively view, compare, and select funeral plans. This operation is mainly performed using a head-mounted display, but some operations can also be performed using a smartphone.

[0276] The actions performed in the virtual space are detected by the device and transmitted in real time to the server, which then receives the data, stores it in a database, and updates search results as needed.

[0277] The results of the user's operations in the virtual space are interactively fed back to support the selection of the optimal plan.

[0278] 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.

[0279] This invention is a system that combines an emotion engine with a platform that matches funeral companies with users who will be holding funerals. The system aims to recognize users' emotions and propose optimal funeral plans and responses. By using the emotion engine, it becomes possible to provide detailed services that correspond to the users' emotions.

[0280] Explaining program processing in natural language

[0281] 1. User Registration and Login

[0282] When a user accesses the system for the first time, he or she opens the user registration screen from the terminal and registers by entering the necessary information.

[0283] The registered information is validated by the server and stored in a database. Once registration is complete, the user logs in using their email address and password.

[0284] 2. Enter your request and budget

[0285] After logging in, users can proceed to a request form and enter details such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether remote service is available.

[0286] The entered information is received by the server, validated, and then stored in a database.

[0287] 3. Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[0288] The emotion engine analyzes facial and voice data obtained from the device's built-in camera and microphone, recognizing the user's emotions in real time.

[0289] The recognized emotion data is sent to a server for further analysis.

[0290] 4. Matching funeral companies and dealing with emotions

[0291] The server searches for funeral company information in a database and lists the most suitable funeral companies based on the user's requests and recognized emotion data.

[0292] Information about the listed funeral companies (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) is sent to the terminal.

[0293] 5. Compare and choose a plan

[0294] Users can compare multiple funeral plans presented to them and receive additional suggestions based on their emotional data.

[0295] After selecting the best plan, the selection is sent to the server, which notifies the funeral home of the selection.

[0296] 6. Pre-death reservation function

[0297] If a user wishes to register their funeral wishes before they die, they can enter their wishes into a special form and submit it.

[0298] The information entered is validated by the server and stored in a database in a secure format.

[0299] Specific examples

[0300] Let's take the example of User A using this system to prepare for his parent's funeral.

[0301] 1. User A registers and logs in

[0302] User A accesses the system for the first time and completes user registration by entering his / her name, email address, and password on a terminal.

[0303] After completing the registration, log in to the system using your email address and password.

[0304] 2. Enter your request and budget

[0305] After logging in, User A enters information about the desired funeral style (e.g., Buddhism), budget (e.g., 500,000 to 800,000 yen), whether remote service is possible, religion, and culture.

[0306] This information is sent to the server, validated, and then stored in a database.

[0307] 3. Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[0308] The emotion engine uses the device's camera and microphone to analyze the facial expressions and tone of voice of User A. For example, if it detects an anxious expression or tone of voice, that information is sent to the server.

[0309] The server analyzes this emotional data and prepares appropriate support content according to the user's condition.

[0310] 4. Matching funeral companies and dealing with emotions

[0311] The server searches the database and lists funeral companies that can provide appropriate support and additional services based on User A's requests and recognized emotional data.

[0312] The listed funeral home information is sent to User A's terminal.

[0313] 5. Compare and choose a plan

[0314] User A compares the multiple funeral plans presented and selects the most suitable one from the proposed plans. For example, if the user continues to show signs of anxiety, a plan that includes counseling services is proposed.

[0315] The selection is sent to the server and the selected funeral home is also notified.

[0316] 6. Use of pre-death reservation function

[0317] User A enters his or her funeral wishes into a dedicated form and completes the pre-death reservation.

[0318] The information entered is validated by the server and securely stored in a database.

[0319] This system allows users to prepare for funerals efficiently and with peace of mind. The system's built-in emotion engine allows for detailed services tailored to the user's emotions, allowing them to select plans that meet a variety of needs. Remote funerals and digital viewings, which utilize digital technology, are particularly convenient for users.

[0320] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0321] Step 1:

[0322] When a user accesses the system for the first time, they click the "User Registration" button on their terminal.

[0323] Step 2:

[0324] The device displays a user registration form and prompts the user to enter required information such as name, email address, and password.

[0325] Step 3:

[0326] The user simply enters the required information and clicks the "Submit" button.

[0327] Step 4:

[0328] The device sends the entered information to the server.

[0329] Step 5:

[0330] The server validates the received user information and, if validation is successful, saves the user information in the database.

[0331] Step 6:

[0332] After registration is complete, the server generates a "Registration Complete" message and sends it to the device.

[0333] Step 7:

[0334] Users log in through the system's login page using their email address and password.

[0335] Step 8:

[0336] The device sends the email address and password to the server.

[0337] Step 9:

[0338] The server checks the email address and password against information in a database, and if they match, generates an authentication token and returns it to the device.

[0339] Step 10:

[0340] After logging in, users proceed to the request input form and enter information such as the desired funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not remote service is available.

[0341] Step 11:

[0342] The device sends the input to the server.

[0343] Step 12:

[0344] The server validates the received request information and, if successful, stores it in the database.

[0345] Step 13:

[0346] The server searches the database for funeral company information and lists funeral companies that match the user's requirements.

[0347] Step 14:

[0348] The server sends information about the listed funeral companies (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) to the terminal.

[0349] Step 15:

[0350] The device displays the search results to the user.

[0351] Step 16:

[0352] Users can compare the multiple funeral plans presented and check detailed information about each funeral company.

[0353] Step 17:

[0354] The emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and tone of voice through the device's camera and microphone.

[0355] Step 18:

[0356] The emotion engine analyzes the emotion data and sends it to the server.

[0357] Step 19:

[0358] The server analyzes the emotional data and prepares the optimal plan proposal based on the user's emotions.

[0359] Step 20:

[0360] Users can review additional plans and support content suggested based on their emotional data and select the plan that best suits them.

[0361] Step 20:

[0362] The device sends the selection to the server.

[0363] Step 22:

[0364] The server notifies the selected funeral home of the details of the selected plan and simultaneously sends a confirmation message to the user.

[0365] Step 23:

[0366] If a user wishes to make a reservation in advance, they can enter their funeral wishes into a special form.

[0367] Step 24:

[0368] The device sends the input to the server.

[0369] Step 25:

[0370] The server validates the received request and, if successful, stores it in a database in a secure format.

[0371] Step 26:

[0372] The server will confirm that the request has been saved and send a notification message to the user.

[0373] Example 2

[0374] 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."

[0375] In modern society, preparing for a funeral is a delicate and complex process, requiring detailed support that is sensitive to the user's emotions. Conventional systems provide suggestions based on the user's requests and budget, but they lack consideration for the user's emotional state. This often leads to anxiety and stress during the funeral preparation process. Furthermore, challenges remain in providing plans that accommodate remote funerals and diverse religious and cultural backgrounds.

[0376] The specification processing by the specification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for proposing the most suitable funeral service provider based on the user's requests, means for searching a database containing information on funeral service providers, means for presenting the search results to the user, means for accepting the user's selection and notifying the selected funeral service provider, means including an emotion recognition engine for recognizing and analyzing the user's emotions, means for proposing the most suitable funeral plan and handling based on the emotion data analyzed by the emotion recognition engine, and means for receiving and storing information on pre-death reservation requests. This makes it possible to provide the most suitable funeral plan that is in line with the user's emotions, and also makes it possible to realize remote funerals using digital technology and plans that accommodate diverse religions and cultures.

[0377] "User requests" refers to the specific conditions and wishes that users have regarding their funeral, such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not it can be handled remotely.

[0378] A "funeral service provider" is a company or organization that provides funeral services based on the user's requests.

[0379] "Database" refers to an information management system for managing and storing information on funeral service providers, user requests, emotional data, etc.

[0380] An "emotion recognition engine" refers to software or algorithms that analyze a user's facial expressions and voice data obtained from devices such as cameras and microphones, and recognize their emotions.

[0381] "Pre-death reservations" refers to users registering their funeral wishes in advance.

[0382] "Remote funerals" refer to services that use the internet and digital technology to allow people to participate in funerals from remote locations and watch the funeral proceedings in real time.

[0383] An "optimal funeral plan" refers to a plan that proposes the most suitable funeral content and structure for the user based on the user's requests and emotional data.

[0384] "Plans that accommodate diverse religions and cultures" refers to plans that provide services that incorporate funeral formats, rituals, and practices that correspond to different religious backgrounds and cultures.

[0385] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0386] This invention is a system that combines an emotion engine with a platform that matches funeral companies with users who will be holding funerals. The system aims to recognize users' emotions and propose optimal funeral plans and responses. This system integrates user requests, emotion data, and information on funeral service providers to achieve optimal matching.

[0387] System Overview

[0388] User Registration and Login

[0389] When a user accesses the system for the first time, a user registration screen appears on the terminal, and the user enters the required information such as name, email address, and password.

[0390] The device sends the entered information to the server, which validates it and stores it in a database. Once the user has completed registration, they can log in using their email address and password.

[0391] Enter your request and budget

[0392] After logging in, users can proceed to a request form and enter details such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether remote service is available.

[0393] The terminal sends this information to the server, which validates it and then stores it in a database.

[0394] Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[0395] The user's facial expressions and voice data are acquired through the device's built-in camera (e.g., Logitech C920) and microphone (e.g., Blue Yeti).

[0396] The acquired data is analyzed in real time by an emotion engine (e.g., Microsoft® Azure® Emotion API).

[0397] The device transmits the analysis results to the server, which further analyzes them to assess the user's emotional state.

[0398] Matching funeral companies and dealing with emotions

[0399] The server searches the database and lists the most suitable funeral service providers based on the user's requests and emotional data.

[0400] The listed information is sent to the user's terminal and presented to the user.

[0401] Compare and choose a plan

[0402] The user compares the multiple funeral plans presented and selects the most suitable plan.

[0403] The terminal transmits the selected plan information to the server, which then notifies the selected funeral service provider.

[0404] Pre-death reservation function

[0405] If a user wishes to make a pre-death reservation, they enter their desired details into a dedicated form, and the terminal sends this to the server.

[0406] The server validates the submitted information and stores it in a database in a secure format.

[0407] Specific examples

[0408] Below is a specific example of User A using the system to prepare for his parent's funeral.

[0409] 1. User A enters their name, email address, and password on their device to complete user registration and then logs in.

[0410] 2. After logging in, User A enters information such as the desired funeral style, budget, and whether remote support is available.

[0411] 3. The device's camera and microphone are used to capture User A's emotional data, which is then analyzed by the emotion engine. If an anxious expression or tone of voice is detected, that information is sent to the server.

[0412] 4. The server creates a list of the most suitable funeral service providers based on User A's requests and emotional data, and sends the information to the terminal.

[0413] 5. User A compares the multiple funeral plans presented and selects the most suitable one. For example, if the user continues to look anxious, a plan that includes counseling services will be suggested.

[0414] 6. User A enters their funeral wishes into a dedicated form and completes their pre-death reservation.

[0415] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0416] "I would like to know the best funeral plan for preparing my parent's funeral. The style should be Buddhist, with a budget of 500,000 to 800,000 yen. Please also consider whether the funeral can be held remotely."

[0417] By incorporating various digital technologies and an emotion recognition engine, the system is able to propose detailed funeral plans to users and allows them to select plans that meet a variety of needs, enabling them to prepare for a funeral efficiently and with peace of mind.

[0418] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0419] Step 1: User Registration and Login

[0420] Input: Name, Email Address, Password

[0421] The terminal displays a user registration screen when the user accesses it for the first time.

[0422] The user enters their name, email address, and password and clicks the "Register" button.

[0423] The terminal sends this information to the server.

[0424] The server validates the submitted information and stores it in a database if the registration information is correct.

[0425] Output: Registration complete message

[0426] The terminal displays a message to the user indicating that registration is complete.

[0427] Users log in to the system using their email address and password.

[0428] Input: Login information (email address, password)

[0429] The terminal sends this information to the server, and if validation is successful, the user is logged in.

[0430] Output: Login successful message

[0431] Step 2: Enter your requirements and budget

[0432] Input: Funeral style, budget, religion, culture, remote availability

[0433] After logging in, the user proceeds to the request input form and enters the necessary information.

[0434] The terminal transmits the input information to the server.

[0435] The server validates the submitted request information to ensure it is in the correct format.

[0436] If validation is successful, save the information to the database.

[0437] Output: Message that request information has been saved

[0438] The terminal displays a message to the user indicating that the requested information has been saved.

[0439] Step 3: Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[0440] Input: facial expression data, voice data

[0441] The device's camera and microphone are used to capture the user's facial expressions and voice data.

[0442] What it does: The camera captures the user's face and the microphone records their voice.

[0443] The acquired data is sent to the emotion engine and analyzed in real time.

[0444] The terminal transmits the analysis results to the server.

[0445] The server analyzes the parsed emotion data and evaluates the user's emotional state.

[0446] Output: Analysis results of emotion data

[0447] The server prepares emotional suggestions.

[0448] Step 4: Matching funeral companies and managing emotions

[0449] Input: Request information, emotion data

[0450] The server searches the database and lists the most suitable funeral service providers based on the user's requests and emotional data.

[0451] Specific operation: Match the request information with the emotion data and extract information on funeral service providers that meet the criteria from the database.

[0452] The listed information is sent to the user's terminal.

[0453] Output: A list of the best funeral service providers

[0454] The terminal displays this list to the user.

[0455] Step 5: Compare and choose a plan

[0456] Input: Funeral plan list

[0457] The user can compare the listed funeral plans and check the details.

[0458] What it does: Displays plan details and provides an interface that allows the user to select a plan.

[0459] The user selects the most suitable plan.

[0460] The terminal transmits the selected plan information to the server.

[0461] The server notifies the selected funeral service provider.

[0462] Output: Selected plan information, notification to funeral service provider

[0463] Step 6: Pre-death booking function

[0464] Input: Pre-death reservation details

[0465] If a user wishes to make a pre-death reservation, they enter their desired details into a dedicated form.

[0466] The terminal transmits the input information to the server.

[0467] The server validates the submitted information and stores it securely in a database.

[0468] Specific behavior: Check and save input information

[0469] Output: Message confirming pre-death reservation information has been saved

[0470] The terminal displays a message to the user indicating that the pre-death reservation has been completed.

[0471] (Application example 2)

[0472] 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."

[0473] Conventional funeral services have been unable to fully consider the emotional state of the user, making it difficult to select the optimal plan and provide the service. In addition, when users are in situations where they feel anxious or stressed, they are unable to provide appropriate support, which leads to a decrease in satisfaction.

[0474] The specification processing by the specification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for proposing the most suitable funeral company based on the user's requests, means for searching a database containing information on funeral companies, means for presenting the search results to the user, means for accepting the user's selection and notifying the selected funeral company, means for receiving and saving information on desired pre-death reservations, means for recognizing the user's emotions, and means for proposing the most suitable service based on the user's emotional data. This makes it possible to propose the most suitable funeral plan and provide the service based on the user's emotional state.

[0475] "User" refers to an individual or corporation that uses the system and is a customer who receives funeral-related services.

[0476] "Funeral company" refers to a business or organization that provides funeral and related services.

[0477] "Means of suggestion" refers to the way the system presents the most suitable funeral companies and services based on the user's requests and feelings.

[0478] "Database" refers to a system for systematically storing and managing funeral company information.

[0479] "Searching means" refers to the method of searching for appropriate information from a database based on the user's request.

[0480] "Means of presentation" refers to the method by which search results are visually or audibly presented to the user.

[0481] "Means for accepting selections" refers to methods that support the user in selecting the funeral company and plan of their choice from the options presented.

[0482] "Means of notification" refers to the function of communicating the user's selection to the funeral home.

[0483] "Pre-death reservations" refers to users registering their wishes regarding their future funerals in advance.

[0484] "Means for recognizing emotions" refers to a method of analyzing biometric information such as the user's facial expressions and voice to identify their current emotional state.

[0485] "Emotional data" refers to information that represents the user's emotional state as recognized by the system.

[0486] "Optimal service" refers to the service content that best matches the user's emotional state and needs.

[0487] To explain this process, we use the example of an emotion response system for an autonomous vehicle. We will describe each component of the system and its processing method.

[0488] System Configuration

[0489] The system includes the following major hardware and software components:

[0490] 1. Hardware:

[0491] Cameras and microphones (to capture real-time emotion data in the vehicle)

[0492] In-vehicle computer (local server)

[0493] Center computer (central server)

[0494] 2. Software:

[0495] Emotion recognition engine (for example, using Microsoft Azure's Emotion API or Google® Cloud Speech-to-Text)

[0496] Database management systems (for example, PostgreSQL or MongoDB)

[0497] In-car infotainment system (custom interface based on ANDROID® Auto or Apple CarPlay®)

[0498] Specific examples

[0499] Application example of emotion recognition system in autonomous driving vehicles

[0500] Application Overview

[0501] Name: Emotion-responsive autonomous vehicle service

[0502] Overview: This system uses cameras and microphones installed inside autonomous vehicles to recognize the emotions of the user while they are in the vehicle, and adjusts music, messages, and even driving mode according to that emotional state.

[0503] Program processing

[0504] Below is the program flow for emotion-aware autonomous vehicle services:

[0505] 1. User Registration and Login

[0506] The user opens the user registration screen through the vehicle's infotainment system and registers by entering their name, email address, and password.

[0507] The registration data is validated on a local server in the vehicle and then sent to the autonomous vehicle's central server, where it is stored in a database.

[0508] 2. Enter the settings

[0509] After the user logs in, they can set their music preferences, notification sound type, preferred driving mode (e.g. Eco, Sport, Relax), etc.

[0510] The configured information is stored on a local server and backed up to a central server.

[0511] 3. Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[0512] Cameras and microphones inside the self-driving vehicle analyze the user's facial expressions and tone of voice in real time.

[0513] An emotion recognition engine runs in the car and uses this data to recognize the user's emotional state.

[0514] 4. Driving mode and entertainment adjustments

[0515] Based on the recognized emotional data, the autonomous driving system will adjust the driving mode, for example, switching to safe driving mode if an anxious state is detected.

[0516] At the same time, the car's infotainment system plays music and relaxation messages according to the driver's emotions.

[0517] 5. Data storage and future analysis

[0518] The recognized emotion data and driving data are stored on a local server in the vehicle and on a central server.

[0519] If users want to view their own data, they can check their past emotional and driving data through a smartphone app.

[0520] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0521] Below are some example prompts for using generative AI models with emotion recognition engines:

[0522] "My name is User A. I am using an emotion recognition system for a self-driving vehicle. Please advise me on what driving mode and music are appropriate for my current emotions."

[0523] This system will enable users to have a more comfortable and personalized riding experience, and is expected to improve safety through appropriate responses based on emotions.

[0524] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0525] Step 1:

[0526] The user opens the user registration screen through the vehicle's infotainment system and registers by entering their name, email address, and password.

[0527] Input: Name, Email Address, Password.

[0528] Specific operation: The device collects input data and sends it to the server.

[0529] Output: Registration data is validated on a local server in the vehicle and stored in a database on a central server.

[0530] Step 2:

[0531] After the user logs in, they enter settings such as music preferences, notification sound type, and preferred driving mode (e.g., Eco, Sport, Relax).

[0532] Input: Music preferences, notification sound type, driving mode settings.

[0533] Specific operation: The device collects configuration data and sends it to a local server.

[0534] Output: Configuration data is saved to a local server and backed up to a central server.

[0535] Step 3:

[0536] Cameras and microphones inside the self-driving vehicle capture the user's facial expressions and tone of voice in real time and send them to an emotion recognition engine.

[0537] Input: Real-time video and audio data from cameras and microphones.

[0538] What it does: The device collects this data and sends it to an emotion recognition engine.

[0539] Output: An emotion recognition engine analyzes the data and identifies the user's emotional state.

[0540] Step 4:

[0541] Based on the recognized emotional data, the autonomous driving system adjusts the driving mode.

[0542] Input: Emotion data.

[0543] Specific operation: The server receives emotion data and sends the driving mode setting (safe driving mode, etc.) to the autonomous driving system based on that data.

[0544] Output: Driving mode is adjusted according to the user's emotional state.

[0545] Step 5:

[0546] The in-car infotainment system plays music and relaxation messages according to the driver's emotions.

[0547] Input: Emotion data, music and message library.

[0548] Specific operation: The server selects appropriate music and messages based on the emotional data and sends them to the infotainment system.

[0549] Output: The infotainment system plays content according to the user's emotions.

[0550] Step 6:

[0551] The recognized emotion data and driving data are stored on a local server in the vehicle and on a central server.

[0552] Input: Emotion data, driving data.

[0553] What happens: The server collects this data and stores it in a database.

[0554] Output: The saved data will be available for future analysis and user review.

[0555] Step 7:

[0556] If a user wants to view their own data, they can check their past emotional and driving data through a smartphone app.

[0557] Input: The user request.

[0558] Specific operation: The server searches for stored data and sends it to the smartphone app upon request.

[0559] Output: User can check past emotion data and driving data.

[0560] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the smart device 14. In the smart device 14, the control unit 46A causes the output device 40 to output the result of the specific processing. The microphone 38B acquires audio indicating a user input regarding the result of the specific processing. The control unit 46A transmits audio data indicating the user input acquired by the microphone 38B to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the audio data.

[0561] The data generation model 58 is a so-called generative AI (Artificial Intelligence). An example of the data generation model 58 is ChatGPT (registered trademark) (Internet search engine).<URL: https: / / openai.com / blog / chatgpt> ), Gemini (registered trademark) (Internet search <url: https: gemini.google.com ?hl="ja">) and other generation AIs. The data generation model 58 is obtained by performing deep learning on a neural network. A prompt including an instruction is input to the data generation model 58, and inference data such as voice data indicating voice, text data indicating text, and image data indicating an image is also input. The data generation model 58 performs inference on the input inference data in accordance with the instruction indicated by the prompt, and outputs the inference result in a data format such as voice data and text data. Here, inference refers to, for example, analysis, classification, prediction, and / or summarization.

[0562] In the above embodiment, an example in which the specific process is performed by the data processing device 12 has been given, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and the specific process may be performed by the smart device 14.

[0563] [Second embodiment]

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

[0565] 3, the data processing system 210 includes the data processing device 12 and smart glasses 214. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[0566] The data processing device 12 includes a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication I / F 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The computer 22 includes a processor 28, a RAM 30, and a storage 32. The processor 28, the RAM 30, and the storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication I / F 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication I / F 26 is connected to a network 54. Examples of the network 54 include a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0567] The smart glasses 214 include a computer 36, a microphone 238, a speaker 240, a camera 42, and a communication I / F 44. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, a RAM 48, and a storage 50. The processor 46, the RAM 48, and the storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The microphone 238, the speaker 240, and the camera 42 are also connected to the bus 52.

[0568] The microphone 238 receives instructions and the like from the user 20 by receiving voice uttered by the user 20. The microphone 238 captures the voice uttered by the user 20, converts the captured voice into audio data, and outputs it to the processor 46. The speaker 240 outputs audio in accordance with instructions from the processor 46.

[0569] Camera 42 is a small digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an imaging element such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, and captures images of the surroundings of user 20 (for example, an imaging range defined by an angle of view equivalent to the field of vision of a typical healthy person).

[0570] The communication I / F 44 is connected to a network 54. The communication I / Fs 44 and 26 are responsible for the exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 via the network 54. The exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 using the communication I / Fs 44 and 26 is carried out in a secure state.

[0571] Fig. 4 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart glasses 214. As shown in Fig. 4, in the data processing device 12, a specific process is performed by the processor 28. A specific process program 56 is stored in the storage 32.

[0572] The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific processing is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.

[0573] The storage 32 stores a data generation model 58 and an emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.

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

[0575] Next, a description will be given of the identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as the "terminal."

[0576] This invention is a platform that matches funeral companies with users who will be holding funerals, and is a system that allows for efficient funeral preparations. The system aims to enable smooth collaboration between users and funeral companies.

[0577] Explaining program processing in natural language

[0578] 1. User Registration and Login

[0579] When a user accesses the system for the first time, they open the user registration screen from their device and register by entering the required information such as their name, email address, and password.

[0580] The registered information is validated by the server and stored in a database. Once registration is complete, the user logs in using their email address and password.

[0581] 2. Enter your request and budget

[0582] After logging in, users can proceed to a request form and enter details such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether remote service is available.

[0583] The entered information is received by the server, validated, and then stored in a database.

[0584] 3. Funeral company matching

[0585] The server searches the funeral home information in the database and lists funeral homes that match the user's requests.

[0586] Information about the listed funeral companies (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) is sent to the terminal.

[0587] 4. Compare and choose a plan

[0588] The user compares the multiple funeral plans presented and checks the detailed information of each funeral company.

[0589] After selecting the best plan, the selection is sent to the server, which notifies the funeral home of the selection.

[0590] 5. Pre-death reservation function

[0591] If a user wishes to register their funeral wishes before they die, they can enter their wishes into a special form and submit it.

[0592] The information entered is validated by the server and stored in a database in a secure format.

[0593] Specific examples

[0594] Let's take the example of User A using this system to prepare for his parent's funeral.

[0595] 1. User A registers and logs in

[0596] User A accesses the system for the first time and completes user registration by entering his / her name, email address, and password on a terminal.

[0597] After completing the registration, log in to the system using your email address and password.

[0598] 2. Enter your request and budget

[0599] After logging in, User A enters information about the desired funeral style (e.g., Buddhism), budget (e.g., 500,000 to 800,000 yen), whether remote service is possible, religion, and culture.

[0600] This information is sent to the server, validated, and then stored in a database.

[0601] 3. Funeral company matching

[0602] The server searches the database and lists five funeral companies that meet User A's requirements.

[0603] Information including plan details, costs, and reviews of each funeral company is sent to User A's terminal.

[0604] 4. Compare and choose a plan

[0605] User A compares multiple funeral plans and selects the most suitable plan based on the service content, cost, and reviews.

[0606] The selection is sent to the server and the selected funeral home is also notified.

[0607] 5. Use of pre-death reservation function

[0608] User A enters his or her funeral wishes into a dedicated form and completes the pre-death reservation.

[0609] The information entered is validated by the server and securely stored in a database.

[0610] This system allows users to prepare for funerals efficiently and with peace of mind. It also allows users to select plans that meet a variety of needs, and remote funerals and digital viewings that utilize digital technology are particularly convenient for users.

[0611] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0612] Step 1:

[0613] When a user accesses the system for the first time, they click the "User Registration" button on their terminal.

[0614] Step 2:

[0615] The device displays a user registration form and prompts the user to enter required information such as name, email address, and password.

[0616] Step 3:

[0617] The user simply enters the required information and clicks the "Submit" button.

[0618] Step 4:

[0619] The device sends the entered information to the server.

[0620] Step 5:

[0621] The server validates the received user information and, if validation is successful, saves the user information in the database.

[0622] Step 6:

[0623] After registration is complete, the server generates a "Registration Complete" message and sends it to the device.

[0624] Step 7:

[0625] Users log in through the system's login page using their email address and password.

[0626] Step 8:

[0627] The device sends the email address and password to the server.

[0628] Step 9:

[0629] The server checks the email address and password against information in a database, and if they match, generates an authentication token and returns it to the device.

[0630] Step 10:

[0631] After logging in, users proceed to the request input form and enter information such as the desired funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not remote service is available.

[0632] Step 11:

[0633] The device sends the input to the server.

[0634] Step 12:

[0635] The server validates the received request information and, if successful, stores it in the database.

[0636] Step 13:

[0637] The server searches the database for funeral company information and lists funeral companies that match the user's requirements.

[0638] Step 14:

[0639] The server sends information about the listed funeral companies (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) to the terminal.

[0640] Step 15:

[0641] The device displays the search results to the user.

[0642] Step 16:

[0643] Users can compare the multiple funeral plans presented and check detailed information about each funeral company.

[0644] Step 17:

[0645] Users simply select the plan that best suits them and click the "Select" button.

[0646] Step 18:

[0647] The device sends the selection to the server.

[0648] Step 19:

[0649] The server notifies the selected funeral home of the selection and simultaneously sends a confirmation message to the user.

[0650] Step 20:

[0651] If a user wishes to make a reservation in advance, they can enter their funeral wishes into a special form.

[0652] Step 21:

[0653] The device sends the input to the server.

[0654] Step 22:

[0655] The server validates the received request and, if successful, stores it in a database in a secure format.

[0656] Step 23:

[0657] The server will confirm that the request has been saved and send a notification message to the user.

[0658] In this way, the entire system processes smoothly, allowing users to prepare for their funeral efficiently and with peace of mind.

[0659] Example 1

[0660] 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."

[0661] Preparing for a funeral requires a great deal of time and effort, and a quick response is especially necessary when news of a death arrives suddenly. It can also be difficult to select the appropriate funeral company based on the funeral content, budget, region, and religious background. Furthermore, it is desirable to hold a funeral that accurately reflects the individual's wishes by registering their funeral wishes before death. There is also a need for remote funerals using digital technology and flexible plans that accommodate diverse religions and cultures. A system that can efficiently meet these needs is needed.

[0662] 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.

[0663] In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and validating registration information from a user, means for suggesting the most suitable funeral company based on the user's requests, means for searching a database containing funeral company information, means for presenting the search results to the user, means for accepting a selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral company, and means for receiving, validating, and saving information on pre-death reservations. This allows for quick and effective funeral preparations. It also allows for the provision of optimal funeral plans tailored to diverse needs and backgrounds, significantly improving user convenience, including new services utilizing digital technology.

[0664] "User registration information" refers to basic information such as name, email address, and password entered by the user to use the system.

[0665] "Validation" is the process of checking whether entered data conforms to format and requirements.

[0666] "User requests" refer to the entire range of conditions and requirements desired by the user, such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not remote services are available.

[0667] The "means of suggesting the most suitable funeral company" is a system that selects and suggests the funeral company that best meets the user's needs based on the information in the database.

[0668] "Means for searching the database" refers to the system's ability to search for information in the database and extract the required information.

[0669] "Means for presenting search results to users" refers to a function that displays information obtained from a database search on the user's terminal.

[0670] "Means for accepting a selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral company" refers to a mechanism for receiving information about the funeral company selected by the user and notifying the relevant funeral company of the selection.

[0671] "Information about advance reservation requests" is information that allows users to register their own funeral requests and specific wishes in advance.

[0672] A "remote funeral using digital technology" is a system that uses the internet and digital communication technology to allow people to participate in a funeral from a remote location.

[0673] "Digital Tour" is a function that allows you to check detailed information about funeral venues and other information online.

[0674] A "funeral plan that accommodates diverse religions and cultures" is a plan that provides funeral content and procedures that are appropriate for users with different religious or cultural backgrounds.

[0675] This invention is a system that allows users to efficiently prepare for a funeral. Users can input detailed requests for their own funeral or that of their relatives and select the most suitable funeral company. A pre-death reservation function also allows users to register their funeral wishes in advance. This system is composed of three elements: the user, the server, and the terminal, each of which plays an important role.

[0676] A user first accesses the system using a terminal. When a user accesses the system for the first time, a user registration screen appears and the user enters the required information such as name, email address, and password. This information is sent from the terminal to the server, where it is validated. Information that passes validation is stored in a database, and the user can then log in to the system using their email address and password.

[0677] After logging in, the user proceeds to the request input form and enters details such as the desired funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not remote support is available. This information is sent back to the server, validated, and then saved in a database. Based on the information in the database, the server creates a list of funeral companies that best match the user's requests and sends this information to the device. The user can then compare multiple plans and select the most suitable one. The selection is sent back to the server, which notifies the relevant funeral company.

[0678] The pre-death reservation feature also allows users to register their funeral wishes in advance. This information is also validated on the server and securely stored in a database. The system also uses digital technology to support remote funerals and digital viewings, and offers flexible plans to suit diverse religions and cultures.

[0679] As a concrete example, consider the case where User A uses this system to prepare for a parent's funeral. User A accesses the system for the first time and completes user registration by entering their name, email address, and password. After logging in, User A enters information about the desired funeral style (e.g., Buddhism), budget (e.g., 500,000 to 800,000 yen), whether remote support is available, and religious and cultural information. Based on this information, the server creates a list of the most suitable funeral companies and sends the information to User A's device. Finally, User A selects the most suitable plan, and the selection is notified to the funeral company via the server.

[0680] Below are some example prompts to input to a generative AI model:

[0681] 1. Prompt: "I want to build a system that will help people make funeral arrangements more efficiently. Please explain the process from user registration to matching with a funeral company."

[0682] 2. Prompt: "Tell me about the process by which users can input their desired funeral style and budget to find the best funeral company."

[0683] 3. Prompt: "This system allows people to register their funeral wishes before they die. Please explain the specific steps and how it is processed on the server."

[0684] By inputting prompt sentences such as those above into a generative AI model, it is possible to automatically generate an explanation of the system's detailed processing flow and operating procedures.

[0685] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0686] System program processing flow

[0687] Step 1: User Registration

[0688] 1.1 A user accesses the system.

[0689] Input: User's name, email address, and password

[0690] Output: Display of input form screen

[0691] 1.2 The user enters and submits registration information.

[0692] Input: Name, email address, password

[0693] Output: Information sent to the server

[0694] 1.3 The server validates the input.

[0695] Input: Submitted user registration information

[0696] Data processing: Check the format of email addresses, check password strength

[0697] Output: Validation result (pass or fail)

[0698] 1.4 The server saves the validated information to the database.

[0699] Input: User information that has passed validation

[0700] Data processing: Encryption and storage of information

[0701] Output: Registration successful notification

[0702] 1.5 The user is redirected to the login screen.

[0703] Input: None (automatic transition)

[0704] Output: Login screen displayed

[0705] Step 2: Enter your requirements and budget

[0706] 2.1 The user logs in.

[0707] Input: Email address, password

[0708] Output: Dashboard screen after successful login

[0709] 2.2 The user opens the request form.

[0710] Input: None (button operation)

[0711] Output: Display of request input form

[0712] 2.3 The user enters details about funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and remote options and submits.

[0713] Input: Funeral style, budget, religion, culture, remote availability

[0714] Data processing: converting to appropriate format, filling in missing data

[0715] Output: Send to server

[0716] 2.4 The server validates the input and saves it to the database.

[0717] Input: Request data sent

[0718] Data processing: categorizing information, checking for inconsistencies

[0719] Output: Validation result (success or failure), notification of successful save

[0720] Step 3: Matching funeral companies

[0721] 3.1 The server searches the database and lists the most suitable funeral companies.

[0722] Input: User's desired data

[0723] Data processing: Querying the database and applying matching algorithms

[0724] Output: Matching results (list of funeral companies)

[0725] 3.2 The server sends the funeral home information to the user's terminal.

[0726] Input: Matching results (list of funeral companies)

[0727] Data processing: organizing and formatting information

[0728] Output: Send to terminal, list view

[0729] Step 4: Compare and choose a plan

[0730] 4.1 A user compares multiple funeral plans.

[0731] Input: List of proposed funeral plans

[0732] Output: Comparison screen display

[0733] 4.2 The user selects the best plan and submits it.

[0734] Input: Selected plan information

[0735] Data processing: Sending selections to the system

[0736] Output: Send to server

[0737] 4.3 The server notifies the funeral home of the selection.

[0738] Input: Selected plan information

[0739] Data processing: Notification message generation

[0740] Output: Notification to funeral home

[0741] Step 5: Pre-death reservation function

[0742] 5.1 The user opens the pre-need reservation form.

[0743] Input: None (button operation)

[0744] Output: Display of pre-need reservation form

[0745] 5.2 The user enters and submits their funeral wishes.

[0746] Input: Funeral style, preferred arrangements, specific wishes

[0747] Data processing: organizing and formatting information

[0748] Output: Send to server

[0749] 5.3 The server validates the input and stores it in the database.

[0750] Input: Submitted pre-death reservation information

[0751] Data processing: categorizing information, format check

[0752] Output: Validation result (success or failure), notification of successful save

[0753] (Application example 1)

[0754] 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."

[0755] Conventional funeral planning systems have the problem that it is difficult for users to easily view and compare funeral plans in a virtual space. In addition, they are unable to provide a visual and interactive experience, which means they are unable to fully meet user needs.

[0756] 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.

[0757] In this invention, the server includes means for suggesting the most suitable funeral company based on the user's requests, means for searching a database containing information on funeral companies, means for presenting the search results to the user, means for accepting a selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral company, means for receiving and saving information on pre-death reservation requests, means for viewing, comparing, and selecting funeral plans in a visually interactive virtual space, and means for transmitting operations in the virtual space to the server and saving them in a database. This allows users to easily visually check funeral plans in the virtual space, interactively compare them, and select the most suitable plan.

[0758] "User" refers to an individual or their representative seeking to use funeral services.

[0759] "Funeral company" refers to a company or business that provides funeral-related services.

[0760] "Means of making suggestions" refers to systems and methods for analyzing users' requests and presenting the most suitable funeral company and plan options.

[0761] "Database" refers to an information storage medium or system for storing, searching, and managing information about funeral companies and user requests.

[0762] "Searching means" refers to a method or system for querying information in a database and extracting information that meets a user's requirements.

[0763] "Presentation means" refers to a method or system for displaying or communicating search results to users in an easy-to-understand manner.

[0764] "Means for accepting a selection" refers to a method or system for accepting input from a user in selecting a particular plan or funeral provider from the options presented.

[0765] "Means for notifying" refers to a system or method for communicating a user's selection to the funeral home selected by the user.

[0766] "Pre-reservation" refers to a user registering their funeral wishes in advance.

[0767] "Means for storage" refers to a system or method for safely storing pre-death reservations and selections, etc., and making them available for retrieval as needed.

[0768] "Virtual space" refers to a three-dimensional digital environment created by computer simulation.

[0769] "Interactive" refers to a mechanism that allows users and systems to interact with each other.

[0770] "Operation in virtual space" refers to actions such as input and selection that users perform within the virtual space.

[0771] A "server" refers to a computer system that processes requests from multiple users and provides the necessary information.

[0772] This invention is a system that proposes the most suitable funeral company based on the user's requests and realizes interactive funeral planning using virtual space. A specific embodiment of this system is described below.

[0773] System Overview

[0774] First, the user accesses the system using a smartphone or head-mounted display (HMD). The user registers by entering required information such as name, email address, and password. This information is validated by the server and stored in the database.

[0775] After logging in, users are directed to a request form where they enter details such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, remote availability, etc. The information entered is validated by the server and stored in a database.

[0776] The server uses the stored information to search its database for funeral companies that match the user's requests and generates a list. The generated list is sent to the user's terminal, where the user can visually check it.

[0777] Users can compare the displayed funeral plans and check detailed information about each funeral company (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) Once the most suitable plan is selected, the selection is sent to the server and the selected funeral company is also notified.

[0778] In particular, this system utilizes a virtual space, allowing users to visually inspect and interactively manipulate the funeral setup within the virtual space, providing a more tangible and realistic experience.

[0779] Hardware and software used

[0780] 1. Server: This is the central computer system of this system, which processes, stores, searches, and notifies data. The software used is Python and Flask.

[0781] 2. Smartphone: The device that users use as an interface. React Native is used for the front end.

[0782] 3. Head-mounted display (HMD): A device that allows users to enter a virtual space. VR applications using Unity run on it.

[0783] 4. Database: A system for storing information about funeral companies and users. A relational database such as MySQL is used.

[0784] What the program does

[0785] The server validates the user's input information in real time and stores it in a database. When a request is made, the server searches the database and generates the best matching results. The results are sent to the user's device, and when the user makes a selection, the selection is saved in the database and the relevant funeral home is notified.

[0786] Examples of concrete examples and prompts

[0787] For example, suppose User A uses this system to prepare for a parent's funeral. After logging in, User A requests a Buddhist-style funeral with a budget of 500,000 to 800,000 yen, and enters this information into the system. The server then lists information on five funeral companies that match User A's requests and sends this to User A's terminal.

[0788] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0789] Create specific instructions for a virtual funeral planning system that allows users to select a Buddhist-style funeral and set a budget of 500,000 to 800,000 yen.

[0790] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0791] Step 1: User Registration and Login

[0792] Users access the system using a smartphone or head-mounted display and enter necessary information such as their name, email address, and password. The entered information is sent from the device to the server.

[0793] The server validates the information it receives and stores it in a database, including checking the format of the email address and the strength of the password.

[0794] If validation is successful, user registration is complete and the user logs in using their email address and password. The login information is verified on the server, and only if authentication is successful will the screen to proceed to the next step be displayed on the terminal.

[0795] Step 2: Enter your requirements and budget

[0796] After logging in, users proceed to the request input form and enter details such as the desired funeral style, budget, religion, culture, whether remote support is available, etc. The entered information is sent from the terminal to the server.

[0797] The server validates the information it receives and stores it in a database, including ensuring the budget is reasonable and the style and religion choices are correct.

[0798] If validation is successful, instructions for proceeding to the next step will be displayed on the terminal.

[0799] Step 3: Matching funeral companies

[0800] The server searches the database for funeral company information and lists funeral companies that match the user's requirements, using criteria such as style, budget, religion, culture, and remote support provided by the user.

[0801] The search results (a list of funeral companies) are sent to the terminal, where the user can visually check them.

[0802] Step 4: Compare and choose a plan

[0803] The user compares the multiple funeral plans presented and checks the detailed information of each funeral company (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.). After checking, the user selects the most suitable plan. These operations are performed on the device, and the selection results are sent from the device to the server.

[0804] The server receives the selection and notifies the funeral home of the selected plan, including details of the customer's selection and contact information.

[0805] Step 5: Pre-death reservation function

[0806] When a user wishes to register their funeral wishes before they die, they enter their wishes into a special form and submit it. This information is then sent from the terminal to the server.

[0807] The server validates the information it receives and stores it securely in a database. Validation includes ensuring that the information entered is accurate and complete.

[0808] The stored information is managed so that it can be retrieved or updated later as needed.

[0809] Step 6: Use visual and interactive virtual spaces

[0810] Users can use the virtual space to interactively view, compare, and select funeral plans. This operation is mainly performed using a head-mounted display, but some operations can also be performed using a smartphone.

[0811] The actions performed in the virtual space are detected by the device and transmitted in real time to the server, which then receives the data, stores it in a database, and updates search results as needed.

[0812] The results of the user's operations in the virtual space are interactively fed back to support the selection of the optimal plan.

[0813] 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.

[0814] This invention is a system that combines an emotion engine with a platform that matches funeral companies with users who will be holding funerals. The system aims to recognize users' emotions and propose optimal funeral plans and responses. By using the emotion engine, it becomes possible to provide detailed services that correspond to the users' emotions.

[0815] Explaining program processing in natural language

[0816] 1. User Registration and Login

[0817] When a user accesses the system for the first time, he or she opens the user registration screen from the terminal and registers by entering the necessary information.

[0818] The registered information is validated by the server and stored in a database. Once registration is complete, the user logs in using their email address and password.

[0819] 2. Enter your request and budget

[0820] After logging in, users can proceed to a request form and enter details such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether remote service is available.

[0821] The entered information is received by the server, validated, and then stored in a database.

[0822] 3. Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[0823] The emotion engine analyzes facial and voice data obtained from the device's built-in camera and microphone, recognizing the user's emotions in real time.

[0824] The recognized emotion data is sent to a server for further analysis.

[0825] 4. Matching funeral companies and dealing with emotions

[0826] The server searches for funeral company information in a database and lists the most suitable funeral companies based on the user's requests and recognized emotion data.

[0827] Information about the listed funeral companies (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) is sent to the terminal.

[0828] 5. Compare and choose a plan

[0829] Users can compare multiple funeral plans presented to them and receive additional suggestions based on their emotional data.

[0830] After selecting the best plan, the selection is sent to the server, which notifies the funeral home of the selection.

[0831] 6. Pre-death reservation function

[0832] If a user wishes to register their funeral wishes before they die, they can enter their wishes into a special form and submit it.

[0833] The information entered is validated by the server and stored in a database in a secure format.

[0834] Specific examples

[0835] Let's take the example of User A using this system to prepare for his parent's funeral.

[0836] 1. User A registers and logs in

[0837] User A accesses the system for the first time and completes user registration by entering his / her name, email address, and password on a terminal.

[0838] After completing the registration, log in to the system using your email address and password.

[0839] 2. Enter your request and budget

[0840] After logging in, User A enters information about the desired funeral style (e.g., Buddhism), budget (e.g., 500,000 to 800,000 yen), whether remote service is possible, religion, and culture.

[0841] This information is sent to the server, validated, and then stored in a database.

[0842] 3. Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[0843] The emotion engine uses the device's camera and microphone to analyze the facial expressions and tone of voice of User A. For example, if it detects an anxious expression or tone of voice, that information is sent to the server.

[0844] The server analyzes this emotional data and prepares appropriate support content according to the user's condition.

[0845] 4. Matching funeral companies and dealing with emotions

[0846] The server searches the database and lists funeral companies that can provide appropriate support and additional services based on User A's requests and recognized emotional data.

[0847] The listed funeral home information is sent to User A's terminal.

[0848] 5. Compare and choose a plan

[0849] User A compares the multiple funeral plans presented and selects the most suitable one from the proposed plans. For example, if the user continues to show signs of anxiety, a plan that includes counseling services is proposed.

[0850] The selection is sent to the server and the selected funeral home is also notified.

[0851] 6. Use of pre-death reservation function

[0852] User A enters his or her funeral wishes into a dedicated form and completes the pre-death reservation.

[0853] The information entered is validated by the server and securely stored in a database.

[0854] This system allows users to prepare for funerals efficiently and with peace of mind. The system's built-in emotion engine allows for detailed services tailored to the user's emotions, allowing them to select plans that meet a variety of needs. Remote funerals and digital viewings, which utilize digital technology, are particularly convenient for users.

[0855] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0856] Step 1:

[0857] When a user accesses the system for the first time, they click the "User Registration" button on their terminal.

[0858] Step 2:

[0859] The device displays a user registration form and prompts the user to enter required information such as name, email address, and password.

[0860] Step 3:

[0861] The user simply enters the required information and clicks the "Submit" button.

[0862] Step 4:

[0863] The device sends the entered information to the server.

[0864] Step 5:

[0865] The server validates the received user information and, if validation is successful, saves the user information in the database.

[0866] Step 6:

[0867] After registration is complete, the server generates a "Registration Complete" message and sends it to the device.

[0868] Step 7:

[0869] Users log in through the system's login page using their email address and password.

[0870] Step 8:

[0871] The device sends the email address and password to the server.

[0872] Step 9:

[0873] The server checks the email address and password against information in a database, and if they match, generates an authentication token and returns it to the device.

[0874] Step 10:

[0875] After logging in, users proceed to the request input form and enter information such as the desired funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not remote service is available.

[0876] Step 11:

[0877] The device sends the input to the server.

[0878] Step 12:

[0879] The server validates the received request information and, if successful, stores it in the database.

[0880] Step 13:

[0881] The server searches the database for funeral company information and lists funeral companies that match the user's requirements.

[0882] Step 14:

[0883] The server sends information about the listed funeral companies (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) to the terminal.

[0884] Step 15:

[0885] The device displays the search results to the user.

[0886] Step 16:

[0887] Users can compare the multiple funeral plans presented and check detailed information about each funeral company.

[0888] Step 17:

[0889] The emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and tone of voice through the device's camera and microphone.

[0890] Step 18:

[0891] The emotion engine analyzes the emotion data and sends it to the server.

[0892] Step 19:

[0893] The server analyzes the emotional data and prepares the optimal plan proposal based on the user's emotions.

[0894] Step 20:

[0895] Users can review additional plans and support content suggested based on their emotional data and select the plan that best suits them.

[0896] Step 20:

[0897] The device sends the selection to the server.

[0898] Step 22:

[0899] The server notifies the selected funeral home of the details of the selected plan and simultaneously sends a confirmation message to the user.

[0900] Step 23:

[0901] If a user wishes to make a reservation in advance, they can enter their funeral wishes into a special form.

[0902] Step 24:

[0903] The device sends the input to the server.

[0904] Step 25:

[0905] The server validates the received request and, if successful, stores it in a database in a secure format.

[0906] Step 26:

[0907] The server will confirm that the request has been saved and send a notification message to the user.

[0908] Example 2

[0909] 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."

[0910] In modern society, preparing for a funeral is a delicate and complex process, requiring detailed support that is sensitive to the user's emotions. Conventional systems provide suggestions based on the user's requests and budget, but they lack consideration for the user's emotional state. This often leads to anxiety and stress during the funeral preparation process. Furthermore, challenges remain in providing plans that accommodate remote funerals and diverse religious and cultural backgrounds.

[0911] The specification processing by the specification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for proposing the most suitable funeral service provider based on the user's requests, means for searching a database containing information on funeral service providers, means for presenting the search results to the user, means for accepting the user's selection and notifying the selected funeral service provider, means including an emotion recognition engine for recognizing and analyzing the user's emotions, means for proposing the most suitable funeral plan and handling based on the emotion data analyzed by the emotion recognition engine, and means for receiving and storing information on pre-death reservation requests. This makes it possible to provide the most suitable funeral plan that is in line with the user's emotions, and also makes it possible to realize remote funerals using digital technology and plans that accommodate diverse religions and cultures.

[0912] "User requests" refers to the specific conditions and wishes that users have regarding their funeral, such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not it can be handled remotely.

[0913] A "funeral service provider" is a company or organization that provides funeral services based on the user's requests.

[0914] "Database" refers to an information management system for managing and storing information on funeral service providers, user requests, emotional data, etc.

[0915] An "emotion recognition engine" refers to software or algorithms that analyze a user's facial expressions and voice data obtained from devices such as cameras and microphones, and recognize their emotions.

[0916] "Pre-death reservations" refers to users registering their funeral wishes in advance.

[0917] "Remote funerals" refer to services that use the internet and digital technology to allow people to participate in funerals from remote locations and watch the funeral proceedings in real time.

[0918] An "optimal funeral plan" refers to a plan that proposes the most suitable funeral content and structure for the user based on the user's requests and emotional data.

[0919] "Plans that accommodate diverse religions and cultures" refers to plans that provide services that incorporate funeral formats, rituals, and practices that correspond to different religious backgrounds and cultures.

[0920] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0921] This invention is a system that combines an emotion engine with a platform that matches funeral companies with users who will be holding funerals. The system aims to recognize users' emotions and propose optimal funeral plans and responses. This system integrates user requests, emotion data, and information on funeral service providers to achieve optimal matching.

[0922] System Overview

[0923] User Registration and Login

[0924] When a user accesses the system for the first time, a user registration screen appears on the terminal, and the user enters the required information such as name, email address, and password.

[0925] The device sends the entered information to the server, which validates it and stores it in a database. Once the user has completed registration, they can log in using their email address and password.

[0926] Enter your request and budget

[0927] After logging in, users can proceed to a request form and enter details such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether remote service is available.

[0928] The terminal sends this information to the server, which validates it and then stores it in a database.

[0929] Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[0930] The user's facial expressions and voice data are acquired through the device's built-in camera (e.g., Logitech C920) and microphone (e.g., Blue Yeti).

[0931] The acquired data is analyzed in real time by an emotion engine (e.g., Microsoft Azure Emotion API).

[0932] The device transmits the analysis results to the server, which further analyzes them to assess the user's emotional state.

[0933] Matching funeral companies and dealing with emotions

[0934] The server searches the database and lists the most suitable funeral service providers based on the user's requests and emotional data.

[0935] The listed information is sent to the user's terminal and presented to the user.

[0936] Compare and choose a plan

[0937] The user compares the multiple funeral plans presented and selects the most suitable plan.

[0938] The terminal transmits the selected plan information to the server, which then notifies the selected funeral service provider.

[0939] Pre-death reservation function

[0940] If a user wishes to make a pre-death reservation, they enter their desired details into a dedicated form, and the terminal sends this to the server.

[0941] The server validates the submitted information and stores it in a database in a secure format.

[0942] Specific examples

[0943] Below is a specific example of User A using the system to prepare for his parent's funeral.

[0944] 1. User A enters their name, email address, and password on their device to complete user registration and then logs in.

[0945] 2. After logging in, User A enters information such as the desired funeral style, budget, and whether remote support is available.

[0946] 3. The device's camera and microphone are used to capture User A's emotional data, which is then analyzed by the emotion engine. If an anxious expression or tone of voice is detected, that information is sent to the server.

[0947] 4. The server creates a list of the most suitable funeral service providers based on User A's requests and emotional data, and sends the information to the terminal.

[0948] 5. User A compares the multiple funeral plans presented and selects the most suitable one. For example, if the user continues to look anxious, a plan that includes counseling services will be suggested.

[0949] 6. User A enters their funeral wishes into a dedicated form and completes their pre-death reservation.

[0950] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0951] "I would like to know the best funeral plan for preparing my parent's funeral. The style should be Buddhist, with a budget of 500,000 to 800,000 yen. Please also consider whether the funeral can be held remotely."

[0952] By incorporating various digital technologies and an emotion recognition engine, the system is able to propose detailed funeral plans to users and allows them to select plans that meet a variety of needs, enabling them to prepare for a funeral efficiently and with peace of mind.

[0953] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0954] Step 1: User Registration and Login

[0955] Input: Name, Email Address, Password

[0956] The terminal displays a user registration screen when the user accesses it for the first time.

[0957] The user enters their name, email address, and password and clicks the "Register" button.

[0958] The terminal sends this information to the server.

[0959] The server validates the submitted information and stores it in a database if the registration information is correct.

[0960] Output: Registration complete message

[0961] The terminal displays a message to the user indicating that registration is complete.

[0962] Users log in to the system using their email address and password.

[0963] Input: Login information (email address, password)

[0964] The terminal sends this information to the server, and if validation is successful, the user is logged in.

[0965] Output: Login successful message

[0966] Step 2: Enter your requirements and budget

[0967] Input: Funeral style, budget, religion, culture, remote availability

[0968] After logging in, the user proceeds to the request input form and enters the necessary information.

[0969] The terminal transmits the input information to the server.

[0970] The server validates the submitted request information to ensure it is in the correct format.

[0971] If validation is successful, save the information to the database.

[0972] Output: Message that request information has been saved

[0973] The terminal displays a message to the user indicating that the requested information has been saved.

[0974] Step 3: Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[0975] Input: facial expression data, voice data

[0976] The device's camera and microphone are used to capture the user's facial expressions and voice data.

[0977] What it does: The camera captures the user's face and the microphone records their voice.

[0978] The acquired data is sent to the emotion engine and analyzed in real time.

[0979] The terminal transmits the analysis results to the server.

[0980] The server analyzes the parsed emotion data and evaluates the user's emotional state.

[0981] Output: Analysis results of emotion data

[0982] The server prepares emotional suggestions.

[0983] Step 4: Matching funeral companies and managing emotions

[0984] Input: Request information, emotion data

[0985] The server searches the database and lists the most suitable funeral service providers based on the user's requests and emotional data.

[0986] Specific operation: Match the request information with the emotion data and extract information on funeral service providers that meet the criteria from the database.

[0987] The listed information is sent to the user's terminal.

[0988] Output: A list of the best funeral service providers

[0989] The terminal displays this list to the user.

[0990] Step 5: Compare and choose a plan

[0991] Input: Funeral plan list

[0992] The user can compare the listed funeral plans and check the details.

[0993] What it does: Displays plan details and provides an interface that allows the user to select a plan.

[0994] The user selects the most suitable plan.

[0995] The terminal transmits the selected plan information to the server.

[0996] The server notifies the selected funeral service provider.

[0997] Output: Selected plan information, notification to funeral service provider

[0998] Step 6: Pre-death booking function

[0999] Input: Pre-death reservation details

[1000] If a user wishes to make a pre-death reservation, they enter their desired details into a dedicated form.

[1001] The terminal transmits the input information to the server.

[1002] The server validates the submitted information and stores it securely in a database.

[1003] Specific behavior: Check and save input information

[1004] Output: Message confirming pre-death reservation information has been saved

[1005] The terminal displays a message to the user indicating that the pre-death reservation has been completed.

[1006] (Application example 2)

[1007] 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."

[1008] Conventional funeral services have been unable to fully consider the emotional state of the user, making it difficult to select the optimal plan and provide the service. In addition, when users are in situations where they feel anxious or stressed, they are unable to provide appropriate support, which leads to a decrease in satisfaction.

[1009] The specification processing by the specification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for proposing the most suitable funeral company based on the user's requests, means for searching a database containing information on funeral companies, means for presenting the search results to the user, means for accepting the user's selection and notifying the selected funeral company, means for receiving and saving information on desired pre-death reservations, means for recognizing the user's emotions, and means for proposing the most suitable service based on the user's emotional data. This makes it possible to propose the most suitable funeral plan and provide the service based on the user's emotional state.

[1010] "User" refers to an individual or corporation that uses the system and is a customer who receives funeral-related services.

[1011] "Funeral company" refers to a business or organization that provides funeral and related services.

[1012] "Means of suggestion" refers to the way the system presents the most suitable funeral companies and services based on the user's requests and feelings.

[1013] "Database" refers to a system for systematically storing and managing funeral company information.

[1014] "Searching means" refers to the method of searching for appropriate information from a database based on the user's request.

[1015] "Means of presentation" refers to the method by which search results are visually or audibly presented to the user.

[1016] "Means for accepting selections" refers to methods that support the user in selecting the funeral company and plan of their choice from the options presented.

[1017] "Means of notification" refers to the function of communicating the user's selection to the funeral home.

[1018] "Pre-death reservations" refers to users registering their wishes regarding their future funerals in advance.

[1019] "Means for recognizing emotions" refers to a method of analyzing biometric information such as the user's facial expressions and voice to identify their current emotional state.

[1020] "Emotional data" refers to information that represents the user's emotional state as recognized by the system.

[1021] "Optimal service" refers to the service content that best matches the user's emotional state and needs.

[1022] To explain this process, we use the example of an emotion response system for an autonomous vehicle. We will describe each component of the system and its processing method.

[1023] System Configuration

[1024] The system includes the following major hardware and software components:

[1025] 1. Hardware:

[1026] Cameras and microphones (to capture real-time emotion data in the vehicle)

[1027] In-vehicle computer (local server)

[1028] Center computer (central server)

[1029] 2. Software:

[1030] Emotion recognition engine (for example, using Microsoft Azure's Emotion API or Google Cloud Speech-to-Text)

[1031] Database management systems (for example, PostgreSQL or MongoDB)

[1032] In-car infotainment system (custom interface based on Android Auto or Apple CarPlay)

[1033] Specific examples

[1034] Application example of emotion recognition system in autonomous driving vehicles

[1035] Application Overview

[1036] Name: Emotion-responsive autonomous vehicle service

[1037] Overview: This system uses cameras and microphones installed inside autonomous vehicles to recognize the emotions of the user while they are in the vehicle, and adjusts music, messages, and even driving mode according to that emotional state.

[1038] Program processing

[1039] Below is the program flow for emotion-aware autonomous vehicle services:

[1040] 1. User Registration and Login

[1041] The user opens the user registration screen through the vehicle's infotainment system and registers by entering their name, email address, and password.

[1042] The registration data is validated on a local server in the vehicle and then sent to the autonomous vehicle's central server, where it is stored in a database.

[1043] 2. Enter the settings

[1044] After the user logs in, they can set their music preferences, notification sound type, preferred driving mode (e.g. Eco, Sport, Relax), etc.

[1045] The configured information is stored on a local server and backed up to a central server.

[1046] 3. Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[1047] Cameras and microphones inside the self-driving vehicle analyze the user's facial expressions and tone of voice in real time.

[1048] An emotion recognition engine runs in the car and uses this data to recognize the user's emotional state.

[1049] 4. Driving mode and entertainment adjustments

[1050] Based on the recognized emotional data, the autonomous driving system will adjust the driving mode, for example, switching to safe driving mode if an anxious state is detected.

[1051] At the same time, the car's infotainment system plays music and relaxation messages according to the driver's emotions.

[1052] 5. Data storage and future analysis

[1053] The recognized emotion data and driving data are stored on a local server in the vehicle and on a central server.

[1054] If users want to view their own data, they can check their past emotional and driving data through a smartphone app.

[1055] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1056] Below are some example prompts for using generative AI models with emotion recognition engines:

[1057] "My name is User A. I am using an emotion recognition system for a self-driving vehicle. Please advise me on what driving mode and music are appropriate for my current emotions."

[1058] This system will enable users to have a more comfortable and personalized riding experience, and is expected to improve safety through appropriate responses based on emotions.

[1059] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1060] Step 1:

[1061] The user opens the user registration screen through the vehicle's infotainment system and registers by entering their name, email address, and password.

[1062] Input: Name, Email Address, Password.

[1063] Specific operation: The device collects input data and sends it to the server.

[1064] Output: Registration data is validated on a local server in the vehicle and stored in a database on a central server.

[1065] Step 2:

[1066] After the user logs in, they enter settings such as music preferences, notification sound type, and preferred driving mode (e.g., Eco, Sport, Relax).

[1067] Input: Music preferences, notification sound type, driving mode settings.

[1068] Specific operation: The device collects configuration data and sends it to a local server.

[1069] Output: Configuration data is saved to a local server and backed up to a central server.

[1070] Step 3:

[1071] Cameras and microphones inside the self-driving vehicle capture the user's facial expressions and tone of voice in real time and send them to an emotion recognition engine.

[1072] Input: Real-time video and audio data from cameras and microphones.

[1073] What it does: The device collects this data and sends it to an emotion recognition engine.

[1074] Output: An emotion recognition engine analyzes the data and identifies the user's emotional state.

[1075] Step 4:

[1076] Based on the recognized emotional data, the autonomous driving system adjusts the driving mode.

[1077] Input: Emotion data.

[1078] Specific operation: The server receives emotion data and sends the driving mode setting (safe driving mode, etc.) to the autonomous driving system based on that data.

[1079] Output: Driving mode is adjusted according to the user's emotional state.

[1080] Step 5:

[1081] The in-car infotainment system plays music and relaxation messages according to the driver's emotions.

[1082] Input: Emotion data, music and message library.

[1083] Specific operation: The server selects appropriate music and messages based on the emotional data and sends them to the infotainment system.

[1084] Output: The infotainment system plays content according to the user's emotions.

[1085] Step 6:

[1086] The recognized emotion data and driving data are stored on a local server in the vehicle and on a central server.

[1087] Input: Emotion data, driving data.

[1088] What happens: The server collects this data and stores it in a database.

[1089] Output: The saved data will be available for future analysis and user review.

[1090] Step 7:

[1091] If a user wants to view their own data, they can check their past emotional and driving data through a smartphone app.

[1092] Input: The user request.

[1093] Specific operation: The server searches for stored data and sends it to the smartphone app upon request.

[1094] Output: User can check past emotion data and driving data.

[1095] 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.

[1096] 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.

[1097] 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.

[1098] [Third embodiment]

[1099] FIG. 5 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 310 according to the third embodiment.

[1100] 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.

[1101] 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).

[1102] 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.

[1103] 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.

[1104] 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).

[1105] 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.

[1106] 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.

[1107] 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.

[1108] 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.

[1109] 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.

[1110] 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."

[1111] This invention is a platform that matches funeral companies with users who will be holding funerals, and is a system that allows for efficient funeral preparations. The system aims to enable smooth collaboration between users and funeral companies.

[1112] Explaining program processing in natural language

[1113] 1. User Registration and Login

[1114] When a user accesses the system for the first time, they open the user registration screen from their device and register by entering the required information such as their name, email address, and password.

[1115] The registered information is validated by the server and stored in a database. Once registration is complete, the user logs in using their email address and password.

[1116] 2. Enter your request and budget

[1117] After logging in, users can proceed to a request form and enter details such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether remote service is available.

[1118] The entered information is received by the server, validated, and then stored in a database.

[1119] 3. Funeral company matching

[1120] The server searches the funeral home information in the database and lists funeral homes that match the user's requests.

[1121] Information about the listed funeral companies (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) is sent to the terminal.

[1122] 4. Compare and choose a plan

[1123] The user compares the multiple funeral plans presented and checks the detailed information of each funeral company.

[1124] After selecting the best plan, the selection is sent to the server, which notifies the funeral home of the selection.

[1125] 5. Pre-death reservation function

[1126] If a user wishes to register their funeral wishes before they die, they can enter their wishes into a special form and submit it.

[1127] The information entered is validated by the server and stored in a database in a secure format.

[1128] Specific examples

[1129] Let's take the example of User A using this system to prepare for his parent's funeral.

[1130] 1. User A registers and logs in

[1131] User A accesses the system for the first time and completes user registration by entering his / her name, email address, and password on a terminal.

[1132] After completing the registration, log in to the system using your email address and password.

[1133] 2. Enter your request and budget

[1134] After logging in, User A enters information about the desired funeral style (e.g., Buddhism), budget (e.g., 500,000 to 800,000 yen), whether remote service is possible, religion, and culture.

[1135] This information is sent to the server, validated, and then stored in a database.

[1136] 3. Funeral company matching

[1137] The server searches the database and lists five funeral companies that meet User A's requirements.

[1138] Information including plan details, costs, and reviews of each funeral company is sent to User A's terminal.

[1139] 4. Compare and choose a plan

[1140] User A compares multiple funeral plans and selects the most suitable plan based on the service content, cost, and reviews.

[1141] The selection is sent to the server and the selected funeral home is also notified.

[1142] 5. Use of pre-death reservation function

[1143] User A enters his or her funeral wishes into a dedicated form and completes the pre-death reservation.

[1144] The information entered is validated by the server and securely stored in a database.

[1145] This system allows users to prepare for funerals efficiently and with peace of mind. It also allows users to select plans that meet a variety of needs, and remote funerals and digital viewings that utilize digital technology are particularly convenient for users.

[1146] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1147] Step 1:

[1148] When a user accesses the system for the first time, they click the "User Registration" button on their terminal.

[1149] Step 2:

[1150] The device displays a user registration form and prompts the user to enter required information such as name, email address, and password.

[1151] Step 3:

[1152] The user simply enters the required information and clicks the "Submit" button.

[1153] Step 4:

[1154] The device sends the entered information to the server.

[1155] Step 5:

[1156] The server validates the received user information and, if validation is successful, saves the user information in the database.

[1157] Step 6:

[1158] After registration is complete, the server generates a "Registration Complete" message and sends it to the device.

[1159] Step 7:

[1160] Users log in through the system's login page using their email address and password.

[1161] Step 8:

[1162] The device sends the email address and password to the server.

[1163] Step 9:

[1164] The server checks the email address and password against information in a database, and if they match, generates an authentication token and returns it to the device.

[1165] Step 10:

[1166] After logging in, users proceed to the request input form and enter information such as the desired funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not remote service is available.

[1167] Step 11:

[1168] The device sends the input to the server.

[1169] Step 12:

[1170] The server validates the received request information and, if successful, stores it in the database.

[1171] Step 13:

[1172] The server searches the database for funeral company information and lists funeral companies that match the user's requirements.

[1173] Step 14:

[1174] The server sends information about the listed funeral companies (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) to the terminal.

[1175] Step 15:

[1176] The device displays the search results to the user.

[1177] Step 16:

[1178] Users can compare the multiple funeral plans presented and check detailed information about each funeral company.

[1179] Step 17:

[1180] Users simply select the plan that best suits them and click the "Select" button.

[1181] Step 18:

[1182] The device sends the selection to the server.

[1183] Step 19:

[1184] The server notifies the selected funeral home of the selection and simultaneously sends a confirmation message to the user.

[1185] Step 20:

[1186] If a user wishes to make a reservation in advance, they can enter their funeral wishes into a special form.

[1187] Step 21:

[1188] The device sends the input to the server.

[1189] Step 22:

[1190] The server validates the received request and, if successful, stores it in a database in a secure format.

[1191] Step 23:

[1192] The server will confirm that the request has been saved and send a notification message to the user.

[1193] In this way, the entire system processes smoothly, allowing users to prepare for their funeral efficiently and with peace of mind.

[1194] Example 1

[1195] 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."

[1196] Preparing for a funeral requires a great deal of time and effort, and a quick response is especially necessary when news of a death arrives suddenly. It can also be difficult to select the appropriate funeral company based on the funeral content, budget, region, and religious background. Furthermore, it is desirable to hold a funeral that accurately reflects the individual's wishes by registering their funeral wishes before death. There is also a need for remote funerals using digital technology and flexible plans that accommodate diverse religions and cultures. A system that can efficiently meet these needs is needed.

[1197] 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.

[1198] In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and validating registration information from a user, means for suggesting the most suitable funeral company based on the user's requests, means for searching a database containing funeral company information, means for presenting the search results to the user, means for accepting a selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral company, and means for receiving, validating, and saving information on pre-death reservations. This allows for quick and effective funeral preparations. It also allows for the provision of optimal funeral plans tailored to diverse needs and backgrounds, significantly improving user convenience, including new services utilizing digital technology.

[1199] "User registration information" refers to basic information such as name, email address, and password entered by the user to use the system.

[1200] "Validation" is the process of checking whether entered data conforms to format and requirements.

[1201] "User requests" refer to the entire range of conditions and requirements desired by the user, such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not remote services are available.

[1202] The "means of suggesting the most suitable funeral company" is a system that selects and suggests the funeral company that best meets the user's needs based on the information in the database.

[1203] "Means for searching the database" refers to the system's ability to search for information in the database and extract the required information.

[1204] "Means for presenting search results to users" refers to a function that displays information obtained from a database search on the user's terminal.

[1205] "Means for accepting a selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral company" refers to a mechanism for receiving information about the funeral company selected by the user and notifying the relevant funeral company of the selection.

[1206] "Information about advance reservation requests" is information that allows users to register their own funeral requests and specific wishes in advance.

[1207] A "remote funeral using digital technology" is a system that uses the internet and digital communication technology to allow people to participate in a funeral from a remote location.

[1208] "Digital Tour" is a function that allows you to check detailed information about funeral venues and other information online.

[1209] A "funeral plan that accommodates diverse religions and cultures" is a plan that provides funeral content and procedures that are appropriate for users with different religious or cultural backgrounds.

[1210] This invention is a system that allows users to efficiently prepare for a funeral. Users can input detailed requests for their own funeral or that of their relatives and select the most suitable funeral company. A pre-death reservation function also allows users to register their funeral wishes in advance. This system is composed of three elements: the user, the server, and the terminal, each of which plays an important role.

[1211] A user first accesses the system using a terminal. When a user accesses the system for the first time, a user registration screen appears and the user enters the required information such as name, email address, and password. This information is sent from the terminal to the server, where it is validated. Information that passes validation is stored in a database, and the user can then log in to the system using their email address and password.

[1212] After logging in, the user proceeds to the request input form and enters details such as the desired funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not remote support is available. This information is sent back to the server, validated, and then saved in a database. Based on the information in the database, the server creates a list of funeral companies that best match the user's requests and sends this information to the device. The user can then compare multiple plans and select the most suitable one. The selection is sent back to the server, which notifies the relevant funeral company.

[1213] The pre-death reservation feature also allows users to register their funeral wishes in advance. This information is also validated on the server and securely stored in a database. The system also uses digital technology to support remote funerals and digital viewings, and offers flexible plans to suit diverse religions and cultures.

[1214] As a concrete example, consider the case where User A uses this system to prepare for a parent's funeral. User A accesses the system for the first time and completes user registration by entering their name, email address, and password. After logging in, User A enters information about the desired funeral style (e.g., Buddhism), budget (e.g., 500,000 to 800,000 yen), whether remote support is available, and religious and cultural information. Based on this information, the server creates a list of the most suitable funeral companies and sends the information to User A's device. Finally, User A selects the most suitable plan, and the selection is notified to the funeral company via the server.

[1215] Below are some example prompts to input to a generative AI model:

[1216] 1. Prompt: "I want to build a system that will help people make funeral arrangements more efficiently. Please explain the process from user registration to matching with a funeral company."

[1217] 2. Prompt: "Tell me about the process by which users can input their desired funeral style and budget to find the best funeral company."

[1218] 3. Prompt: "This system allows people to register their funeral wishes before they die. Please explain the specific steps and how it is processed on the server."

[1219] By inputting prompt sentences such as those above into a generative AI model, it is possible to automatically generate an explanation of the system's detailed processing flow and operating procedures.

[1220] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1221] System program processing flow

[1222] Step 1: User Registration

[1223] 1.1 A user accesses the system.

[1224] Input: User's name, email address, and password

[1225] Output: Display of input form screen

[1226] 1.2 The user enters and submits registration information.

[1227] Input: Name, email address, password

[1228] Output: Information sent to the server

[1229] 1.3 The server validates the input.

[1230] Input: Submitted user registration information

[1231] Data processing: Check the format of email addresses, check password strength

[1232] Output: Validation result (pass or fail)

[1233] 1.4 The server saves the validated information to the database.

[1234] Input: User information that has passed validation

[1235] Data processing: Encryption and storage of information

[1236] Output: Registration successful notification

[1237] 1.5 The user is redirected to the login screen.

[1238] Input: None (automatic transition)

[1239] Output: Login screen displayed

[1240] Step 2: Enter your requirements and budget

[1241] 2.1 The user logs in.

[1242] Input: Email address, password

[1243] Output: Dashboard screen after successful login

[1244] 2.2 The user opens the request form.

[1245] Input: None (button operation)

[1246] Output: Display of request input form

[1247] 2.3 The user enters details about funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and remote options and submits.

[1248] Input: Funeral style, budget, religion, culture, remote availability

[1249] Data processing: converting to appropriate format, filling in missing data

[1250] Output: Send to server

[1251] 2.4 The server validates the input and saves it to the database.

[1252] Input: Request data sent

[1253] Data processing: categorizing information, checking for inconsistencies

[1254] Output: Validation result (success or failure), notification of successful save

[1255] Step 3: Matching funeral companies

[1256] 3.1 The server searches the database and lists the most suitable funeral companies.

[1257] Input: User's desired data

[1258] Data processing: Querying the database and applying matching algorithms

[1259] Output: Matching results (list of funeral companies)

[1260] 3.2 The server sends the funeral home information to the user's terminal.

[1261] Input: Matching results (list of funeral companies)

[1262] Data processing: organizing and formatting information

[1263] Output: Send to terminal, list view

[1264] Step 4: Compare and choose a plan

[1265] 4.1 A user compares multiple funeral plans.

[1266] Input: List of proposed funeral plans

[1267] Output: Comparison screen display

[1268] 4.2 The user selects the best plan and submits it.

[1269] Input: Selected plan information

[1270] Data processing: Sending selections to the system

[1271] Output: Send to server

[1272] 4.3 The server notifies the funeral home of the selection.

[1273] Input: Selected plan information

[1274] Data processing: Notification message generation

[1275] Output: Notification to funeral home

[1276] Step 5: Pre-death reservation function

[1277] 5.1 The user opens the pre-need reservation form.

[1278] Input: None (button operation)

[1279] Output: Display of pre-need reservation form

[1280] 5.2 The user enters and submits their funeral wishes.

[1281] Input: Funeral style, preferred arrangements, specific wishes

[1282] Data processing: organizing and formatting information

[1283] Output: Send to server

[1284] 5.3 The server validates the input and stores it in the database.

[1285] Input: Submitted pre-death reservation information

[1286] Data processing: categorizing information, format check

[1287] Output: Validation result (success or failure), notification of successful save

[1288] (Application example 1)

[1289] 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."

[1290] Conventional funeral planning systems have the problem that it is difficult for users to easily view and compare funeral plans in a virtual space. In addition, they are unable to provide a visual and interactive experience, which means they are unable to fully meet user needs.

[1291] 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.

[1292] In this invention, the server includes means for suggesting the most suitable funeral company based on the user's requests, means for searching a database containing information on funeral companies, means for presenting the search results to the user, means for accepting a selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral company, means for receiving and saving information on pre-death reservation requests, means for viewing, comparing, and selecting funeral plans in a visually interactive virtual space, and means for transmitting operations in the virtual space to the server and saving them in a database. This allows users to easily visually check funeral plans in the virtual space, interactively compare them, and select the most suitable plan.

[1293] "User" refers to an individual or their representative seeking to use funeral services.

[1294] "Funeral company" refers to a company or business that provides funeral-related services.

[1295] "Means of making suggestions" refers to systems and methods for analyzing users' requests and presenting the most suitable funeral company and plan options.

[1296] "Database" refers to an information storage medium or system for storing, searching, and managing information about funeral companies and user requests.

[1297] "Searching means" refers to a method or system for querying information in a database and extracting information that meets a user's requirements.

[1298] "Presentation means" refers to a method or system for displaying or communicating search results to users in an easy-to-understand manner.

[1299] "Means for accepting a selection" refers to a method or system for accepting input from a user in selecting a particular plan or funeral provider from the options presented.

[1300] "Means for notifying" refers to a system or method for communicating a user's selection to the funeral home selected by the user.

[1301] "Pre-reservation" refers to a user registering their funeral wishes in advance.

[1302] "Means for storage" refers to a system or method for safely storing pre-death reservations and selections, etc., and making them available for retrieval as needed.

[1303] "Virtual space" refers to a three-dimensional digital environment created by computer simulation.

[1304] "Interactive" refers to a mechanism that allows users and systems to interact with each other.

[1305] "Operation in virtual space" refers to actions such as input and selection that users perform within the virtual space.

[1306] A "server" refers to a computer system that processes requests from multiple users and provides the necessary information.

[1307] This invention is a system that proposes the most suitable funeral company based on the user's requests and realizes interactive funeral planning using virtual space. A specific embodiment of this system is described below.

[1308] System Overview

[1309] First, the user accesses the system using a smartphone or head-mounted display (HMD). The user registers by entering required information such as name, email address, and password. This information is validated by the server and stored in the database.

[1310] After logging in, users are directed to a request form where they enter details such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, remote availability, etc. The information entered is validated by the server and stored in a database.

[1311] The server uses the stored information to search its database for funeral companies that match the user's requests and generates a list. The generated list is sent to the user's terminal, where the user can visually check it.

[1312] Users can compare the displayed funeral plans and check detailed information about each funeral company (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) Once the most suitable plan is selected, the selection is sent to the server and the selected funeral company is also notified.

[1313] In particular, this system utilizes a virtual space, allowing users to visually inspect and interactively manipulate the funeral setup within the virtual space, providing a more tangible and realistic experience.

[1314] Hardware and software used

[1315] 1. Server: This is the central computer system of this system, which processes, stores, searches, and notifies data. The software used is Python and Flask.

[1316] 2. Smartphone: The device that users use as an interface. React Native is used for the front end.

[1317] 3. Head-mounted display (HMD): A device that allows users to enter a virtual space. VR applications using Unity run on it.

[1318] 4. Database: A system for storing information about funeral companies and users. A relational database such as MySQL is used.

[1319] What the program does

[1320] The server validates the user's input information in real time and stores it in a database. When a request is made, the server searches the database and generates the best matching results. The results are sent to the user's device, and when the user makes a selection, the selection is saved in the database and the relevant funeral home is notified.

[1321] Examples of concrete examples and prompts

[1322] For example, suppose User A uses this system to prepare for a parent's funeral. After logging in, User A requests a Buddhist-style funeral with a budget of 500,000 to 800,000 yen, and enters this information into the system. The server then lists information on five funeral companies that match User A's requests and sends this to User A's terminal.

[1323] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1324] Create specific instructions for a virtual funeral planning system that allows users to select a Buddhist-style funeral and set a budget of 500,000 to 800,000 yen.

[1325] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1326] Step 1: User Registration and Login

[1327] Users access the system using a smartphone or head-mounted display and enter necessary information such as their name, email address, and password. The entered information is sent from the device to the server.

[1328] The server validates the information it receives and stores it in a database, including checking the format of the email address and the strength of the password.

[1329] If validation is successful, user registration is complete and the user logs in using their email address and password. The login information is verified on the server, and only if authentication is successful will the screen to proceed to the next step be displayed on the terminal.

[1330] Step 2: Enter your requirements and budget

[1331] After logging in, users proceed to the request input form and enter details such as the desired funeral style, budget, religion, culture, whether remote support is available, etc. The entered information is sent from the terminal to the server.

[1332] The server validates the information it receives and stores it in a database, including ensuring the budget is reasonable and the style and religion choices are correct.

[1333] If validation is successful, instructions for proceeding to the next step will be displayed on the terminal.

[1334] Step 3: Matching funeral companies

[1335] The server searches the database for funeral company information and lists funeral companies that match the user's requirements, using criteria such as style, budget, religion, culture, and remote support provided by the user.

[1336] The search results (a list of funeral companies) are sent to the terminal, where the user can visually check them.

[1337] Step 4: Compare and choose a plan

[1338] The user compares the multiple funeral plans presented and checks the detailed information of each funeral company (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.). After checking, the user selects the most suitable plan. These operations are performed on the device, and the selection results are sent from the device to the server.

[1339] The server receives the selection and notifies the funeral home of the selected plan, including details of the customer's selection and contact information.

[1340] Step 5: Pre-death reservation function

[1341] When a user wishes to register their funeral wishes before they die, they enter their wishes into a special form and submit it. This information is then sent from the terminal to the server.

[1342] The server validates the information it receives and stores it securely in a database. Validation includes ensuring that the information entered is accurate and complete.

[1343] The stored information is managed so that it can be retrieved or updated later as needed.

[1344] Step 6: Use visual and interactive virtual spaces

[1345] Users can use the virtual space to interactively view, compare, and select funeral plans. This operation is mainly performed using a head-mounted display, but some operations can also be performed using a smartphone.

[1346] The actions performed in the virtual space are detected by the device and transmitted in real time to the server, which then receives the data, stores it in a database, and updates search results as needed.

[1347] The results of the user's operations in the virtual space are interactively fed back to support the selection of the optimal plan.

[1348] 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.

[1349] This invention is a system that combines an emotion engine with a platform that matches funeral companies with users who will be holding funerals. The system aims to recognize users' emotions and propose optimal funeral plans and responses. By using the emotion engine, it becomes possible to provide detailed services that correspond to the users' emotions.

[1350] Explaining program processing in natural language

[1351] 1. User Registration and Login

[1352] When a user accesses the system for the first time, he or she opens the user registration screen from the terminal and registers by entering the necessary information.

[1353] The registered information is validated by the server and stored in a database. Once registration is complete, the user logs in using their email address and password.

[1354] 2. Enter your request and budget

[1355] After logging in, users can proceed to a request form and enter details such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether remote service is available.

[1356] The entered information is received by the server, validated, and then stored in a database.

[1357] 3. Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[1358] The emotion engine analyzes facial and voice data obtained from the device's built-in camera and microphone, recognizing the user's emotions in real time.

[1359] The recognized emotion data is sent to a server for further analysis.

[1360] 4. Matching funeral companies and dealing with emotions

[1361] The server searches for funeral company information in a database and lists the most suitable funeral companies based on the user's requests and recognized emotion data.

[1362] Information about the listed funeral companies (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) is sent to the terminal.

[1363] 5. Compare and choose a plan

[1364] Users can compare multiple funeral plans presented to them and receive additional suggestions based on their emotional data.

[1365] After selecting the best plan, the selection is sent to the server, which notifies the funeral home of the selection.

[1366] 6. Pre-death reservation function

[1367] If a user wishes to register their funeral wishes before they die, they can enter their wishes into a special form and submit it.

[1368] The information entered is validated by the server and stored in a database in a secure format.

[1369] Specific examples

[1370] Let's take the example of User A using this system to prepare for his parent's funeral.

[1371] 1. User A registers and logs in

[1372] User A accesses the system for the first time and completes user registration by entering his / her name, email address, and password on a terminal.

[1373] After completing the registration, log in to the system using your email address and password.

[1374] 2. Enter your request and budget

[1375] After logging in, User A enters information about the desired funeral style (e.g., Buddhism), budget (e.g., 500,000 to 800,000 yen), whether remote service is possible, religion, and culture.

[1376] This information is sent to the server, validated, and then stored in a database.

[1377] 3. Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[1378] The emotion engine uses the device's camera and microphone to analyze the facial expressions and tone of voice of User A. For example, if it detects an anxious expression or tone of voice, that information is sent to the server.

[1379] The server analyzes this emotional data and prepares appropriate support content according to the user's condition.

[1380] 4. Matching funeral companies and dealing with emotions

[1381] The server searches the database and lists funeral companies that can provide appropriate support and additional services based on User A's requests and recognized emotional data.

[1382] The listed funeral home information is sent to User A's terminal.

[1383] 5. Compare and choose a plan

[1384] User A compares the multiple funeral plans presented and selects the most suitable one from the proposed plans. For example, if the user continues to show signs of anxiety, a plan that includes counseling services is proposed.

[1385] The selection is sent to the server and the selected funeral home is also notified.

[1386] 6. Use of pre-death reservation function

[1387] User A enters his or her funeral wishes into a dedicated form and completes the pre-death reservation.

[1388] The information entered is validated by the server and securely stored in a database.

[1389] This system allows users to prepare for funerals efficiently and with peace of mind. The system's built-in emotion engine allows for detailed services tailored to the user's emotions, allowing them to select plans that meet a variety of needs. Remote funerals and digital viewings, which utilize digital technology, are particularly convenient for users.

[1390] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1391] Step 1:

[1392] When a user accesses the system for the first time, they click the "User Registration" button on their terminal.

[1393] Step 2:

[1394] The device displays a user registration form and prompts the user to enter required information such as name, email address, and password.

[1395] Step 3:

[1396] The user simply enters the required information and clicks the "Submit" button.

[1397] Step 4:

[1398] The device sends the entered information to the server.

[1399] Step 5:

[1400] The server validates the received user information and, if validation is successful, saves the user information in the database.

[1401] Step 6:

[1402] After registration is complete, the server generates a "Registration Complete" message and sends it to the device.

[1403] Step 7:

[1404] Users log in through the system's login page using their email address and password.

[1405] Step 8:

[1406] The device sends the email address and password to the server.

[1407] Step 9:

[1408] The server checks the email address and password against information in a database, and if they match, generates an authentication token and returns it to the device.

[1409] Step 10:

[1410] After logging in, users proceed to the request input form and enter information such as the desired funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not remote service is available.

[1411] Step 11:

[1412] The device sends the input to the server.

[1413] Step 12:

[1414] The server validates the received request information and, if successful, stores it in the database.

[1415] Step 13:

[1416] The server searches the database for funeral company information and lists funeral companies that match the user's requirements.

[1417] Step 14:

[1418] The server sends information about the listed funeral companies (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) to the terminal.

[1419] Step 15:

[1420] The device displays the search results to the user.

[1421] Step 16:

[1422] Users can compare the multiple funeral plans presented and check detailed information about each funeral company.

[1423] Step 17:

[1424] The emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and tone of voice through the device's camera and microphone.

[1425] Step 18:

[1426] The emotion engine analyzes the emotion data and sends it to the server.

[1427] Step 19:

[1428] The server analyzes the emotional data and prepares the optimal plan proposal based on the user's emotions.

[1429] Step 20:

[1430] Users can review additional plans and support content suggested based on their emotional data and select the plan that best suits them.

[1431] Step 20:

[1432] The device sends the selection to the server.

[1433] Step 22:

[1434] The server notifies the selected funeral home of the details of the selected plan and simultaneously sends a confirmation message to the user.

[1435] Step 23:

[1436] If a user wishes to make a reservation in advance, they can enter their funeral wishes into a special form.

[1437] Step 24:

[1438] The device sends the input to the server.

[1439] Step 25:

[1440] The server validates the received request and, if successful, stores it in a database in a secure format.

[1441] Step 26:

[1442] The server will confirm that the request has been saved and send a notification message to the user.

[1443] Example 2

[1444] 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."

[1445] In modern society, preparing for a funeral is a delicate and complex process, requiring detailed support that is sensitive to the user's emotions. Conventional systems provide suggestions based on the user's requests and budget, but they lack consideration for the user's emotional state. This often leads to anxiety and stress during the funeral preparation process. Furthermore, challenges remain in providing plans that accommodate remote funerals and diverse religious and cultural backgrounds.

[1446] The specification processing by the specification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for proposing the most suitable funeral service provider based on the user's requests, means for searching a database containing information on funeral service providers, means for presenting the search results to the user, means for accepting the user's selection and notifying the selected funeral service provider, means including an emotion recognition engine for recognizing and analyzing the user's emotions, means for proposing the most suitable funeral plan and handling based on the emotion data analyzed by the emotion recognition engine, and means for receiving and storing information on pre-death reservation requests. This makes it possible to provide the most suitable funeral plan that is in line with the user's emotions, and also makes it possible to realize remote funerals using digital technology and plans that accommodate diverse religions and cultures.

[1447] "User requests" refers to the specific conditions and wishes that users have regarding their funeral, such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not it can be handled remotely.

[1448] A "funeral service provider" is a company or organization that provides funeral services based on the user's requests.

[1449] "Database" refers to an information management system for managing and storing information on funeral service providers, user requests, emotional data, etc.

[1450] An "emotion recognition engine" refers to software or algorithms that analyze a user's facial expressions and voice data obtained from devices such as cameras and microphones, and recognize their emotions.

[1451] "Pre-death reservations" refers to users registering their funeral wishes in advance.

[1452] "Remote funerals" refer to services that use the internet and digital technology to allow people to participate in funerals from remote locations and watch the funeral proceedings in real time.

[1453] An "optimal funeral plan" refers to a plan that proposes the most suitable funeral content and structure for the user based on the user's requests and emotional data.

[1454] "Plans that accommodate diverse religions and cultures" refers to plans that provide services that incorporate funeral formats, rituals, and practices that correspond to different religious backgrounds and cultures.

[1455] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[1456] This invention is a system that combines an emotion engine with a platform that matches funeral companies with users who will be holding funerals. The system aims to recognize users' emotions and propose optimal funeral plans and responses. This system integrates user requests, emotion data, and information on funeral service providers to achieve optimal matching.

[1457] System Overview

[1458] User Registration and Login

[1459] When a user accesses the system for the first time, a user registration screen appears on the terminal, and the user enters the required information such as name, email address, and password.

[1460] The device sends the entered information to the server, which validates it and stores it in a database. Once the user has completed registration, they can log in using their email address and password.

[1461] Enter your request and budget

[1462] After logging in, users can proceed to a request form and enter details such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether remote service is available.

[1463] The terminal sends this information to the server, which validates it and then stores it in a database.

[1464] Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[1465] The user's facial expressions and voice data are acquired through the device's built-in camera (e.g., Logitech C920) and microphone (e.g., Blue Yeti).

[1466] The acquired data is analyzed in real time by an emotion engine (e.g., Microsoft Azure Emotion API).

[1467] The device transmits the analysis results to the server, which further analyzes them to assess the user's emotional state.

[1468] Matching funeral companies and dealing with emotions

[1469] The server searches the database and lists the most suitable funeral service providers based on the user's requests and emotional data.

[1470] The listed information is sent to the user's terminal and presented to the user.

[1471] Compare and choose a plan

[1472] The user compares the multiple funeral plans presented and selects the most suitable plan.

[1473] The terminal transmits the selected plan information to the server, which then notifies the selected funeral service provider.

[1474] Pre-death reservation function

[1475] If a user wishes to make a pre-death reservation, they enter their desired details into a dedicated form, and the terminal sends this to the server.

[1476] The server validates the submitted information and stores it in a database in a secure format.

[1477] Specific examples

[1478] Below is a specific example of User A using the system to prepare for his parent's funeral.

[1479] 1. User A enters their name, email address, and password on their device to complete user registration and then logs in.

[1480] 2. After logging in, User A enters information such as the desired funeral style, budget, and whether remote support is available.

[1481] 3. The device's camera and microphone are used to capture User A's emotional data, which is then analyzed by the emotion engine. If an anxious expression or tone of voice is detected, that information is sent to the server.

[1482] 4. The server creates a list of the most suitable funeral service providers based on User A's requests and emotional data, and sends the information to the terminal.

[1483] 5. User A compares the multiple funeral plans presented and selects the most suitable one. For example, if the user continues to look anxious, a plan that includes counseling services will be suggested.

[1484] 6. User A enters their funeral wishes into a dedicated form and completes their pre-death reservation.

[1485] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1486] "I would like to know the best funeral plan for preparing my parent's funeral. The style should be Buddhist, with a budget of 500,000 to 800,000 yen. Please also consider whether the funeral can be held remotely."

[1487] By incorporating various digital technologies and an emotion recognition engine, the system is able to propose detailed funeral plans to users and allows them to select plans that meet a variety of needs, enabling them to prepare for a funeral efficiently and with peace of mind.

[1488] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1489] Step 1: User Registration and Login

[1490] Input: Name, Email Address, Password

[1491] The terminal displays a user registration screen when the user accesses it for the first time.

[1492] The user enters their name, email address, and password and clicks the "Register" button.

[1493] The terminal sends this information to the server.

[1494] The server validates the submitted information and stores it in a database if the registration information is correct.

[1495] Output: Registration complete message

[1496] The terminal displays a message to the user indicating that registration is complete.

[1497] Users log in to the system using their email address and password.

[1498] Input: Login information (email address, password)

[1499] The terminal sends this information to the server, and if validation is successful, the user is logged in.

[1500] Output: Login successful message

[1501] Step 2: Enter your requirements and budget

[1502] Input: Funeral style, budget, religion, culture, remote availability

[1503] After logging in, the user proceeds to the request input form and enters the necessary information.

[1504] The terminal transmits the input information to the server.

[1505] The server validates the submitted request information to ensure it is in the correct format.

[1506] If validation is successful, save the information to the database.

[1507] Output: Message that request information has been saved

[1508] The terminal displays a message to the user indicating that the requested information has been saved.

[1509] Step 3: Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[1510] Input: facial expression data, voice data

[1511] The device's camera and microphone are used to capture the user's facial expressions and voice data.

[1512] What it does: The camera captures the user's face and the microphone records their voice.

[1513] The acquired data is sent to the emotion engine and analyzed in real time.

[1514] The terminal transmits the analysis results to the server.

[1515] The server analyzes the parsed emotion data and evaluates the user's emotional state.

[1516] Output: Analysis results of emotion data

[1517] The server prepares emotional suggestions.

[1518] Step 4: Matching funeral companies and managing emotions

[1519] Input: Request information, emotion data

[1520] The server searches the database and lists the most suitable funeral service providers based on the user's requests and emotional data.

[1521] Specific operation: Match the request information with the emotion data and extract information on funeral service providers that meet the criteria from the database.

[1522] The listed information is sent to the user's terminal.

[1523] Output: A list of the best funeral service providers

[1524] The terminal displays this list to the user.

[1525] Step 5: Compare and choose a plan

[1526] Input: Funeral plan list

[1527] The user can compare the listed funeral plans and check the details.

[1528] What it does: Displays plan details and provides an interface that allows the user to select a plan.

[1529] The user selects the most suitable plan.

[1530] The terminal transmits the selected plan information to the server.

[1531] The server notifies the selected funeral service provider.

[1532] Output: Selected plan information, notification to funeral service provider

[1533] Step 6: Pre-death booking function

[1534] Input: Pre-death reservation details

[1535] If a user wishes to make a pre-death reservation, they enter their desired details into a dedicated form.

[1536] The terminal transmits the input information to the server.

[1537] The server validates the submitted information and stores it securely in a database.

[1538] Specific behavior: Check and save input information

[1539] Output: Message confirming pre-death reservation information has been saved

[1540] The terminal displays a message to the user indicating that the pre-death reservation has been completed.

[1541] (Application example 2)

[1542] 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."

[1543] Conventional funeral services have been unable to fully consider the emotional state of the user, making it difficult to select the optimal plan and provide the service. In addition, when users are in situations where they feel anxious or stressed, they are unable to provide appropriate support, which leads to a decrease in satisfaction.

[1544] The specification processing by the specification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for proposing the most suitable funeral company based on the user's requests, means for searching a database containing information on funeral companies, means for presenting the search results to the user, means for accepting the user's selection and notifying the selected funeral company, means for receiving and saving information on desired pre-death reservations, means for recognizing the user's emotions, and means for proposing the most suitable service based on the user's emotional data. This makes it possible to propose the most suitable funeral plan and provide the service based on the user's emotional state.

[1545] "User" refers to an individual or corporation that uses the system and is a customer who receives funeral-related services.

[1546] "Funeral company" refers to a business or organization that provides funeral and related services.

[1547] "Means of suggestion" refers to the way the system presents the most suitable funeral companies and services based on the user's requests and feelings.

[1548] "Database" refers to a system for systematically storing and managing funeral company information.

[1549] "Searching means" refers to the method of searching for appropriate information from a database based on the user's request.

[1550] "Means of presentation" refers to the method by which search results are visually or audibly presented to the user.

[1551] "Means for accepting selections" refers to methods that support the user in selecting the funeral company and plan of their choice from the options presented.

[1552] "Means of notification" refers to the function of communicating the user's selection to the funeral home.

[1553] "Pre-death reservations" refers to users registering their wishes regarding their future funerals in advance.

[1554] "Means for recognizing emotions" refers to a method of analyzing biometric information such as the user's facial expressions and voice to identify their current emotional state.

[1555] "Emotional data" refers to information that represents the user's emotional state as recognized by the system.

[1556] "Optimal service" refers to the service content that best matches the user's emotional state and needs.

[1557] To explain this process, we use the example of an emotion response system for an autonomous vehicle. We will describe each component of the system and its processing method.

[1558] System Configuration

[1559] The system includes the following major hardware and software components:

[1560] 1. Hardware:

[1561] Cameras and microphones (to capture real-time emotion data in the vehicle)

[1562] In-vehicle computer (local server)

[1563] Center computer (central server)

[1564] 2. Software:

[1565] Emotion recognition engine (for example, using Microsoft Azure's Emotion API or Google Cloud Speech-to-Text)

[1566] Database management systems (for example, PostgreSQL or MongoDB)

[1567] In-car infotainment system (custom interface based on Android Auto or Apple CarPlay)

[1568] Specific examples

[1569] Application example of emotion recognition system in autonomous driving vehicles

[1570] Application Overview

[1571] Name: Emotion-responsive autonomous vehicle service

[1572] Overview: This system uses cameras and microphones installed inside autonomous vehicles to recognize the emotions of the user while they are in the vehicle, and adjusts music, messages, and even driving mode according to that emotional state.

[1573] Program processing

[1574] Below is the program flow for emotion-aware autonomous vehicle services:

[1575] 1. User Registration and Login

[1576] The user opens the user registration screen through the vehicle's infotainment system and registers by entering their name, email address, and password.

[1577] The registration data is validated on a local server in the vehicle and then sent to the autonomous vehicle's central server, where it is stored in a database.

[1578] 2. Enter the settings

[1579] After the user logs in, they can set their music preferences, notification sound type, preferred driving mode (e.g. Eco, Sport, Relax), etc.

[1580] The configured information is stored on a local server and backed up to a central server.

[1581] 3. Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[1582] Cameras and microphones inside the self-driving vehicle analyze the user's facial expressions and tone of voice in real time.

[1583] An emotion recognition engine runs in the car and uses this data to recognize the user's emotional state.

[1584] 4. Driving mode and entertainment adjustments

[1585] Based on the recognized emotional data, the autonomous driving system will adjust the driving mode, for example, switching to safe driving mode if an anxious state is detected.

[1586] At the same time, the car's infotainment system plays music and relaxation messages according to the driver's emotions.

[1587] 5. Data storage and future analysis

[1588] The recognized emotion data and driving data are stored on a local server in the vehicle and on a central server.

[1589] If users want to view their own data, they can check their past emotional and driving data through a smartphone app.

[1590] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1591] Below are some example prompts for using generative AI models with emotion recognition engines:

[1592] "My name is User A. I am using an emotion recognition system for a self-driving vehicle. Please advise me on what driving mode and music are appropriate for my current emotions."

[1593] This system will enable users to have a more comfortable and personalized riding experience, and is expected to improve safety through appropriate responses based on emotions.

[1594] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1595] Step 1:

[1596] The user opens the user registration screen through the vehicle's infotainment system and registers by entering their name, email address, and password.

[1597] Input: Name, Email Address, Password.

[1598] Specific operation: The device collects input data and sends it to the server.

[1599] Output: Registration data is validated on a local server in the vehicle and stored in a database on a central server.

[1600] Step 2:

[1601] After the user logs in, they enter settings such as music preferences, notification sound type, and preferred driving mode (e.g., Eco, Sport, Relax).

[1602] Input: Music preferences, notification sound type, driving mode settings.

[1603] Specific operation: The device collects configuration data and sends it to a local server.

[1604] Output: Configuration data is saved to a local server and backed up to a central server.

[1605] Step 3:

[1606] Cameras and microphones inside the self-driving vehicle capture the user's facial expressions and tone of voice in real time and send them to an emotion recognition engine.

[1607] Input: Real-time video and audio data from cameras and microphones.

[1608] What it does: The device collects this data and sends it to an emotion recognition engine.

[1609] Output: An emotion recognition engine analyzes the data and identifies the user's emotional state.

[1610] Step 4:

[1611] Based on the recognized emotional data, the autonomous driving system adjusts the driving mode.

[1612] Input: Emotion data.

[1613] Specific operation: The server receives emotion data and sends the driving mode setting (safe driving mode, etc.) to the autonomous driving system based on that data.

[1614] Output: Driving mode is adjusted according to the user's emotional state.

[1615] Step 5:

[1616] The in-car infotainment system plays music and relaxation messages according to the driver's emotions.

[1617] Input: Emotion data, music and message library.

[1618] Specific operation: The server selects appropriate music and messages based on the emotional data and sends them to the infotainment system.

[1619] Output: The infotainment system plays content according to the user's emotions.

[1620] Step 6:

[1621] The recognized emotion data and driving data are stored on a local server in the vehicle and on a central server.

[1622] Input: Emotion data, driving data.

[1623] What happens: The server collects this data and stores it in a database.

[1624] Output: The saved data will be available for future analysis and user review.

[1625] Step 7:

[1626] If a user wants to view their own data, they can check their past emotional and driving data through a smartphone app.

[1627] Input: The user request.

[1628] Specific operation: The server searches for stored data and sends it to the smartphone app upon request.

[1629] Output: User can check past emotion data and driving data.

[1630] 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.

[1631] 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.

[1632] 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.

[1633] [Fourth embodiment]

[1634] FIG. 7 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 410 according to the fourth embodiment.

[1635] 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.

[1636] 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).

[1637] 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.

[1638] 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.

[1639] 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).

[1640] 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.

[1641] 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.

[1642] 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.

[1643] 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.

[1644] 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.

[1645] 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.

[1646] 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."

[1647] This invention is a platform that matches funeral companies with users who will be holding funerals, and is a system that allows for efficient funeral preparations. The system aims to enable smooth collaboration between users and funeral companies.

[1648] Explaining program processing in natural language

[1649] 1. User Registration and Login

[1650] When a user accesses the system for the first time, they open the user registration screen from their device and register by entering the required information such as their name, email address, and password.

[1651] The registered information is validated by the server and stored in a database. Once registration is complete, the user logs in using their email address and password.

[1652] 2. Enter your request and budget

[1653] After logging in, users can proceed to a request form and enter details such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether remote service is available.

[1654] The entered information is received by the server, validated, and then stored in a database.

[1655] 3. Funeral company matching

[1656] The server searches the funeral home information in the database and lists funeral homes that match the user's requests.

[1657] Information about the listed funeral companies (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) is sent to the terminal.

[1658] 4. Compare and choose a plan

[1659] The user compares the multiple funeral plans presented and checks the detailed information of each funeral company.

[1660] After selecting the best plan, the selection is sent to the server, which notifies the funeral home of the selection.

[1661] 5. Pre-death reservation function

[1662] If a user wishes to register their funeral wishes before they die, they can enter their wishes into a special form and submit it.

[1663] The information entered is validated by the server and stored in a database in a secure format.

[1664] Specific examples

[1665] Let's take the example of User A using this system to prepare for his parent's funeral.

[1666] 1. User A registers and logs in

[1667] User A accesses the system for the first time and completes user registration by entering his / her name, email address, and password on a terminal.

[1668] After completing the registration, log in to the system using your email address and password.

[1669] 2. Enter your request and budget

[1670] After logging in, User A enters information about the desired funeral style (e.g., Buddhism), budget (e.g., 500,000 to 800,000 yen), whether remote service is possible, religion, and culture.

[1671] This information is sent to the server, validated, and then stored in a database.

[1672] 3. Funeral company matching

[1673] The server searches the database and lists five funeral companies that meet User A's requirements.

[1674] Information including plan details, costs, and reviews of each funeral company is sent to User A's terminal.

[1675] 4. Compare and choose a plan

[1676] User A compares multiple funeral plans and selects the most suitable plan based on the service content, cost, and reviews.

[1677] The selection is sent to the server and the selected funeral home is also notified.

[1678] 5. Use of pre-death reservation function

[1679] User A enters his or her funeral wishes into a dedicated form and completes the pre-death reservation.

[1680] The information entered is validated by the server and securely stored in a database.

[1681] This system allows users to prepare for funerals efficiently and with peace of mind. It also allows users to select plans that meet a variety of needs, and remote funerals and digital viewings that utilize digital technology are particularly convenient for users.

[1682] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1683] Step 1:

[1684] When a user accesses the system for the first time, they click the "User Registration" button on their terminal.

[1685] Step 2:

[1686] The device displays a user registration form and prompts the user to enter required information such as name, email address, and password.

[1687] Step 3:

[1688] The user simply enters the required information and clicks the "Submit" button.

[1689] Step 4:

[1690] The device sends the entered information to the server.

[1691] Step 5:

[1692] The server validates the received user information and, if validation is successful, saves the user information in the database.

[1693] Step 6:

[1694] After registration is complete, the server generates a "Registration Complete" message and sends it to the device.

[1695] Step 7:

[1696] Users log in through the system's login page using their email address and password.

[1697] Step 8:

[1698] The device sends the email address and password to the server.

[1699] Step 9:

[1700] The server checks the email address and password against information in a database, and if they match, generates an authentication token and returns it to the device.

[1701] Step 10:

[1702] After logging in, users proceed to the request input form and enter information such as the desired funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not remote service is available.

[1703] Step 11:

[1704] The device sends the input to the server.

[1705] Step 12:

[1706] The server validates the received request information and, if successful, stores it in the database.

[1707] Step 13:

[1708] The server searches the database for funeral company information and lists funeral companies that match the user's requirements.

[1709] Step 14:

[1710] The server sends information about the listed funeral companies (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) to the terminal.

[1711] Step 15:

[1712] The device displays the search results to the user.

[1713] Step 16:

[1714] Users can compare the multiple funeral plans presented and check detailed information about each funeral company.

[1715] Step 17:

[1716] Users simply select the plan that best suits them and click the "Select" button.

[1717] Step 18:

[1718] The device sends the selection to the server.

[1719] Step 19:

[1720] The server notifies the selected funeral home of the selection and simultaneously sends a confirmation message to the user.

[1721] Step 20:

[1722] If a user wishes to make a reservation in advance, they can enter their funeral wishes into a special form.

[1723] Step 21:

[1724] The device sends the input to the server.

[1725] Step 22:

[1726] The server validates the received request and, if successful, stores it in a database in a secure format.

[1727] Step 23:

[1728] The server will confirm that the request has been saved and send a notification message to the user.

[1729] In this way, the entire system processes smoothly, allowing users to prepare for their funeral efficiently and with peace of mind.

[1730] Example 1

[1731] Next, a description will be given of Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the robot 414 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[1732] Preparing for a funeral requires a great deal of time and effort, and a quick response is especially necessary when news of a death arrives suddenly. It can also be difficult to select the appropriate funeral company based on the funeral content, budget, region, and religious background. Furthermore, it is desirable to hold a funeral that accurately reflects the individual's wishes by registering their funeral wishes before death. There is also a need for remote funerals using digital technology and flexible plans that accommodate diverse religions and cultures. A system that can efficiently meet these needs is needed.

[1733] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the first embodiment is realized by the following means.

[1734] In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and validating registration information from a user, means for suggesting the most suitable funeral company based on the user's requests, means for searching a database containing funeral company information, means for presenting the search results to the user, means for accepting a selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral company, and means for receiving, validating, and saving information on pre-death reservations. This allows for quick and effective funeral preparations. It also allows for the provision of optimal funeral plans tailored to diverse needs and backgrounds, significantly improving user convenience, including new services utilizing digital technology.

[1735] "User registration information" refers to basic information such as name, email address, and password entered by the user to use the system.

[1736] "Validation" is the process of checking whether entered data conforms to format and requirements.

[1737] "User requests" refer to the entire range of conditions and requirements desired by the user, such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not remote services are available.

[1738] The "means of suggesting the most suitable funeral company" is a system that selects and suggests the funeral company that best meets the user's needs based on the information in the database.

[1739] "Means for searching the database" refers to the system's ability to search for information in the database and extract the required information.

[1740] "Means for presenting search results to users" refers to a function that displays information obtained from a database search on the user's terminal.

[1741] "Means for accepting a selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral company" refers to a mechanism for receiving information about the funeral company selected by the user and notifying the relevant funeral company of the selection.

[1742] "Information about advance reservation requests" is information that allows users to register their own funeral requests and specific wishes in advance.

[1743] A "remote funeral using digital technology" is a system that uses the internet and digital communication technology to allow people to participate in a funeral from a remote location.

[1744] "Digital Tour" is a function that allows you to check detailed information about funeral venues and other information online.

[1745] A "funeral plan that accommodates diverse religions and cultures" is a plan that provides funeral content and procedures that are appropriate for users with different religious or cultural backgrounds.

[1746] This invention is a system that allows users to efficiently prepare for a funeral. Users can input detailed requests for their own funeral or that of their relatives and select the most suitable funeral company. A pre-death reservation function also allows users to register their funeral wishes in advance. This system is composed of three elements: the user, the server, and the terminal, each of which plays an important role.

[1747] A user first accesses the system using a terminal. When a user accesses the system for the first time, a user registration screen appears and the user enters the required information such as name, email address, and password. This information is sent from the terminal to the server, where it is validated. Information that passes validation is stored in a database, and the user can then log in to the system using their email address and password.

[1748] After logging in, the user proceeds to the request input form and enters details such as the desired funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not remote support is available. This information is sent back to the server, validated, and then saved in a database. Based on the information in the database, the server creates a list of funeral companies that best match the user's requests and sends this information to the device. The user can then compare multiple plans and select the most suitable one. The selection is sent back to the server, which notifies the relevant funeral company.

[1749] The pre-death reservation feature also allows users to register their funeral wishes in advance. This information is also validated on the server and securely stored in a database. The system also uses digital technology to support remote funerals and digital viewings, and offers flexible plans to suit diverse religions and cultures.

[1750] As a concrete example, consider the case where User A uses this system to prepare for a parent's funeral. User A accesses the system for the first time and completes user registration by entering their name, email address, and password. After logging in, User A enters information about the desired funeral style (e.g., Buddhism), budget (e.g., 500,000 to 800,000 yen), whether remote support is available, and religious and cultural information. Based on this information, the server creates a list of the most suitable funeral companies and sends the information to User A's device. Finally, User A selects the most suitable plan, and the selection is notified to the funeral company via the server.

[1751] Below are some example prompts to input to a generative AI model:

[1752] 1. Prompt: "I want to build a system that will help people make funeral arrangements more efficiently. Please explain the process from user registration to matching with a funeral company."

[1753] 2. Prompt: "Tell me about the process by which users can input their desired funeral style and budget to find the best funeral company."

[1754] 3. Prompt: "This system allows people to register their funeral wishes before they die. Please explain the specific steps and how it is processed on the server."

[1755] By inputting prompt sentences such as those above into a generative AI model, it is possible to automatically generate an explanation of the system's detailed processing flow and operating procedures.

[1756] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1757] System program processing flow

[1758] Step 1: User Registration

[1759] 1.1 A user accesses the system.

[1760] Input: User's name, email address, and password

[1761] Output: Display of input form screen

[1762] 1.2 The user enters and submits registration information.

[1763] Input: Name, email address, password

[1764] Output: Information sent to the server

[1765] 1.3 The server validates the input.

[1766] Input: Submitted user registration information

[1767] Data processing: Check the format of email addresses, check password strength

[1768] Output: Validation result (pass or fail)

[1769] 1.4 The server saves the validated information to the database.

[1770] Input: User information that has passed validation

[1771] Data processing: Encryption and storage of information

[1772] Output: Registration successful notification

[1773] 1.5 The user is redirected to the login screen.

[1774] Input: None (automatic transition)

[1775] Output: Login screen displayed

[1776] Step 2: Enter your requirements and budget

[1777] 2.1 The user logs in.

[1778] Input: Email address, password

[1779] Output: Dashboard screen after successful login

[1780] 2.2 The user opens the request form.

[1781] Input: None (button operation)

[1782] Output: Display of request input form

[1783] 2.3 The user enters details about funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and remote options and submits.

[1784] Input: Funeral style, budget, religion, culture, remote availability

[1785] Data processing: converting to appropriate format, filling in missing data

[1786] Output: Send to server

[1787] 2.4 The server validates the input and saves it to the database.

[1788] Input: Request data sent

[1789] Data processing: categorizing information, checking for inconsistencies

[1790] Output: Validation result (success or failure), notification of successful save

[1791] Step 3: Matching funeral companies

[1792] 3.1 The server searches the database and lists the most suitable funeral companies.

[1793] Input: User's desired data

[1794] Data processing: Querying the database and applying matching algorithms

[1795] Output: Matching results (list of funeral companies)

[1796] 3.2 The server sends the funeral home information to the user's terminal.

[1797] Input: Matching results (list of funeral companies)

[1798] Data processing: organizing and formatting information

[1799] Output: Send to terminal, list view

[1800] Step 4: Compare and choose a plan

[1801] 4.1 A user compares multiple funeral plans.

[1802] Input: List of proposed funeral plans

[1803] Output: Comparison screen display

[1804] 4.2 The user selects the best plan and submits it.

[1805] Input: Selected plan information

[1806] Data processing: Sending selections to the system

[1807] Output: Send to server

[1808] 4.3 The server notifies the funeral home of the selection.

[1809] Input: Selected plan information

[1810] Data processing: Notification message generation

[1811] Output: Notification to funeral home

[1812] Step 5: Pre-death reservation function

[1813] 5.1 The user opens the pre-need reservation form.

[1814] Input: None (button operation)

[1815] Output: Display of pre-need reservation form

[1816] 5.2 The user enters and submits their funeral wishes.

[1817] Input: Funeral style, preferred arrangements, specific wishes

[1818] Data processing: organizing and formatting information

[1819] Output: Send to server

[1820] 5.3 The server validates the input and stores it in the database.

[1821] Input: Submitted pre-death reservation information

[1822] Data processing: categorizing information, format check

[1823] Output: Validation result (success or failure), notification of successful save

[1824] (Application example 1)

[1825] 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."

[1826] Conventional funeral planning systems have the problem that it is difficult for users to easily view and compare funeral plans in a virtual space. In addition, they are unable to provide a visual and interactive experience, which means they are unable to fully meet user needs.

[1827] 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.

[1828] In this invention, the server includes means for suggesting the most suitable funeral company based on the user's requests, means for searching a database containing information on funeral companies, means for presenting the search results to the user, means for accepting a selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral company, means for receiving and saving information on pre-death reservation requests, means for viewing, comparing, and selecting funeral plans in a visually interactive virtual space, and means for transmitting operations in the virtual space to the server and saving them in a database. This allows users to easily visually check funeral plans in the virtual space, interactively compare them, and select the most suitable plan.

[1829] "User" refers to an individual or their representative seeking to use funeral services.

[1830] "Funeral company" refers to a company or business that provides funeral-related services.

[1831] "Means of making suggestions" refers to systems and methods for analyzing users' requests and presenting the most suitable funeral company and plan options.

[1832] "Database" refers to an information storage medium or system for storing, searching, and managing information about funeral companies and user requests.

[1833] "Searching means" refers to a method or system for querying information in a database and extracting information that meets a user's requirements.

[1834] "Presentation means" refers to a method or system for displaying or communicating search results to users in an easy-to-understand manner.

[1835] "Means for accepting a selection" refers to a method or system for accepting input from a user in selecting a particular plan or funeral provider from the options presented.

[1836] "Means for notifying" refers to a system or method for communicating a user's selection to the funeral home selected by the user.

[1837] "Pre-reservation" refers to a user registering their funeral wishes in advance.

[1838] "Means for storage" refers to a system or method for safely storing pre-death reservations and selections, etc., and making them available for retrieval as needed.

[1839] "Virtual space" refers to a three-dimensional digital environment created by computer simulation.

[1840] "Interactive" refers to a mechanism that allows users and systems to interact with each other.

[1841] "Operation in virtual space" refers to actions such as input and selection that users perform within the virtual space.

[1842] A "server" refers to a computer system that processes requests from multiple users and provides the necessary information.

[1843] This invention is a system that proposes the most suitable funeral company based on the user's requests and realizes interactive funeral planning using virtual space. A specific embodiment of this system is described below.

[1844] System Overview

[1845] First, the user accesses the system using a smartphone or head-mounted display (HMD). The user registers by entering required information such as name, email address, and password. This information is validated by the server and stored in the database.

[1846] After logging in, users are directed to a request form where they enter details such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, remote availability, etc. The information entered is validated by the server and stored in a database.

[1847] The server uses the stored information to search its database for funeral companies that match the user's requests and generates a list. The generated list is sent to the user's terminal, where the user can visually check it.

[1848] Users can compare the displayed funeral plans and check detailed information about each funeral company (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) Once the most suitable plan is selected, the selection is sent to the server and the selected funeral company is also notified.

[1849] In particular, this system utilizes a virtual space, allowing users to visually inspect and interactively manipulate the funeral setup within the virtual space, providing a more tangible and realistic experience.

[1850] Hardware and software used

[1851] 1. Server: This is the central computer system of this system, which processes, stores, searches, and notifies data. The software used is Python and Flask.

[1852] 2. Smartphone: The device that users use as an interface. React Native is used for the front end.

[1853] 3. Head-mounted display (HMD): A device that allows users to enter a virtual space. VR applications using Unity run on it.

[1854] 4. Database: A system for storing information about funeral companies and users. A relational database such as MySQL is used.

[1855] What the program does

[1856] The server validates the user's input information in real time and stores it in a database. When a request is made, the server searches the database and generates the best matching results. The results are sent to the user's device, and when the user makes a selection, the selection is saved in the database and the relevant funeral home is notified.

[1857] Examples of concrete examples and prompts

[1858] For example, suppose User A uses this system to prepare for a parent's funeral. After logging in, User A requests a Buddhist-style funeral with a budget of 500,000 to 800,000 yen, and enters this information into the system. The server then lists information on five funeral companies that match User A's requests and sends this to User A's terminal.

[1859] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1860] Create specific instructions for a virtual funeral planning system that allows users to select a Buddhist-style funeral and set a budget of 500,000 to 800,000 yen.

[1861] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1862] Step 1: User Registration and Login

[1863] Users access the system using a smartphone or head-mounted display and enter necessary information such as their name, email address, and password. The entered information is sent from the device to the server.

[1864] The server validates the information it receives and stores it in a database, including checking the format of the email address and the strength of the password.

[1865] If validation is successful, user registration is complete and the user logs in using their email address and password. The login information is verified on the server, and only if authentication is successful will the screen to proceed to the next step be displayed on the terminal.

[1866] Step 2: Enter your requirements and budget

[1867] After logging in, users proceed to the request input form and enter details such as the desired funeral style, budget, religion, culture, whether remote support is available, etc. The entered information is sent from the terminal to the server.

[1868] The server validates the information it receives and stores it in a database, including ensuring the budget is reasonable and the style and religion choices are correct.

[1869] If validation is successful, instructions for proceeding to the next step will be displayed on the terminal.

[1870] Step 3: Matching funeral companies

[1871] The server searches the database for funeral company information and lists funeral companies that match the user's requirements, using criteria such as style, budget, religion, culture, and remote support provided by the user.

[1872] The search results (a list of funeral companies) are sent to the terminal, where the user can visually check them.

[1873] Step 4: Compare and choose a plan

[1874] The user compares the multiple funeral plans presented and checks the detailed information of each funeral company (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.). After checking, the user selects the most suitable plan. These operations are performed on the device, and the selection results are sent from the device to the server.

[1875] The server receives the selection and notifies the funeral home of the selected plan, including details of the customer's selection and contact information.

[1876] Step 5: Pre-death reservation function

[1877] When a user wishes to register their funeral wishes before they die, they enter their wishes into a special form and submit it. This information is then sent from the terminal to the server.

[1878] The server validates the information it receives and stores it securely in a database. Validation includes ensuring that the information entered is accurate and complete.

[1879] The stored information is managed so that it can be retrieved or updated later as needed.

[1880] Step 6: Use visual and interactive virtual spaces

[1881] Users can use the virtual space to interactively view, compare, and select funeral plans. This operation is mainly performed using a head-mounted display, but some operations can also be performed using a smartphone.

[1882] The actions performed in the virtual space are detected by the device and transmitted in real time to the server, which then receives the data, stores it in a database, and updates search results as needed.

[1883] The results of the user's operations in the virtual space are interactively fed back to support the selection of the optimal plan.

[1884] 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.

[1885] This invention is a system that combines an emotion engine with a platform that matches funeral companies with users who will be holding funerals. The system aims to recognize users' emotions and propose optimal funeral plans and responses. By using the emotion engine, it becomes possible to provide detailed services that correspond to the users' emotions.

[1886] Explaining program processing in natural language

[1887] 1. User Registration and Login

[1888] When a user accesses the system for the first time, he or she opens the user registration screen from the terminal and registers by entering the necessary information.

[1889] The registered information is validated by the server and stored in a database. Once registration is complete, the user logs in using their email address and password.

[1890] 2. Enter your request and budget

[1891] After logging in, users can proceed to a request form and enter details such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether remote service is available.

[1892] The entered information is received by the server, validated, and then stored in a database.

[1893] 3. Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[1894] The emotion engine analyzes facial and voice data obtained from the device's built-in camera and microphone, recognizing the user's emotions in real time.

[1895] The recognized emotion data is sent to a server for further analysis.

[1896] 4. Matching funeral companies and dealing with emotions

[1897] The server searches for funeral company information in a database and lists the most suitable funeral companies based on the user's requests and recognized emotion data.

[1898] Information about the listed funeral companies (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) is sent to the terminal.

[1899] 5. Compare and choose a plan

[1900] Users can compare multiple funeral plans presented to them and receive additional suggestions based on their emotional data.

[1901] After selecting the best plan, the selection is sent to the server, which notifies the funeral home of the selection.

[1902] 6. Pre-death reservation function

[1903] If a user wishes to register their funeral wishes before they die, they can enter their wishes into a special form and submit it.

[1904] The information entered is validated by the server and stored in a database in a secure format.

[1905] Specific examples

[1906] Let's take the example of User A using this system to prepare for his parent's funeral.

[1907] 1. User A registers and logs in

[1908] User A accesses the system for the first time and completes user registration by entering his / her name, email address, and password on a terminal.

[1909] After completing the registration, log in to the system using your email address and password.

[1910] 2. Enter your request and budget

[1911] After logging in, User A enters information about the desired funeral style (e.g., Buddhism), budget (e.g., 500,000 to 800,000 yen), whether remote service is possible, religion, and culture.

[1912] This information is sent to the server, validated, and then stored in a database.

[1913] 3. Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[1914] The emotion engine uses the device's camera and microphone to analyze the facial expressions and tone of voice of User A. For example, if it detects an anxious expression or tone of voice, that information is sent to the server.

[1915] The server analyzes this emotional data and prepares appropriate support content according to the user's condition.

[1916] 4. Matching funeral companies and dealing with emotions

[1917] The server searches the database and lists funeral companies that can provide appropriate support and additional services based on User A's requests and recognized emotional data.

[1918] The listed funeral home information is sent to User A's terminal.

[1919] 5. Compare and choose a plan

[1920] User A compares the multiple funeral plans presented and selects the most suitable one from the proposed plans. For example, if the user continues to show signs of anxiety, a plan that includes counseling services is proposed.

[1921] The selection is sent to the server and the selected funeral home is also notified.

[1922] 6. Use of pre-death reservation function

[1923] User A enters his or her funeral wishes into a dedicated form and completes the pre-death reservation.

[1924] The information entered is validated by the server and securely stored in a database.

[1925] This system allows users to prepare for funerals efficiently and with peace of mind. The system's built-in emotion engine allows for detailed services tailored to the user's emotions, allowing them to select plans that meet a variety of needs. Remote funerals and digital viewings, which utilize digital technology, are particularly convenient for users.

[1926] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1927] Step 1:

[1928] When a user accesses the system for the first time, they click the "User Registration" button on their terminal.

[1929] Step 2:

[1930] The device displays a user registration form and prompts the user to enter required information such as name, email address, and password.

[1931] Step 3:

[1932] The user simply enters the required information and clicks the "Submit" button.

[1933] Step 4:

[1934] The device sends the entered information to the server.

[1935] Step 5:

[1936] The server validates the received user information and, if validation is successful, saves the user information in the database.

[1937] Step 6:

[1938] After registration is complete, the server generates a "Registration Complete" message and sends it to the device.

[1939] Step 7:

[1940] Users log in through the system's login page using their email address and password.

[1941] Step 8:

[1942] The device sends the email address and password to the server.

[1943] Step 9:

[1944] The server checks the email address and password against information in a database, and if they match, generates an authentication token and returns it to the device.

[1945] Step 10:

[1946] After logging in, users proceed to the request input form and enter information such as the desired funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not remote service is available.

[1947] Step 11:

[1948] The device sends the input to the server.

[1949] Step 12:

[1950] The server validates the received request information and, if successful, stores it in the database.

[1951] Step 13:

[1952] The server searches the database for funeral company information and lists funeral companies that match the user's requirements.

[1953] Step 14:

[1954] The server sends information about the listed funeral companies (services, plans, costs, reviews, etc.) to the terminal.

[1955] Step 15:

[1956] The device displays the search results to the user.

[1957] Step 16:

[1958] Users can compare the multiple funeral plans presented and check detailed information about each funeral company.

[1959] Step 17:

[1960] The emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and tone of voice through the device's camera and microphone.

[1961] Step 18:

[1962] The emotion engine analyzes the emotion data and sends it to the server.

[1963] Step 19:

[1964] The server analyzes the emotional data and prepares the optimal plan proposal based on the user's emotions.

[1965] Step 20:

[1966] Users can review additional plans and support content suggested based on their emotional data and select the plan that best suits them.

[1967] Step 20:

[1968] The device sends the selection to the server.

[1969] Step 22:

[1970] The server notifies the selected funeral home of the details of the selected plan and simultaneously sends a confirmation message to the user.

[1971] Step 23:

[1972] If a user wishes to make a reservation in advance, they can enter their funeral wishes into a special form.

[1973] Step 24:

[1974] The device sends the input to the server.

[1975] Step 25:

[1976] The server validates the received request and, if successful, stores it in a database in a secure format.

[1977] Step 26:

[1978] The server will confirm that the request has been saved and send a notification message to the user.

[1979] Example 2

[1980] 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."

[1981] In modern society, preparing for a funeral is a delicate and complex process, requiring detailed support that is sensitive to the user's emotions. Conventional systems provide suggestions based on the user's requests and budget, but they lack consideration for the user's emotional state. This often leads to anxiety and stress during the funeral preparation process. Furthermore, challenges remain in providing plans that accommodate remote funerals and diverse religious and cultural backgrounds.

[1982] The specification processing by the specification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for proposing the most suitable funeral service provider based on the user's requests, means for searching a database containing information on funeral service providers, means for presenting the search results to the user, means for accepting the user's selection and notifying the selected funeral service provider, means including an emotion recognition engine for recognizing and analyzing the user's emotions, means for proposing the most suitable funeral plan and handling based on the emotion data analyzed by the emotion recognition engine, and means for receiving and storing information on pre-death reservation requests. This makes it possible to provide the most suitable funeral plan that is in line with the user's emotions, and also makes it possible to realize remote funerals using digital technology and plans that accommodate diverse religions and cultures.

[1983] "User requests" refers to the specific conditions and wishes that users have regarding their funeral, such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether or not it can be handled remotely.

[1984] A "funeral service provider" is a company or organization that provides funeral services based on the user's requests.

[1985] "Database" refers to an information management system for managing and storing information on funeral service providers, user requests, emotional data, etc.

[1986] An "emotion recognition engine" refers to software or algorithms that analyze a user's facial expressions and voice data obtained from devices such as cameras and microphones, and recognize their emotions.

[1987] "Pre-death reservations" refers to users registering their funeral wishes in advance.

[1988] "Remote funerals" refer to services that use the internet and digital technology to allow people to participate in funerals from remote locations and watch the funeral proceedings in real time.

[1989] An "optimal funeral plan" refers to a plan that proposes the most suitable funeral content and structure for the user based on the user's requests and emotional data.

[1990] "Plans that accommodate diverse religions and cultures" refers to plans that provide services that incorporate funeral formats, rituals, and practices that correspond to different religious backgrounds and cultures.

[1991] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[1992] This invention is a system that combines an emotion engine with a platform that matches funeral companies with users who will be holding funerals. The system aims to recognize users' emotions and propose optimal funeral plans and responses. This system integrates user requests, emotion data, and information on funeral service providers to achieve optimal matching.

[1993] System Overview

[1994] User Registration and Login

[1995] When a user accesses the system for the first time, a user registration screen appears on the terminal, and the user enters the required information such as name, email address, and password.

[1996] The device sends the entered information to the server, which validates it and stores it in a database. Once the user has completed registration, they can log in using their email address and password.

[1997] Enter your request and budget

[1998] After logging in, users can proceed to a request form and enter details such as funeral style, budget, religion, culture, and whether remote service is available.

[1999] The terminal sends this information to the server, which validates it and then stores it in a database.

[2000] Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[2001] The user's facial expressions and voice data are acquired through the device's built-in camera (e.g., Logitech C920) and microphone (e.g., Blue Yeti).

[2002] The acquired data is analyzed in real time by an emotion engine (e.g., Microsoft Azure Emotion API).

[2003] The device transmits the analysis results to the server, which further analyzes them to assess the user's emotional state.

[2004] Matching funeral companies and dealing with emotions

[2005] The server searches the database and lists the most suitable funeral service providers based on the user's requests and emotional data.

[2006] The listed information is sent to the user's terminal and presented to the user.

[2007] Compare and choose a plan

[2008] The user compares the multiple funeral plans presented and selects the most suitable plan.

[2009] The terminal transmits the selected plan information to the server, which then notifies the selected funeral service provider.

[2010] Pre-death reservation function

[2011] If a user wishes to make a pre-death reservation, they enter their desired details into a dedicated form, and the terminal sends this to the server.

[2012] The server validates the submitted information and stores it in a database in a secure format.

[2013] Specific examples

[2014] Below is a specific example of User A using the system to prepare for his parent's funeral.

[2015] 1. User A enters their name, email address, and password on their device to complete user registration and then logs in.

[2016] 2. After logging in, User A enters information such as the desired funeral style, budget, and whether remote support is available.

[2017] 3. The device's camera and microphone are used to capture User A's emotional data, which is then analyzed by the emotion engine. If an anxious expression or tone of voice is detected, that information is sent to the server.

[2018] 4. The server creates a list of the most suitable funeral service providers based on User A's requests and emotional data, and sends the information to the terminal.

[2019] 5. User A compares the multiple funeral plans presented and selects the most suitable one. For example, if the user continues to look anxious, a plan that includes counseling services will be suggested.

[2020] 6. User A enters their funeral wishes into a dedicated form and completes their pre-death reservation.

[2021] Prompt Sentence Examples

[2022] "I would like to know the best funeral plan for preparing my parent's funeral. The style should be Buddhist, with a budget of 500,000 to 800,000 yen. Please also consider whether the funeral can be held remotely."

[2023] By incorporating various digital technologies and an emotion recognition engine, the system is able to propose detailed funeral plans to users and allows them to select plans that meet a variety of needs, enabling them to prepare for a funeral efficiently and with peace of mind.

[2024] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[2025] Step 1: User Registration and Login

[2026] Input: Name, Email Address, Password

[2027] The terminal displays a user registration screen when the user accesses it for the first time.

[2028] The user enters their name, email address, and password and clicks the "Register" button.

[2029] The terminal sends this information to the server.

[2030] The server validates the submitted information and stores it in a database if the registration information is correct.

[2031] Output: Registration complete message

[2032] The terminal displays a message to the user indicating that registration is complete.

[2033] Users log in to the system using their email address and password.

[2034] Input: Login information (email address, password)

[2035] The terminal sends this information to the server, and if validation is successful, the user is logged in.

[2036] Output: Login successful message

[2037] Step 2: Enter your requirements and budget

[2038] Input: Funeral style, budget, religion, culture, remote availability

[2039] After logging in, the user proceeds to the request input form and enters the necessary information.

[2040] The terminal transmits the input information to the server.

[2041] The server validates the submitted request information to ensure it is in the correct format.

[2042] If validation is successful, save the information to the database.

[2043] Output: Message that request information has been saved

[2044] The terminal displays a message to the user indicating that the requested information has been saved.

[2045] Step 3: Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[2046] Input: facial expression data, voice data

[2047] The device's camera and microphone are used to capture the user's facial expressions and voice data.

[2048] What it does: The camera captures the user's face and the microphone records their voice.

[2049] The acquired data is sent to the emotion engine and analyzed in real time.

[2050] The terminal transmits the analysis results to the server.

[2051] The server analyzes the parsed emotion data and evaluates the user's emotional state.

[2052] Output: Analysis results of emotion data

[2053] The server prepares emotional suggestions.

[2054] Step 4: Matching funeral companies and managing emotions

[2055] Input: Request information, emotion data

[2056] The server searches the database and lists the most suitable funeral service providers based on the user's requests and emotional data.

[2057] Specific operation: Match the request information with the emotion data and extract information on funeral service providers that meet the criteria from the database.

[2058] The listed information is sent to the user's terminal.

[2059] Output: A list of the best funeral service providers

[2060] The terminal displays this list to the user.

[2061] Step 5: Compare and choose a plan

[2062] Input: Funeral plan list

[2063] The user can compare the listed funeral plans and check the details.

[2064] What it does: Displays plan details and provides an interface that allows the user to select a plan.

[2065] The user selects the most suitable plan.

[2066] The terminal transmits the selected plan information to the server.

[2067] The server notifies the selected funeral service provider.

[2068] Output: Selected plan information, notification to funeral service provider

[2069] Step 6: Pre-death booking function

[2070] Input: Pre-death reservation details

[2071] If a user wishes to make a pre-death reservation, they enter their desired details into a dedicated form.

[2072] The terminal transmits the input information to the server.

[2073] The server validates the submitted information and stores it securely in a database.

[2074] Specific behavior: Check and save input information

[2075] Output: Message confirming pre-death reservation information has been saved

[2076] The terminal displays a message to the user indicating that the pre-death reservation has been completed.

[2077] (Application example 2)

[2078] 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."

[2079] Conventional funeral services have been unable to fully consider the emotional state of the user, making it difficult to select the optimal plan and provide the service. In addition, when users are in situations where they feel anxious or stressed, they are unable to provide appropriate support, which leads to a decrease in satisfaction.

[2080] The specification processing by the specification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for proposing the most suitable funeral company based on the user's requests, means for searching a database containing information on funeral companies, means for presenting the search results to the user, means for accepting the user's selection and notifying the selected funeral company, means for receiving and saving information on desired pre-death reservations, means for recognizing the user's emotions, and means for proposing the most suitable service based on the user's emotional data. This makes it possible to propose the most suitable funeral plan and provide the service based on the user's emotional state.

[2081] "User" refers to an individual or corporation that uses the system and is a customer who receives funeral-related services.

[2082] "Funeral company" refers to a business or organization that provides funeral and related services.

[2083] "Means of suggestion" refers to the way the system presents the most suitable funeral companies and services based on the user's requests and feelings.

[2084] "Database" refers to a system for systematically storing and managing funeral company information.

[2085] "Searching means" refers to the method of searching for appropriate information from a database based on the user's request.

[2086] "Means of presentation" refers to the method by which search results are visually or audibly presented to the user.

[2087] "Means for accepting selections" refers to methods that support the user in selecting the funeral company and plan of their choice from the options presented.

[2088] "Means of notification" refers to the function of communicating the user's selection to the funeral home.

[2089] "Pre-death reservations" refers to users registering their wishes regarding their future funerals in advance.

[2090] "Means for recognizing emotions" refers to a method of analyzing biometric information such as the user's facial expressions and voice to identify their current emotional state.

[2091] "Emotional data" refers to information that represents the user's emotional state as recognized by the system.

[2092] "Optimal service" refers to the service content that best matches the user's emotional state and needs.

[2093] To explain this process, we use the example of an emotion response system for an autonomous vehicle. We will describe each component of the system and its processing method.

[2094] System Configuration

[2095] The system includes the following major hardware and software components:

[2096] 1. Hardware:

[2097] Cameras and microphones (to capture real-time emotion data in the vehicle)

[2098] In-vehicle computer (local server)

[2099] Center computer (central server)

[2100] 2. Software:

[2101] Emotion recognition engine (for example, using Microsoft Azure's Emotion API or Google Cloud Speech-to-Text)

[2102] Database management systems (for example, PostgreSQL or MongoDB)

[2103] In-car infotainment system (custom interface based on Android Auto or Apple CarPlay)

[2104] Specific examples

[2105] Application example of emotion recognition system in autonomous driving vehicles

[2106] Application Overview

[2107] Name: Emotion-responsive autonomous vehicle service

[2108] Overview: This system uses cameras and microphones installed inside autonomous vehicles to recognize the emotions of the user while they are in the vehicle, and adjusts music, messages, and even driving mode according to that emotional state.

[2109] Program processing

[2110] Below is the program flow for emotion-aware autonomous vehicle services:

[2111] 1. User Registration and Login

[2112] The user opens the user registration screen through the vehicle's infotainment system and registers by entering their name, email address, and password.

[2113] The registration data is validated on a local server in the vehicle and then sent to the autonomous vehicle's central server, where it is stored in a database.

[2114] 2. Enter the settings

[2115] After the user logs in, they can set their music preferences, notification sound type, preferred driving mode (e.g. Eco, Sport, Relax), etc.

[2116] The configured information is stored on a local server and backed up to a central server.

[2117] 3. Emotion Recognition and Analysis

[2118] Cameras and microphones inside the self-driving vehicle analyze the user's facial expressions and tone of voice in real time.

[2119] An emotion recognition engine runs in the car and uses this data to recognize the user's emotional state.

[2120] 4. Driving mode and entertainment adjustments

[2121] Based on the recognized emotional data, the autonomous driving system will adjust the driving mode, for example, switching to safe driving mode if an anxious state is detected.

[2122] At the same time, the car's infotainment system plays music and relaxation messages according to the driver's emotions.

[2123] 5. Data storage and future analysis

[2124] The recognized emotion data and driving data are stored on a local server in the vehicle and on a central server.

[2125] If users want to view their own data, they can check their past emotional and driving data through a smartphone app.

[2126] Prompt Sentence Examples

[2127] Below are some example prompts for using generative AI models with emotion recognition engines:

[2128] "My name is User A. I am using an emotion recognition system for a self-driving vehicle. Please advise me on what driving mode and music are appropriate for my current emotions."

[2129] This system will enable users to have a more comfortable and personalized riding experience, and is expected to improve safety through appropriate responses based on emotions.

[2130] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[2131] Step 1:

[2132] The user opens the user registration screen through the vehicle's infotainment system and registers by entering their name, email address, and password.

[2133] Input: Name, Email Address, Password.

[2134] Specific operation: The device collects input data and sends it to the server.

[2135] Output: Registration data is validated on a local server in the vehicle and stored in a database on a central server.

[2136] Step 2:

[2137] After the user logs in, they enter settings such as music preferences, notification sound type, and preferred driving mode (e.g., Eco, Sport, Relax).

[2138] Input: Music preferences, notification sound type, driving mode settings.

[2139] Specific operation: The device collects configuration data and sends it to a local server.

[2140] Output: Configuration data is saved to a local server and backed up to a central server.

[2141] Step 3:

[2142] Cameras and microphones inside the self-driving vehicle capture the user's facial expressions and tone of voice in real time and send them to an emotion recognition engine.

[2143] Input: Real-time video and audio data from cameras and microphones.

[2144] What it does: The device collects this data and sends it to an emotion recognition engine.

[2145] Output: An emotion recognition engine analyzes the data and identifies the user's emotional state.

[2146] Step 4:

[2147] Based on the recognized emotional data, the autonomous driving system adjusts the driving mode.

[2148] Input: Emotion data.

[2149] Specific operation: The server receives emotion data and sends the driving mode setting (safe driving mode, etc.) to the autonomous driving system based on that data.

[2150] Output: Driving mode is adjusted according to the user's emotional state.

[2151] Step 5:

[2152] The in-car infotainment system plays music and relaxation messages according to the driver's emotions.

[2153] Input: Emotion data, music and message library.

[2154] Specific operation: The server selects appropriate music and messages based on the emotional data and sends them to the infotainment system.

[2155] Output: The infotainment system plays content according to the user's emotions.

[2156] Step 6:

[2157] The recognized emotion data and driving data are stored on a local server in the vehicle and on a central server.

[2158] Input: Emotion data, driving data.

[2159] What happens: The server collects this data and stores it in a database.

[2160] Output: The saved data will be available for future analysis and user review.

[2161] Step 7:

[2162] If a user wants to view their own data, they can check their past emotional and driving data through a smartphone app.

[2163] Input: The user request.

[2164] Specific operation: The server searches for stored data and sends it to the smartphone app upon request.

[2165] Output: User can check past emotion data and driving data.

[2166] 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.

[2167] 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.

[2168] 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.

[2169] 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.

[2170] 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.

[2171] 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.

[2172] 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).

[2173] 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.

[2174] 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."

[2175] 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.

[2176] 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).

[2177] 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.

[2178] 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.

[2179] 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.

[2180] 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.

[2181] 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.

[2182] 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.

[2183] 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.

[2184] 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.

[2185] 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.

[2186] 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.

[2187] The following is further disclosed regarding the above embodiment.

[2188] (Claim 1)

[2189] A means to suggest the most suitable funeral company based on the user's request,

[2190] a means for searching a database containing funeral home information;

[2191] a means for presenting search results to a user;

[2192] a means for accepting a selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral home;

[2193] A means to receive and store pre-death reservation information;

[2194] A system including:

[2195] (Claim 2)

[2196] Further measures include using digital technology to accommodate remote funerals and digital viewings.

[2197] 10. The system of claim 1.

[2198] (Claim 3)

[2199] Further measures include providing funeral plans that cater to diverse religious and cultural backgrounds;

[2200] 10. The system of claim 1.

[2201] "Example 1"

[2202] (Claim 1)

[2203] A means for receiving and validating registration information from users;

[2204] A means to suggest the most suitable funeral company based on the user's request,

[2205] a means for searching a database containing funeral home information;

[2206] a means for presenting search results to a user;

[2207] a means for accepting a selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral home;

[2208] A means to receive, validate, and store pre-death reservation information;

[2209] A system including:

[2210] (Claim 2)

[2211] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for accommodating remote funerals and digital viewings using digital technology.

[2212] (Claim 3)

[2213] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for providing funeral plans that accommodate diverse religions and cultures.

[2214] "Application Example 1"

[2215] (Claim 1)

[2216] A means to suggest the most suitable funeral company based on the user's request,

[2217] a means for searching a database containing funeral home information;

[2218] a means for presenting search results to a user;

[2219] a means for accepting a selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral home;

[2220] A means to receive and store pre-death reservation information;

[2221] A visually interactive virtual space to browse, compare and select funeral plans;

[2222] A means for transmitting operations in the virtual space to a server and storing them in a database;

[2223] A system including:

[2224] (Claim 2)

[2225] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for accommodating remote funerals and digital viewings using digital technology.

[2226] (Claim 3)

[2227] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for providing funeral plans that accommodate diverse religions and cultures.

[2228] "Example 2: Combining Emotion Engines"

[2229] (Claim 1)

[2230] A means for proposing the most suitable funeral service provider based on the user's request;

[2231] a means for searching a database containing information about funeral service providers;

[2232] a means for presenting search results to a user;

[2233] means for accepting a selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral service provider;

[2234] A means including an emotion recognition engine for recognizing and analyzing the emotions of a user;

[2235] A method to propose optimal funeral plans and responses based on emotional data analyzed by an emotion recognition engine, and

[2236] A means to receive and store pre-death reservation information;

[2237] A system including:

[2238] (Claim 2)

[2239] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for accommodating remote funerals and digital viewings using digital technology.

[2240] (Claim 3)

[2241] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for providing funeral plans that accommodate diverse religions and cultures.

[2242] "Application example 2 when combining emotion engines"

[2243] (Claim 1)

[2244] A means to suggest the most suitable funeral company based on the user's request,

[2245] a means for searching a database containing funeral home information;

[2246] a means for presenting search results to a user;

[2247] a means for accepting a selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral home;

[2248] A means to receive and store pre-death reservation information;

[2249] a means for recognizing a user's emotion;

[2250] A means for proposing optimal services based on user emotional data;

[2251] A system including:

[2252] (Claim 2)

[2253] Further measures include using digital technology to accommodate remote funerals and digital viewings.

[2254] 10. The system of claim 1.

[2255] (Claim 3)

[2256] Further measures include providing funeral plans that cater to diverse religious and cultural backgrounds;

[2257] 10. The system of claim 1. [Explanation of symbols]

[2258] 10, 210, 310, 410 Data Processing Systems 12 Data Processing Device 14 Smart Devices 214 Smart Glasses 314 Headset-type terminal 414 Robot< / url:> < / url:> < / url:> < / url:>

Claims

1. A means to suggest the most suitable funeral company based on the user's request, a means for searching a database containing funeral home information; a means for presenting search results to a user; a means for accepting a selection from the user and notifying the selected funeral home; A means to receive and store pre-death reservation information; A system including:

2. Further measures include using digital technology to accommodate remote funerals and digital viewings. The system of claim 1 .

3. Further measures include providing funeral plans that cater to diverse religious and cultural backgrounds; The system of claim 1 .

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