System

Abstract

A system is provided.SOLUTION: A system including a means for uploading an image of an animal photographed by a user, a generation means for generating a 3D model based on the uploaded image, and an interaction means for allowing the user to interact with the animal using the generated 3D model.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, hygiene problems caused by feeding stray dogs and cats are becoming increasingly serious. There is also a growing demand for mental health care for people who find it difficult to keep pets or who have lost their pets. However, there is a lack of effective solutions to these problems. Therefore, there is a need for a system that allows users to raise virtual pets based on images and videos of animals they have taken themselves and interact with them on a daily basis. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The present invention provides a system including a means for uploading images of animals taken by a user, a generating means for generating a 3D model based on the uploaded images, and an interaction means for the user to interact with the animal using the generated 3D model. The system also solves the above-mentioned problems by including a means for uploading videos of animals taken by a user, a generating means for generating a 3D model based on the uploaded videos, and an interaction means for the user to interact with the animal using the generated 3D model. Furthermore, the system provides a specific solution by including, in the generation of the 3D model, a means for extracting animal features using an image analysis algorithm, a means for generating a 3D model based on the extracted features, a means for saving the generated 3D model, a means for transmitting the saved 3D model to a user terminal, a means for managing the status of the virtual animal when the user interacts with it, a means for controlling the animal's behavior and reactions based on the status of the animal, a means for the user to purchase additional features or items through in-app purchases, and a means for adding the purchased features or items to the user's account.

[0006] "User" refers to any individual or organization that uses this system.

[0007] "Image" refers to still image data taken by the user.

[0008] "Video" refers to dynamic video data captured by a user.

[0009] "Upload" refers to the act of a user sending images or videos from a device to a server.

[0010] A "3D model" refers to three-dimensional data generated from two-dimensional images or videos.

[0011] "Generation Method" refers to the method or technology used to create a 3D model from uploaded images or videos.

[0012] "Interaction means" refers to the functionality that allows the user to contact and manipulate the 3D model in various ways.

[0013] "Terminal" refers to an electronic device (e.g., smartphone, tablet) that a user uses to access the system.

[0014] "Server" refers to the back-end computer system that receives and processes data uploaded by users, and generates and stores 3D models.

[0015] An "image analysis algorithm" refers to a computational method for extracting features from images and videos and generating 3D models.

[0016] "Status" refers to data that indicates the state of a virtual animal (e.g., fullness, happiness).

[0017] "In-app purchase" refers to the act of a user making a payment within an app to purchase additional items or features.

[0018] "Database" refers to the system for storing generated 3D models and other related data. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [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

[0020] 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.

[0021] First, the terms used in the following description will be explained.

[0022] 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).

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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."

[0027] [First embodiment]

[0028] FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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).

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] FIG. 2 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart device 14.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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."

[0040] The present invention relates to a system that allows users to raise a virtual pet as a 3D model based on images and videos of animals taken by the user, and to interact with the virtual pet on a daily basis. Specific embodiments are described below.

[0041] System Configuration

[0042] This system is roughly composed of the following components:

[0043] 1. User Device

[0044] 2. Server

[0045] 3. Generation AI

[0046] 4. Database

[0047] 5. Interaction Features

[0048] 6. In-app purchase system

[0049] A natural language description of the program's operation

[0050] Uploading photos and videos of animals

[0051] Users can save images and videos of animals they have taken to their device. From their device through the app, users tap the "Add a new pet" button, select an image or video from the gallery, and tap the upload button. The device then sends the file to the server via the Internet.

[0052] Generate 3D pet models

[0053] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users and starts the process of generating a 3D model using generative AI. The generative AI analyzes the user's images and videos, extracts the animal's characteristics, and generates a 3D model based on these. The generated 3D model is stored in a database on the server. The user is notified of the progress of this process.

[0054] Daily contact with pets

[0055] The device renders a 3D pet model downloaded from the server and provides an interface that allows users to interact with the virtual pet. Users select various actions (e.g., walk, paw, sit) within the app and perform the corresponding interaction. The device controls the pet's animations and behavior based on the action. The device also manages the pet's status, such as hunger and happiness, and updates it in real time.

[0056] Expanded functionality through in-app purchases

[0057] Users can purchase additional pets, items, and features using the in-app purchase feature. The device displays a purchase screen and processes the payment for the items and features selected by the user. Once the payment is complete, the server adds the purchased items and features to the user's account and notifies the device. This allows the user to use the newly added features and items.

[0058] Specific examples

[0059] Upload a photo

[0060] Users can select a photo of their beloved cat from their smartphone gallery and upload it using the "Add a new pet" feature within the app.

[0061] 3D model generation

[0062] The generative AI runs on the server side, analyzes the uploaded photo, generates a 3D cat model, and saves it in a database. The user receives a notification when the model is complete.

[0063] Interaction

[0064] Users can interact with the 3D cat model generated within the app by taking it for a walk, pawing, sitting, etc., and can provide meals and playtime while checking the cat's status.

[0065] In-app purchases

[0066] Users can use in-app purchases to purchase additional pets and special items, and then enjoy richer interactions with the purchased features and items.

[0067] This system allows users to raise virtual pets based on images and videos of animals they have taken themselves and interact with them on a daily basis, making it possible for it to play a role in providing mental health care for people who are unable to keep pets or who have lost their pets.

[0068] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0069] Step 1:

[0070] The user saves images and videos of animals to the device. The user takes photos and videos of animals using the camera function of their smartphone or tablet.

[0071] Step 2:

[0072] The user launches the app. The device displays the app's home screen. The user taps the "Add a new pet" button.

[0073] Step 3:

[0074] The device displays a screen with the option to "Upload a Photo." The user taps the "Upload a Photo" button and selects a photo or video of an animal from their gallery.

[0075] Step 4:

[0076] The file selected by the user is temporarily stored. The user taps the "Upload" button, and the device sends the selected file to the server via the Internet.

[0077] Step 5:

[0078] The server receives the uploaded file, temporarily stores it, and then begins the process of generating a 3D model using the generation AI.

[0079] Step 6:

[0080] The generative AI extracts animal features using an image analysis algorithm. The server generates a 3D model based on the extracted features. The server stores the generated 3D model in a database.

[0081] Step 7:

[0082] The server notifies the device that the 3D model has been generated, and the device displays a notification to the user.

[0083] Step 8:

[0084] The device downloads the generated 3D model from the server, renders the 3D model, and displays an interface that allows the user to interact with the virtual pet.

[0085] Step 9:

[0086] Users interact with the virtual pet within the app by selecting actions such as "walk," "paw," or "sit," and the device then performs the appropriate animations and movements.

[0087] Step 10:

[0088] The device manages the status of the virtual pet, updating its hunger level, happiness level, and other status based on the pet's behavior and interactions with the user.

[0089] Step 11:

[0090] Users can purchase additional pets or items using in-app purchases by opening the "Store" tab, selecting the item or feature they want to purchase, and tapping the "Purchase" button.

[0091] Step 12:

[0092] The terminal displays a payment screen, and the user enters billing information. The server receives the billing information and processes the payment.

[0093] Step 13:

[0094] If the payment is successful, the server adds the purchased item or feature to the user's account, and the device displays a notification to the user confirming the purchase and making the new item or feature available.

[0095] In this way, the system allows users to raise and interact with virtual pets based on images and videos of animals they have taken themselves. Users can also enjoy more features and items through in-app purchases.

[0096] Example 1

[0097] 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."

[0098] In modern society, there are many people who want to keep pets but are unable to do so for various reasons, and many who have lost their pets. Furthermore, conventional pet-raising apps lack realism and interactive experiences, resulting in insufficient user satisfaction. Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a system that generates realistic, interactive 3D models of animals based on images and videos taken by users, allowing users to interact with virtual pets.

[0099] 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.

[0100] In this invention, the server includes means for uploading images and videos of animals taken by the user from the terminal to the server, means for the server to extract features of the animal using a generative AI model based on the uploaded images and videos and generate a 3D model, means for the terminal to download the generated 3D model and provide an interface for the user to interact with the animal, and means for the user to purchase additional pets, items, and functions through in-app purchases.This allows users to enjoy a realistic and interactive virtual pet raising experience, and is expected to have a mental health care effect on people who cannot actually keep pets or who have lost their pets.

[0101] "User" refers to an individual or organization that uses this system and takes images or videos of animals and uploads that data to the system.

[0102] "Device" refers to the electronic device used by a User (e.g., smartphone, tablet, computer, etc.) to select and upload images and videos, download 3D models, and perform other interactions.

[0103] The "server" is a central computer system that receives and processes images and videos uploaded by users, generates 3D models using generative AI models, and manages the data.

[0104] "Generative AI model" refers to an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm that analyzes uploaded images and videos, extracts animal features, and generates a 3D model.

[0105] "3D model" refers to a three-dimensional digital representation of an animal created by a generative AI model based on the characteristics of the animal uploaded by the user, and serves as a target for users to virtually interact with the pet.

[0106] "Interaction" refers to the user directly manipulating or taking actions with the generated 3D model, and is done through various functions provided within the application (e.g., walk, paw, sit, etc.).

[0107] "In-app purchases" refers to the payment mechanism that occurs when a user purchases additional pets, items, features, etc. within an application, and is a means for the user to enjoy further interaction.

[0108] This invention relates to a system that generates a virtual pet as a 3D model using images and videos of animals taken by the user, and allows the user to interact with the virtual pet on a daily basis. Specific embodiments are described below.

[0109] System Overview

[0110] The system consists of the following components:

[0111] 1. User Device

[0112] 2. Server

[0113] 3. Generative AI Models

[0114] 4. Database

[0115] 5. Interaction Features

[0116] 6. In-app purchase system

[0117] Uploading photos and videos of animals

[0118] Users can save images and videos of animals they have taken to their device. From the device, they tap the "Add a new pet" button through a dedicated application, select an image or video of an animal from the gallery, and then tap the upload button. The device then sends the file to the server via the Internet. For example, a user can select a photo of a cat, "neko.jpg," from the gallery and upload it.

[0119] Generate 3D pet models

[0120] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users and begins the process of generating a 3D model using a generative AI model. The generative AI model analyzes the user's images and videos and extracts the animal's features. Based on these features, the server generates a 3D model and stores it in a database on the server. The user is notified of the progress of this process in real time. For example, the generative AI extracts the eyes, ears, and body features of a cat based on "neko.jpg" and generates a 3D model.

[0121] Daily contact with pets

[0122] The device renders a 3D pet model downloaded from the server and provides an interface that allows users to interact with the virtual pet. Users select various actions within the app to perform the corresponding interaction. For example, when a user selects "paw," the device displays an animation of a cat offering its paw. The device also manages the pet's status, such as hunger and happiness, and updates it in real time.

[0123] Expanded functionality through in-app purchases

[0124] Users can purchase additional pets, items, and features using the in-app purchase feature. The device displays a purchase screen and processes the charge for the item or feature selected by the user. Once the charge is complete, the server adds the purchased item or feature to the user's account and notifies the device. This allows the user to use the newly added features and items. For example, if a user selects and purchases "additional pet," a new pet will be added to the account.

[0125] Examples and prompts

[0126] Upload a photo

[0127] Users select a photo of their beloved cat, "neko.jpg," from their smartphone's gallery and upload it using the "Add a new pet" function within the app.

[0128] 3D model generation

[0129] The AI ​​runs on the server side, analyzes the image "neko.jpg", generates a 3D cat model, and saves it in the database. The user receives a notification when generation is complete.

[0130] Interaction

[0131] Users can interact with the 3D cat model generated within the app by taking it for a walk, pawing, sitting, etc., and can provide meals and playtime while checking their pet's status.

[0132] In-app purchases

[0133] Users can use in-app purchases to purchase additional pets and special items, and then enjoy richer interactions with the purchased features and items.

[0134] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0135] Step 1:

[0136] Photo / Video Selection

[0137] The user selects a photo or video of an animal from the smartphone gallery. Specifically, the user opens the gallery and taps to select the cat photo "neko.jpg." At this point, "neko.jpg" is selected as input, and its file path is obtained within the device.

[0138] Step 2:

[0139] File transfer

[0140] The user taps the "Add a new pet" button in the app and uploads the selected file. The device then sends this file to the server via the Internet. The input is the selected file "neko.jpg," and the output is a message confirming successful file transmission to the server.

[0141] Step 3:

[0142] Upload completion notification

[0143] The server confirms receipt of the file and sends a notification to the terminal that the upload is complete. The terminal displays this notification to the user. The input is confirmation information for the file received by the server, and the output is an upload completion message that is displayed on the terminal. Specifically, the terminal displays a notification that the upload is complete.

[0144] Step 4:

[0145] Data reception

[0146] The server receives the sent file and saves it in storage. The input is the sent "neko.jpg", and the output is the file saved in the server's storage. The specific operation is that the file is saved in " / uploads / neko.jpg".

[0147] Step 5:

[0148] Feature Extraction

[0149] The server passes the saved file to the generative AI to extract the animal's features. The input is the saved file path " / uploads / neko.jpg", which the generative AI model analyzes and outputs the animal's feature data (e.g., ear shape, eye color, etc.).

[0150] Step 6:

[0151] 3D model generation

[0152] The server uses generative AI to generate a 3D model based on the extracted features. The input is feature data, and the output is the generated 3D model data. Specifically, the 3D model generation algorithm creates a 3D model of the cat based on the feature data and stores the model in memory.

[0153] Step 7:

[0154] Database storage

[0155] The server saves the generated 3D model in a database. The input is the 3D model data, and the output is a 3D model entry stored in the database. Specifically, a new record is added to the database.

[0156] Step 8:

[0157] Generation completion notification

[0158] The server notifies the terminal that generation is complete and notifies the user. The input is the completion information of 3D model generation, and the output is a notification displayed on the terminal. The notification "3D model generation has been completed" is displayed on the terminal.

[0159] Step 9:

[0160] Model Download

[0161] The device downloads the 3D model from the database. The input is the model ID in the database, and the output is the 3D model data stored on the device. Specifically, the 3D model file is downloaded to the device.

[0162] Step 10:

[0163] Interface Display

[0164] The device renders the downloaded 3D model and displays it to the user. The input is the 3D model data, and the output is the visual information of the 3D model displayed to the user. Specifically, a 3D model of a cat is displayed within the app.

[0165] Step 11:

[0166] Interaction Selection

[0167] The user selects an interaction within the app (e.g., walk, paw, sit). The input is the user's selection, and the output is the command for the selected interaction. Specifically, the user selects "paw."

[0168] Step 12:

[0169] Animation Control

[0170] The terminal controls the pet's animations and behavior based on the selected interaction. The input is the interaction command, and the output is the execution of the corresponding animation. Specifically, the cat is shown holding out its paw.

[0171] Step 13:

[0172] Status Updates

[0173] The terminal manages the pet's status, such as its hunger level and happiness, and updates it in real time. The input is the user's behavioral data and the pet's current status, and the output is the updated status information. Specifically, the pet's hunger level is updated from "80%" to "90%."

[0174] Step 14:

[0175] Purchase screen display

[0176] The user opens the shop screen within the app. The input is the user's operation, and the output is the purchase screen that is displayed. Specifically, a "list of items available for purchase" is displayed.

[0177] Step 15:

[0178] Billing process

[0179] The user selects and purchases additional pets and items. The terminal processes the billing information and performs the payment. The input is the user's purchase selection and payment information, and the output is a purchase completion message. Specifically, the user enters credit card information to confirm the "purchase."

[0180] Step 16:

[0181] Account Updates

[0182] The server adds the purchased items or features to the user's account. The input is the purchased item information, and the output is the updated account information, e.g., a new pet is added to the account.

[0183] Step 17:

[0184] Send notifications

[0185] The server notifies the terminal that the purchase is complete and notifies the user. The input is information that the billing process has been completed, and the output is a notification that is displayed on the terminal. The notification that "Purchase completed" is displayed.

[0186] (Application example 1)

[0187] 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."

[0188] Conventional virtual pet raising systems only operate on the user's smart device, and have the problem of not being able to provide an interactive experience in stores or public places. Furthermore, in order to improve user engagement, new value based on real-life in-store experiences is required. There is a need to solve these issues and realize an interactive virtual pet experience in stores and public places.

[0189] 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.

[0190] In this invention, the server includes means for uploading images of animals taken by users, means for generating 3D models based on the uploaded images, means for allowing users to interact with the animals using the generated 3D models, and means for allowing users to interact with the virtual pets using a large display device, thereby enabling users to experience interactive interactions with virtual pets in real time in stores or public places.

[0191] "User-generated Animal Image" means a still image of one or more animals that is taken and uploaded by a User on their Device.

[0192] "Means for uploading" refers to the function that allows users to transfer their own image and video files to the server.

[0193] "Generation method" refers to the algorithms and software used to automatically create 3D models of animals based on uploaded images and videos.

[0194] "Interaction means" refers to the user interface and animations that allow the user to interact with the virtual animal using the generated 3D model.

[0195] "Large display devices" refer to large displays and signage installed in stores and public places.

[0196] "Means for interactive interaction" refers to a function that allows users to communicate with virtual animals in real time through a large display device and to control and give instructions to them.

[0197] "Image analysis algorithm" refers to a program that extracts animal features from uploaded images and generates a 3D model based on them.

[0198] "Means for customization" refers to a function that allows a user to change the appearance or behavior of a generated virtual animal, or add special items to the animal.

[0199] The present invention is a system that allows users to raise a virtual pet as a 3D model based on images and videos of animals taken by the user and interact with it on a daily basis. Based on this embodiment, we will explain how to specifically implement the present invention.

[0200] System Configuration

[0201] This system is roughly composed of the following components:

[0202] 1. User Device

[0203] 2. Server

[0204] 3. Generation AI

[0205] 4. Database

[0206] 5. Interaction Features

[0207] 6. Large display device

[0208] 7. In-app purchase system

[0209] File upload from user device

[0210] Users can save images and videos of animals they have taken to their device. By selecting files through a dedicated app and tapping the upload button, the user's device will send the files to a server via the Internet. Uploaded files are then saved on the server.

[0211] Generate 3D pet models

[0212] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users and begins the process of generating a 3D model using generative AI. During this process, image analysis algorithms such as TENSORFLOW (registered trademark) are used to extract the animal's features. After the features are extracted, a 3D model is generated using Blender. This generated 3D model is stored in a database on the server. The progress of this generation process is also notified to the user's device.

[0213] Interaction Features

[0214] The user's device renders the 3D pet model downloaded from the server and provides an interface that allows the user to interact with the virtual pet. Within the app, the user clicks on options such as walk, paw, or sit to perform the corresponding interaction. The user's device controls the pet's animations and behavior based on the action. The app also has an in-app purchase function that allows users to purchase additional pets and items.

[0215] In-store interaction using large display devices

[0216] Using large displays installed in brick-and-mortar stores and public spaces, users can interact with virtual pets in real time. The displays are equipped with cameras and sensors to detect the user's movements and reflect them in the movements of the virtual pet. Furthermore, there is a special bonus feature that unlocks special items and pets when certain products are purchased.

[0217] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0218] When using a generative AI model, you can use prompts like the following:

[0219] Example prompt sentence:

[0220] "Generate a 3D cat model: Input: 3 images that clearly show the cat's face, body, and tail. Output: 3D cat model (Blender format). Objective: Generate a realistic 3D cat model from the uploaded images."

[0221] This system allows users to enjoy a rich and interactive experience with virtual pets wherever they are, using their smart devices or large displays in brick-and-mortar stores. As a result, such a system can improve user engagement and provide deeper enjoyment.

[0222] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0223] Step 1:

[0224] The user takes an image or video of an animal on their device and selects the file from the gallery using a dedicated app. This action causes the device to acquire the selected image or video as binary data. The device then provides an interface for uploading the acquired data to the server.

[0225] Input: An image or video file selected by the user.

[0226] Output: Binary data sent to the server

[0227] Step 2:

[0228] The device sends the selected file to the server via the Internet, using a secure communication protocol (e.g., HTTPS) to ensure data security. The server temporarily stores the received file and records the file metadata in a database.

[0229] Input: Uploaded binary data

[0230] Output: The file and its metadata stored on the server.

[0231] Step 3:

[0232] The server analyzes the received file and generates a 3D model using a generative AI model. During this process, image analysis algorithms such as TensorFlow are used to extract the animal's features, and software such as Blender is used to create the 3D model. The progress of this generation process is notified to the user's device.

[0233] Input: Animal image or video files stored on the server

[0234] Output: 3D model stored in a database

[0235] Step 4:

[0236] The user's device downloads the generated 3D model from the server and displays it to the user through a dedicated app. The user selects various interactions within the app (e.g., walk, paw, sit), and the device controls the virtual pet's animations and movements based on those actions.

[0237] Input: Downloaded 3D model

[0238] Output: A 3D pet and its animations displayed on the user's device

[0239] Step 5:

[0240] The 3D model sent from the device is displayed on a large display device installed in a physical store. Users can interact with the virtual pet in real time through the interactive display installed in the store. The display is equipped with cameras and sensors that detect the user's movements and reflect them in the movements of the virtual pet.

[0241] Input: 3D model sent from the device and user movement information

[0242] Output: Interactive virtual pet displayed on a large display

[0243] Step 6:

[0244] Users can purchase additional items and pets using the in-app purchase feature. The purchased items and pets are added to the user's account on the server side and notified to the user's device, allowing the user to use the newly added features and items.

[0245] Input: Purchase request and payment information

[0246] Output: Additional item and pet data recorded on the server, and notifications sent to the user's device.

[0247] 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.

[0248] The present invention provides a realistic experience that responds to the user's emotions by combining an emotion engine with a system that allows users to raise virtual pets as 3D models based on images and videos of animals taken by the user and engage in daily interactions. Specific embodiments are described below.

[0249] System Configuration

[0250] This system is roughly composed of the following components:

[0251] 1. User Device

[0252] 2. Server

[0253] 3. Generation AI

[0254] 4. Database

[0255] 5. Interaction Features

[0256] 6. Emotion Engine

[0257] 7. In-app purchase system

[0258] A natural language description of the program's operation

[0259] Uploading photos and videos of animals

[0260] Users can save images and videos of animals they have taken to their device. From their device through the app, users tap the "Add a new pet" button, select an image or video of an animal from the gallery, and tap the upload button. The device then sends the file to the server via the Internet.

[0261] Generate 3D pet models

[0262] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users and starts the process of generating a 3D model using generative AI. The generative AI analyzes the user's images and videos, extracts the animal's characteristics, and generates a 3D model based on these. The generated 3D model is stored in a database. The user is notified of the progress of this process via their device.

[0263] Daily contact with pets

[0264] The device downloads the generated 3D pet model from the server and renders it. It provides an interface that allows users to interact with the virtual pet, allowing them to select actions such as "walk," "paw," and "sit." The device then executes the pet's animations and movements based on the selected actions. The device also manages the pet's status, such as hunger and happiness, and updates it in real time.

[0265] Combining Emotion Engines

[0266] The emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to evaluate their emotions. The device captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and their voice with a microphone, and passes this data to the emotion engine. The emotion engine analyzes the acquired data and determines the user's emotional state. For example, if the user is smiling, it will determine that the user is "happy," and generate an animal behavior that corresponds to the emotion, such as making the pet more active.

[0267] Expanded functionality through in-app purchases

[0268] Users can purchase additional pets, items, and features using the in-app purchase feature. The device displays a purchase screen and processes the payment for the items and features selected by the user. Once the payment is complete, the server adds the purchased items and features to the user's account. The device displays a notification to the user that the purchase is complete, and the new items and features become available for use.

[0269] Specific examples

[0270] Upload a photo

[0271] Users can select a photo of their pet dog from their smartphone gallery and upload it using the app's "Add a new pet" function.

[0272] 3D model generation

[0273] The generative AI runs on the server side, analyzes the uploaded photo, generates a 3D model of the dog, and stores it in a database. The user receives a notification when generation is complete.

[0274] Interaction

[0275] Users can interact with a 3D model of a dog generated within the app by taking it for a walk, petting it, sitting, etc., and can provide food and playtime while checking the dog's status.

[0276] Emotion engine adjusts behavior

[0277] If the emotion engine detects a happy expression on the user's face, it will determine "happiness" and adjust the virtual dog's movements to make it more active and wag its tail.

[0278] In-app purchases

[0279] Users can use in-app purchases to purchase additional pets and special items, and then enjoy richer interactions with the purchased features and items.

[0280] This system allows users to raise virtual pets based on images and videos of animals they have taken themselves, and uses an emotion engine to provide a realistic experience that responds to the user's emotions. This makes it possible to provide effective mental health care to people who cannot keep pets or who have lost their pets.

[0281] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0282] Step 1:

[0283] The user saves images and videos of animals to the device. The user takes photos and videos of animals using the camera function of their smartphone or tablet.

[0284] Step 2:

[0285] The user launches the app and displays the home screen. The user taps the "Add a new pet" button.

[0286] Step 3:

[0287] The device will display an "Upload Photo" option, and the user can tap the "Upload Photo" button to select a photo or video of an animal from their gallery.

[0288] Step 4:

[0289] The device temporarily stores the files selected by the user, and the user taps the "Upload" button to send the selected files to the server.

[0290] Step 5:

[0291] The server receives the uploaded file and temporarily stores it in storage.

[0292] Step 6:

[0293] The server instructs the AI ​​generator to analyze the file, which uses image analysis algorithms to extract animal features.

[0294] Step 7:

[0295] The generative AI generates a 3D model based on the extracted features, and the server stores the generated 3D model in a database.

[0296] Step 8:

[0297] The server notifies the device that the 3D model has been generated, and the device displays the notification to the user.

[0298] Step 9:

[0299] The device downloads the generated 3D model from the server. The device renders and displays the 3D model.

[0300] Step 10:

[0301] The user interacts with the virtual pet by selecting actions such as "walk," "paw," or "sit," and the device executes the corresponding animation or movement.

[0302] Step 11:

[0303] The device manages the virtual pet's status (hungryness, happiness, etc.) and updates the pet's status based on the user's actions.

[0304] Step 12:

[0305] The user performs emotion recognition using the emotion engine. The device captures the user's facial expressions with the camera and their voice with the microphone, and sends them to the emotion engine.

[0306] Step 13:

[0307] The emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to determine their emotional state. For example, the emotion engine may determine that a user's smile is "joy."

[0308] Step 14:

[0309] The device adjusts the behavior of the 3D model animal based on the emotional data obtained from the emotion engine. For example, if the user is judged to be "happy," the pet will move more actively.

[0310] Step 15:

[0311] Users can purchase additional pets and items using in-app purchases by opening the "Store," selecting the item they want to purchase, and tapping the "Purchase" button.

[0312] Step 16:

[0313] The terminal displays a payment screen, and the user enters billing information. The server receives the billing information and executes the payment process.

[0314] Step 17:

[0315] If the payment is successful, the server adds the purchased items and features to the user's account, and the device displays a notification to the user that the purchase is complete, allowing the user to use the purchased items and features.

[0316] In this way, the system allows users to raise virtual pets based on their own photos and videos of animals, and uses an emotion engine to provide a realistic experience that responds to the user's emotions. In addition, users can enjoy more features and items through in-app purchases.

[0317] Example 2

[0318] 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."

[0319] Previous virtual pet systems were unable to generate 3D models based on images or videos of animals taken by the user, and lacked the ability to provide interactions based on the user's emotions. As a result, users were unable to get a realistic experience, leading to low satisfaction. Furthermore, it was difficult to provide additional items or functions through in-app purchases.

[0320] The specific processing by the specific 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 uploading images and videos of animals taken by the user; means for generating a 3D model using a generative AI model based on the uploaded images and videos; means for providing an interaction function that allows the user to interact with the animal using the generated 3D model; emotion engine means for analyzing the user's facial expressions and voice to evaluate their emotions and adjusting the behavior of the 3D model based on the evaluation; means for processing in-app purchases by the user via the Internet and providing additional items and functions; means for receiving images and videos uploaded from the user's device, generating a 3D model based on the uploaded images and videos, and storing the 3D model in a database; and means for rendering the 3D model on the user's device and updating the pet's status in real time through interaction. This allows the user to raise a virtual pet based on the images and videos they take and provide a realistic experience according to their emotions. Furthermore, functions can be expanded through in-app purchases, allowing for richer interactions.

[0321] "User" refers to any individual or entity that uses the System.

[0322] "Terminal" refers to a device that allows a user to access and operate the system.

[0323] "Server" refers to the central computing device of the system, which receives, processes, stores, and provides data.

[0324] "Generative AI model" refers to an artificial intelligence algorithm that generates 3D models from images and videos uploaded by users.

[0325] "Upload" refers to the act of sending data from a user's terminal to a server.

[0326] A "3D model" refers to digital data that reproduces a three-dimensional shape from a two-dimensional image or video.

[0327] "Interaction function" refers to the system's functionality that allows users to interact with 3D models and perform various actions.

[0328] An "emotion engine" refers to a function that analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice, evaluates the user's emotions, and adjusts the system's behavior.

[0329] "In-app purchases" refers to a payment system for purchasing additional items or features within an application.

[0330] "Image analysis algorithm" refers to a computational method for extracting animal characteristics from uploaded images and videos.

[0331] This invention is a system that raises a virtual pet as a 3D model based on images and videos of animals taken by the user, and combines it with an emotion engine to provide a realistic experience that responds to the user's emotions. This system is roughly composed of the following components.

[0332] 1. User Device

[0333] This is a device (smartphone, tablet, PC, etc.) that users use to access and operate the system. Users use this device to take pictures and videos of animals and upload them through the app.

[0334] 2. Server

[0335] The system's central computing device receives, processes, stores, and provides data. The server receives images and videos uploaded by users, generates 3D models using generative AI models, and stores them in a database.

[0336] 3. Generative AI Models

[0337] It is an artificial intelligence algorithm that analyzes the characteristics of animals based on uploaded images and videos and generates 3D models. This generative AI model analyzes the user's images and videos in detail to generate realistic 3D models.

[0338] 4. Database

[0339] This is a device for storing generated 3D models and user information. The database stores each user's pet model and interaction history.

[0340] 5. Interaction Features

[0341] This feature allows users to interact with virtual pets and perform various actions. For example, users can interact with their pets through actions such as "walk," "paw," and "sit." In addition, the pet's status (hungry level, happiness, etc.) is updated in real time.

[0342] 6. Emotion Engine

[0343] This function analyzes emotions from the user's facial expressions and voice, and adjusts the behavior of the 3D model based on the evaluation results. This system captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and their voice with a microphone, and sends them to the emotion engine. The emotion engine analyzes the captured data and flexibly adjusts the pet's behavior according to the user's emotional state.

[0344] 7. In-app purchase system

[0345] This is a payment system for purchasing additional items and features within the application. Users can use in-app purchases to purchase new pets, items, features, etc.

[0346] Specific examples

[0347] Upload a photo

[0348] Users can select a photo of their pet dog from their smartphone gallery and upload it using the app's "Add a new pet" function.

[0349] 3D model generation

[0350] The generative AI model runs on the server side, analyzes the uploaded photo, generates a 3D model of the dog, stores it in a database, and the user receives a notification when generation is complete.

[0351] Interaction

[0352] Users can interact with a 3D model of a dog generated within the app by taking it for a walk, petting it, sitting, etc., and can provide meals and playtime while checking the dog's status.

[0353] Emotion engine adjusts behavior

[0354] If the emotion engine detects a happy expression on the user's face, it will determine "happiness" and adjust the virtual dog's movements to make it more active and wag its tail.

[0355] In-app purchases

[0356] Users can use in-app purchases to purchase additional pets and special items, and then enjoy richer interactions with the purchased features and items.

[0357] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0358] "Upload a photo of your dog and generate a 3D model."

[0359] "Change your pet's behavior to match my emotions of pleasure."

[0360] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0361] Step 1:

[0362] The user saves an image or video of an animal to the device. Next, the user launches the app and taps the "Add a new pet" button. This puts the device into a state where it can accept the user's selection. The user selects an image or video of an animal from the device's gallery and taps the upload button. The input is the user's image or video, and the output is the file being sent to the server. Specifically, the device sends the selected file to the server via the Internet.

[0363] Step 2:

[0364] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users. The input is the image or video sent from the device, and the output is the data passed to the generative AI model. The server launches the generative AI and begins analyzing the image or video. Specifically, the generative AI scans the image or video in detail and extracts the features of the animal. The generative AI extracts the animal's features and generates a 3D model based on them. The output 3D model is stored in a database. The server notifies the device of the progress of this process.

[0365] Step 3:

[0366] After the server saves the generated 3D model in the database, a notification is sent to the device. The input is the notification from the server, and the output is the 3D model download process. The device downloads the 3D model from the server and begins rendering. Specifically, the device displays the downloaded 3D model and provides a user interface. The user can then interact with the virtual pet through the interface.

[0367] Step 4:

[0368] The user selects an action such as "walk," "paw," or "sit" through the interface. The input is the user's action selection, and the output is the pet's animation. The device executes the pet's animation and movement based on the selected action. Specifically, the device plays an animation file corresponding to the action, providing visual feedback to the user. At the same time, the pet's status (hungry level, happiness, etc.) is updated in real time.

[0369] Step 5:

[0370] The device captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and their voice with a microphone. The input is the camera image and microphone voice, and the output is data sent to the emotion engine. The device sends the acquired data to the emotion engine, which analyzes the data and determines the user's emotional state. Specifically, the emotion engine infers emotions such as "happiness" or "sadness" from the user's facial expressions and voice, and returns the result to the device. The device adjusts the pet's movements according to the emotional state. For example, if the user is smiling, the virtual pet will become more active.

[0371] Step 6:

[0372] The user selects the "Shop" function within the app to purchase additional pets or items. The input is the user's purchase selection, and the output is the transmission of billing information to the server. The device displays the purchase screen and processes the billing for the items or features selected by the user. Once the payment is complete, the device sends the purchase information to the server. The server adds the purchased items or features to the user's account. Specifically, the server updates the database and updates the user's account information. The device displays a notification to the user that the purchase is complete, and provides the new items or features.

[0373] (Application example 2)

[0374] 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."

[0375] Conventional virtual pet raising systems primarily allow users to raise their pets at home, making it difficult to provide an experience that is linked to a physical store. Furthermore, they lack the functionality to adjust the virtual pet's behavior and reactions in real time according to the user's emotions, limiting the realism of the interaction and the user experience. Therefore, there is a need for technology that allows users to enjoy virtual pets in real time in a physical store and provides dynamic interactions based on user emotion analysis.

[0376] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.

[0377] In this invention, the server includes means for uploading images of animals taken by users, means for generating 3D models based on the uploaded images, means for allowing users to interact with the animals using the generated 3D models, means for analyzing the user's emotions using an emotion engine and adjusting the behavior of the 3D models in accordance with the analysis results, and means for combining the interaction means and the emotion engine to provide a device for interacting with a virtual pet in real time in a physical store, thereby enabling dynamic interaction between the virtual pet and the user in real time in the physical store based on emotion analysis.

[0378] definition statement

[0379] The "means for uploading images of animals taken by users" is a function that allows users to send images of animals taken by their own terminals to the system.

[0380] The "means for generating a 3D model based on an uploaded image" is a function that analyzes an image of an animal sent by a user, captures its characteristics, and automatically creates a 3D model.

[0381] "Interaction means for users to interact with animals using generated 3D models" is a function that allows users to interact with generated 3D model animals through various movements and actions in virtual space.

[0382] "Means of analyzing the user's emotions using an emotion engine and adjusting the behavior of the 3D model according to the analysis results" refers to a function that analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to determine their emotional state, and dynamically changes the behavior and reactions of the virtual pet based on the results.

[0383] "Means for providing a device that combines an interaction means and an emotion engine to enable real-time interaction with a virtual pet in a physical store" refers to a function for installing or providing a device that integrates an interaction function with a virtual pet and an emotion analysis function, and enables real-time interaction with a virtual pet in a physical store.

[0384] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0385] This invention is a system that generates a virtual pet as a 3D model based on images and videos of animals taken by the user, and further combines it with an emotion engine to enable users to interact with the virtual pet in real time at a physical store. Specific embodiments are described below.

[0386] System Configuration

[0387] This system is roughly composed of the following components:

[0388] 1. User Device

[0389] A device that allows users to take pictures and videos of animals and send them to a server via an application. This is typically a smartphone or tablet.

[0390] 2. Server

[0391] It receives uploaded images and videos and processes them to generate 3D models, which are then stored in a database and play a central role in linking with the interaction function and emotion engine.

[0392] 3. Generation AI

[0393] Using image analysis algorithms and deep learning models (such as TensorFlow and PyTorch), 3D models are generated from uploaded animal images and videos.

[0394] 4. Database

[0395] Stores the generated 3D model, user interaction data, and other related information.

[0396] 5. Interaction Features

[0397] This is an interface that allows users to interact with virtual pets. It provides a function that allows users to specify actions (walk, sit, etc.) and have the virtual pet behave accordingly.

[0398] 6. Emotion Engine

[0399] It analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to determine their emotional state, and dynamically adjusts the virtual pet's behavior and reactions based on the results of the emotional analysis.

[0400] 7. Physical Store Devices

[0401] These devices integrate virtual pet interaction functions and emotion engines and are intended for use in physical stores. Examples include tablets, smart glasses, and head-mounted displays.

[0402] Program processing explanation

[0403] The server receives the animal image sent from the user's device, generates a 3D model using generative AI, and stores the 3D model in a database. At the same time, it runs an emotion engine and analyzes emotions based on data obtained from the user's camera and microphone. Based on the analyzed emotion data, the interaction function operates, and the virtual pet's movements and reactions corresponding to the user's emotions are displayed on the physical store device.

[0404] Specific examples

[0405] 1. Image upload example:

[0406] Users take photos of their pet dogs using their smartphone camera and then use the app's in-app functionality to upload the images to the server.

[0407] 2. Example of 3D model generation:

[0408] A generative AI using TensorFlow runs on the server side, analyzes the uploaded image, generates a 3D model, and saves it in a database. The user receives a notification when generation is complete.

[0409] 3. Example of interaction:

[0410] Users can interact with virtual pets by operating a tablet device in a physical store, enjoying actions such as walking and sitting.

[0411] 4. Emotion engine example:

[0412] The camera captures the user's happy facial expression, which the emotion engine determines as "joy." This causes the virtual pet to become more active and perform actions such as wagging its tail in real time.

[0413] 5. Example prompt:

[0414] "Use the image below to generate a 3D model of a dog. Emphasize the dog's key features and make it as realistic as possible. Additionally, add emotional states so that the generated model can interact with the emotion engine."

[0415] This system enables dynamic interaction between virtual pets and users in real-time within a physical store based on emotion analysis, which is expected to encourage customers to purchase products while having fun.

[0416] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0417] Processing Steps

[0418] Step 1:

[0419] The user takes a picture of the animal and uploads the image to the server from the application using the terminal.

[0420] Input: An image of an animal taken by the user on their device.

[0421] Data processing: The device selects the image on the application and sends it to the server via the Internet.

[0422] Output: An image of the animal is uploaded to the server.

[0423] Step 2:

[0424] The server receives the uploaded image and begins the process of generating a 3D model using the generative AI model.

[0425] Input: An image of an animal.

[0426] Data processing: Invoke a generative AI model (e.g., TensorFlow or PyTorch) and apply image analysis algorithms to extract animal features.

[0427] Data calculation: Generate a 3D model based on the features.

[0428] Output: The generated 3D model is completed and stored in a database.

[0429] Step 3:

[0430] Users interact with virtual pets using devices (tablets, smart glasses, etc.) in physical stores.

[0431] Input: 3D model retrieved from database and user instructions (actions).

[0432] Data manipulation: The interaction method animates the 3D model based on the user's selected actions.

[0433] Output: The virtual pet performs the specified action.

[0434] Step 4:

[0435] The device captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and picks up their voice with a microphone.

[0436] Input: User facial expression images and voice data.

[0437] Data processing: The device collects data using the camera and microphone and sends it to the server.

[0438] Output: Raw data captured by the camera and microphone is sent to a server.

[0439] Step 5:

[0440] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotions and adjusts the behavior of the 3D model based on the results.

[0441] Input: User facial expression images and voice data.

[0442] Data processing: Analyze the user's facial expressions and voice using an emotion engine (e.g., OpenCV) to determine their emotional state.

[0443] Data calculation: Generates the behavior of the 3D model according to the emotion results.

[0444] Output: Sentiment analysis results and corresponding 3D model behavior.

[0445] Step 6:

[0446] Based on the results of user interaction and emotion analysis, users can enjoy interacting with virtual pets in a physical store.

[0447] Input: 3D model behavior and user actions based on sentiment analysis results.

[0448] Data processing: Devices in physical stores display pet behavior in real time based on emotion analysis.

[0449] Output: Real-time interaction with virtual pets is realized.

[0450] This processing step enables dynamic interaction between the virtual pet and the user in real time within a physical store based on emotion analysis.

[0451] 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.

[0452] 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.

[0453] 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.

[0454] [Second embodiment]

[0455] FIG. 3 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 210 according to the second embodiment.

[0456] 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.

[0457] 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).

[0458] 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.

[0459] 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.

[0460] 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).

[0461] 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.

[0462] 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.

[0463] 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.

[0464] 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.

[0465] 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.

[0466] 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."

[0467] The present invention relates to a system that allows users to raise a virtual pet as a 3D model based on images and videos of animals taken by the user, and to interact with the virtual pet on a daily basis. Specific embodiments are described below.

[0468] System Configuration

[0469] This system is roughly composed of the following components:

[0470] 1. User Device

[0471] 2. Server

[0472] 3. Generation AI

[0473] 4. Database

[0474] 5. Interaction Features

[0475] 6. In-app purchase system

[0476] A natural language description of the program's operation

[0477] Uploading photos and videos of animals

[0478] Users can save images and videos of animals they have taken to their device. From their device through the app, users tap the "Add a new pet" button, select an image or video from the gallery, and tap the upload button. The device then sends the file to the server via the Internet.

[0479] Generate 3D pet models

[0480] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users and starts the process of generating a 3D model using generative AI. The generative AI analyzes the user's images and videos, extracts the animal's characteristics, and generates a 3D model based on these. The generated 3D model is stored in a database on the server. The user is notified of the progress of this process.

[0481] Daily contact with pets

[0482] The device renders a 3D pet model downloaded from the server and provides an interface that allows users to interact with the virtual pet. Users select various actions (e.g., walk, paw, sit) within the app and perform the corresponding interaction. The device controls the pet's animations and behavior based on the action. The device also manages the pet's status, such as hunger and happiness, and updates it in real time.

[0483] Expanded functionality through in-app purchases

[0484] Users can purchase additional pets, items, and features using the in-app purchase feature. The device displays a purchase screen and processes the payment for the items and features selected by the user. Once the payment is complete, the server adds the purchased items and features to the user's account and notifies the device. This allows the user to use the newly added features and items.

[0485] Specific examples

[0486] Upload a photo

[0487] Users can select a photo of their beloved cat from their smartphone gallery and upload it using the "Add a new pet" feature within the app.

[0488] 3D model generation

[0489] The generative AI runs on the server side, analyzes the uploaded photo, generates a 3D cat model, and saves it in a database. The user receives a notification when the model is complete.

[0490] Interaction

[0491] Users can interact with the 3D cat model generated within the app by taking it for a walk, pawing, sitting, etc., and can provide meals and playtime while checking the cat's status.

[0492] In-app purchases

[0493] Users can use in-app purchases to purchase additional pets and special items, and then enjoy richer interactions with the purchased features and items.

[0494] This system allows users to raise virtual pets based on images and videos of animals they have taken themselves and interact with them on a daily basis, making it possible for it to play a role in providing mental health care for people who are unable to keep pets or who have lost their pets.

[0495] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0496] Step 1:

[0497] The user saves images and videos of animals to the device. The user takes photos and videos of animals using the camera function of their smartphone or tablet.

[0498] Step 2:

[0499] The user launches the app. The device displays the app's home screen. The user taps the "Add a new pet" button.

[0500] Step 3:

[0501] The device displays a screen with the option to "Upload a Photo." The user taps the "Upload a Photo" button and selects a photo or video of an animal from their gallery.

[0502] Step 4:

[0503] The file selected by the user is temporarily stored. The user taps the "Upload" button, and the device sends the selected file to the server via the Internet.

[0504] Step 5:

[0505] The server receives the uploaded file, temporarily stores it, and then begins the process of generating a 3D model using the generation AI.

[0506] Step 6:

[0507] The generative AI extracts animal features using an image analysis algorithm. The server generates a 3D model based on the extracted features. The server stores the generated 3D model in a database.

[0508] Step 7:

[0509] The server notifies the device that the 3D model has been generated, and the device displays a notification to the user.

[0510] Step 8:

[0511] The device downloads the generated 3D model from the server, renders the 3D model, and displays an interface that allows the user to interact with the virtual pet.

[0512] Step 9:

[0513] Users interact with the virtual pet within the app by selecting actions such as "walk," "paw," or "sit," and the device then performs the appropriate animations and movements.

[0514] Step 10:

[0515] The device manages the status of the virtual pet, updating its hunger level, happiness level, and other status based on the pet's behavior and interactions with the user.

[0516] Step 11:

[0517] Users can purchase additional pets or items using in-app purchases by opening the "Store" tab, selecting the item or feature they want to purchase, and tapping the "Purchase" button.

[0518] Step 12:

[0519] The terminal displays a payment screen, and the user enters billing information. The server receives the billing information and processes the payment.

[0520] Step 13:

[0521] If the payment is successful, the server adds the purchased item or feature to the user's account, and the device displays a notification to the user confirming the purchase and making the new item or feature available.

[0522] In this way, the system allows users to raise and interact with virtual pets based on images and videos of animals they have taken themselves. Users can also enjoy more features and items through in-app purchases.

[0523] Example 1

[0524] 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."

[0525] In modern society, there are many people who want to keep pets but are unable to do so for various reasons, and many who have lost their pets. Furthermore, conventional pet-raising apps lack realism and interactive experiences, resulting in insufficient user satisfaction. Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a system that generates realistic, interactive 3D models of animals based on images and videos taken by users, allowing users to interact with virtual pets.

[0526] 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.

[0527] In this invention, the server includes means for uploading images and videos of animals taken by the user from the terminal to the server, means for the server to extract features of the animal using a generative AI model based on the uploaded images and videos and generate a 3D model, means for the terminal to download the generated 3D model and provide an interface for the user to interact with the animal, and means for the user to purchase additional pets, items, and functions through in-app purchases.This allows users to enjoy a realistic and interactive virtual pet raising experience, and is expected to have a mental health care effect on people who cannot actually keep pets or who have lost their pets.

[0528] "User" refers to an individual or organization that uses this system and takes images or videos of animals and uploads that data to the system.

[0529] "Device" refers to the electronic device used by a User (e.g., smartphone, tablet, computer, etc.) to select and upload images and videos, download 3D models, and perform other interactions.

[0530] The "server" is a central computer system that receives and processes images and videos uploaded by users, generates 3D models using generative AI models, and manages the data.

[0531] "Generative AI model" refers to an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm that analyzes uploaded images and videos, extracts animal features, and generates a 3D model.

[0532] "3D model" refers to a three-dimensional digital representation of an animal created by a generative AI model based on the characteristics of the animal uploaded by the user, and serves as a target for users to virtually interact with the pet.

[0533] "Interaction" refers to the user directly manipulating or taking actions with the generated 3D model, and is done through various functions provided within the application (e.g., walk, paw, sit, etc.).

[0534] "In-app purchases" refers to the payment mechanism that occurs when a user purchases additional pets, items, features, etc. within an application, and is a means for the user to enjoy further interaction.

[0535] This invention relates to a system that generates a virtual pet as a 3D model using images and videos of animals taken by the user, and allows the user to interact with the virtual pet on a daily basis. Specific embodiments are described below.

[0536] System Overview

[0537] The system consists of the following components:

[0538] 1. User Device

[0539] 2. Server

[0540] 3. Generative AI Models

[0541] 4. Database

[0542] 5. Interaction Features

[0543] 6. In-app purchase system

[0544] Uploading photos and videos of animals

[0545] Users can save images and videos of animals they have taken to their device. From the device, they tap the "Add a new pet" button through a dedicated application, select an image or video of an animal from the gallery, and then tap the upload button. The device then sends the file to the server via the Internet. For example, a user can select a photo of a cat, "neko.jpg," from the gallery and upload it.

[0546] Generate 3D pet models

[0547] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users and begins the process of generating a 3D model using a generative AI model. The generative AI model analyzes the user's images and videos and extracts the animal's features. Based on these features, the server generates a 3D model and stores it in a database on the server. The user is notified of the progress of this process in real time. For example, the generative AI extracts the eyes, ears, and body features of a cat based on "neko.jpg" and generates a 3D model.

[0548] Daily contact with pets

[0549] The device renders a 3D pet model downloaded from the server and provides an interface that allows users to interact with the virtual pet. Users select various actions within the app to perform the corresponding interaction. For example, when a user selects "paw," the device displays an animation of a cat offering its paw. The device also manages the pet's status, such as hunger and happiness, and updates it in real time.

[0550] Expanded functionality through in-app purchases

[0551] Users can purchase additional pets, items, and features using the in-app purchase feature. The device displays a purchase screen and processes the charge for the item or feature selected by the user. Once the charge is complete, the server adds the purchased item or feature to the user's account and notifies the device. This allows the user to use the newly added features and items. For example, if a user selects and purchases "additional pet," a new pet will be added to the account.

[0552] Examples and prompts

[0553] Upload a photo

[0554] Users select a photo of their beloved cat, "neko.jpg," from their smartphone's gallery and upload it using the "Add a new pet" function within the app.

[0555] 3D model generation

[0556] The AI ​​runs on the server side, analyzes the image "neko.jpg", generates a 3D cat model, and saves it in the database. The user receives a notification when generation is complete.

[0557] Interaction

[0558] Users can interact with the 3D cat model generated within the app by taking it for a walk, pawing, sitting, etc., and can provide meals and playtime while checking their pet's status.

[0559] In-app purchases

[0560] Users can use in-app purchases to purchase additional pets and special items, and then enjoy richer interactions with the purchased features and items.

[0561] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0562] Step 1:

[0563] Photo / Video Selection

[0564] The user selects a photo or video of an animal from the smartphone gallery. Specifically, the user opens the gallery and taps to select the cat photo "neko.jpg." At this point, "neko.jpg" is selected as input, and its file path is obtained within the device.

[0565] Step 2:

[0566] File transfer

[0567] The user taps the "Add a new pet" button in the app and uploads the selected file. The device then sends this file to the server via the Internet. The input is the selected file "neko.jpg," and the output is a message confirming successful file transmission to the server.

[0568] Step 3:

[0569] Upload completion notification

[0570] The server confirms receipt of the file and sends a notification to the terminal that the upload is complete. The terminal displays this notification to the user. The input is confirmation information for the file received by the server, and the output is an upload completion message that is displayed on the terminal. Specifically, the terminal displays a notification that the upload is complete.

[0571] Step 4:

[0572] Data reception

[0573] The server receives the sent file and saves it in storage. The input is the sent "neko.jpg", and the output is the file saved in the server's storage. The specific operation is that the file is saved in " / uploads / neko.jpg".

[0574] Step 5:

[0575] Feature Extraction

[0576] The server passes the saved file to the generative AI to extract the animal's features. The input is the saved file path " / uploads / neko.jpg", which the generative AI model analyzes and outputs the animal's feature data (e.g., ear shape, eye color, etc.).

[0577] Step 6:

[0578] 3D model generation

[0579] The server uses generative AI to generate a 3D model based on the extracted features. The input is feature data, and the output is the generated 3D model data. Specifically, the 3D model generation algorithm creates a 3D model of the cat based on the feature data and stores the model in memory.

[0580] Step 7:

[0581] Database storage

[0582] The server saves the generated 3D model in a database. The input is the 3D model data, and the output is a 3D model entry stored in the database. Specifically, a new record is added to the database.

[0583] Step 8:

[0584] Generation completion notification

[0585] The server notifies the terminal that generation is complete and notifies the user. The input is the completion information of 3D model generation, and the output is a notification displayed on the terminal. The notification "3D model generation has been completed" is displayed on the terminal.

[0586] Step 9:

[0587] Model Download

[0588] The device downloads the 3D model from the database. The input is the model ID in the database, and the output is the 3D model data stored on the device. Specifically, the 3D model file is downloaded to the device.

[0589] Step 10:

[0590] Interface Display

[0591] The device renders the downloaded 3D model and displays it to the user. The input is the 3D model data, and the output is the visual information of the 3D model displayed to the user. Specifically, a 3D model of a cat is displayed within the app.

[0592] Step 11:

[0593] Interaction Selection

[0594] The user selects an interaction within the app (e.g., walk, paw, sit). The input is the user's selection, and the output is the command for the selected interaction. Specifically, the user selects "paw."

[0595] Step 12:

[0596] Animation Control

[0597] The terminal controls the pet's animations and behavior based on the selected interaction. The input is the interaction command, and the output is the execution of the corresponding animation. Specifically, the cat is shown holding out its paw.

[0598] Step 13:

[0599] Status Updates

[0600] The terminal manages the pet's status, such as its hunger level and happiness, and updates it in real time. The input is the user's behavioral data and the pet's current status, and the output is the updated status information. Specifically, the pet's hunger level is updated from "80%" to "90%."

[0601] Step 14:

[0602] Purchase screen display

[0603] The user opens the shop screen within the app. The input is the user's operation, and the output is the purchase screen that is displayed. Specifically, a "list of items available for purchase" is displayed.

[0604] Step 15:

[0605] Billing process

[0606] The user selects and purchases additional pets and items. The terminal processes the billing information and performs the payment. The input is the user's purchase selection and payment information, and the output is a purchase completion message. Specifically, the user enters credit card information to confirm the "purchase."

[0607] Step 16:

[0608] Account Updates

[0609] The server adds the purchased items or features to the user's account. The input is the purchased item information, and the output is the updated account information, e.g., a new pet is added to the account.

[0610] Step 17:

[0611] Send notifications

[0612] The server notifies the terminal that the purchase is complete and notifies the user. The input is information that the billing process has been completed, and the output is a notification that is displayed on the terminal. The notification that "Purchase completed" is displayed.

[0613] (Application example 1)

[0614] 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."

[0615] Conventional virtual pet raising systems only operate on the user's smart device, and have the problem of not being able to provide an interactive experience in stores or public places. Furthermore, in order to improve user engagement, new value based on real-life in-store experiences is required. There is a need to solve these issues and realize an interactive virtual pet experience in stores and public places.

[0616] 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.

[0617] In this invention, the server includes means for uploading images of animals taken by users, means for generating 3D models based on the uploaded images, means for allowing users to interact with the animals using the generated 3D models, and means for allowing users to interact with the virtual pets using a large display device, thereby enabling users to experience interactive interactions with virtual pets in real time in stores or public places.

[0618] "User-generated Animal Image" means a still image of one or more animals that is taken and uploaded by a User on their Device.

[0619] "Means for uploading" refers to the function that allows users to transfer their own image and video files to the server.

[0620] "Generation method" refers to the algorithms and software used to automatically create 3D models of animals based on uploaded images and videos.

[0621] "Interaction means" refers to the user interface and animations that allow the user to interact with the virtual animal using the generated 3D model.

[0622] "Large display devices" refer to large displays and signage installed in stores and public places.

[0623] "Means for interactive interaction" refers to a function that allows users to communicate with virtual animals in real time through a large display device and to control and give instructions to them.

[0624] "Image analysis algorithm" refers to a program that extracts animal features from uploaded images and generates a 3D model based on them.

[0625] "Means for customization" refers to a function that allows a user to change the appearance or behavior of a generated virtual animal, or add special items to the animal.

[0626] The present invention is a system that allows users to raise a virtual pet as a 3D model based on images and videos of animals taken by the user and interact with it on a daily basis. Based on this embodiment, we will explain how to specifically implement the present invention.

[0627] System Configuration

[0628] This system is roughly composed of the following components:

[0629] 1. User Device

[0630] 2. Server

[0631] 3. Generation AI

[0632] 4. Database

[0633] 5. Interaction Features

[0634] 6. Large display device

[0635] 7. In-app purchase system

[0636] File upload from user device

[0637] Users can save images and videos of animals they have taken to their device. By selecting files through a dedicated app and tapping the upload button, the user's device will send the files to a server via the Internet. Uploaded files are then saved on the server.

[0638] Generate 3D pet models

[0639] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users and begins the process of generating a 3D model using generative AI. During this process, image analysis algorithms such as TensorFlow are used to extract the animal's features. After the features are extracted, a 3D model is generated using Blender. This generated 3D model is stored in a database on the server. The progress of this generation process is also notified to the user's device.

[0640] Interaction Features

[0641] The user's device renders the 3D pet model downloaded from the server and provides an interface that allows the user to interact with the virtual pet. Within the app, the user clicks on options such as walk, paw, or sit to perform the corresponding interaction. The user's device controls the pet's animations and behavior based on the action. The app also has an in-app purchase function that allows users to purchase additional pets and items.

[0642] In-store interaction using large display devices

[0643] Using large displays installed in brick-and-mortar stores and public spaces, users can interact with virtual pets in real time. The displays are equipped with cameras and sensors to detect the user's movements and reflect them in the movements of the virtual pet. Furthermore, there is a special bonus feature that unlocks special items and pets when certain products are purchased.

[0644] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0645] When using a generative AI model, you can use prompts like the following:

[0646] Example prompt sentence:

[0647] "Generate a 3D cat model: Input: 3 images that clearly show the cat's face, body, and tail. Output: 3D cat model (Blender format). Objective: Generate a realistic 3D cat model from the uploaded images."

[0648] This system allows users to enjoy a rich and interactive experience with virtual pets wherever they are, using their smart devices or large displays in brick-and-mortar stores. As a result, such a system can improve user engagement and provide deeper enjoyment.

[0649] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0650] Step 1:

[0651] The user takes an image or video of an animal on their device and selects the file from the gallery using a dedicated app. This action causes the device to acquire the selected image or video as binary data. The device then provides an interface for uploading the acquired data to the server.

[0652] Input: An image or video file selected by the user.

[0653] Output: Binary data sent to the server

[0654] Step 2:

[0655] The device sends the selected file to the server via the Internet, using a secure communication protocol (e.g., HTTPS) to ensure data security. The server temporarily stores the received file and records the file metadata in a database.

[0656] Input: Uploaded binary data

[0657] Output: The file and its metadata stored on the server.

[0658] Step 3:

[0659] The server analyzes the received file and generates a 3D model using a generative AI model. During this process, image analysis algorithms such as TensorFlow are used to extract the animal's features, and software such as Blender is used to create the 3D model. The progress of this generation process is notified to the user's device.

[0660] Input: Animal image or video files stored on the server

[0661] Output: 3D model stored in a database

[0662] Step 4:

[0663] The user's device downloads the generated 3D model from the server and displays it to the user through a dedicated app. The user selects various interactions within the app (e.g., walk, paw, sit), and the device controls the virtual pet's animations and movements based on those actions.

[0664] Input: Downloaded 3D model

[0665] Output: A 3D pet and its animations displayed on the user's device

[0666] Step 5:

[0667] The 3D model sent from the device is displayed on a large display device installed in a physical store. Users can interact with the virtual pet in real time through the interactive display installed in the store. The display is equipped with cameras and sensors that detect the user's movements and reflect them in the movements of the virtual pet.

[0668] Input: 3D model sent from the device and user movement information

[0669] Output: Interactive virtual pet displayed on a large display

[0670] Step 6:

[0671] Users can purchase additional items and pets using the in-app purchase feature. The purchased items and pets are added to the user's account on the server side and notified to the user's device, allowing the user to use the newly added features and items.

[0672] Input: Purchase request and payment information

[0673] Output: Additional item and pet data recorded on the server, and notifications sent to the user's device.

[0674] 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.

[0675] The present invention provides a realistic experience that responds to the user's emotions by combining an emotion engine with a system that allows users to raise virtual pets as 3D models based on images and videos of animals taken by the user and engage in daily interactions. Specific embodiments are described below.

[0676] System Configuration

[0677] This system is roughly composed of the following components:

[0678] 1. User Device

[0679] 2. Server

[0680] 3. Generation AI

[0681] 4. Database

[0682] 5. Interaction Features

[0683] 6. Emotion Engine

[0684] 7. In-app purchase system

[0685] A natural language description of the program's operation

[0686] Uploading photos and videos of animals

[0687] Users can save images and videos of animals they have taken to their device. From their device through the app, users tap the "Add a new pet" button, select an image or video of an animal from the gallery, and tap the upload button. The device then sends the file to the server via the Internet.

[0688] Generate 3D pet models

[0689] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users and starts the process of generating a 3D model using generative AI. The generative AI analyzes the user's images and videos, extracts the animal's characteristics, and generates a 3D model based on these. The generated 3D model is stored in a database. The user is notified of the progress of this process via their device.

[0690] Daily contact with pets

[0691] The device downloads the generated 3D pet model from the server and renders it. It provides an interface that allows users to interact with the virtual pet, allowing them to select actions such as "walk," "paw," and "sit." The device then executes the pet's animations and movements based on the selected actions. The device also manages the pet's status, such as hunger and happiness, and updates it in real time.

[0692] Combining Emotion Engines

[0693] The emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to evaluate their emotions. The device captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and their voice with a microphone, and passes this data to the emotion engine. The emotion engine analyzes the acquired data and determines the user's emotional state. For example, if the user is smiling, it will determine that the user is "happy," and generate an animal behavior that corresponds to the emotion, such as making the pet more active.

[0694] Expanded functionality through in-app purchases

[0695] Users can purchase additional pets, items, and features using the in-app purchase feature. The device displays a purchase screen and processes the payment for the items and features selected by the user. Once the payment is complete, the server adds the purchased items and features to the user's account. The device displays a notification to the user that the purchase is complete, and the new items and features become available for use.

[0696] Specific examples

[0697] Upload a photo

[0698] Users can select a photo of their pet dog from their smartphone gallery and upload it using the app's "Add a new pet" function.

[0699] 3D model generation

[0700] The generative AI runs on the server side, analyzes the uploaded photo, generates a 3D model of the dog, and stores it in a database. The user receives a notification when generation is complete.

[0701] Interaction

[0702] Users can interact with a 3D model of a dog generated within the app by taking it for a walk, petting it, sitting, etc., and can provide food and playtime while checking the dog's status.

[0703] Emotion engine adjusts behavior

[0704] If the emotion engine detects a happy expression on the user's face, it will determine "happiness" and adjust the virtual dog's movements to make it more active and wag its tail.

[0705] In-app purchases

[0706] Users can use in-app purchases to purchase additional pets and special items, and then enjoy richer interactions with the purchased features and items.

[0707] This system allows users to raise virtual pets based on images and videos of animals they have taken themselves, and uses an emotion engine to provide a realistic experience that responds to the user's emotions. This makes it possible to provide effective mental health care to people who cannot keep pets or who have lost their pets.

[0708] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0709] Step 1:

[0710] The user saves images and videos of animals to the device. The user takes photos and videos of animals using the camera function of their smartphone or tablet.

[0711] Step 2:

[0712] The user launches the app and displays the home screen. The user taps the "Add a new pet" button.

[0713] Step 3:

[0714] The device will display an "Upload Photo" option, and the user can tap the "Upload Photo" button to select a photo or video of an animal from their gallery.

[0715] Step 4:

[0716] The device temporarily stores the files selected by the user, and the user taps the "Upload" button to send the selected files to the server.

[0717] Step 5:

[0718] The server receives the uploaded file and temporarily stores it in storage.

[0719] Step 6:

[0720] The server instructs the AI ​​generator to analyze the file, which uses image analysis algorithms to extract animal features.

[0721] Step 7:

[0722] The generative AI generates a 3D model based on the extracted features, and the server stores the generated 3D model in a database.

[0723] Step 8:

[0724] The server notifies the device that the 3D model has been generated, and the device displays the notification to the user.

[0725] Step 9:

[0726] The device downloads the generated 3D model from the server. The device renders and displays the 3D model.

[0727] Step 10:

[0728] The user interacts with the virtual pet by selecting actions such as "walk," "paw," or "sit," and the device executes the corresponding animation or movement.

[0729] Step 11:

[0730] The device manages the virtual pet's status (hungryness, happiness, etc.) and updates the pet's status based on the user's actions.

[0731] Step 12:

[0732] The user performs emotion recognition using the emotion engine. The device captures the user's facial expressions with the camera and their voice with the microphone, and sends them to the emotion engine.

[0733] Step 13:

[0734] The emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to determine their emotional state. For example, the emotion engine may determine that a user's smile is "joy."

[0735] Step 14:

[0736] The device adjusts the behavior of the 3D model animal based on the emotional data obtained from the emotion engine. For example, if the user is judged to be "happy," the pet will move more actively.

[0737] Step 15:

[0738] Users can purchase additional pets and items using in-app purchases by opening the "Store," selecting the item they want to purchase, and tapping the "Purchase" button.

[0739] Step 16:

[0740] The terminal displays a payment screen, and the user enters billing information. The server receives the billing information and executes the payment process.

[0741] Step 17:

[0742] If the payment is successful, the server adds the purchased items and features to the user's account, and the device displays a notification to the user that the purchase is complete, allowing the user to use the purchased items and features.

[0743] In this way, the system allows users to raise virtual pets based on their own photos and videos of animals, and uses an emotion engine to provide a realistic experience that responds to the user's emotions. In addition, users can enjoy more features and items through in-app purchases.

[0744] Example 2

[0745] 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."

[0746] Previous virtual pet systems were unable to generate 3D models based on images or videos of animals taken by the user, and lacked the ability to provide interactions based on the user's emotions. As a result, users were unable to get a realistic experience, leading to low satisfaction. Furthermore, it was difficult to provide additional items or functions through in-app purchases.

[0747] The specific processing by the specific 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 uploading images and videos of animals taken by the user; means for generating a 3D model using a generative AI model based on the uploaded images and videos; means for providing an interaction function that allows the user to interact with the animal using the generated 3D model; emotion engine means for analyzing the user's facial expressions and voice to evaluate their emotions and adjusting the behavior of the 3D model based on the evaluation; means for processing in-app purchases by the user via the Internet and providing additional items and functions; means for receiving images and videos uploaded from the user's device, generating a 3D model based on the uploaded images and videos, and storing the 3D model in a database; and means for rendering the 3D model on the user's device and updating the pet's status in real time through interaction. This allows the user to raise a virtual pet based on the images and videos they take and provide a realistic experience according to their emotions. Furthermore, functions can be expanded through in-app purchases, allowing for richer interactions.

[0748] "User" refers to any individual or entity that uses the System.

[0749] "Terminal" refers to a device that allows a user to access and operate the system.

[0750] "Server" refers to the central computing device of the system, which receives, processes, stores, and provides data.

[0751] "Generative AI model" refers to an artificial intelligence algorithm that generates 3D models from images and videos uploaded by users.

[0752] "Upload" refers to the act of sending data from a user's terminal to a server.

[0753] A "3D model" refers to digital data that reproduces a three-dimensional shape from a two-dimensional image or video.

[0754] "Interaction function" refers to the system's functionality that allows users to interact with 3D models and perform various actions.

[0755] An "emotion engine" refers to a function that analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice, evaluates the user's emotions, and adjusts the system's behavior.

[0756] "In-app purchases" refers to a payment system for purchasing additional items or features within an application.

[0757] "Image analysis algorithm" refers to a computational method for extracting animal characteristics from uploaded images and videos.

[0758] This invention is a system that raises a virtual pet as a 3D model based on images and videos of animals taken by the user, and combines it with an emotion engine to provide a realistic experience that responds to the user's emotions. This system is roughly composed of the following components.

[0759] 1. User Device

[0760] This is a device (smartphone, tablet, PC, etc.) that users use to access and operate the system. Users use this device to take pictures and videos of animals and upload them through the app.

[0761] 2. Server

[0762] The system's central computing device receives, processes, stores, and provides data. The server receives images and videos uploaded by users, generates 3D models using generative AI models, and stores them in a database.

[0763] 3. Generative AI Models

[0764] It is an artificial intelligence algorithm that analyzes the characteristics of animals based on uploaded images and videos and generates 3D models. This generative AI model analyzes the user's images and videos in detail to generate realistic 3D models.

[0765] 4. Database

[0766] This is a device for storing generated 3D models and user information. The database stores each user's pet model and interaction history.

[0767] 5. Interaction Features

[0768] This feature allows users to interact with virtual pets and perform various actions. For example, users can interact with their pets through actions such as "walk," "paw," and "sit." In addition, the pet's status (hungry level, happiness, etc.) is updated in real time.

[0769] 6. Emotion Engine

[0770] This function analyzes emotions from the user's facial expressions and voice, and adjusts the behavior of the 3D model based on the evaluation results. This system captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and their voice with a microphone, and sends them to the emotion engine. The emotion engine analyzes the captured data and flexibly adjusts the pet's behavior according to the user's emotional state.

[0771] 7. In-app purchase system

[0772] This is a payment system for purchasing additional items and features within the application. Users can use in-app purchases to purchase new pets, items, features, etc.

[0773] Specific examples

[0774] Upload a photo

[0775] Users can select a photo of their pet dog from their smartphone gallery and upload it using the app's "Add a new pet" function.

[0776] 3D model generation

[0777] The generative AI model runs on the server side, analyzes the uploaded photo, generates a 3D model of the dog, stores it in a database, and the user receives a notification when generation is complete.

[0778] Interaction

[0779] Users can interact with a 3D model of a dog generated within the app by taking it for a walk, petting it, sitting, etc., and can provide meals and playtime while checking the dog's status.

[0780] Emotion engine adjusts behavior

[0781] If the emotion engine detects a happy expression on the user's face, it will determine "happiness" and adjust the virtual dog's movements to make it more active and wag its tail.

[0782] In-app purchases

[0783] Users can use in-app purchases to purchase additional pets and special items, and then enjoy richer interactions with the purchased features and items.

[0784] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0785] "Upload a photo of your dog and generate a 3D model."

[0786] "Change your pet's behavior to match my emotions of pleasure."

[0787] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0788] Step 1:

[0789] The user saves an image or video of an animal to the device. Next, the user launches the app and taps the "Add a new pet" button. This puts the device into a state where it can accept the user's selection. The user selects an image or video of an animal from the device's gallery and taps the upload button. The input is the user's image or video, and the output is the file being sent to the server. Specifically, the device sends the selected file to the server via the Internet.

[0790] Step 2:

[0791] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users. The input is the image or video sent from the device, and the output is the data passed to the generative AI model. The server launches the generative AI and begins analyzing the image or video. Specifically, the generative AI scans the image or video in detail and extracts the features of the animal. The generative AI extracts the animal's features and generates a 3D model based on them. The output 3D model is stored in a database. The server notifies the device of the progress of this process.

[0792] Step 3:

[0793] After the server saves the generated 3D model in the database, a notification is sent to the device. The input is the notification from the server, and the output is the 3D model download process. The device downloads the 3D model from the server and begins rendering. Specifically, the device displays the downloaded 3D model and provides a user interface. The user can then interact with the virtual pet through the interface.

[0794] Step 4:

[0795] The user selects an action such as "walk," "paw," or "sit" through the interface. The input is the user's action selection, and the output is the pet's animation. The device executes the pet's animation and movement based on the selected action. Specifically, the device plays an animation file corresponding to the action, providing visual feedback to the user. At the same time, the pet's status (hungry level, happiness, etc.) is updated in real time.

[0796] Step 5:

[0797] The device captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and their voice with a microphone. The input is the camera image and microphone voice, and the output is data sent to the emotion engine. The device sends the acquired data to the emotion engine, which analyzes the data and determines the user's emotional state. Specifically, the emotion engine infers emotions such as "happiness" or "sadness" from the user's facial expressions and voice, and returns the result to the device. The device adjusts the pet's movements according to the emotional state. For example, if the user is smiling, the virtual pet will become more active.

[0798] Step 6:

[0799] The user selects the "Shop" function within the app to purchase additional pets or items. The input is the user's purchase selection, and the output is the transmission of billing information to the server. The device displays the purchase screen and processes the billing for the items or features selected by the user. Once the payment is complete, the device sends the purchase information to the server. The server adds the purchased items or features to the user's account. Specifically, the server updates the database and updates the user's account information. The device displays a notification to the user that the purchase is complete, and provides the new items or features.

[0800] (Application example 2)

[0801] 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."

[0802] Conventional virtual pet raising systems primarily allow users to raise their pets at home, making it difficult to provide an experience that is linked to a physical store. Furthermore, they lack the functionality to adjust the virtual pet's behavior and reactions in real time according to the user's emotions, limiting the realism of the interaction and the user experience. Therefore, there is a need for technology that allows users to enjoy virtual pets in real time in a physical store and provides dynamic interactions based on user emotion analysis.

[0803] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.

[0804] In this invention, the server includes means for uploading images of animals taken by users, means for generating 3D models based on the uploaded images, means for allowing users to interact with the animals using the generated 3D models, means for analyzing the user's emotions using an emotion engine and adjusting the behavior of the 3D models in accordance with the analysis results, and means for combining the interaction means and the emotion engine to provide a device for interacting with a virtual pet in real time in a physical store, thereby enabling dynamic interaction between the virtual pet and the user in real time in the physical store based on emotion analysis.

[0805] definition statement

[0806] The "means for uploading images of animals taken by users" is a function that allows users to send images of animals taken by their own terminals to the system.

[0807] The "means for generating a 3D model based on an uploaded image" is a function that analyzes an image of an animal sent by a user, captures its characteristics, and automatically creates a 3D model.

[0808] "Interaction means for users to interact with animals using generated 3D models" is a function that allows users to interact with generated 3D model animals through various movements and actions in virtual space.

[0809] "Means of analyzing the user's emotions using an emotion engine and adjusting the behavior of the 3D model according to the analysis results" refers to a function that analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to determine their emotional state, and dynamically changes the behavior and reactions of the virtual pet based on the results.

[0810] "Means for providing a device that combines an interaction means and an emotion engine to enable real-time interaction with a virtual pet in a physical store" refers to a function for installing or providing a device that integrates an interaction function with a virtual pet and an emotion analysis function, and enables real-time interaction with a virtual pet in a physical store.

[0811] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0812] This invention is a system that generates a virtual pet as a 3D model based on images and videos of animals taken by the user, and further combines it with an emotion engine to enable users to interact with the virtual pet in real time at a physical store. Specific embodiments are described below.

[0813] System Configuration

[0814] This system is roughly composed of the following components:

[0815] 1. User Device

[0816] A device that allows users to take pictures and videos of animals and send them to a server via an application. This is typically a smartphone or tablet.

[0817] 2. Server

[0818] It receives uploaded images and videos and processes them to generate 3D models, which are then stored in a database and play a central role in linking with the interaction function and emotion engine.

[0819] 3. Generation AI

[0820] Using image analysis algorithms and deep learning models (such as TensorFlow and PyTorch), 3D models are generated from uploaded animal images and videos.

[0821] 4. Database

[0822] Stores the generated 3D model, user interaction data, and other related information.

[0823] 5. Interaction Features

[0824] This is an interface that allows users to interact with virtual pets. It provides a function that allows users to specify actions (walk, sit, etc.) and have the virtual pet behave accordingly.

[0825] 6. Emotion Engine

[0826] It analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to determine their emotional state, and dynamically adjusts the virtual pet's behavior and reactions based on the results of the emotional analysis.

[0827] 7. Physical Store Devices

[0828] These devices integrate virtual pet interaction functions and emotion engines and are intended for use in physical stores. Examples include tablets, smart glasses, and head-mounted displays.

[0829] Program processing explanation

[0830] The server receives the animal image sent from the user's device, generates a 3D model using generative AI, and stores the 3D model in a database. At the same time, it runs an emotion engine and analyzes emotions based on data obtained from the user's camera and microphone. Based on the analyzed emotion data, the interaction function operates, and the virtual pet's movements and reactions corresponding to the user's emotions are displayed on the physical store device.

[0831] Specific examples

[0832] 1. Image upload example:

[0833] Users take photos of their pet dogs using their smartphone camera and then use the app's in-app functionality to upload the images to the server.

[0834] 2. Example of 3D model generation:

[0835] A generative AI using TensorFlow runs on the server side, analyzes the uploaded image, generates a 3D model, and saves it in a database. The user receives a notification when generation is complete.

[0836] 3. Example of interaction:

[0837] Users can interact with virtual pets by operating a tablet device in a physical store, enjoying actions such as walking and sitting.

[0838] 4. Emotion engine example:

[0839] The camera captures the user's happy facial expression, which the emotion engine determines as "joy." This causes the virtual pet to become more active and perform actions such as wagging its tail in real time.

[0840] 5. Example prompt:

[0841] "Use the image below to generate a 3D model of a dog. Emphasize the dog's key features and make it as realistic as possible. Additionally, add emotional states so that the generated model can interact with the emotion engine."

[0842] This system enables dynamic interaction between virtual pets and users in real-time within a physical store based on emotion analysis, which is expected to encourage customers to purchase products while having fun.

[0843] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0844] Processing Steps

[0845] Step 1:

[0846] The user takes a picture of the animal and uploads the image to the server from the application using the terminal.

[0847] Input: An image of an animal taken by the user on their device.

[0848] Data processing: The device selects the image on the application and sends it to the server via the Internet.

[0849] Output: An image of the animal is uploaded to the server.

[0850] Step 2:

[0851] The server receives the uploaded image and begins the process of generating a 3D model using the generative AI model.

[0852] Input: An image of an animal.

[0853] Data processing: Invoke a generative AI model (e.g., TensorFlow or PyTorch) and apply image analysis algorithms to extract animal features.

[0854] Data calculation: Generate a 3D model based on the features.

[0855] Output: The generated 3D model is completed and stored in a database.

[0856] Step 3:

[0857] Users interact with virtual pets using devices (tablets, smart glasses, etc.) in physical stores.

[0858] Input: 3D model retrieved from database and user instructions (actions).

[0859] Data manipulation: The interaction method animates the 3D model based on the user's selected actions.

[0860] Output: The virtual pet performs the specified action.

[0861] Step 4:

[0862] The device captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and picks up their voice with a microphone.

[0863] Input: User facial expression images and voice data.

[0864] Data processing: The device collects data using the camera and microphone and sends it to the server.

[0865] Output: Raw data captured by the camera and microphone is sent to a server.

[0866] Step 5:

[0867] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotions and adjusts the behavior of the 3D model based on the results.

[0868] Input: User facial expression images and voice data.

[0869] Data processing: Analyze the user's facial expressions and voice using an emotion engine (e.g., OpenCV) to determine their emotional state.

[0870] Data calculation: Generates the behavior of the 3D model according to the emotion results.

[0871] Output: Sentiment analysis results and corresponding 3D model behavior.

[0872] Step 6:

[0873] Based on the results of user interaction and emotion analysis, users can enjoy interacting with virtual pets in a physical store.

[0874] Input: 3D model behavior and user actions based on sentiment analysis results.

[0875] Data processing: Devices in physical stores display pet behavior in real time based on emotion analysis.

[0876] Output: Real-time interaction with virtual pets is realized.

[0877] This processing step enables dynamic interaction between the virtual pet and the user in real time within a physical store based on emotion analysis.

[0878] 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.

[0879] 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.

[0880] 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.

[0881] [Third embodiment]

[0882] FIG. 5 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 310 according to the third embodiment.

[0883] 5, the data processing system 310 includes the data processing device 12 and a headset terminal 314. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[0884] 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).

[0885] 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.

[0886] 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.

[0887] 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).

[0888] 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.

[0889] 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.

[0890] 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.

[0891] 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.

[0892] 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.

[0893] 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."

[0894] The present invention relates to a system that allows users to raise a virtual pet as a 3D model based on images and videos of animals taken by the user, and to interact with the virtual pet on a daily basis. Specific embodiments are described below.

[0895] System Configuration

[0896] This system is roughly composed of the following components:

[0897] 1. User Device

[0898] 2. Server

[0899] 3. Generation AI

[0900] 4. Database

[0901] 5. Interaction Features

[0902] 6. In-app purchase system

[0903] A natural language description of the program's operation

[0904] Uploading photos and videos of animals

[0905] Users can save images and videos of animals they have taken to their device. From their device through the app, users tap the "Add a new pet" button, select an image or video from the gallery, and tap the upload button. The device then sends the file to the server via the Internet.

[0906] Generate 3D pet models

[0907] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users and starts the process of generating a 3D model using generative AI. The generative AI analyzes the user's images and videos, extracts the animal's characteristics, and generates a 3D model based on these. The generated 3D model is stored in a database on the server. The user is notified of the progress of this process.

[0908] Daily contact with pets

[0909] The device renders a 3D pet model downloaded from the server and provides an interface that allows users to interact with the virtual pet. Users select various actions (e.g., walk, paw, sit) within the app and perform the corresponding interaction. The device controls the pet's animations and behavior based on the action. The device also manages the pet's status, such as hunger and happiness, and updates it in real time.

[0910] Expanded functionality through in-app purchases

[0911] Users can purchase additional pets, items, and features using the in-app purchase feature. The device displays a purchase screen and processes the payment for the items and features selected by the user. Once the payment is complete, the server adds the purchased items and features to the user's account and notifies the device. This allows the user to use the newly added features and items.

[0912] Specific examples

[0913] Upload a photo

[0914] Users can select a photo of their beloved cat from their smartphone gallery and upload it using the "Add a new pet" feature within the app.

[0915] 3D model generation

[0916] The generative AI runs on the server side, analyzes the uploaded photo, generates a 3D cat model, and saves it in a database. The user receives a notification when the model is complete.

[0917] Interaction

[0918] Users can interact with the 3D cat model generated within the app by taking it for a walk, pawing, sitting, etc., and can provide meals and playtime while checking the cat's status.

[0919] In-app purchases

[0920] Users can use in-app purchases to purchase additional pets and special items, and then enjoy richer interactions with the purchased features and items.

[0921] This system allows users to raise virtual pets based on images and videos of animals they have taken themselves and interact with them on a daily basis, making it possible for it to play a role in providing mental health care for people who are unable to keep pets or who have lost their pets.

[0922] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0923] Step 1:

[0924] The user saves images and videos of animals to the device. The user takes photos and videos of animals using the camera function of their smartphone or tablet.

[0925] Step 2:

[0926] The user launches the app. The device displays the app's home screen. The user taps the "Add a new pet" button.

[0927] Step 3:

[0928] The device displays a screen with the option to "Upload a Photo." The user taps the "Upload a Photo" button and selects a photo or video of an animal from their gallery.

[0929] Step 4:

[0930] The file selected by the user is temporarily stored. The user taps the "Upload" button, and the device sends the selected file to the server via the Internet.

[0931] Step 5:

[0932] The server receives the uploaded file, temporarily stores it, and then begins the process of generating a 3D model using the generation AI.

[0933] Step 6:

[0934] The generative AI extracts animal features using an image analysis algorithm. The server generates a 3D model based on the extracted features. The server stores the generated 3D model in a database.

[0935] Step 7:

[0936] The server notifies the device that the 3D model has been generated, and the device displays a notification to the user.

[0937] Step 8:

[0938] The device downloads the generated 3D model from the server, renders the 3D model, and displays an interface that allows the user to interact with the virtual pet.

[0939] Step 9:

[0940] Users interact with the virtual pet within the app by selecting actions such as "walk," "paw," or "sit," and the device then performs the appropriate animations and movements.

[0941] Step 10:

[0942] The device manages the status of the virtual pet, updating its hunger level, happiness level, and other status based on the pet's behavior and interactions with the user.

[0943] Step 11:

[0944] Users can purchase additional pets or items using in-app purchases by opening the "Store" tab, selecting the item or feature they want to purchase, and tapping the "Purchase" button.

[0945] Step 12:

[0946] The terminal displays a payment screen, and the user enters billing information. The server receives the billing information and processes the payment.

[0947] Step 13:

[0948] If the payment is successful, the server adds the purchased item or feature to the user's account, and the device displays a notification to the user confirming the purchase and making the new item or feature available.

[0949] In this way, the system allows users to raise and interact with virtual pets based on images and videos of animals they have taken themselves. Users can also enjoy more features and items through in-app purchases.

[0950] Example 1

[0951] 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."

[0952] In modern society, there are many people who want to keep pets but are unable to do so for various reasons, and many who have lost their pets. Furthermore, conventional pet-raising apps lack realism and interactive experiences, resulting in insufficient user satisfaction. Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a system that generates realistic, interactive 3D models of animals based on images and videos taken by users, allowing users to interact with virtual pets.

[0953] 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.

[0954] In this invention, the server includes means for uploading images and videos of animals taken by the user from the terminal to the server, means for the server to extract features of the animal using a generative AI model based on the uploaded images and videos and generate a 3D model, means for the terminal to download the generated 3D model and provide an interface for the user to interact with the animal, and means for the user to purchase additional pets, items, and functions through in-app purchases.This allows users to enjoy a realistic and interactive virtual pet raising experience, and is expected to have a mental health care effect on people who cannot actually keep pets or who have lost their pets.

[0955] "User" refers to an individual or organization that uses this system and takes images or videos of animals and uploads that data to the system.

[0956] "Device" refers to the electronic device used by a User (e.g., smartphone, tablet, computer, etc.) to select and upload images and videos, download 3D models, and perform other interactions.

[0957] The "server" is a central computer system that receives and processes images and videos uploaded by users, generates 3D models using generative AI models, and manages the data.

[0958] "Generative AI model" refers to an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm that analyzes uploaded images and videos, extracts animal features, and generates a 3D model.

[0959] "3D model" refers to a three-dimensional digital representation of an animal created by a generative AI model based on the characteristics of the animal uploaded by the user, and serves as a target for users to virtually interact with the pet.

[0960] "Interaction" refers to the user directly manipulating or taking actions with the generated 3D model, and is done through various functions provided within the application (e.g., walk, paw, sit, etc.).

[0961] "In-app purchases" refers to the payment mechanism that occurs when a user purchases additional pets, items, features, etc. within an application, and is a means for the user to enjoy further interaction.

[0962] This invention relates to a system that generates a virtual pet as a 3D model using images and videos of animals taken by the user, and allows the user to interact with the virtual pet on a daily basis. Specific embodiments are described below.

[0963] System Overview

[0964] The system consists of the following components:

[0965] 1. User Device

[0966] 2. Server

[0967] 3. Generative AI Models

[0968] 4. Database

[0969] 5. Interaction Features

[0970] 6. In-app purchase system

[0971] Uploading photos and videos of animals

[0972] Users can save images and videos of animals they have taken to their device. From the device, they tap the "Add a new pet" button through a dedicated application, select an image or video of an animal from the gallery, and then tap the upload button. The device then sends the file to the server via the Internet. For example, a user can select a photo of a cat, "neko.jpg," from the gallery and upload it.

[0973] Generate 3D pet models

[0974] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users and begins the process of generating a 3D model using a generative AI model. The generative AI model analyzes the user's images and videos and extracts the animal's features. Based on these features, the server generates a 3D model and stores it in a database on the server. The user is notified of the progress of this process in real time. For example, the generative AI extracts the eyes, ears, and body features of a cat based on "neko.jpg" and generates a 3D model.

[0975] Daily contact with pets

[0976] The device renders a 3D pet model downloaded from the server and provides an interface that allows users to interact with the virtual pet. Users select various actions within the app to perform the corresponding interaction. For example, when a user selects "paw," the device displays an animation of a cat offering its paw. The device also manages the pet's status, such as hunger and happiness, and updates it in real time.

[0977] Expanded functionality through in-app purchases

[0978] Users can purchase additional pets, items, and features using the in-app purchase feature. The device displays a purchase screen and processes the charge for the item or feature selected by the user. Once the charge is complete, the server adds the purchased item or feature to the user's account and notifies the device. This allows the user to use the newly added features and items. For example, if a user selects and purchases "additional pet," a new pet will be added to the account.

[0979] Examples and prompts

[0980] Upload a photo

[0981] Users select a photo of their beloved cat, "neko.jpg," from their smartphone's gallery and upload it using the "Add a new pet" function within the app.

[0982] 3D model generation

[0983] The AI ​​runs on the server side, analyzes the image "neko.jpg", generates a 3D cat model, and saves it in the database. The user receives a notification when generation is complete.

[0984] Interaction

[0985] Users can interact with the 3D cat model generated within the app by taking it for a walk, pawing, sitting, etc., and can provide meals and playtime while checking their pet's status.

[0986] In-app purchases

[0987] Users can use in-app purchases to purchase additional pets and special items, and then enjoy richer interactions with the purchased features and items.

[0988] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0989] Step 1:

[0990] Photo / Video Selection

[0991] The user selects a photo or video of an animal from the smartphone gallery. Specifically, the user opens the gallery and taps to select the cat photo "neko.jpg." At this point, "neko.jpg" is selected as input, and its file path is obtained within the device.

[0992] Step 2:

[0993] File transfer

[0994] The user taps the "Add a new pet" button in the app and uploads the selected file. The device then sends this file to the server via the Internet. The input is the selected file "neko.jpg," and the output is a message confirming successful file transmission to the server.

[0995] Step 3:

[0996] Upload completion notification

[0997] The server confirms receipt of the file and sends a notification to the terminal that the upload is complete. The terminal displays this notification to the user. The input is confirmation information for the file received by the server, and the output is an upload completion message that is displayed on the terminal. Specifically, the terminal displays a notification that the upload is complete.

[0998] Step 4:

[0999] Data reception

[1000] The server receives the sent file and saves it in storage. The input is the sent "neko.jpg", and the output is the file saved in the server's storage. The specific operation is that the file is saved in " / uploads / neko.jpg".

[1001] Step 5:

[1002] Feature Extraction

[1003] The server passes the saved file to the generative AI to extract the animal's features. The input is the saved file path " / uploads / neko.jpg", which the generative AI model analyzes and outputs the animal's feature data (e.g., ear shape, eye color, etc.).

[1004] Step 6:

[1005] 3D model generation

[1006] The server uses generative AI to generate a 3D model based on the extracted features. The input is feature data, and the output is the generated 3D model data. Specifically, the 3D model generation algorithm creates a 3D model of the cat based on the feature data and stores the model in memory.

[1007] Step 7:

[1008] Database storage

[1009] The server saves the generated 3D model in a database. The input is the 3D model data, and the output is a 3D model entry stored in the database. Specifically, a new record is added to the database.

[1010] Step 8:

[1011] Generation completion notification

[1012] The server notifies the terminal that generation is complete and notifies the user. The input is the completion information of 3D model generation, and the output is a notification displayed on the terminal. The notification "3D model generation has been completed" is displayed on the terminal.

[1013] Step 9:

[1014] Model Download

[1015] The device downloads the 3D model from the database. The input is the model ID in the database, and the output is the 3D model data stored on the device. Specifically, the 3D model file is downloaded to the device.

[1016] Step 10:

[1017] Interface Display

[1018] The device renders the downloaded 3D model and displays it to the user. The input is the 3D model data, and the output is the visual information of the 3D model displayed to the user. Specifically, a 3D model of a cat is displayed within the app.

[1019] Step 11:

[1020] Interaction Selection

[1021] The user selects an interaction within the app (e.g., walk, paw, sit). The input is the user's selection, and the output is the command for the selected interaction. Specifically, the user selects "paw."

[1022] Step 12:

[1023] Animation Control

[1024] The terminal controls the pet's animations and behavior based on the selected interaction. The input is the interaction command, and the output is the execution of the corresponding animation. Specifically, the cat is shown holding out its paw.

[1025] Step 13:

[1026] Status Updates

[1027] The terminal manages the pet's status, such as its hunger level and happiness, and updates it in real time. The input is the user's behavioral data and the pet's current status, and the output is the updated status information. Specifically, the pet's hunger level is updated from "80%" to "90%."

[1028] Step 14:

[1029] Purchase screen display

[1030] The user opens the shop screen within the app. The input is the user's operation, and the output is the purchase screen that is displayed. Specifically, a "list of items available for purchase" is displayed.

[1031] Step 15:

[1032] Billing process

[1033] The user selects and purchases additional pets and items. The terminal processes the billing information and performs the payment. The input is the user's purchase selection and payment information, and the output is a purchase completion message. Specifically, the user enters credit card information to confirm the "purchase."

[1034] Step 16:

[1035] Account Updates

[1036] The server adds the purchased items or features to the user's account. The input is the purchased item information, and the output is the updated account information, e.g., a new pet is added to the account.

[1037] Step 17:

[1038] Send notifications

[1039] The server notifies the terminal that the purchase is complete and notifies the user. The input is information that the billing process has been completed, and the output is a notification that is displayed on the terminal. The notification that "Purchase completed" is displayed.

[1040] (Application example 1)

[1041] 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."

[1042] Conventional virtual pet raising systems only operate on the user's smart device, and have the problem of not being able to provide an interactive experience in stores or public places. Furthermore, in order to improve user engagement, new value based on real-life in-store experiences is required. There is a need to solve these issues and realize an interactive virtual pet experience in stores and public places.

[1043] 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.

[1044] In this invention, the server includes means for uploading images of animals taken by users, means for generating 3D models based on the uploaded images, means for allowing users to interact with the animals using the generated 3D models, and means for allowing users to interact with the virtual pets using a large display device, thereby enabling users to experience interactive interactions with virtual pets in real time in stores or public places.

[1045] "User-generated Animal Image" means a still image of one or more animals that is taken and uploaded by a User on their Device.

[1046] "Means for uploading" refers to the function that allows users to transfer their own image and video files to the server.

[1047] "Generation method" refers to the algorithms and software used to automatically create 3D models of animals based on uploaded images and videos.

[1048] "Interaction means" refers to the user interface and animations that allow the user to interact with the virtual animal using the generated 3D model.

[1049] "Large display devices" refer to large displays and signage installed in stores and public places.

[1050] "Means for interactive interaction" refers to a function that allows users to communicate with virtual animals in real time through a large display device and to control and give instructions to them.

[1051] "Image analysis algorithm" refers to a program that extracts animal features from uploaded images and generates a 3D model based on them.

[1052] "Means for customization" refers to a function that allows a user to change the appearance or behavior of a generated virtual animal, or add special items to the animal.

[1053] The present invention is a system that allows users to raise a virtual pet as a 3D model based on images and videos of animals taken by the user and interact with it on a daily basis. Based on this embodiment, we will explain how to specifically implement the present invention.

[1054] System Configuration

[1055] This system is roughly composed of the following components:

[1056] 1. User Device

[1057] 2. Server

[1058] 3. Generation AI

[1059] 4. Database

[1060] 5. Interaction Features

[1061] 6. Large display device

[1062] 7. In-app purchase system

[1063] File upload from user device

[1064] Users can save images and videos of animals they have taken to their device. By selecting files through a dedicated app and tapping the upload button, the user's device will send the files to a server via the Internet. Uploaded files are then saved on the server.

[1065] Generate 3D pet models

[1066] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users and begins the process of generating a 3D model using generative AI. During this process, image analysis algorithms such as TensorFlow are used to extract the animal's features. After the features are extracted, a 3D model is generated using Blender. This generated 3D model is stored in a database on the server. The progress of this generation process is also notified to the user's device.

[1067] Interaction Features

[1068] The user's device renders the 3D pet model downloaded from the server and provides an interface that allows the user to interact with the virtual pet. Within the app, the user clicks on options such as walk, paw, or sit to perform the corresponding interaction. The user's device controls the pet's animations and behavior based on the action. The app also has an in-app purchase function that allows users to purchase additional pets and items.

[1069] In-store interaction using large display devices

[1070] Using large displays installed in brick-and-mortar stores and public spaces, users can interact with virtual pets in real time. The displays are equipped with cameras and sensors to detect the user's movements and reflect them in the movements of the virtual pet. Furthermore, there is a special bonus feature that unlocks special items and pets when certain products are purchased.

[1071] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1072] When using a generative AI model, you can use prompts like the following:

[1073] Example prompt sentence:

[1074] "Generate a 3D cat model: Input: 3 images that clearly show the cat's face, body, and tail. Output: 3D cat model (Blender format). Objective: Generate a realistic 3D cat model from the uploaded images."

[1075] This system allows users to enjoy a rich and interactive experience with virtual pets wherever they are, using their smart devices or large displays in brick-and-mortar stores. As a result, such a system can improve user engagement and provide deeper enjoyment.

[1076] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1077] Step 1:

[1078] The user takes an image or video of an animal on their device and selects the file from the gallery using a dedicated app. This action causes the device to acquire the selected image or video as binary data. The device then provides an interface for uploading the acquired data to the server.

[1079] Input: An image or video file selected by the user.

[1080] Output: Binary data sent to the server

[1081] Step 2:

[1082] The device sends the selected file to the server via the Internet, using a secure communication protocol (e.g., HTTPS) to ensure data security. The server temporarily stores the received file and records the file metadata in a database.

[1083] Input: Uploaded binary data

[1084] Output: The file and its metadata stored on the server.

[1085] Step 3:

[1086] The server analyzes the received file and generates a 3D model using a generative AI model. During this process, image analysis algorithms such as TensorFlow are used to extract the animal's features, and software such as Blender is used to create the 3D model. The progress of this generation process is notified to the user's device.

[1087] Input: Animal image or video files stored on the server

[1088] Output: 3D model stored in a database

[1089] Step 4:

[1090] The user's device downloads the generated 3D model from the server and displays it to the user through a dedicated app. The user selects various interactions within the app (e.g., walk, paw, sit), and the device controls the virtual pet's animations and movements based on those actions.

[1091] Input: Downloaded 3D model

[1092] Output: A 3D pet and its animations displayed on the user's device

[1093] Step 5:

[1094] The 3D model sent from the device is displayed on a large display device installed in a physical store. Users can interact with the virtual pet in real time through the interactive display installed in the store. The display is equipped with cameras and sensors that detect the user's movements and reflect them in the movements of the virtual pet.

[1095] Input: 3D model sent from the device and user movement information

[1096] Output: Interactive virtual pet displayed on a large display

[1097] Step 6:

[1098] Users can purchase additional items and pets using the in-app purchase feature. The purchased items and pets are added to the user's account on the server side and notified to the user's device, allowing the user to use the newly added features and items.

[1099] Input: Purchase request and payment information

[1100] Output: Additional item and pet data recorded on the server, and notifications sent to the user's device.

[1101] 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.

[1102] The present invention provides a realistic experience that responds to the user's emotions by combining an emotion engine with a system that allows users to raise virtual pets as 3D models based on images and videos of animals taken by the user and engage in daily interactions. Specific embodiments are described below.

[1103] System Configuration

[1104] This system is roughly composed of the following components:

[1105] 1. User Device

[1106] 2. Server

[1107] 3. Generation AI

[1108] 4. Database

[1109] 5. Interaction Features

[1110] 6. Emotion Engine

[1111] 7. In-app purchase system

[1112] A natural language description of the program's operation

[1113] Uploading photos and videos of animals

[1114] Users can save images and videos of animals they have taken to their device. From their device through the app, users tap the "Add a new pet" button, select an image or video of an animal from the gallery, and tap the upload button. The device then sends the file to the server via the Internet.

[1115] Generate 3D pet models

[1116] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users and starts the process of generating a 3D model using generative AI. The generative AI analyzes the user's images and videos, extracts the animal's characteristics, and generates a 3D model based on these. The generated 3D model is stored in a database. The user is notified of the progress of this process via their device.

[1117] Daily contact with pets

[1118] The device downloads the generated 3D pet model from the server and renders it. It provides an interface that allows users to interact with the virtual pet, allowing them to select actions such as "walk," "paw," and "sit." The device then executes the pet's animations and movements based on the selected actions. The device also manages the pet's status, such as hunger and happiness, and updates it in real time.

[1119] Combining Emotion Engines

[1120] The emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to evaluate their emotions. The device captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and their voice with a microphone, and passes this data to the emotion engine. The emotion engine analyzes the acquired data and determines the user's emotional state. For example, if the user is smiling, it will determine that the user is "happy," and generate an animal behavior that corresponds to the emotion, such as making the pet more active.

[1121] Expanded functionality through in-app purchases

[1122] Users can purchase additional pets, items, and features using the in-app purchase feature. The device displays a purchase screen and processes the payment for the items and features selected by the user. Once the payment is complete, the server adds the purchased items and features to the user's account. The device displays a notification to the user that the purchase is complete, and the new items and features become available for use.

[1123] Specific examples

[1124] Upload a photo

[1125] Users can select a photo of their pet dog from their smartphone gallery and upload it using the app's "Add a new pet" function.

[1126] 3D model generation

[1127] The generative AI runs on the server side, analyzes the uploaded photo, generates a 3D model of the dog, and stores it in a database. The user receives a notification when generation is complete.

[1128] Interaction

[1129] Users can interact with a 3D model of a dog generated within the app by taking it for a walk, petting it, sitting, etc., and can provide food and playtime while checking the dog's status.

[1130] Emotion engine adjusts behavior

[1131] If the emotion engine detects a happy expression on the user's face, it will determine "happiness" and adjust the virtual dog's movements to make it more active and wag its tail.

[1132] In-app purchases

[1133] Users can use in-app purchases to purchase additional pets and special items, and then enjoy richer interactions with the purchased features and items.

[1134] This system allows users to raise virtual pets based on images and videos of animals they have taken themselves, and uses an emotion engine to provide a realistic experience that responds to the user's emotions. This makes it possible to provide effective mental health care to people who cannot keep pets or who have lost their pets.

[1135] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1136] Step 1:

[1137] The user saves images and videos of animals to the device. The user takes photos and videos of animals using the camera function of their smartphone or tablet.

[1138] Step 2:

[1139] The user launches the app and displays the home screen. The user taps the "Add a new pet" button.

[1140] Step 3:

[1141] The device will display an "Upload Photo" option, and the user can tap the "Upload Photo" button to select a photo or video of an animal from their gallery.

[1142] Step 4:

[1143] The device temporarily stores the files selected by the user, and the user taps the "Upload" button to send the selected files to the server.

[1144] Step 5:

[1145] The server receives the uploaded file and temporarily stores it in storage.

[1146] Step 6:

[1147] The server instructs the AI ​​generator to analyze the file, which uses image analysis algorithms to extract animal features.

[1148] Step 7:

[1149] The generative AI generates a 3D model based on the extracted features, and the server stores the generated 3D model in a database.

[1150] Step 8:

[1151] The server notifies the device that the 3D model has been generated, and the device displays the notification to the user.

[1152] Step 9:

[1153] The device downloads the generated 3D model from the server. The device renders and displays the 3D model.

[1154] Step 10:

[1155] The user interacts with the virtual pet by selecting actions such as "walk," "paw," or "sit," and the device executes the corresponding animation or movement.

[1156] Step 11:

[1157] The device manages the virtual pet's status (hungryness, happiness, etc.) and updates the pet's status based on the user's actions.

[1158] Step 12:

[1159] The user performs emotion recognition using the emotion engine. The device captures the user's facial expressions with the camera and their voice with the microphone, and sends them to the emotion engine.

[1160] Step 13:

[1161] The emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to determine their emotional state. For example, the emotion engine may determine that a user's smile is "joy."

[1162] Step 14:

[1163] The device adjusts the behavior of the 3D model animal based on the emotional data obtained from the emotion engine. For example, if the user is judged to be "happy," the pet will move more actively.

[1164] Step 15:

[1165] Users can purchase additional pets and items using in-app purchases by opening the "Store," selecting the item they want to purchase, and tapping the "Purchase" button.

[1166] Step 16:

[1167] The terminal displays a payment screen, and the user enters billing information. The server receives the billing information and executes the payment process.

[1168] Step 17:

[1169] If the payment is successful, the server adds the purchased items and features to the user's account, and the device displays a notification to the user that the purchase is complete, allowing the user to use the purchased items and features.

[1170] In this way, the system allows users to raise virtual pets based on their own photos and videos of animals, and uses an emotion engine to provide a realistic experience that responds to the user's emotions. In addition, users can enjoy more features and items through in-app purchases.

[1171] Example 2

[1172] 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."

[1173] Previous virtual pet systems were unable to generate 3D models based on images or videos of animals taken by the user, and lacked the ability to provide interactions based on the user's emotions. As a result, users were unable to get a realistic experience, leading to low satisfaction. Furthermore, it was difficult to provide additional items or functions through in-app purchases.

[1174] The specific processing by the specific 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 uploading images and videos of animals taken by the user; means for generating a 3D model using a generative AI model based on the uploaded images and videos; means for providing an interaction function that allows the user to interact with the animal using the generated 3D model; emotion engine means for analyzing the user's facial expressions and voice to evaluate their emotions and adjusting the behavior of the 3D model based on the evaluation; means for processing in-app purchases by the user via the Internet and providing additional items and functions; means for receiving images and videos uploaded from the user's device, generating a 3D model based on the uploaded images and videos, and storing the 3D model in a database; and means for rendering the 3D model on the user's device and updating the pet's status in real time through interaction. This allows the user to raise a virtual pet based on the images and videos they take and provide a realistic experience according to their emotions. Furthermore, functions can be expanded through in-app purchases, allowing for richer interactions.

[1175] "User" refers to any individual or entity that uses the System.

[1176] "Terminal" refers to a device that allows a user to access and operate the system.

[1177] "Server" refers to the central computing device of the system, which receives, processes, stores, and provides data.

[1178] "Generative AI model" refers to an artificial intelligence algorithm that generates 3D models from images and videos uploaded by users.

[1179] "Upload" refers to the act of sending data from a user's terminal to a server.

[1180] A "3D model" refers to digital data that reproduces a three-dimensional shape from a two-dimensional image or video.

[1181] "Interaction function" refers to the system's functionality that allows users to interact with 3D models and perform various actions.

[1182] An "emotion engine" refers to a function that analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice, evaluates the user's emotions, and adjusts the system's behavior.

[1183] "In-app purchases" refers to a payment system for purchasing additional items or features within an application.

[1184] "Image analysis algorithm" refers to a computational method for extracting animal characteristics from uploaded images and videos.

[1185] This invention is a system that raises a virtual pet as a 3D model based on images and videos of animals taken by the user, and combines it with an emotion engine to provide a realistic experience that responds to the user's emotions. This system is roughly composed of the following components.

[1186] 1. User Device

[1187] This is a device (smartphone, tablet, PC, etc.) that users use to access and operate the system. Users use this device to take pictures and videos of animals and upload them through the app.

[1188] 2. Server

[1189] The system's central computing device receives, processes, stores, and provides data. The server receives images and videos uploaded by users, generates 3D models using generative AI models, and stores them in a database.

[1190] 3. Generative AI Models

[1191] It is an artificial intelligence algorithm that analyzes the characteristics of animals based on uploaded images and videos and generates 3D models. This generative AI model analyzes the user's images and videos in detail to generate realistic 3D models.

[1192] 4. Database

[1193] This is a device for storing generated 3D models and user information. The database stores each user's pet model and interaction history.

[1194] 5. Interaction Features

[1195] This feature allows users to interact with virtual pets and perform various actions. For example, users can interact with their pets through actions such as "walk," "paw," and "sit." In addition, the pet's status (hungry level, happiness, etc.) is updated in real time.

[1196] 6. Emotion Engine

[1197] This function analyzes emotions from the user's facial expressions and voice, and adjusts the behavior of the 3D model based on the evaluation results. This system captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and their voice with a microphone, and sends them to the emotion engine. The emotion engine analyzes the captured data and flexibly adjusts the pet's behavior according to the user's emotional state.

[1198] 7. In-app purchase system

[1199] This is a payment system for purchasing additional items and features within the application. Users can use in-app purchases to purchase new pets, items, features, etc.

[1200] Specific examples

[1201] Upload a photo

[1202] Users can select a photo of their pet dog from their smartphone gallery and upload it using the app's "Add a new pet" function.

[1203] 3D model generation

[1204] The generative AI model runs on the server side, analyzes the uploaded photo, generates a 3D model of the dog, stores it in a database, and the user receives a notification when generation is complete.

[1205] Interaction

[1206] Users can interact with a 3D model of a dog generated within the app by taking it for a walk, petting it, sitting, etc., and can provide meals and playtime while checking the dog's status.

[1207] Emotion engine adjusts behavior

[1208] If the emotion engine detects a happy expression on the user's face, it will determine "happiness" and adjust the virtual dog's movements to make it more active and wag its tail.

[1209] In-app purchases

[1210] Users can use in-app purchases to purchase additional pets and special items, and then enjoy richer interactions with the purchased features and items.

[1211] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1212] "Upload a photo of your dog and generate a 3D model."

[1213] "Change your pet's behavior to match my emotions of pleasure."

[1214] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1215] Step 1:

[1216] The user saves an image or video of an animal to the device. Next, the user launches the app and taps the "Add a new pet" button. This puts the device into a state where it can accept the user's selection. The user selects an image or video of an animal from the device's gallery and taps the upload button. The input is the user's image or video, and the output is the file being sent to the server. Specifically, the device sends the selected file to the server via the Internet.

[1217] Step 2:

[1218] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users. The input is the image or video sent from the device, and the output is the data passed to the generative AI model. The server launches the generative AI and begins analyzing the image or video. Specifically, the generative AI scans the image or video in detail and extracts the features of the animal. The generative AI extracts the animal's features and generates a 3D model based on them. The output 3D model is stored in a database. The server notifies the device of the progress of this process.

[1219] Step 3:

[1220] After the server saves the generated 3D model in the database, a notification is sent to the device. The input is the notification from the server, and the output is the 3D model download process. The device downloads the 3D model from the server and begins rendering. Specifically, the device displays the downloaded 3D model and provides a user interface. The user can then interact with the virtual pet through the interface.

[1221] Step 4:

[1222] The user selects an action such as "walk," "paw," or "sit" through the interface. The input is the user's action selection, and the output is the pet's animation. The device executes the pet's animation and movement based on the selected action. Specifically, the device plays an animation file corresponding to the action, providing visual feedback to the user. At the same time, the pet's status (hungry level, happiness, etc.) is updated in real time.

[1223] Step 5:

[1224] The device captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and their voice with a microphone. The input is the camera image and microphone voice, and the output is data sent to the emotion engine. The device sends the acquired data to the emotion engine, which analyzes the data and determines the user's emotional state. Specifically, the emotion engine infers emotions such as "happiness" or "sadness" from the user's facial expressions and voice, and returns the result to the device. The device adjusts the pet's movements according to the emotional state. For example, if the user is smiling, the virtual pet will become more active.

[1225] Step 6:

[1226] The user selects the "Shop" function within the app to purchase additional pets or items. The input is the user's purchase selection, and the output is the transmission of billing information to the server. The device displays the purchase screen and processes the billing for the items or features selected by the user. Once the payment is complete, the device sends the purchase information to the server. The server adds the purchased items or features to the user's account. Specifically, the server updates the database and updates the user's account information. The device displays a notification to the user that the purchase is complete, and provides the new items or features.

[1227] (Application example 2)

[1228] 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."

[1229] Conventional virtual pet raising systems primarily allow users to raise their pets at home, making it difficult to provide an experience that is linked to a physical store. Furthermore, they lack the functionality to adjust the virtual pet's behavior and reactions in real time according to the user's emotions, limiting the realism of the interaction and the user experience. Therefore, there is a need for technology that allows users to enjoy virtual pets in real time in a physical store and provides dynamic interactions based on user emotion analysis.

[1230] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.

[1231] In this invention, the server includes means for uploading images of animals taken by users, means for generating 3D models based on the uploaded images, means for allowing users to interact with the animals using the generated 3D models, means for analyzing the user's emotions using an emotion engine and adjusting the behavior of the 3D models in accordance with the analysis results, and means for combining the interaction means and the emotion engine to provide a device for interacting with a virtual pet in real time in a physical store, thereby enabling dynamic interaction between the virtual pet and the user in real time in the physical store based on emotion analysis.

[1232] definition statement

[1233] The "means for uploading images of animals taken by users" is a function that allows users to send images of animals taken by their own terminals to the system.

[1234] The "means for generating a 3D model based on an uploaded image" is a function that analyzes an image of an animal sent by a user, captures its characteristics, and automatically creates a 3D model.

[1235] "Interaction means for users to interact with animals using generated 3D models" is a function that allows users to interact with generated 3D model animals through various movements and actions in virtual space.

[1236] "Means of analyzing the user's emotions using an emotion engine and adjusting the behavior of the 3D model according to the analysis results" refers to a function that analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to determine their emotional state, and dynamically changes the behavior and reactions of the virtual pet based on the results.

[1237] "Means for providing a device that combines an interaction means and an emotion engine to enable real-time interaction with a virtual pet in a physical store" refers to a function for installing or providing a device that integrates an interaction function with a virtual pet and an emotion analysis function, and enables real-time interaction with a virtual pet in a physical store.

[1238] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[1239] This invention is a system that generates a virtual pet as a 3D model based on images and videos of animals taken by the user, and further combines it with an emotion engine to enable users to interact with the virtual pet in real time at a physical store. Specific embodiments are described below.

[1240] System Configuration

[1241] This system is roughly composed of the following components:

[1242] 1. User Device

[1243] A device that allows users to take pictures and videos of animals and send them to a server via an application. This is typically a smartphone or tablet.

[1244] 2. Server

[1245] It receives uploaded images and videos and processes them to generate 3D models, which are then stored in a database and play a central role in linking with the interaction function and emotion engine.

[1246] 3. Generation AI

[1247] Using image analysis algorithms and deep learning models (such as TensorFlow and PyTorch), 3D models are generated from uploaded animal images and videos.

[1248] 4. Database

[1249] Stores the generated 3D model, user interaction data, and other related information.

[1250] 5. Interaction Features

[1251] This is an interface that allows users to interact with virtual pets. It provides a function that allows users to specify actions (walk, sit, etc.) and have the virtual pet behave accordingly.

[1252] 6. Emotion Engine

[1253] It analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to determine their emotional state, and dynamically adjusts the virtual pet's behavior and reactions based on the results of the emotional analysis.

[1254] 7. Physical Store Devices

[1255] These devices integrate virtual pet interaction functions and emotion engines and are intended for use in physical stores. Examples include tablets, smart glasses, and head-mounted displays.

[1256] Program processing explanation

[1257] The server receives the animal image sent from the user's device, generates a 3D model using generative AI, and stores the 3D model in a database. At the same time, it runs an emotion engine and analyzes emotions based on data obtained from the user's camera and microphone. Based on the analyzed emotion data, the interaction function operates, and the virtual pet's movements and reactions corresponding to the user's emotions are displayed on the physical store device.

[1258] Specific examples

[1259] 1. Image upload example:

[1260] Users take photos of their pet dogs using their smartphone camera and then use the app's in-app functionality to upload the images to the server.

[1261] 2. Example of 3D model generation:

[1262] A generative AI using TensorFlow runs on the server side, analyzes the uploaded image, generates a 3D model, and saves it in a database. The user receives a notification when generation is complete.

[1263] 3. Example of interaction:

[1264] Users can interact with virtual pets by operating a tablet device in a physical store, enjoying actions such as walking and sitting.

[1265] 4. Emotion engine example:

[1266] The camera captures the user's happy facial expression, which the emotion engine determines as "joy." This causes the virtual pet to become more active and perform actions such as wagging its tail in real time.

[1267] 5. Example prompt:

[1268] "Use the image below to generate a 3D model of a dog. Emphasize the dog's key features and make it as realistic as possible. Additionally, add emotional states so that the generated model can interact with the emotion engine."

[1269] This system enables dynamic interaction between virtual pets and users in real-time within a physical store based on emotion analysis, which is expected to encourage customers to purchase products while having fun.

[1270] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1271] Processing Steps

[1272] Step 1:

[1273] The user takes a picture of the animal and uploads the image to the server from the application using the terminal.

[1274] Input: An image of an animal taken by the user on their device.

[1275] Data processing: The device selects the image on the application and sends it to the server via the Internet.

[1276] Output: An image of the animal is uploaded to the server.

[1277] Step 2:

[1278] The server receives the uploaded image and begins the process of generating a 3D model using the generative AI model.

[1279] Input: An image of an animal.

[1280] Data processing: Invoke a generative AI model (e.g., TensorFlow or PyTorch) and apply image analysis algorithms to extract animal features.

[1281] Data calculation: Generate a 3D model based on the features.

[1282] Output: The generated 3D model is completed and stored in a database.

[1283] Step 3:

[1284] Users interact with virtual pets using devices (tablets, smart glasses, etc.) in physical stores.

[1285] Input: 3D model retrieved from database and user instructions (actions).

[1286] Data manipulation: The interaction method animates the 3D model based on the user's selected actions.

[1287] Output: The virtual pet performs the specified action.

[1288] Step 4:

[1289] The device captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and picks up their voice with a microphone.

[1290] Input: User facial expression images and voice data.

[1291] Data processing: The device collects data using the camera and microphone and sends it to the server.

[1292] Output: Raw data captured by the camera and microphone is sent to a server.

[1293] Step 5:

[1294] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotions and adjusts the behavior of the 3D model based on the results.

[1295] Input: User facial expression images and voice data.

[1296] Data processing: Analyze the user's facial expressions and voice using an emotion engine (e.g., OpenCV) to determine their emotional state.

[1297] Data calculation: Generates the behavior of the 3D model according to the emotion results.

[1298] Output: Sentiment analysis results and corresponding 3D model behavior.

[1299] Step 6:

[1300] Based on the results of user interaction and emotion analysis, users can enjoy interacting with virtual pets in a physical store.

[1301] Input: 3D model behavior and user actions based on sentiment analysis results.

[1302] Data processing: Devices in physical stores display pet behavior in real time based on emotion analysis.

[1303] Output: Real-time interaction with virtual pets is realized.

[1304] This processing step enables dynamic interaction between the virtual pet and the user in real time within a physical store based on emotion analysis.

[1305] 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.

[1306] 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.

[1307] 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.

[1308] [Fourth embodiment]

[1309] FIG. 7 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 410 according to the fourth embodiment.

[1310] 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.

[1311] 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).

[1312] 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.

[1313] 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.

[1314] 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).

[1315] 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.

[1316] 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.

[1317] 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.

[1318] 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.

[1319] 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.

[1320] 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.

[1321] 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."

[1322] The present invention relates to a system that allows users to raise a virtual pet as a 3D model based on images and videos of animals taken by the user, and to interact with the virtual pet on a daily basis. Specific embodiments are described below.

[1323] System Configuration

[1324] This system is roughly composed of the following components:

[1325] 1. User Device

[1326] 2. Server

[1327] 3. Generation AI

[1328] 4. Database

[1329] 5. Interaction Features

[1330] 6. In-app purchase system

[1331] A natural language description of the program's operation

[1332] Uploading photos and videos of animals

[1333] Users can save images and videos of animals they have taken to their device. From their device through the app, users tap the "Add a new pet" button, select an image or video from the gallery, and tap the upload button. The device then sends the file to the server via the Internet.

[1334] Generate 3D pet models

[1335] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users and starts the process of generating a 3D model using generative AI. The generative AI analyzes the user's images and videos, extracts the animal's characteristics, and generates a 3D model based on these. The generated 3D model is stored in a database on the server. The user is notified of the progress of this process.

[1336] Daily contact with pets

[1337] The device renders a 3D pet model downloaded from the server and provides an interface that allows users to interact with the virtual pet. Users select various actions (e.g., walk, paw, sit) within the app and perform the corresponding interaction. The device controls the pet's animations and behavior based on the action. The device also manages the pet's status, such as hunger and happiness, and updates it in real time.

[1338] Expanded functionality through in-app purchases

[1339] Users can purchase additional pets, items, and features using the in-app purchase feature. The device displays a purchase screen and processes the payment for the items and features selected by the user. Once the payment is complete, the server adds the purchased items and features to the user's account and notifies the device. This allows the user to use the newly added features and items.

[1340] Specific examples

[1341] Upload a photo

[1342] Users can select a photo of their beloved cat from their smartphone gallery and upload it using the "Add a new pet" feature within the app.

[1343] 3D model generation

[1344] The generative AI runs on the server side, analyzes the uploaded photo, generates a 3D cat model, and saves it in a database. The user receives a notification when the model is complete.

[1345] Interaction

[1346] Users can interact with the 3D cat model generated within the app by taking it for a walk, pawing, sitting, etc., and can provide meals and playtime while checking the cat's status.

[1347] In-app purchases

[1348] Users can use in-app purchases to purchase additional pets and special items, and then enjoy richer interactions with the purchased features and items.

[1349] This system allows users to raise virtual pets based on images and videos of animals they have taken themselves and interact with them on a daily basis, making it possible for it to play a role in providing mental health care for people who are unable to keep pets or who have lost their pets.

[1350] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1351] Step 1:

[1352] The user saves images and videos of animals to the device. The user takes photos and videos of animals using the camera function of their smartphone or tablet.

[1353] Step 2:

[1354] The user launches the app. The device displays the app's home screen. The user taps the "Add a new pet" button.

[1355] Step 3:

[1356] The device displays a screen with the option to "Upload a Photo." The user taps the "Upload a Photo" button and selects a photo or video of an animal from their gallery.

[1357] Step 4:

[1358] The file selected by the user is temporarily stored. The user taps the "Upload" button, and the device sends the selected file to the server via the Internet.

[1359] Step 5:

[1360] The server receives the uploaded file, temporarily stores it, and then begins the process of generating a 3D model using the generation AI.

[1361] Step 6:

[1362] The generative AI extracts animal features using an image analysis algorithm. The server generates a 3D model based on the extracted features. The server stores the generated 3D model in a database.

[1363] Step 7:

[1364] The server notifies the device that the 3D model has been generated, and the device displays a notification to the user.

[1365] Step 8:

[1366] The device downloads the generated 3D model from the server, renders the 3D model, and displays an interface that allows the user to interact with the virtual pet.

[1367] Step 9:

[1368] Users interact with the virtual pet within the app by selecting actions such as "walk," "paw," or "sit," and the device then performs the appropriate animations and movements.

[1369] Step 10:

[1370] The device manages the status of the virtual pet, updating its hunger level, happiness level, and other status based on the pet's behavior and interactions with the user.

[1371] Step 11:

[1372] Users can purchase additional pets or items using in-app purchases by opening the "Store" tab, selecting the item or feature they want to purchase, and tapping the "Purchase" button.

[1373] Step 12:

[1374] The terminal displays a payment screen, and the user enters billing information. The server receives the billing information and processes the payment.

[1375] Step 13:

[1376] If the payment is successful, the server adds the purchased item or feature to the user's account, and the device displays a notification to the user confirming the purchase and making the new item or feature available.

[1377] In this way, the system allows users to raise and interact with virtual pets based on images and videos of animals they have taken themselves. Users can also enjoy more features and items through in-app purchases.

[1378] Example 1

[1379] 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."

[1380] In modern society, there are many people who want to keep pets but are unable to do so for various reasons, and many who have lost their pets. Furthermore, conventional pet-raising apps lack realism and interactive experiences, resulting in insufficient user satisfaction. Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a system that generates realistic, interactive 3D models of animals based on images and videos taken by users, allowing users to interact with virtual pets.

[1381] 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.

[1382] In this invention, the server includes means for uploading images and videos of animals taken by the user from the terminal to the server, means for the server to extract features of the animal using a generative AI model based on the uploaded images and videos and generate a 3D model, means for the terminal to download the generated 3D model and provide an interface for the user to interact with the animal, and means for the user to purchase additional pets, items, and functions through in-app purchases.This allows users to enjoy a realistic and interactive virtual pet raising experience, and is expected to have a mental health care effect on people who cannot actually keep pets or who have lost their pets.

[1383] "User" refers to an individual or organization that uses this system and takes images or videos of animals and uploads that data to the system.

[1384] "Device" refers to the electronic device used by a User (e.g., smartphone, tablet, computer, etc.) to select and upload images and videos, download 3D models, and perform other interactions.

[1385] The "server" is a central computer system that receives and processes images and videos uploaded by users, generates 3D models using generative AI models, and manages the data.

[1386] "Generative AI model" refers to an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm that analyzes uploaded images and videos, extracts animal features, and generates a 3D model.

[1387] "3D model" refers to a three-dimensional digital representation of an animal created by a generative AI model based on the characteristics of the animal uploaded by the user, and serves as a target for users to virtually interact with the pet.

[1388] "Interaction" refers to the user directly manipulating or taking actions with the generated 3D model, and is done through various functions provided within the application (e.g., walk, paw, sit, etc.).

[1389] "In-app purchases" refers to the payment mechanism that occurs when a user purchases additional pets, items, features, etc. within an application, and is a means for the user to enjoy further interaction.

[1390] This invention relates to a system that generates a virtual pet as a 3D model using images and videos of animals taken by the user, and allows the user to interact with the virtual pet on a daily basis. Specific embodiments are described below.

[1391] System Overview

[1392] The system consists of the following components:

[1393] 1. User Device

[1394] 2. Server

[1395] 3. Generative AI Models

[1396] 4. Database

[1397] 5. Interaction Features

[1398] 6. In-app purchase system

[1399] Uploading photos and videos of animals

[1400] Users can save images and videos of animals they have taken to their device. From the device, they tap the "Add a new pet" button through a dedicated application, select an image or video of an animal from the gallery, and then tap the upload button. The device then sends the file to the server via the Internet. For example, a user can select a photo of a cat, "neko.jpg," from the gallery and upload it.

[1401] Generate 3D pet models

[1402] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users and begins the process of generating a 3D model using a generative AI model. The generative AI model analyzes the user's images and videos and extracts the animal's features. Based on these features, the server generates a 3D model and stores it in a database on the server. The user is notified of the progress of this process in real time. For example, the generative AI extracts the eyes, ears, and body features of a cat based on "neko.jpg" and generates a 3D model.

[1403] Daily contact with pets

[1404] The device renders a 3D pet model downloaded from the server and provides an interface that allows users to interact with the virtual pet. Users select various actions within the app to perform the corresponding interaction. For example, when a user selects "paw," the device displays an animation of a cat offering its paw. The device also manages the pet's status, such as hunger and happiness, and updates it in real time.

[1405] Expanded functionality through in-app purchases

[1406] Users can purchase additional pets, items, and features using the in-app purchase feature. The device displays a purchase screen and processes the charge for the item or feature selected by the user. Once the charge is complete, the server adds the purchased item or feature to the user's account and notifies the device. This allows the user to use the newly added features and items. For example, if a user selects and purchases "additional pet," a new pet will be added to the account.

[1407] Examples and prompts

[1408] Upload a photo

[1409] Users select a photo of their beloved cat, "neko.jpg," from their smartphone's gallery and upload it using the "Add a new pet" function within the app.

[1410] 3D model generation

[1411] The AI ​​runs on the server side, analyzes the image "neko.jpg", generates a 3D cat model, and saves it in the database. The user receives a notification when generation is complete.

[1412] Interaction

[1413] Users can interact with the 3D cat model generated within the app by taking it for a walk, pawing, sitting, etc., and can provide meals and playtime while checking their pet's status.

[1414] In-app purchases

[1415] Users can use in-app purchases to purchase additional pets and special items, and then enjoy richer interactions with the purchased features and items.

[1416] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1417] Step 1:

[1418] Photo / Video Selection

[1419] The user selects a photo or video of an animal from the smartphone gallery. Specifically, the user opens the gallery and taps to select the cat photo "neko.jpg." At this point, "neko.jpg" is selected as input, and its file path is obtained within the device.

[1420] Step 2:

[1421] File transfer

[1422] The user taps the "Add a new pet" button in the app and uploads the selected file. The device then sends this file to the server via the Internet. The input is the selected file "neko.jpg," and the output is a message confirming successful file transmission to the server.

[1423] Step 3:

[1424] Upload completion notification

[1425] The server confirms receipt of the file and sends a notification to the terminal that the upload is complete. The terminal displays this notification to the user. The input is confirmation information for the file received by the server, and the output is an upload completion message that is displayed on the terminal. Specifically, the terminal displays a notification that the upload is complete.

[1426] Step 4:

[1427] Data reception

[1428] The server receives the sent file and saves it in storage. The input is the sent "neko.jpg", and the output is the file saved in the server's storage. The specific operation is that the file is saved in " / uploads / neko.jpg".

[1429] Step 5:

[1430] Feature Extraction

[1431] The server passes the saved file to the generative AI to extract the animal's features. The input is the saved file path " / uploads / neko.jpg", which the generative AI model analyzes and outputs the animal's feature data (e.g., ear shape, eye color, etc.).

[1432] Step 6:

[1433] 3D model generation

[1434] The server uses generative AI to generate a 3D model based on the extracted features. The input is feature data, and the output is the generated 3D model data. Specifically, the 3D model generation algorithm creates a 3D model of the cat based on the feature data and stores the model in memory.

[1435] Step 7:

[1436] Database storage

[1437] The server saves the generated 3D model in a database. The input is the 3D model data, and the output is a 3D model entry stored in the database. Specifically, a new record is added to the database.

[1438] Step 8:

[1439] Generation completion notification

[1440] The server notifies the terminal that generation is complete and notifies the user. The input is the completion information of 3D model generation, and the output is a notification displayed on the terminal. The notification "3D model generation has been completed" is displayed on the terminal.

[1441] Step 9:

[1442] Model Download

[1443] The device downloads the 3D model from the database. The input is the model ID in the database, and the output is the 3D model data stored on the device. Specifically, the 3D model file is downloaded to the device.

[1444] Step 10:

[1445] Interface Display

[1446] The device renders the downloaded 3D model and displays it to the user. The input is the 3D model data, and the output is the visual information of the 3D model displayed to the user. Specifically, a 3D model of a cat is displayed within the app.

[1447] Step 11:

[1448] Interaction Selection

[1449] The user selects an interaction within the app (e.g., walk, paw, sit). The input is the user's selection, and the output is the command for the selected interaction. Specifically, the user selects "paw."

[1450] Step 12:

[1451] Animation Control

[1452] The terminal controls the pet's animations and behavior based on the selected interaction. The input is the interaction command, and the output is the execution of the corresponding animation. Specifically, the cat is shown holding out its paw.

[1453] Step 13:

[1454] Status Updates

[1455] The terminal manages the pet's status, such as its hunger level and happiness, and updates it in real time. The input is the user's behavioral data and the pet's current status, and the output is the updated status information. Specifically, the pet's hunger level is updated from "80%" to "90%."

[1456] Step 14:

[1457] Purchase screen display

[1458] The user opens the shop screen within the app. The input is the user's operation, and the output is the purchase screen that is displayed. Specifically, a "list of items available for purchase" is displayed.

[1459] Step 15:

[1460] Billing process

[1461] The user selects and purchases additional pets and items. The terminal processes the billing information and performs the payment. The input is the user's purchase selection and payment information, and the output is a purchase completion message. Specifically, the user enters credit card information to confirm the "purchase."

[1462] Step 16:

[1463] Account Updates

[1464] The server adds the purchased items or features to the user's account. The input is the purchased item information, and the output is the updated account information, e.g., a new pet is added to the account.

[1465] Step 17:

[1466] Send notifications

[1467] The server notifies the terminal that the purchase is complete and notifies the user. The input is information that the billing process has been completed, and the output is a notification that is displayed on the terminal. The notification that "Purchase completed" is displayed.

[1468] (Application example 1)

[1469] 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."

[1470] Conventional virtual pet raising systems only operate on the user's smart device, and have the problem of not being able to provide an interactive experience in stores or public places. Furthermore, in order to improve user engagement, new value based on real-life in-store experiences is required. There is a need to solve these issues and realize an interactive virtual pet experience in stores and public places.

[1471] 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.

[1472] In this invention, the server includes means for uploading images of animals taken by users, means for generating 3D models based on the uploaded images, means for allowing users to interact with the animals using the generated 3D models, and means for allowing users to interact with the virtual pets using a large display device, thereby enabling users to experience interactive interactions with virtual pets in real time in stores or public places.

[1473] "User-generated Animal Image" means a still image of one or more animals that is taken and uploaded by a User on their Device.

[1474] "Means for uploading" refers to the function that allows users to transfer their own image and video files to the server.

[1475] "Generation method" refers to the algorithms and software used to automatically create 3D models of animals based on uploaded images and videos.

[1476] "Interaction means" refers to the user interface and animations that allow the user to interact with the virtual animal using the generated 3D model.

[1477] "Large display devices" refer to large displays and signage installed in stores and public places.

[1478] "Means for interactive interaction" refers to a function that allows users to communicate with virtual animals in real time through a large display device and to control and give instructions to them.

[1479] "Image analysis algorithm" refers to a program that extracts animal features from uploaded images and generates a 3D model based on them.

[1480] "Means for customization" refers to a function that allows a user to change the appearance or behavior of a generated virtual animal, or add special items to the animal.

[1481] The present invention is a system that allows users to raise a virtual pet as a 3D model based on images and videos of animals taken by the user and interact with it on a daily basis. Based on this embodiment, we will explain how to specifically implement the present invention.

[1482] System Configuration

[1483] This system is roughly composed of the following components:

[1484] 1. User Device

[1485] 2. Server

[1486] 3. Generation AI

[1487] 4. Database

[1488] 5. Interaction Features

[1489] 6. Large display device

[1490] 7. In-app purchase system

[1491] File upload from user device

[1492] Users can save images and videos of animals they have taken to their device. By selecting files through a dedicated app and tapping the upload button, the user's device will send the files to a server via the Internet. Uploaded files are then saved on the server.

[1493] Generate 3D pet models

[1494] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users and begins the process of generating a 3D model using generative AI. During this process, image analysis algorithms such as TensorFlow are used to extract the animal's features. After the features are extracted, a 3D model is generated using Blender. This generated 3D model is stored in a database on the server. The progress of this generation process is also notified to the user's device.

[1495] Interaction Features

[1496] The user's device renders the 3D pet model downloaded from the server and provides an interface that allows the user to interact with the virtual pet. Within the app, the user clicks on options such as walk, paw, or sit to perform the corresponding interaction. The user's device controls the pet's animations and behavior based on the action. The app also has an in-app purchase function that allows users to purchase additional pets and items.

[1497] In-store interaction using large display devices

[1498] Using large displays installed in brick-and-mortar stores and public spaces, users can interact with virtual pets in real time. The displays are equipped with cameras and sensors to detect the user's movements and reflect them in the movements of the virtual pet. Furthermore, there is a special bonus feature that unlocks special items and pets when certain products are purchased.

[1499] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1500] When using a generative AI model, you can use prompts like the following:

[1501] Example prompt sentence:

[1502] "Generate a 3D cat model: Input: 3 images that clearly show the cat's face, body, and tail. Output: 3D cat model (Blender format). Objective: Generate a realistic 3D cat model from the uploaded images."

[1503] This system allows users to enjoy a rich and interactive experience with virtual pets wherever they are, using their smart devices or large displays in brick-and-mortar stores. As a result, such a system can improve user engagement and provide deeper enjoyment.

[1504] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1505] Step 1:

[1506] The user takes an image or video of an animal on their device and selects the file from the gallery using a dedicated app. This action causes the device to acquire the selected image or video as binary data. The device then provides an interface for uploading the acquired data to the server.

[1507] Input: An image or video file selected by the user.

[1508] Output: Binary data sent to the server

[1509] Step 2:

[1510] The device sends the selected file to the server via the Internet, using a secure communication protocol (e.g., HTTPS) to ensure data security. The server temporarily stores the received file and records the file metadata in a database.

[1511] Input: Uploaded binary data

[1512] Output: The file and its metadata stored on the server.

[1513] Step 3:

[1514] The server analyzes the received file and generates a 3D model using a generative AI model. During this process, image analysis algorithms such as TensorFlow are used to extract the animal's features, and software such as Blender is used to create the 3D model. The progress of this generation process is notified to the user's device.

[1515] Input: Animal image or video files stored on the server

[1516] Output: 3D model stored in a database

[1517] Step 4:

[1518] The user's device downloads the generated 3D model from the server and displays it to the user through a dedicated app. The user selects various interactions within the app (e.g., walk, paw, sit), and the device controls the virtual pet's animations and movements based on those actions.

[1519] Input: Downloaded 3D model

[1520] Output: A 3D pet and its animations displayed on the user's device

[1521] Step 5:

[1522] The 3D model sent from the device is displayed on a large display device installed in a physical store. Users can interact with the virtual pet in real time through the interactive display installed in the store. The display is equipped with cameras and sensors that detect the user's movements and reflect them in the movements of the virtual pet.

[1523] Input: 3D model sent from the device and user movement information

[1524] Output: Interactive virtual pet displayed on a large display

[1525] Step 6:

[1526] Users can purchase additional items and pets using the in-app purchase feature. The purchased items and pets are added to the user's account on the server side and notified to the user's device, allowing the user to use the newly added features and items.

[1527] Input: Purchase request and payment information

[1528] Output: Additional item and pet data recorded on the server, and notifications sent to the user's device.

[1529] 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.

[1530] The present invention provides a realistic experience that responds to the user's emotions by combining an emotion engine with a system that allows users to raise virtual pets as 3D models based on images and videos of animals taken by the user and engage in daily interactions. Specific embodiments are described below.

[1531] System Configuration

[1532] This system is roughly composed of the following components:

[1533] 1. User Device

[1534] 2. Server

[1535] 3. Generation AI

[1536] 4. Database

[1537] 5. Interaction Features

[1538] 6. Emotion Engine

[1539] 7. In-app purchase system

[1540] A natural language description of the program's operation

[1541] Uploading photos and videos of animals

[1542] Users can save images and videos of animals they have taken to their device. From their device through the app, users tap the "Add a new pet" button, select an image or video of an animal from the gallery, and tap the upload button. The device then sends the file to the server via the Internet.

[1543] Generate 3D pet models

[1544] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users and starts the process of generating a 3D model using generative AI. The generative AI analyzes the user's images and videos, extracts the animal's characteristics, and generates a 3D model based on these. The generated 3D model is stored in a database. The user is notified of the progress of this process via their device.

[1545] Daily contact with pets

[1546] The device downloads the generated 3D pet model from the server and renders it. It provides an interface that allows users to interact with the virtual pet, allowing them to select actions such as "walk," "paw," and "sit." The device then executes the pet's animations and movements based on the selected actions. The device also manages the pet's status, such as hunger and happiness, and updates it in real time.

[1547] Combining Emotion Engines

[1548] The emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to evaluate their emotions. The device captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and their voice with a microphone, and passes this data to the emotion engine. The emotion engine analyzes the acquired data and determines the user's emotional state. For example, if the user is smiling, it will determine that the user is "happy," and generate an animal behavior that corresponds to the emotion, such as making the pet more active.

[1549] Expanded functionality through in-app purchases

[1550] Users can purchase additional pets, items, and features using the in-app purchase feature. The device displays a purchase screen and processes the payment for the items and features selected by the user. Once the payment is complete, the server adds the purchased items and features to the user's account. The device displays a notification to the user that the purchase is complete, and the new items and features become available for use.

[1551] Specific examples

[1552] Upload a photo

[1553] Users can select a photo of their pet dog from their smartphone gallery and upload it using the app's "Add a new pet" function.

[1554] 3D model generation

[1555] The generative AI runs on the server side, analyzes the uploaded photo, generates a 3D model of the dog, and stores it in a database. The user receives a notification when generation is complete.

[1556] Interaction

[1557] Users can interact with a 3D model of a dog generated within the app by taking it for a walk, petting it, sitting, etc., and can provide food and playtime while checking the dog's status.

[1558] Emotion engine adjusts behavior

[1559] If the emotion engine detects a happy expression on the user's face, it will determine "happiness" and adjust the virtual dog's movements to make it more active and wag its tail.

[1560] In-app purchases

[1561] Users can use in-app purchases to purchase additional pets and special items, and then enjoy richer interactions with the purchased features and items.

[1562] This system allows users to raise virtual pets based on images and videos of animals they have taken themselves, and uses an emotion engine to provide a realistic experience that responds to the user's emotions. This makes it possible to provide effective mental health care to people who cannot keep pets or who have lost their pets.

[1563] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1564] Step 1:

[1565] The user saves images and videos of animals to the device. The user takes photos and videos of animals using the camera function of their smartphone or tablet.

[1566] Step 2:

[1567] The user launches the app and displays the home screen. The user taps the "Add a new pet" button.

[1568] Step 3:

[1569] The device will display an "Upload Photo" option, and the user can tap the "Upload Photo" button to select a photo or video of an animal from their gallery.

[1570] Step 4:

[1571] The device temporarily stores the files selected by the user, and the user taps the "Upload" button to send the selected files to the server.

[1572] Step 5:

[1573] The server receives the uploaded file and temporarily stores it in storage.

[1574] Step 6:

[1575] The server instructs the AI ​​generator to analyze the file, which uses image analysis algorithms to extract animal features.

[1576] Step 7:

[1577] The generative AI generates a 3D model based on the extracted features, and the server stores the generated 3D model in a database.

[1578] Step 8:

[1579] The server notifies the device that the 3D model has been generated, and the device displays the notification to the user.

[1580] Step 9:

[1581] The device downloads the generated 3D model from the server. The device renders and displays the 3D model.

[1582] Step 10:

[1583] The user interacts with the virtual pet by selecting actions such as "walk," "paw," or "sit," and the device executes the corresponding animation or movement.

[1584] Step 11:

[1585] The device manages the virtual pet's status (hungryness, happiness, etc.) and updates the pet's status based on the user's actions.

[1586] Step 12:

[1587] The user performs emotion recognition using the emotion engine. The device captures the user's facial expressions with the camera and their voice with the microphone, and sends them to the emotion engine.

[1588] Step 13:

[1589] The emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to determine their emotional state. For example, the emotion engine may determine that a user's smile is "joy."

[1590] Step 14:

[1591] The device adjusts the behavior of the 3D model animal based on the emotional data obtained from the emotion engine. For example, if the user is judged to be "happy," the pet will move more actively.

[1592] Step 15:

[1593] Users can purchase additional pets and items using in-app purchases by opening the "Store," selecting the item they want to purchase, and tapping the "Purchase" button.

[1594] Step 16:

[1595] The terminal displays a payment screen, and the user enters billing information. The server receives the billing information and executes the payment process.

[1596] Step 17:

[1597] If the payment is successful, the server adds the purchased items and features to the user's account, and the device displays a notification to the user that the purchase is complete, allowing the user to use the purchased items and features.

[1598] In this way, the system allows users to raise virtual pets based on their own photos and videos of animals, and uses an emotion engine to provide a realistic experience that responds to the user's emotions. In addition, users can enjoy more features and items through in-app purchases.

[1599] Example 2

[1600] 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."

[1601] Previous virtual pet systems were unable to generate 3D models based on images or videos of animals taken by the user, and lacked the ability to provide interactions based on the user's emotions. As a result, users were unable to get a realistic experience, leading to low satisfaction. Furthermore, it was difficult to provide additional items or functions through in-app purchases.

[1602] The specific processing by the specific 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 uploading images and videos of animals taken by the user; means for generating a 3D model using a generative AI model based on the uploaded images and videos; means for providing an interaction function that allows the user to interact with the animal using the generated 3D model; emotion engine means for analyzing the user's facial expressions and voice to evaluate their emotions and adjusting the behavior of the 3D model based on the evaluation; means for processing in-app purchases by the user via the Internet and providing additional items and functions; means for receiving images and videos uploaded from the user's device, generating a 3D model based on the uploaded images and videos, and storing the 3D model in a database; and means for rendering the 3D model on the user's device and updating the pet's status in real time through interaction. This allows the user to raise a virtual pet based on the images and videos they take and provide a realistic experience according to their emotions. Furthermore, functions can be expanded through in-app purchases, allowing for richer interactions.

[1603] "User" refers to any individual or entity that uses the System.

[1604] "Terminal" refers to a device that allows a user to access and operate the system.

[1605] "Server" refers to the central computing device of the system, which receives, processes, stores, and provides data.

[1606] "Generative AI model" refers to an artificial intelligence algorithm that generates 3D models from images and videos uploaded by users.

[1607] "Upload" refers to the act of sending data from a user's terminal to a server.

[1608] A "3D model" refers to digital data that reproduces a three-dimensional shape from a two-dimensional image or video.

[1609] "Interaction function" refers to the system's functionality that allows users to interact with 3D models and perform various actions.

[1610] An "emotion engine" refers to a function that analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice, evaluates the user's emotions, and adjusts the system's behavior.

[1611] "In-app purchases" refers to a payment system for purchasing additional items or features within an application.

[1612] "Image analysis algorithm" refers to a computational method for extracting animal characteristics from uploaded images and videos.

[1613] This invention is a system that raises a virtual pet as a 3D model based on images and videos of animals taken by the user, and combines it with an emotion engine to provide a realistic experience that responds to the user's emotions. This system is roughly composed of the following components.

[1614] 1. User Device

[1615] This is a device (smartphone, tablet, PC, etc.) that users use to access and operate the system. Users use this device to take pictures and videos of animals and upload them through the app.

[1616] 2. Server

[1617] The system's central computing device receives, processes, stores, and provides data. The server receives images and videos uploaded by users, generates 3D models using generative AI models, and stores them in a database.

[1618] 3. Generative AI Models

[1619] It is an artificial intelligence algorithm that analyzes the characteristics of animals based on uploaded images and videos and generates 3D models. This generative AI model analyzes the user's images and videos in detail to generate realistic 3D models.

[1620] 4. Database

[1621] This is a device for storing generated 3D models and user information. The database stores each user's pet model and interaction history.

[1622] 5. Interaction Features

[1623] This feature allows users to interact with virtual pets and perform various actions. For example, users can interact with their pets through actions such as "walk," "paw," and "sit." In addition, the pet's status (hungry level, happiness, etc.) is updated in real time.

[1624] 6. Emotion Engine

[1625] This function analyzes emotions from the user's facial expressions and voice, and adjusts the behavior of the 3D model based on the evaluation results. This system captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and their voice with a microphone, and sends them to the emotion engine. The emotion engine analyzes the captured data and flexibly adjusts the pet's behavior according to the user's emotional state.

[1626] 7. In-app purchase system

[1627] This is a payment system for purchasing additional items and features within the application. Users can use in-app purchases to purchase new pets, items, features, etc.

[1628] Specific examples

[1629] Upload a photo

[1630] Users can select a photo of their pet dog from their smartphone gallery and upload it using the app's "Add a new pet" function.

[1631] 3D model generation

[1632] The generative AI model runs on the server side, analyzes the uploaded photo, generates a 3D model of the dog, stores it in a database, and the user receives a notification when generation is complete.

[1633] Interaction

[1634] Users can interact with a 3D model of a dog generated within the app by taking it for a walk, petting it, sitting, etc., and can provide meals and playtime while checking the dog's status.

[1635] Emotion engine adjusts behavior

[1636] If the emotion engine detects a happy expression on the user's face, it will determine "happiness" and adjust the virtual dog's movements to make it more active and wag its tail.

[1637] In-app purchases

[1638] Users can use in-app purchases to purchase additional pets and special items, and then enjoy richer interactions with the purchased features and items.

[1639] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1640] "Upload a photo of your dog and generate a 3D model."

[1641] "Change your pet's behavior to match my emotions of pleasure."

[1642] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1643] Step 1:

[1644] The user saves an image or video of an animal to the device. Next, the user launches the app and taps the "Add a new pet" button. This puts the device into a state where it can accept the user's selection. The user selects an image or video of an animal from the device's gallery and taps the upload button. The input is the user's image or video, and the output is the file being sent to the server. Specifically, the device sends the selected file to the server via the Internet.

[1645] Step 2:

[1646] The server receives images and videos uploaded by users. The input is the image or video sent from the device, and the output is the data passed to the generative AI model. The server launches the generative AI and begins analyzing the image or video. Specifically, the generative AI scans the image or video in detail and extracts the features of the animal. The generative AI extracts the animal's features and generates a 3D model based on them. The output 3D model is stored in a database. The server notifies the device of the progress of this process.

[1647] Step 3:

[1648] After the server saves the generated 3D model in the database, a notification is sent to the device. The input is the notification from the server, and the output is the 3D model download process. The device downloads the 3D model from the server and begins rendering. Specifically, the device displays the downloaded 3D model and provides a user interface. The user can then interact with the virtual pet through the interface.

[1649] Step 4:

[1650] The user selects an action such as "walk," "paw," or "sit" through the interface. The input is the user's action selection, and the output is the pet's animation. The device executes the pet's animation and movement based on the selected action. Specifically, the device plays an animation file corresponding to the action, providing visual feedback to the user. At the same time, the pet's status (hungry level, happiness, etc.) is updated in real time.

[1651] Step 5:

[1652] The device captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and their voice with a microphone. The input is the camera image and microphone voice, and the output is data sent to the emotion engine. The device sends the acquired data to the emotion engine, which analyzes the data and determines the user's emotional state. Specifically, the emotion engine infers emotions such as "happiness" or "sadness" from the user's facial expressions and voice, and returns the result to the device. The device adjusts the pet's movements according to the emotional state. For example, if the user is smiling, the virtual pet will become more active.

[1653] Step 6:

[1654] The user selects the "Shop" function within the app to purchase additional pets or items. The input is the user's purchase selection, and the output is the transmission of billing information to the server. The device displays the purchase screen and processes the billing for the items or features selected by the user. Once the payment is complete, the device sends the purchase information to the server. The server adds the purchased items or features to the user's account. Specifically, the server updates the database and updates the user's account information. The device displays a notification to the user that the purchase is complete, and provides the new items or features.

[1655] (Application example 2)

[1656] 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."

[1657] Conventional virtual pet raising systems primarily allow users to raise their pets at home, making it difficult to provide an experience that is linked to a physical store. Furthermore, they lack the functionality to adjust the virtual pet's behavior and reactions in real time according to the user's emotions, limiting the realism of the interaction and the user experience. Therefore, there is a need for technology that allows users to enjoy virtual pets in real time in a physical store and provides dynamic interactions based on user emotion analysis.

[1658] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.

[1659] In this invention, the server includes means for uploading images of animals taken by users, means for generating 3D models based on the uploaded images, means for allowing users to interact with the animals using the generated 3D models, means for analyzing the user's emotions using an emotion engine and adjusting the behavior of the 3D models in accordance with the analysis results, and means for combining the interaction means and the emotion engine to provide a device for interacting with a virtual pet in real time in a physical store, thereby enabling dynamic interaction between the virtual pet and the user in real time in the physical store based on emotion analysis.

[1660] definition statement

[1661] The "means for uploading images of animals taken by users" is a function that allows users to send images of animals taken by their own terminals to the system.

[1662] The "means for generating a 3D model based on an uploaded image" is a function that analyzes an image of an animal sent by a user, captures its characteristics, and automatically creates a 3D model.

[1663] "Interaction means for users to interact with animals using generated 3D models" is a function that allows users to interact with generated 3D model animals through various movements and actions in virtual space.

[1664] "Means of analyzing the user's emotions using an emotion engine and adjusting the behavior of the 3D model according to the analysis results" refers to a function that analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to determine their emotional state, and dynamically changes the behavior and reactions of the virtual pet based on the results.

[1665] "Means for providing a device that combines an interaction means and an emotion engine to enable real-time interaction with a virtual pet in a physical store" refers to a function for installing or providing a device that integrates an interaction function with a virtual pet and an emotion analysis function, and enables real-time interaction with a virtual pet in a physical store.

[1666] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[1667] This invention is a system that generates a virtual pet as a 3D model based on images and videos of animals taken by the user, and further combines it with an emotion engine to enable users to interact with the virtual pet in real time at a physical store. Specific embodiments are described below.

[1668] System Configuration

[1669] This system is roughly composed of the following components:

[1670] 1. User Device

[1671] A device that allows users to take pictures and videos of animals and send them to a server via an application. This is typically a smartphone or tablet.

[1672] 2. Server

[1673] It receives uploaded images and videos and processes them to generate 3D models, which are then stored in a database and play a central role in linking with the interaction function and emotion engine.

[1674] 3. Generation AI

[1675] Using image analysis algorithms and deep learning models (such as TensorFlow and PyTorch), 3D models are generated from uploaded animal images and videos.

[1676] 4. Database

[1677] Stores the generated 3D model, user interaction data, and other related information.

[1678] 5. Interaction Features

[1679] This is an interface that allows users to interact with virtual pets. It provides a function that allows users to specify actions (walk, sit, etc.) and have the virtual pet behave accordingly.

[1680] 6. Emotion Engine

[1681] It analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice to determine their emotional state, and dynamically adjusts the virtual pet's behavior and reactions based on the results of the emotional analysis.

[1682] 7. Physical Store Devices

[1683] These devices integrate virtual pet interaction functions and emotion engines and are intended for use in physical stores. Examples include tablets, smart glasses, and head-mounted displays.

[1684] Program processing explanation

[1685] The server receives the animal image sent from the user's device, generates a 3D model using generative AI, and stores the 3D model in a database. At the same time, it runs an emotion engine and analyzes emotions based on data obtained from the user's camera and microphone. Based on the analyzed emotion data, the interaction function operates, and the virtual pet's movements and reactions corresponding to the user's emotions are displayed on the physical store device.

[1686] Specific examples

[1687] 1. Image upload example:

[1688] Users take photos of their pet dogs using their smartphone camera and then use the app's in-app functionality to upload the images to the server.

[1689] 2. Example of 3D model generation:

[1690] A generative AI using TensorFlow runs on the server side, analyzes the uploaded image, generates a 3D model, and saves it in a database. The user receives a notification when generation is complete.

[1691] 3. Example of interaction:

[1692] Users can interact with virtual pets by operating a tablet device in a physical store, enjoying actions such as walking and sitting.

[1693] 4. Emotion engine example:

[1694] The camera captures the user's happy facial expression, which the emotion engine determines as "joy." This causes the virtual pet to become more active and perform actions such as wagging its tail in real time.

[1695] 5. Example prompt:

[1696] "Use the image below to generate a 3D model of a dog. Emphasize the dog's key features and make it as realistic as possible. Additionally, add emotional states so that the generated model can interact with the emotion engine."

[1697] This system enables dynamic interaction between virtual pets and users in real-time within a physical store based on emotion analysis, which is expected to encourage customers to purchase products while having fun.

[1698] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1699] Processing Steps

[1700] Step 1:

[1701] The user takes a picture of the animal and uploads the image to the server from the application using the terminal.

[1702] Input: An image of an animal taken by the user on their device.

[1703] Data processing: The device selects the image on the application and sends it to the server via the Internet.

[1704] Output: An image of the animal is uploaded to the server.

[1705] Step 2:

[1706] The server receives the uploaded image and begins the process of generating a 3D model using the generative AI model.

[1707] Input: An image of an animal.

[1708] Data processing: Invoke a generative AI model (e.g., TensorFlow or PyTorch) and apply image analysis algorithms to extract animal features.

[1709] Data calculation: Generate a 3D model based on the features.

[1710] Output: The generated 3D model is completed and stored in a database.

[1711] Step 3:

[1712] Users interact with virtual pets using devices (tablets, smart glasses, etc.) in physical stores.

[1713] Input: 3D model retrieved from database and user instructions (actions).

[1714] Data manipulation: The interaction method animates the 3D model based on the user's selected actions.

[1715] Output: The virtual pet performs the specified action.

[1716] Step 4:

[1717] The device captures the user's facial expressions with a camera and picks up their voice with a microphone.

[1718] Input: User facial expression images and voice data.

[1719] Data processing: The device collects data using the camera and microphone and sends it to the server.

[1720] Output: Raw data captured by the camera and microphone is sent to a server.

[1721] Step 5:

[1722] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotions and adjusts the behavior of the 3D model based on the results.

[1723] Input: User facial expression images and voice data.

[1724] Data processing: Analyze the user's facial expressions and voice using an emotion engine (e.g., OpenCV) to determine their emotional state.

[1725] Data calculation: Generates the behavior of the 3D model according to the emotion results.

[1726] Output: Sentiment analysis results and corresponding 3D model behavior.

[1727] Step 6:

[1728] Based on the results of user interaction and emotion analysis, users can enjoy interacting with virtual pets in a physical store.

[1729] Input: 3D model behavior and user actions based on sentiment analysis results.

[1730] Data processing: Devices in physical stores display pet behavior in real time based on emotion analysis.

[1731] Output: Real-time interaction with virtual pets is realized.

[1732] This processing step enables dynamic interaction between the virtual pet and the user in real time within a physical store based on emotion analysis.

[1733] 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.

[1734] 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.

[1735] 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.

[1736] 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.

[1737] 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.

[1738] 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.

[1739] 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).

[1740] 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.

[1741] 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."

[1742] 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.

[1743] 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).

[1744] 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.

[1745] 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.

[1746] 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.

[1747] 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.

[1748] 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.

[1749] 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.

[1750] 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.

[1751] 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.

[1752] 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.

[1753] 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.

[1754] The following is further disclosed regarding the above embodiment.

[1755] (Claim 1)

[1756] means for uploading images of animals taken by a user;

[1757] A generating means for generating a 3D model based on the uploaded image;

[1758] An interaction method that allows users to interact with animals using the generated 3D models;

[1759] Including system.

[1760] (Claim 2)

[1761] a means for uploading videos of animals taken by users;

[1762] A generating means for generating a 3D model based on the uploaded video;

[1763] An interaction method that allows users to interact with animals using the generated 3D models;

[1764] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:

[1765] (Claim 3)

[1766] A means for extracting animal features using an image analysis algorithm in generating the 3D model;

[1767] a means for generating a 3D model based on the extracted features;

[1768] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:

[1769] (Claim 4)

[1770] A means of storing the generated 3D model;

[1771] means for transmitting the stored 3D model to a user terminal;

[1772] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:

[1773] (Claim 5)

[1774] a means for managing the status of the virtual animal as the user interacts with the animal;

[1775] a means of controlling the behavior and reactions of animals based on their status;

[1776] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:

[1777] (Claim 6)

[1778] A means for users to purchase additional features and items through in-app purchases;

[1779] A means to add purchased features or items to a user's account;

[1780] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:

[1781] "Example 1"

[1782] (Claim 1)

[1783] A means for uploading images and videos of animals taken by users from their devices to a server;

[1784] The server uses a generative AI model to extract animal features from uploaded images and videos, and generates a 3D model.

[1785] a means for downloading the generated 3D model to a terminal and providing an interface for a user to interact with the animal;

[1786] A means for users to purchase additional pets, items, and features through in-app purchases;

[1787] A system including:

[1788] (Claim 2)

[1789] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for notifying a user of the progress of generating a 3D model of an uploaded image or video.

[1790] (Claim 3)

[1791] The system of claim 1, further comprising means for analyzing animal features from images and videos using a generative AI model to generate a 3D model.

[1792] "Application Example 1"

[1793] (Claim 1)

[1794] means for uploading images of animals taken by a user;

[1795] A generating means for generating a 3D model based on the uploaded image;

[1796] An interaction means for a user to interact with the animal using the generated 3D model; and

[1797] A means for users to interact with virtual pets using a large display device.

[1798] A system including:

[1799] (Claim 2)

[1800] a means for uploading videos of animals taken by users;

[1801] A generating means for generating a 3D model based on the uploaded video;

[1802] An interaction method that allows users to interact with animals using the generated 3D models;

[1803] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:

[1804] (Claim 3)

[1805] A means for extracting animal features using an image analysis algorithm in generating the 3D model;

[1806] means for generating a 3D model based on the extracted features; and

[1807] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for customizing a virtual pet using the 3D model.

[1808] "Example 2: Combining Emotion Engines"

[1809] (Claim 1)

[1810] A means for users to upload images and videos of animals they have taken;

[1811] A means to generate 3D models using generative AI models based on uploaded images and videos, and

[1812] A means for providing an interaction function that allows a user to interact with the animal using the generated 3D model;

[1813] an emotion engine means for analyzing a user's facial expression and voice to evaluate the user's emotion and adjusting the behavior of the 3D model based on the evaluation;

[1814] A system including:

[1815] (Claim 2)

[1816] A means for allowing users to make in-app purchases via the Internet to provide additional items or functions;

[1817] 10. The system of claim 1.

[1818] (Claim 3)

[1819] A means to receive images and videos uploaded from the user's device, generate 3D models based on them, and store them in a database.

[1820] A way to render a 3D model on the user's device and update the pet's status in real time through interaction.

[1821] 10. The system of claim 1.

[1822] "Application example 2 when combining emotion engines"

[1823] (Claim 1)

[1824] means for uploading images of animals taken by a user;

[1825] A generating means for generating a 3D model based on the uploaded image;

[1826] An interaction method that allows users to interact with animals using the generated 3D models;

[1827] A means for analyzing the user's emotions using an emotion engine and adjusting the behavior of the 3D model according to the analysis results;

[1828] A means for combining the interaction means and the emotion engine to provide a device for interacting with a virtual pet in real time in a physical store;

[1829] A system including:

[1830] (Claim 2)

[1831] a means for uploading videos of animals taken by users;

[1832] A generating means for generating a 3D model based on the uploaded video;

[1833] An interaction method that allows users to interact with animals using the generated 3D models;

[1834] A means for analyzing the user's emotions using an emotion engine and adjusting the behavior of the 3D model according to the analysis results;

[1835] A means for combining the interaction means and the emotion engine to provide a device for interacting with a virtual pet in real time in a physical store;

[1836] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising:

[1837] (Claim 3)

[1838] A means for extracting animal features using an image analysis algorithm in generating the 3D model;

[1839] a means for generating a 3D model based on the extracted features;

[1840] A means for analyzing the user's emotions using an emotion engine and adjusting the behavior of the 3D model according to the analysis results;

[1841] A means for combining the interaction means and the emotion engine to provide a device for interacting with a virtual pet in real time in a physical store;

[1842] 10. The system of claim 1, comprising: [Explanation of symbols]

[1843] 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. means for uploading images of animals taken by a user; A generating means for generating a 3D model based on the uploaded image; An interaction method that allows users to interact with animals using the generated 3D models; Including system.

2. a means for uploading videos of animals taken by users; A generating means for generating a 3D model based on the uploaded video; An interaction method that allows users to interact with animals using the generated 3D models; The system of claim 1 .

3. A means for extracting animal features using an image analysis algorithm in generating the 3D model; a means for generating a 3D model based on the extracted features; The system of claim 1 .

4. A means of storing the generated 3D model; means for transmitting the stored 3D model to a user terminal; The system of claim 1 .

5. a means for managing the status of the virtual animal as the user interacts with the animal; a means of controlling the behavior and reactions of animals based on their status; The system of claim 1 .

6. A means for users to purchase additional features and items through in-app purchases; A means to add purchased features or items to a user's account; The system of claim 1 .

Images