System

Abstract

To provide a system allowing a user to easily and effectively enjoy a real conversation experience with a deceased person.SOLUTION: The specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the system receives and stores photo data of the deceased, receives and stores voice data of the deceased, receives and stores personal data (educational background, personality, reminiscences, and the like) of the deceased, generates an avatar based on the received and stored photo data, synthesizes a voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data, constructs a conversation response model based on the received and stored personal data, and receives a voice input from the user. The system executes a process of analyzing, a process of selecting and generating an appropriate conversation response to the analyzed voice input of the user, a process of outputting the generated conversation response in the voice of the deceased, and a process of displaying the generated avatar.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

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 recent years, many people cherish memories of deceased family and friends and wish to converse with them and reminisce at any time. However, with current technologies, it has been difficult to converse with the deceased as if they were still alive, based on their photos, voices, and personal data. Furthermore, achieving a conversational experience with the deceased requires the integration of multiple systems and applications, requiring users to perform extremely complex operations. The present invention aims to solve these problems and provide a system that allows users to easily and effectively enjoy a realistic conversational experience with the deceased. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The present invention provides a system that receives and stores photographic data, audio data, and personal data of the deceased. Based on these data, the system also includes a means for generating an avatar from the photographic data, a means for synthesizing the deceased's voice from the audio data, and a means for constructing a conversational response model using the personal data. The system also includes a means for receiving and analyzing audio input from a user, a means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses based on the analysis results, a means for outputting the generated responses in the deceased's voice, and a means for displaying the generated avatar. This configuration provides a system that allows users to easily enjoy a realistic conversational experience with the deceased and to feel a deeper connection to their memories.

[0006] "Photo data" is digital data containing image information of the deceased.

[0007] "Audio data" is digital data that records the voice of the deceased.

[0008] "Personal data" refers to information entered in text format, such as the deceased's educational background, personality, and memories.

[0009] An "avatar" is a digital character created based on photographic data of a deceased person.

[0010] "Speech synthesis" is an artificial voice created based on the voice data of the deceased.

[0011] A "conversational response model" is a system created based on the personal data of the deceased and other related information to enable natural conversation with the user.

[0012] "Voice input" refers to the speech that a user makes to the system.

[0013] "Speech analysis" is a technology that converts voice input into text and understands its content.

[0014] A "conversational response" is a reply provided by the system in response to a user's spoken input.

[0015] "Avatar display" refers to visually showing the generated avatar to the user.

[0016] "Voice output" refers to conveying the generated conversational response to the user in the voice of the deceased. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and a smart device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and smart glasses according to a second embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and a headset-type terminal according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of main functions of a data processing device and a robot according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] 1 shows an emotion map onto which multiple emotions are mapped. [Figure 10] 1 shows an emotion map onto which multiple emotions are mapped. [Figure 11] FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram showing a processing flow of the data processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the data processing system in Application Example 1. [Figure 13]FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the data processing system according to the second embodiment when an emotion engine is combined. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing in the data processing system in Application Example 2 when an emotion engine is combined. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] An example of an embodiment of a system according to the technology of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0019] First, the terms used in the following description will be explained.

[0020] In the following embodiments, a coded processor (hereinafter simply referred to as a "processor") may be a single arithmetic device or a combination of multiple arithmetic devices. Furthermore, a processor may be a single type of arithmetic device or a combination of multiple types of arithmetic devices. Examples of arithmetic devices include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a GPGPU (General-Purpose computing on Graphics Processing Units), and an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit).

[0021] In the following embodiments, a coded RAM (Random Access Memory) is a memory in which information is temporarily stored and is used as a working memory by a processor.

[0022] In the following embodiments, the coded storage is one or more non-volatile storage devices that store various programs, various parameters, etc. Examples of non-volatile storage devices include flash memory (SSD (Solid State Drive)), magnetic disks (e.g., hard disks), and magnetic tapes.

[0023] In the following embodiments, a communication I / F (Interface) with a symbol is an interface including a communication processor, an antenna, etc. The communication I / F controls communication between multiple computers. Examples of communication standards applied to the communication I / F include wireless communication standards including 5G (5th Generation Mobile Communication System), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc.

[0024] In the following embodiments, "A and / or B" is synonymous with "at least one of A and B." In other words, "A and / or B" means that it may be only A, only B, or a combination of A and B. Furthermore, in this specification, the same concept as "A and / or B" is also applied when three or more things are expressed connected by "and / or."

[0025] [First embodiment]

[0026] FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0027] 1, a data processing system 10 includes a data processing device 12 and a smart device 14. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[0028] The data processing device 12 includes a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication I / F 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The computer 22 includes a processor 28, a RAM 30, and a storage 32. The processor 28, the RAM 30, and the storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication I / F 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication I / F 26 is connected to a network 54. Examples of the network 54 include a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0029] The smart device 14 includes a computer 36, a reception device 38, an output device 40, a camera 42, and a communication I / F 44. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, a RAM 48, and a storage 50. The processor 46, the RAM 48, and the storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The reception device 38, the output device 40, and the camera 42 are also connected to the bus 52.

[0030] The reception device 38 includes a touch panel 38A, a microphone 38B, and the like, and receives user input. The touch panel 38A detects contact with an indicator (for example, a pen or a finger) to receive user input by the touch of the indicator. The microphone 38B detects the user's voice to receive user input by voice. The control unit 46A transmits data indicating the user input received by the touch panel 38A and the microphone 38B to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the data indicating the user input.

[0031] The output device 40 includes a display 40A and a speaker 40B, and presents data to the user 20 by outputting the data in a form of expression that the user 20 can perceive (for example, audio and / or text). The display 40A displays visible information such as text and images in accordance with instructions from the processor 46. The speaker 40B outputs audio in accordance with instructions from the processor 46. The camera 42 is a compact digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an imaging element such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor.

[0032] The communication I / F 44 is connected to a network 54. The communication I / Fs 44 and 26 control the exchange of various information between the processor 46 and the processor 28 via the network 54.

[0033] FIG. 2 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart device 14.

[0034] 2, in the data processing device 12, a specific process is performed by the processor 28. A specific processing program 56 is stored in the storage 32. The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific process is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.

[0035] The storage 32 stores a data generation model 58 and an emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.

[0036] In the smart device 14, the processor 46 performs the reception output process. The storage 50 stores a reception output program 60. The reception output program 60 is used in conjunction with the specific processing program 56 by the data processing system 10. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output process is realized by the processor 46 operating as the control unit 46A in accordance with the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.

[0037] Next, a description will be given of the specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."

[0038] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using their photo data, voice data, and personal data. This system operates through the cooperation of a terminal and a server, and is designed to be easy for users to use.

[0039] Data Entry

[0040] First, the user enters the deceased's data using a terminal. The user uploads the deceased's photos, voice data, and personal data (educational history, personality, memories, etc.) to the system. This data is sent to the server and temporarily stored.

[0041] Data storage and analysis

[0042] The server receives the input data and stores it in persistent storage. Photo data is analyzed using facial recognition technology to generate an avatar. Audio data is passed through a speech analysis engine to extract distinctive speech patterns. Personal data is analyzed using a natural language processing engine to extract information to model the deceased's personality and tone of voice.

[0043] Avatars and voice synthesis

[0044] The server generates an avatar based on the analyzed photo data. A synthetic voice model is constructed from the audio data to reproduce the deceased's voice. This voice synthesis model mimics the characteristic pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice.

[0045] Building a conversation response model

[0046] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. The model is designed to reproduce natural conversation based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[0047] Conversation generation and response

[0048] When a user speaks into the device, the voice input is sent to the server. The server analyzes the voice data and converts it into text. The converted text is input into a conversation response model to generate an appropriate response. The generated response is synthesized in the deceased's voice and sent to the device. The device plays the voice, providing the user with an experience as if the deceased were answering.

[0049] Specific examples

[0050] For example, consider a user talking to a deceased grandfather. The user asks the device, "Grandpa, what do you think about the weather these days?" The device sends the voice input to the server, which analyzes the speech and converts it into text. A conversation response model analyzes this text and generates a response such as, "It used to be cooler, but it's gotten hotter recently." This response is then sent to a speech synthesis model, which outputs it in the voice of the deceased. The device then plays back this audio, giving the user a realistic experience, as if the deceased were answering.

[0051] As described above, the present invention provides a system that allows users to easily enjoy the experience of having a realistic conversation with a deceased person.

[0052] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0053] Step 1:

[0054] The user uploads photographic data of the deceased person using the device. The uploaded photographic data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[0055] Step 2:

[0056] The user uploads the voice data of the deceased person using the device. The uploaded voice data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[0057] Step 3:

[0058] The user uses the device to input personal data of the deceased person (such as educational background, personality, memories, etc.) in text format. The input text data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[0059] Step 4:

[0060] The server analyzes the stored photo data and uses facial recognition technology to extract basic data for avatar generation. Based on this data, the server generates an avatar that resembles the face of the deceased person.

[0061] Step 5:

[0062] The server runs the stored voice data through a voice analysis engine to extract the deceased's characteristic voice patterns (pitch, rhythm, accent, etc.) Based on this data, the server builds a voice model that synthesizes the deceased's voice.

[0063] Step 6:

[0064] The server passes the stored text data to a natural language processing (NLP) engine to extract characteristics such as the deceased's personality and speaking style. Based on the extracted data, the server builds a conversation response model.

[0065] Step 7:

[0066] The user speaks questions or conversations into the device, which receives the voice input and transmits the voice data to the server in real time.

[0067] Step 8:

[0068] The server passes the voice data received from the user to a speech recognition engine and converts it into text, which is then input into a conversational response model.

[0069] Step 9:

[0070] The server uses the conversational response model to generate the best response to the user's question or statement, and the generated response text is passed to the speech synthesis model.

[0071] Step 10:

[0072] The server uses a speech synthesis model to synthesize a response text in the deceased's voice, and the generated speech is sent to the device.

[0073] Step 11:

[0074] The device plays back the received audio and displays the generated avatar on the screen, providing a realistic conversation experience, as if the deceased person were responding.

[0075] The above are the specific processing steps of a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience based on data about the deceased.

[0076] Example 1

[0077] 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."

[0078] In modern society, many people desire to connect with their deceased loved ones. However, there is a lack of suitable means to continue sharing memories with them. Current technology allows users to visually enjoy photos and videos of the deceased, but does not provide a way to experience interactive conversations with the deceased. This makes it difficult for users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased.

[0079] 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.

[0080] In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and storing image data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing voice data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing personal information of the deceased, means for generating a display character based on the received and stored image data, means for synthesizing a voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data, means for constructing a conversational response model based on the received and stored personal information, means for receiving and analyzing voice input from a user, means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses to the analyzed user voice input, means for outputting the generated conversational responses in the voice of the deceased, means for displaying the generated display character, means designed to allow a user to enjoy a realistic conversational experience, means for processing the analyzed image data using recognition technology, means for extracting characteristic voice patterns from the analyzed voice data using a voice analysis engine, means for analyzing the received and stored personal information using a natural language processing engine, means for capturing and transmitting user voice to the server, means for reconstructing responses using a synthetic voice model, and means for transmitting the generated responses to the terminal, thereby enabling a user to easily enjoy a realistic conversational experience with their deceased loved one.

[0081] "Deceased" refers to a person who has already passed away.

[0082] "Image data" is visual information such as photographs and pictures expressed in digital form.

[0083] "Audio data" means a digital recording of a human voice or sound.

[0084] "Personal Information" refers to information related to a specific individual, such as educational background, personality, memories, etc.

[0085] "Display Character" means a digitally generated visual representation of a person or character.

[0086] A "conversational response model" is a set of algorithms or programs that generate appropriate responses to user input.

[0087] "Server" means a computer system that stores, processes, transmits and receives data.

[0088] "Terminal" refers to a computer device or equipment that is directly operated by a user.

[0089] "Voice recognition technology" is a technology for analyzing input voice data and converting it into text.

[0090] A "speech synthesis model" is a set of algorithms and programs that generate a human voice based on text data.

[0091] A "natural language processing engine" is a collection of algorithms and programs for understanding and analyzing human language.

[0092] "Analysis" refers to the process of interpreting data and extracting structural meaning.

[0093] "Capture" refers to the process of capturing and recording data such as audio and video.

[0094] "Transmission" refers to the process of passing data from one system to another.

[0095] "Storage" refers to the process of capturing data and recording it on a storage medium so that it can be retrieved at a later date.

[0096] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0097] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data. This system operates with the cooperation of the user, terminal, and server. The system is designed to allow users to easily input the deceased's data and provide a realistic conversation experience based on that data.

[0098] Data Entry

[0099] First, the user uploads the deceased's data to the system using their device. The user launches a dedicated application and inputs the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data (educational history, personality, memories, etc.). This data is temporarily stored in local storage and then sent to the server.

[0100] Data storage and analysis

[0101] The server receives the data sent by the user and stores it in persistent storage. For example, it uses a cloud storage service (a commonly used persistent storage device). The server then analyzes the sent photo data using facial recognition technology (a commonly used image analysis technology). The server extracts characteristic voice patterns from the voice data using a voice analysis engine (a commonly used voice recognition technology). The server then analyzes the personal data using a natural language processing engine (a commonly used natural language processing technology) to extract information to model the personality and tone of voice of the deceased.

[0102] Avatars and voice synthesis

[0103] The server generates a display character based on the analyzed photo data. For example, it creates an avatar using a three-dimensional modeling tool (commonly used modeling software). Next, it builds a voice synthesis model from the audio data to reproduce the deceased's voice. This voice synthesis model mimics the characteristic pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice. Commonly available voice synthesis technology is used.

[0104] Building a conversation response model

[0105] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. This model uses a generative AI model (a commonly used generation technology) designed to reproduce natural conversation based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[0106] Conversation generation and response

[0107] When a user speaks into the device, the device captures the voice input and sends it to a server. The server uses speech recognition technology to analyze the voice data and convert it into text. This text is input into a conversation response model to generate an appropriate response. The generated response is input into a speech synthesis model to generate synthesized data in the deceased's voice. The server sends this synthesized voice data to the device, which then plays it back, providing the user with a realistic experience, as if the deceased were responding.

[0108] Specific examples

[0109] For example, consider a user talking to a deceased grandfather. The user asks the device, "Grandpa, what do you think about the weather these days?" The device captures the user's voice and sends it to the server. The server analyzes the voice and converts it into text. The conversation response model analyzes this text and generates a response such as, "It used to be cooler, but it's gotten hotter recently." This response is synthesized in the voice of the deceased person through a speech synthesis model and sent to the device. The device then plays back this synthesized voice, providing the user with a realistic experience, as if the grandfather were actually answering them.

[0110] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0111] "Grandpa, tell me about your educational background."

[0112] "Grandma, what do you think of the recent news?"

[0113] "Dad, tell me some old memories."

[0114] The present invention allows users to easily enjoy a realistic and interactive conversation experience with their deceased loved ones. This system is a powerful tool for enriching users' memories and maintaining connections with their loved ones.

[0115] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0116] Step 1: Data entry

[0117] The user launches a dedicated application using their device. The user inputs the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data (educational history, personality, memories, etc.). The input data is temporarily saved in local storage. The saved data is then sent from the device to the server. Specifically, when the user selects a photo file and presses the upload button, the image data is saved in local storage and sent to the server.

[0118] Input: Photo data, audio data, personal data of the deceased

[0119] Output: Data stored in local storage and data sent to the server

[0120] Step 2: Data storage and analysis

[0121] The server receives the data sent by the user and stores it in persistent storage. The server then analyzes the photo data using facial recognition technology to extract facial features. The server analyzes the audio data using a speech analysis engine to extract distinctive voice patterns. The server then analyzes the personal data using a natural language processing engine to extract information to model the personality and tone of voice of the deceased.

[0122] Input: Data sent to the server (photo data, audio data, personal data)

[0123] Output: Analysis results and feature information saved to persistent storage

[0124] Step 3: Avatar generation

[0125] The server generates a display character based on the analyzed photo data. Specifically, it uses a 3D modeling tool to create a 3D model of the features extracted by facial recognition technology. This model is configured so that the user can visually recognize the deceased.

[0126] Input: Analysis results and feature information (feature points of photo data)

[0127] Output: Generated 3D avatar

[0128] Step 4: Text-to-Speech

[0129] The server builds a speech synthesis model from the audio data. The model mimics the pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice based on a dataset containing characteristic speech patterns. The server then uses a speech synthesis engine to generate the response.

[0130] Input: Feature patterns extracted from speech data

[0131] Output: The speech synthesis model and the generated synthetic speech

[0132] Step 5: Building a conversational response model

[0133] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model, which uses a generative AI model designed to recreate natural conversations based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased. Data is used for training and model adjustment.

[0134] Input: Personal data and voice analysis data

[0135] Output: Conversational response model

[0136] Step 6: Receiving and parsing audio input

[0137] The user asks a question to the device. The device captures the voice input and sends it to the server. The server analyzes the voice data using voice recognition technology and converts it into text data.

[0138] Input: User voice input

[0139] Output: Data converted into text using speech recognition technology

[0140] Step 7: Generate a response

[0141] The server inputs the text data into a conversational response model to generate an appropriate response, which is then input into a speech synthesis model to be synthesized in the voice of the deceased.

[0142] Input: Text data converted by speech recognition

[0143] Output: Text responses and synthesized speech generated based on the conversational response model

[0144] Step 8: Play audio

[0145] The server sends the synthesized voice data to the device, which then plays it back, providing the user with a realistic experience, as if the deceased person were answering.

[0146] Input: Speech synthesis data

[0147] Output: Synthesized speech played on the device

[0148] (Application example 1)

[0149] 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."

[0150] Although many systems exist that allow users to have a conversation with a deceased loved one, simple voice or text responses are insufficient to make the interaction with the deceased feel more realistic. In particular, experiences in virtual spaces require more advanced visual and auditory interaction. Therefore, new technologies are needed that allow users to have a more moving and realistic interaction with the deceased.

[0151] 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.

[0152] In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and storing photographic data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing voice data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing personal data of the deceased, means for generating an avatar based on the received and stored photographic data, means for synthesizing the voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data, means for constructing a conversation response model based on the received and stored personal data, means for receiving and analyzing voice input from a user, means for selecting and generating appropriate conversation responses to the analyzed user voice input, means for outputting the generated conversation responses in the voice of the deceased, means for displaying the generated avatar, and means for the generated avatar to interact with the user in a virtual space, thereby enabling the user to experience a conversation with the deceased in a realistic and moving way.

[0153] "Photo data of the deceased" refers to image information of the face and body of a deceased person, and is used to generate an avatar.

[0154] "Voice data of the deceased" refers to recorded information of the voice of a deceased person, and is used for voice synthesis.

[0155] "Personal data of the deceased" refers to information such as the deceased's educational background, personality, and memories, and is used to build a conversation response model.

[0156] An "avatar" refers to a digital character with which a user can visually interact in a virtual space.

[0157] "Speech synthesis" refers to the process of recreating a particular voice based on input speech data.

[0158] A "conversational response model" refers to an algorithm for generating appropriate responses to user input.

[0159] "Voice input from the user" refers to voice information input when the user speaks to the system.

[0160] "Virtual space" refers to a virtually constructed digital environment that users can experience.

[0161] An embodiment of the present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using photo data, voice data, and personal data of the deceased. This system includes interaction in a virtual space and is realized by combining specific software and hardware.

[0162] Data Entry

[0163] First, the user uploads the deceased's photo data, audio data, and personal data to the system using a terminal. This data is then sent to the server and stored. The terminal can be a PC or smartphone.

[0164] Data storage and analysis

[0165] The server stores the received data in persistent storage. Photo data is analyzed using facial recognition technology (OpenCV, dlib, etc.) and used to generate an avatar. Audio data is passed through a voice analysis engine (Tacotron2, WaveGlow, etc.) to extract characteristic voice patterns and use them to synthesize the deceased's voice. Personal data is analyzed using a natural language processing engine (BERT, GPT-3®, etc.) to model the deceased's personality and speaking style.

[0166] Avatars and voice synthesis

[0167] The server uses Unity3D and other 3D modeling software to generate an avatar of the deceased person based on the analyzed photo data, and also builds a synthetic voice model from the audio data to imitate the deceased's voice, using Tacotron2 and WaveGlow.

[0168] Building a conversation response model

[0169] The server uses personal data and voice analysis data to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. This model uses generative AI models such as BERT and GPT-3 to recreate the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[0170] Conversation generation and response

[0171] When a user speaks into the device, the voice input is sent to the server, where it is analyzed and converted into text data. This text data is then input into a conversation response model to generate an appropriate response. The generated response is then played back in the deceased's voice using a speech synthesis model. The device then plays back audio and visuals, providing the user with a realistic conversation experience.

[0172] Interaction in virtual space

[0173] The aforementioned avatar and voice response model are implemented in a virtual space using Unity3D. Using VR technologies such as the Oculus SDK, users can experience realistic interactions. This allows for a more immersive and engaging conversational experience than simply playing audio and visuals.

[0174] For example, consider a scenario in which a user revisits a place that holds fond memories for their deceased grandfather in a virtual space. When the user says, "Grandpa, do you remember this place?", the server analyzes the voice data and responds in the deceased's voice, "Of course I remember. This is where you first rode your bike." At this time, the avatar is drawn in the form of the grandfather, and actually talks about the place in the deceased's voice, providing a highly realistic conversational experience.

[0175] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0176] "Grandpa, what do you think about the weather these days?"

[0177] "It used to be cooler, but it's gotten hotter recently."

[0178] In this way, a system is realized that provides a realistic conversation experience with a deceased person in a virtual store.

[0179] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0180] Step 1:

[0181] The device receives the photo data, audio data, and personal data of the deceased from the user. The user uploads this data, and the device sends it to the server. The input is the photo, audio, and personal data of the deceased, and the output is the transmission of this data to the server.

[0182] Step 2:

[0183] The server stores the received data in persistent storage, such as cloud storage or a database. The input is the deceased's photos, audio, and personal data, and the output is the storage of this data.

[0184] Step 3:

[0185] The server analyzes the photo data and generates an avatar. In this process, OpenCV and dlib are used to extract facial feature points, and Unity3D is used to generate the avatar as a 3D model. The input is the saved photo data, and the output is a 3D avatar model.

[0186] Step 4:

[0187] The server analyzes the voice data and builds a speech synthesis model. In this process, Tacotron2 and WaveGlow are used to extract voice features and generate a speech synthesis model that reproduces the voice of the deceased. The input is the saved voice data, and the output is the speech synthesis model.

[0188] Step 5:

[0189] The server analyzes the stored personal data and builds a conversation response model. In this process, text analysis is performed using BERT and GPT-3 to build a model that learns the personality and conversation patterns of the deceased. The input is the stored personal data, and the output is the conversation response model.

[0190] Step 6:

[0191] When a user speaks into the device, the voice input is sent to the server. The device captures the voice data and sends it to the server. The input is the user's voice, and the output is the voice data sent to the server.

[0192] Step 7:

[0193] The server converts the user's voice into text using a voice analysis engine. Here, voice data is analyzed using voice recognition technology and converted into text data. The input is the user's voice data, and the output is text data.

[0194] Step 8:

[0195] The server uses a conversational response model to generate an appropriate response. In this process, the converted text data is used as input, analyzed, and an optimal response to the user's question is generated. The input is the user's text data, and the output is the generated response sentence.

[0196] Step 9:

[0197] The server converts the generated response into voice data using a speech synthesis model. Using Tacotron2 and WaveGlow, the generated text response is synthesized into playable voice data in the deceased's voice. The input is the generated response, and the output is voice data.

[0198] Step 10:

[0199] The device plays the generated avatar and voice in a virtual space. Using Unity3D and the Oculus SDK, the device allows users to interact with the avatar of a deceased person in a virtual space. The input is a 3D model of the avatar and voice data, and the output is a realistic conversation experience in a virtual space.

[0200] 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.

[0201] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data, and also incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and adjusts responses accordingly.The purpose of this system is to provide a more natural and intimate conversation experience that is in line with the user's emotions.

[0202] Data Entry

[0203] First, the user enters the deceased's data using a terminal. The user uploads the deceased's photos, voice data, and personal data (such as educational background, personality, memories, etc.) to the system. This data is sent to the server and temporarily stored.

[0204] Data storage and analysis

[0205] The server receives the input data and stores it in persistent storage. Photo data is analyzed using facial recognition technology to generate an avatar. Audio data is passed through a speech analysis engine to extract distinctive speech patterns. Personal data is analyzed using a natural language processing engine to extract information to model the deceased's personality and tone of voice.

[0206] Avatars and voice synthesis

[0207] The server generates an avatar based on the analyzed photo data. A synthetic voice model is constructed from the audio data to reproduce the deceased's voice. This voice synthesis model mimics the characteristic pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice.

[0208] Building a conversation response model

[0209] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. The model is designed to reproduce natural conversation based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[0210] Using the Emotion Engine

[0211] The present invention incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions. By analyzing the user's voice input and recognizing their emotions, the server can generate an optimal response depending on the user's emotional state.

[0212] Conversation generation and response

[0213] The user speaks a question or conversation into the device. The device receives the voice input and sends the voice data to the server in real time. The server analyzes the voice data and converts it into text. The converted text is input into the conversation response model and emotion engine.

[0214] Emotion-based response generation

[0215] The server uses an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotions and tailor responses based on those emotions. For example, if the user is sad, the system will respond with comforting words and a gentle tone. The generated response is then passed to a speech synthesis model, which outputs it in the voice of the deceased.

[0216] Displaying the results

[0217] The device plays back the received audio and displays the generated avatar on the screen, allowing users to have a realistic conversation experience, as if the deceased person were responding.

[0218] Specific examples

[0219] For example, consider a sad user speaking into a device, "Grandpa, I miss you." The device sends the voice input to a server, which analyzes the speech and converts it into text. The conversational response model generates a response such as "I'm sorry to make you feel lonely. I'm always watching over you," and the emotion engine adjusts this response to a comforting tone. The adjusted response is output in the grandfather's voice through a speech synthesis model and played on the device. This makes the user feel as if the grandfather is comforting them.

[0220] The above is a specific embodiment of the present invention that combines data of the deceased person with an emotion engine.

[0221] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0222] Step 1:

[0223] The user uploads photographic data of the deceased person using the device. The uploaded photographic data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[0224] Step 2:

[0225] The user uploads the voice data of the deceased person using the device. The uploaded voice data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[0226] Step 3:

[0227] The user uses the device to input personal data of the deceased person (such as educational background, personality, memories, etc.) in text format. The input text data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[0228] Step 4:

[0229] The server analyzes the stored photo data and uses facial recognition technology to extract basic data for avatar generation. An avatar modeling the deceased's face is then generated based on this data. Furthermore, if the avatar of the deceased is to be generated as a 3D model, even more detailed facial features are extracted to create the 3D avatar.

[0230] Step 5:

[0231] The server runs the stored voice data through a voice analysis engine to extract the deceased's characteristic voice patterns (pitch, rhythm, accent, etc.) Based on this data, the server builds a voice model that synthesizes the deceased's voice.

[0232] Step 6:

[0233] The server passes the stored text data to a natural language processing (NLP) engine to extract characteristics such as the deceased's personality and speaking style. Based on the extracted data, the server builds a conversation response model.

[0234] Step 7:

[0235] The user speaks questions or conversations into the device, which receives the voice input and transmits the voice data to the server in real time.

[0236] Step 8:

[0237] The server passes the voice data received from the user to a speech recognition engine and converts it into text, which is then input to the conversation response model and emotion engine.

[0238] Step 9:

[0239] The server recognizes emotions from the user's voice input using an emotion engine, which analyzes the tone, speed, emphasis, etc. of the voice to identify the user's emotional state.

[0240] Step 10:

[0241] The server selects and generates an appropriate response from the conversational response model based on the analyzed user's emotions, for example, if the user speaks in a sad tone, the conversational response model selects a response containing comforting words.

[0242] Step 11:

[0243] The generated conversational responses are then passed to a speech synthesis model to be synthesized in the voice of the deceased, with the tone and rhythm of the response also adjusted based on the results of the emotion engine.

[0244] Step 12:

[0245] The device receives the audio data of the deceased's voice from the server and displays the generated avatar. Responses are played in the deceased's voice, and the avatar of the deceased moves in accordance with the response on the screen.

[0246] Step 13:

[0247] Users can enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased, and the user's emotions are reflected in the conversation, creating a more intimate and emotional exchange.

[0248] The above are the specific processing steps of the system for experiencing conversation with a deceased person that incorporates an emotion engine.

[0249] Example 2

[0250] 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."

[0251] Conventional conversation systems for the deceased have had difficulty providing natural, intimate conversations that respond to the user's emotional state. Responses that ignore the user's emotions result in a poor communication experience with the deceased, leading to an unsatisfactory feeling, and it is therefore difficult to expect any emotional healing or improvement in the quality of communication.

[0252] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the second embodiment is realized by the following means.

[0253] In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and storing photographic data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing voice data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing personal data of the deceased (such as educational background, personality, and memories), means for generating an avatar based on the received and stored photographic data, means for synthesizing the voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data, means for constructing a conversational response model based on the received and stored personal data, means for recognizing the user's emotional state, means for receiving and analyzing voice input from the user, means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses to the analyzed user's voice input, means for adjusting the generated conversational responses based on the user's emotional state, means for outputting the generated conversational responses in the voice of the deceased, and means for displaying the generated avatar. This makes it possible to provide a more natural and intimate conversational experience that is tailored to the user's emotions.

[0254] "Photo data of the deceased" refers to photographic data of the face and entire body of the deceased provided by the user.

[0255] "Voice data of the deceased" refers to recording data of the deceased's voice provided by the user.

[0256] "Personal data of the deceased" refers to detailed data about the deceased's educational background, personality, anecdotes, hobbies, etc.

[0257] "Means for generating an avatar" refers to software or hardware for digitally recreating the appearance of a deceased person based on photographic data of the deceased.

[0258] A "synthetic voice model" refers to a voice synthesis technology that reproduces the voice of a deceased person based on their voice data.

[0259] A "conversational response model" refers to an algorithm or system that generates appropriate responses to a user's questions or statements based on the deceased's personal data and voice data.

[0260] An "emotion engine" refers to a system that analyzes emotions from a user's voice and text data and adjusts conversational responses based on that.

[0261] "Means for receiving and analyzing voice input" refers to software or hardware that receives voice data uttered by a user, analyzes it, and converts it into text data.

[0262] "Means for selecting and generating conversational responses" refers to a system for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses based on analyzed user input.

[0263] "Means for tailoring conversational responses" refers to a system for changing the content and tone of conversational responses depending on the user's emotional state.

[0264] "Means for outputting in the voice of the deceased" refers to a system for audibly outputting the generated conversational response in the voice of the deceased.

[0265] "Means for displaying an avatar" refers to a system that visually displays the generated avatar on a user interface.

[0266] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data, and also incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and adjusts responses accordingly. The objective is to provide a more natural and intimate conversation experience that responds to the user's emotions.

[0267] Data Entry

[0268] First, the user enters the deceased's data using a terminal. The user uploads the deceased's photos, voice data, and personal data (such as educational background, personality, and memories) to the system. This data is then sent to the server and temporarily stored.

[0269] Data storage and analysis

[0270] The server receives the input data and stores it in persistent storage. Photo data is analyzed to generate an avatar using facial recognition technology (e.g., OpenCV). Voice data is analyzed using a voice analysis engine (e.g., Google® Cloud Speech-to-Text) to extract distinctive voice patterns. Personal data is analyzed using a natural language processing engine (e.g., the BERT model) to extract information to model the deceased person's personality and tone of voice.

[0271] Avatars and voice synthesis

[0272] The server generates an avatar based on the analyzed photo data. To reproduce the deceased's voice, a synthetic voice model (e.g., Tacotron 2 or WaveNet) is constructed from the audio data. This voice synthesis model mimics the characteristic pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice.

[0273] Building a conversation response model

[0274] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model (such as GPT-3 or BERT) that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. The model is designed to reproduce natural conversation based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[0275] Using the Emotion Engine

[0276] This invention incorporates an emotion engine (e.g., emotion recognition using DeepMoji or RNN) that recognizes the user's emotions. By analyzing the user's voice input and recognizing their emotions, the server can generate an optimal response according to the user's emotional state.

[0277] Conversation generation and response

[0278] The user speaks a question or conversation into the device. The device receives the voice input and sends the voice data to the server in real time. The server analyzes the voice data and converts it into text. The converted text is input into a conversation response model and emotion engine. The server uses the emotion engine to recognize the user's emotion and adjusts the response based on that emotion. The generated response is passed to a speech synthesis model and output in the voice of the deceased.

[0279] Displaying the results

[0280] The device plays back the received audio and displays the generated avatar on the screen, allowing users to have a realistic conversation experience, as if the deceased person were responding.

[0281] Specific examples

[0282] For example, consider a sad user speaking into a device, "Grandpa, I miss you." The device sends the voice input to a server, which analyzes the speech and converts it into text. The conversational response model generates a response such as "I'm sorry to make you feel lonely. I'm always watching over you," and the emotion engine adjusts this response to a comforting tone. The adjusted response is output in the grandfather's voice through a speech synthesis model and played on the device. This makes the user feel as if the grandfather is comforting them.

[0283] Examples of prompt statements

[0284] "Generate a sweet message that sounds like your dog is speaking to you, based on the emotions you felt on the day your beloved dog died."

[0285] The above is a specific embodiment of the present invention that combines data of the deceased person with an emotion engine.

[0286] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0287] Step 1:

[0288] The user uses the terminal to enter the data of the deceased.

[0289] First, the user enters the necessary information into the form displayed on the device screen and clicks the "Upload" button. The device collects the deceased's photo data, audio data, and personal data, and sends the input data to the server.

[0290] The input is photos, voice, and personal information from the user, and the output is this data sent to the server.

[0291] Step 2:

[0292] The server receives the entered data and stores it in temporary storage.

[0293] The server temporarily stores the received data in non-persistent storage for subsequent analysis.

[0294] The input is photos, audio, and personal information sent from the terminal, and the output is this data stored on the server.

[0295] Step 3:

[0296] The server analyzes the photo data and extracts information for generating an avatar.

[0297] The server uses facial recognition technology (e.g., OpenCV) to extract features from the photo data and obtain information to digitize the face and body of the deceased.

[0298] The input is photo data stored on the server, and the output is feature information for generating an avatar.

[0299] Step 4:

[0300] The server analyzes the voice data and extracts characteristic voice patterns.

[0301] The server uses a speech analysis engine (such as Google Cloud Speech-to-Text) to extract characteristic speech patterns from the speech data and use them to build a synthetic speech model.

[0302] The input is speech data stored on the server, and the output is feature information of speech patterns.

[0303] Step 5:

[0304] The server analyzes the personal data and extracts the information necessary to build a conversation response model.

[0305] The server uses a natural language processing engine (e.g., the BERT model) to analyze the personal data provided by the user and extract information about the deceased person's personality and tone of voice.

[0306] The input is personal data stored on the server, and the output is the information necessary to build a conversation response model.

[0307] Step 6:

[0308] The server generates the avatar.

[0309] Based on the feature information obtained in step 3, the server uses a deep learning model (e.g., GAN: Generative Adversarial Network) to generate an avatar that digitally recreates the appearance of the deceased.

[0310] The input is feature information for avatar generation, and the output is the generated avatar.

[0311] Step 7:

[0312] The server builds a synthetic speech model.

[0313] Based on the voice patterns extracted in step 4, the server uses a voice synthesis model such as Tacotron 2 or WaveNet to build a model to synthesize the voice of the deceased.

[0314] The input is feature information of a speech pattern, and the output is a synthetic speech model.

[0315] Step 8:

[0316] The server builds a conversational response model.

[0317] Based on the information extracted in step 5, the server uses a natural language generation model such as GPT-3 or BERT to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user.

[0318] The input is the information necessary to construct a conversation response model, and the output is the conversation response model.

[0319] Step 9:

[0320] The server recognizes the user's emotional state.

[0321] Analyze the user's voice input and use an emotion engine (e.g., emotion recognition using DeepMoji or RNN) to recognize the user's current emotional state.

[0322] The input is speech input from the user and the output is the identified emotional state of the user.

[0323] Step 10:

[0324] The server converts voice input from the user into text.

[0325] The server uses a speech recognition API (e.g., Google Cloud Speech-to-Text) to convert the user's voice input into text data.

[0326] The input is voice data from the user, and the output is text data.

[0327] Step 11:

[0328] The server generates appropriate conversational responses and adjusts them based on the user's emotional state.

[0329] The server uses a conversational response model and an emotion engine to generate appropriate responses to text input from the user, and further adjusts the content and tone of the response based on the user's emotional state.

[0330] The input is text data and emotional states, and the output is a tailored response sentence.

[0331] Step 12:

[0332] The server outputs the adjusted response in the voice of the deceased using a speech synthesis model.

[0333] The server converts the generated response text into voice data using Tacotron 2 or WaveNet, and outputs it as a synthesized voice of the deceased.

[0334] The input is the tailored response sentence, and the output is audio data generated in the deceased's voice.

[0335] Step 13:

[0336] The device plays the generated audio and displays the avatar on the screen.

[0337] The device receives the voice data sent from the server, plays it through the speaker, and displays a generated avatar on the screen, creating the visual effect of the deceased person responding.

[0338] The input is the audio data and the avatar from the server, and the output is the audio being played and the avatar being displayed.

[0339] (Application example 2)

[0340] 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."

[0341] People have various reasons for wanting to interact with their deceased loved ones, but conventional systems have had the drawback of only being able to provide general interactions and not being able to respond in a way that takes into account the user's emotions. Furthermore, there have been no systems that allow for deeper emotional experiences, such as visiting places associated with the deceased. This has resulted in a lack of an emotional experience that allows users to feel connected to the deceased.

[0342] The identification processing by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and saving photo data of the deceased, means for receiving and saving voice data of the deceased, means for receiving and saving personal data of the deceased, means for generating an avatar based on the received and saved photo data, means for synthesizing the voice of the deceased based on the received and saved voice data, means for building a conversational response model based on the received and saved personal data, means for receiving and analyzing voice input from the user, means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses to the analyzed user voice input, means for outputting the generated conversational responses in the deceased's voice, means for displaying the generated avatar, means for recognizing the user's emotions and adjusting responses according to the emotions, and means for recreating places shared with the deceased in a 3D environment and providing the user with an avatar of the deceased to experience visiting those places. This allows the user not only to interact with the deceased but also to receive responses according to the user's emotions and virtually visit places shared with the deceased, thereby providing a deep emotional experience.

[0343] A "deceased person" is someone who is already dead.

[0344] "Photo data" refers to data that contains an image of the deceased person stored in digital format.

[0345] "Audio data" refers to data that contains the voice of a deceased person stored in digital format.

[0346] "Personal data" refers to data that includes information about the deceased person's education, personality, memories, etc.

[0347] An "avatar" is a digital human model generated from photographic data of a deceased person.

[0348] "Voice synthesis" is a technology that digitally reproduces the voice of a deceased person based on their voice data.

[0349] A "conversational response model" is an algorithm that generates appropriate responses to user input based on the deceased person's personal data.

[0350] "Emotion recognition" is a technology that recognizes a user's emotional state by analyzing the user's voice and facial expressions.

[0351] A "3D environment" is a virtual space that simulates a three-dimensional space using digital technology.

[0352] A "virtual tour" is a digital recreation of the experience of a user visiting a particular location using virtual reality technology.

[0353] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using the photo data, voice data, and personal data of the deceased, and also incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and adjusts responses accordingly, allowing users to not only converse with the deceased, but also to receive emotional responses and experience virtual memories.

[0354] Data entry and storage

[0355] The user uses the device to input the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data (educational history, personality, memories, etc.). This data is sent to the server and temporarily stored. The data received by the server is stored in permanent storage and used for the analysis process described below.

[0356] Avatar and voice synthesis generation

[0357] The server generates an avatar based on the received and stored photo data, using facial recognition technology to recreate the deceased's face in detail. For audio data, the server also uses a voice analysis engine to extract voice patterns and synthesize the deceased's voice.

[0358] Building a conversation response model

[0359] The server uses the deceased's personal data to build a conversational response model, which uses a natural language processing engine and is designed to reflect the deceased's personality and tone of voice, generating natural-sounding conversational responses to the user's voice input.

[0360] Use of emotion recognition engine

[0361] The server utilizes an emotion engine that analyzes the user's voice input and recognizes their emotional state, allowing the server to optimize its response according to the user's emotions.

[0362] Providing a virtual memory tour

[0363] The server generates a virtual tour that recreates memorable places with the deceased in a 3D environment, allowing the user and the deceased's avatar to visit those places, enabling the user to share deeply emotional memories with the deceased.

[0364] Examples and prompts

[0365] For example, if a user says, "I'm tired from work today," the system will recognize that emotion and the deceased will respond in a gentle tone, "You worked hard, thank you for your hard work."

[0366] Example prompt sentence:

[0367] "Sentiment Analysis: I'm tired from work today"

[0368] Hardware and software used

[0369] Hardware: Smartphone or PC microphone and speakers, high-performance server (cloud computing service)

[0370] software:

[0371] OpenAI® GPT-3 API: Speech and Sentiment Analysis

[0372] Google Speech-to-Text API: Speech-to-text conversion

[0373] gTTS: Text to speech conversion

[0374] DeepFace: Facial Recognition and Expression Analysis

[0375] Pydub: Processing audio data

[0376] This allows users to use the multifunctional system to enjoy the experience of having realistic and emotional conversations with the deceased and visiting memorable places.

[0377] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0378] Step 1:

[0379] The user enters the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data into the device. The entered data is sent to the server via the Internet. The server receives and temporarily stores this data. At this stage, the user uploads data through the device, and the data is ready to be delivered to the server.

[0380] Step 2:

[0381] The server stores the received photo data in persistent storage. The server then analyzes the photo data and generates an avatar using facial recognition technology. This analysis generates a digital avatar that realistically resembles the deceased person's face.

[0382] Step 3:

[0383] The server stores the audio data in persistent storage. A speech analysis engine is used to extract distinctive voice patterns from the audio data and synthesize the deceased's voice. At this stage, the deceased's voice is digitally recreated.

[0384] Step 4:

[0385] The server stores personal data in persistent storage, and uses a natural language processing engine to extract the deceased person's personality and speaking style from the personal data and build a conversational response model, which enables natural conversations with the user.

[0386] Step 5:

[0387] The user speaks to the device. The device receives this voice input and sends it to the server via the Internet. At this stage, the user's voice data is sent to the server.

[0388] Step 6:

[0389] The server converts the received user voice data into text data using a speech analysis engine. The converted text data is input into a conversation response model and an emotion recognition engine. This conversion converts the voice data into text data for further analysis.

[0390] Step 7:

[0391] The server uses a conversational response model to generate appropriate responses to the user's text input. At the same time, it uses an emotion recognition engine to analyze the user's emotions and adjust the response based on their emotional state. At this stage, a response adapted to the user's emotions is generated.

[0392] Step 8:

[0393] The generated response is output in the voice of the deceased using a speech synthesis engine. The server generates the voice data and sends it to the device. The device plays the received voice data and displays the generated avatar on the screen. This process allows the user to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased.

[0394] Step 9:

[0395] The server recreates the places where the deceased shared memories in a 3D environment and generates a virtual tour of the places with the deceased's avatar, allowing users to relive and experience special memories with the deceased in a digital environment.

[0396] Through these steps, users can enjoy realistic conversations with the deceased, as well as emotional responses and virtual memory experiences.

[0397] 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.

[0398] 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.

[0399] 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.

[0400] [Second embodiment]

[0401] FIG. 3 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 210 according to the second embodiment.

[0402] 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.

[0403] 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).

[0404] 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.

[0405] 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.

[0406] 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).

[0407] 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.

[0408] 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.

[0409] 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.

[0410] 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.

[0411] 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.

[0412] 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."

[0413] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using their photo data, voice data, and personal data. This system operates through the cooperation of a terminal and a server, and is designed to be easy for users to use.

[0414] Data Entry

[0415] First, the user enters the deceased's data using a terminal. The user uploads the deceased's photos, voice data, and personal data (educational history, personality, memories, etc.) to the system. This data is sent to the server and temporarily stored.

[0416] Data storage and analysis

[0417] The server receives the input data and stores it in persistent storage. Photo data is analyzed using facial recognition technology to generate an avatar. Audio data is passed through a speech analysis engine to extract distinctive speech patterns. Personal data is analyzed using a natural language processing engine to extract information to model the deceased's personality and tone of voice.

[0418] Avatars and voice synthesis

[0419] The server generates an avatar based on the analyzed photo data. A synthetic voice model is constructed from the audio data to reproduce the deceased's voice. This voice synthesis model mimics the characteristic pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice.

[0420] Building a conversation response model

[0421] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. The model is designed to reproduce natural conversation based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[0422] Conversation generation and response

[0423] When a user speaks into the device, the voice input is sent to the server. The server analyzes the voice data and converts it into text. The converted text is input into a conversation response model to generate an appropriate response. The generated response is synthesized in the deceased's voice and sent to the device. The device plays the voice, providing the user with an experience as if the deceased were answering.

[0424] Specific examples

[0425] For example, consider a user talking to a deceased grandfather. The user asks the device, "Grandpa, what do you think about the weather these days?" The device sends the voice input to the server, which analyzes the speech and converts it into text. A conversation response model analyzes this text and generates a response such as, "It used to be cooler, but it's gotten hotter recently." This response is then sent to a speech synthesis model, which outputs it in the voice of the deceased. The device then plays back this audio, giving the user a realistic experience, as if the deceased were answering.

[0426] As described above, the present invention provides a system that allows users to easily enjoy the experience of having a realistic conversation with a deceased person.

[0427] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0428] Step 1:

[0429] The user uploads photographic data of the deceased person using the device. The uploaded photographic data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[0430] Step 2:

[0431] The user uploads the voice data of the deceased person using the device. The uploaded voice data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[0432] Step 3:

[0433] The user uses the device to input personal data of the deceased person (such as educational background, personality, memories, etc.) in text format. The input text data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[0434] Step 4:

[0435] The server analyzes the stored photo data and uses facial recognition technology to extract basic data for avatar generation. Based on this data, the server generates an avatar that resembles the face of the deceased person.

[0436] Step 5:

[0437] The server runs the stored voice data through a voice analysis engine to extract the deceased's characteristic voice patterns (pitch, rhythm, accent, etc.) Based on this data, the server builds a voice model that synthesizes the deceased's voice.

[0438] Step 6:

[0439] The server passes the stored text data to a natural language processing (NLP) engine to extract characteristics such as the deceased's personality and speaking style. Based on the extracted data, the server builds a conversation response model.

[0440] Step 7:

[0441] The user speaks questions or conversations into the device, which receives the voice input and transmits the voice data to the server in real time.

[0442] Step 8:

[0443] The server passes the voice data received from the user to a speech recognition engine and converts it into text, which is then input into a conversational response model.

[0444] Step 9:

[0445] The server uses the conversational response model to generate the best response to the user's question or statement, and the generated response text is passed to the speech synthesis model.

[0446] Step 10:

[0447] The server uses a speech synthesis model to synthesize a response text in the deceased's voice, and the generated speech is sent to the device.

[0448] Step 11:

[0449] The device plays back the received audio and displays the generated avatar on the screen, providing a realistic conversation experience, as if the deceased person were responding.

[0450] The above are the specific processing steps of a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience based on data about the deceased.

[0451] Example 1

[0452] 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."

[0453] In modern society, many people desire to connect with their deceased loved ones. However, there is a lack of suitable means to continue sharing memories with them. Current technology allows users to visually enjoy photos and videos of the deceased, but does not provide a way to experience interactive conversations with the deceased. This makes it difficult for users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased.

[0454] 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.

[0455] In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and storing image data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing voice data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing personal information of the deceased, means for generating a display character based on the received and stored image data, means for synthesizing a voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data, means for constructing a conversational response model based on the received and stored personal information, means for receiving and analyzing voice input from a user, means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses to the analyzed user voice input, means for outputting the generated conversational responses in the voice of the deceased, means for displaying the generated display character, means designed to allow a user to enjoy a realistic conversational experience, means for processing the analyzed image data using recognition technology, means for extracting characteristic voice patterns from the analyzed voice data using a voice analysis engine, means for analyzing the received and stored personal information using a natural language processing engine, means for capturing and transmitting user voice to the server, means for reconstructing responses using a synthetic voice model, and means for transmitting the generated responses to the terminal, thereby enabling a user to easily enjoy a realistic conversational experience with their deceased loved one.

[0456] "Deceased" refers to a person who has already passed away.

[0457] "Image data" is visual information such as photographs and pictures expressed in digital form.

[0458] "Audio data" means a digital recording of a human voice or sound.

[0459] "Personal Information" refers to information related to a specific individual, such as educational background, personality, memories, etc.

[0460] "Display Character" means a digitally generated visual representation of a person or character.

[0461] A "conversational response model" is a set of algorithms or programs that generate appropriate responses to user input.

[0462] "Server" means a computer system that stores, processes, transmits and receives data.

[0463] "Terminal" refers to a computer device or equipment that is directly operated by a user.

[0464] "Voice recognition technology" is a technology for analyzing input voice data and converting it into text.

[0465] A "speech synthesis model" is a set of algorithms and programs that generate a human voice based on text data.

[0466] A "natural language processing engine" is a collection of algorithms and programs for understanding and analyzing human language.

[0467] "Analysis" refers to the process of interpreting data and extracting structural meaning.

[0468] "Capture" refers to the process of capturing and recording data such as audio and video.

[0469] "Transmission" refers to the process of passing data from one system to another.

[0470] "Storage" refers to the process of capturing data and recording it on a storage medium so that it can be retrieved at a later date.

[0471] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0472] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data. This system operates with the cooperation of the user, terminal, and server. The system is designed to allow users to easily input the deceased's data and provide a realistic conversation experience based on that data.

[0473] Data Entry

[0474] First, the user uploads the deceased's data to the system using their device. The user launches a dedicated application and inputs the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data (educational history, personality, memories, etc.). This data is temporarily stored in local storage and then sent to the server.

[0475] Data storage and analysis

[0476] The server receives the data sent by the user and stores it in persistent storage. For example, it uses a cloud storage service (a commonly used persistent storage device). The server then analyzes the sent photo data using facial recognition technology (a commonly used image analysis technology). The server extracts characteristic voice patterns from the voice data using a voice analysis engine (a commonly used voice recognition technology). The server then analyzes the personal data using a natural language processing engine (a commonly used natural language processing technology) to extract information to model the personality and tone of voice of the deceased.

[0477] Avatars and voice synthesis

[0478] The server generates a display character based on the analyzed photo data. For example, it creates an avatar using a three-dimensional modeling tool (commonly used modeling software). Next, it builds a voice synthesis model from the audio data to reproduce the deceased's voice. This voice synthesis model mimics the characteristic pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice. Commonly available voice synthesis technology is used.

[0479] Building a conversation response model

[0480] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. This model uses a generative AI model (a commonly used generation technology) designed to reproduce natural conversation based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[0481] Conversation generation and response

[0482] When a user speaks into the device, the device captures the voice input and sends it to a server. The server uses speech recognition technology to analyze the voice data and convert it into text. This text is input into a conversation response model to generate an appropriate response. The generated response is input into a speech synthesis model to generate synthesized data in the deceased's voice. The server sends this synthesized voice data to the device, which then plays it back, providing the user with a realistic experience, as if the deceased were responding.

[0483] Specific examples

[0484] For example, consider a user talking to a deceased grandfather. The user asks the device, "Grandpa, what do you think about the weather these days?" The device captures the user's voice and sends it to the server. The server analyzes the voice and converts it into text. The conversation response model analyzes this text and generates a response such as, "It used to be cooler, but it's gotten hotter recently." This response is synthesized in the voice of the deceased person through a speech synthesis model and sent to the device. The device then plays back this synthesized voice, providing the user with a realistic experience, as if the grandfather were actually answering them.

[0485] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0486] "Grandpa, tell me about your educational background."

[0487] "Grandma, what do you think of the recent news?"

[0488] "Dad, tell me some old memories."

[0489] The present invention allows users to easily enjoy a realistic and interactive conversation experience with their deceased loved ones. This system is a powerful tool for enriching users' memories and maintaining connections with their loved ones.

[0490] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0491] Step 1: Data entry

[0492] The user launches a dedicated application using their device. The user inputs the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data (educational history, personality, memories, etc.). The input data is temporarily saved in local storage. The saved data is then sent from the device to the server. Specifically, when the user selects a photo file and presses the upload button, the image data is saved in local storage and sent to the server.

[0493] Input: Photo data, audio data, personal data of the deceased

[0494] Output: Data stored in local storage and data sent to the server

[0495] Step 2: Data storage and analysis

[0496] The server receives the data sent by the user and stores it in persistent storage. The server then analyzes the photo data using facial recognition technology to extract facial features. The server analyzes the audio data using a speech analysis engine to extract distinctive voice patterns. The server then analyzes the personal data using a natural language processing engine to extract information to model the personality and tone of voice of the deceased.

[0497] Input: Data sent to the server (photo data, audio data, personal data)

[0498] Output: Analysis results and feature information saved to persistent storage

[0499] Step 3: Avatar generation

[0500] The server generates a display character based on the analyzed photo data. Specifically, it uses a 3D modeling tool to create a 3D model of the features extracted by facial recognition technology. This model is configured so that the user can visually recognize the deceased.

[0501] Input: Analysis results and feature information (feature points of photo data)

[0502] Output: Generated 3D avatar

[0503] Step 4: Text-to-Speech

[0504] The server builds a speech synthesis model from the audio data. The model mimics the pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice based on a dataset containing characteristic speech patterns. The server then uses a speech synthesis engine to generate the response.

[0505] Input: Feature patterns extracted from speech data

[0506] Output: The speech synthesis model and the generated synthetic speech

[0507] Step 5: Building a conversational response model

[0508] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model, which uses a generative AI model designed to recreate natural conversations based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased. Data is used for training and model adjustment.

[0509] Input: Personal data and voice analysis data

[0510] Output: Conversational response model

[0511] Step 6: Receiving and parsing audio input

[0512] The user asks a question to the device. The device captures the voice input and sends it to the server. The server analyzes the voice data using voice recognition technology and converts it into text data.

[0513] Input: User voice input

[0514] Output: Data converted into text using speech recognition technology

[0515] Step 7: Generate a response

[0516] The server inputs the text data into a conversational response model to generate an appropriate response, which is then input into a speech synthesis model to be synthesized in the voice of the deceased.

[0517] Input: Text data converted by speech recognition

[0518] Output: Text responses and synthesized speech generated based on the conversational response model

[0519] Step 8: Play audio

[0520] The server sends the synthesized voice data to the device, which then plays it back, providing the user with a realistic experience, as if the deceased person were answering.

[0521] Input: Speech synthesis data

[0522] Output: Synthesized speech played on the device

[0523] (Application example 1)

[0524] 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."

[0525] Although many systems exist that allow users to have a conversation with a deceased loved one, simple voice or text responses are insufficient to make the interaction with the deceased feel more realistic. In particular, experiences in virtual spaces require more advanced visual and auditory interaction. Therefore, new technologies are needed that allow users to have a more moving and realistic interaction with the deceased.

[0526] 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.

[0527] In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and storing photographic data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing voice data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing personal data of the deceased, means for generating an avatar based on the received and stored photographic data, means for synthesizing the voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data, means for constructing a conversation response model based on the received and stored personal data, means for receiving and analyzing voice input from a user, means for selecting and generating appropriate conversation responses to the analyzed user voice input, means for outputting the generated conversation responses in the voice of the deceased, means for displaying the generated avatar, and means for the generated avatar to interact with the user in a virtual space, thereby enabling the user to experience a conversation with the deceased in a realistic and moving way.

[0528] "Photo data of the deceased" refers to image information of the face and body of a deceased person, and is used to generate an avatar.

[0529] "Voice data of the deceased" refers to recorded information of the voice of a deceased person, and is used for voice synthesis.

[0530] "Personal data of the deceased" refers to information such as the deceased's educational background, personality, and memories, and is used to build a conversation response model.

[0531] An "avatar" refers to a digital character with which a user can visually interact in a virtual space.

[0532] "Speech synthesis" refers to the process of recreating a particular voice based on input speech data.

[0533] A "conversational response model" refers to an algorithm for generating appropriate responses to user input.

[0534] "Voice input from the user" refers to voice information input when the user speaks to the system.

[0535] "Virtual space" refers to a virtually constructed digital environment that users can experience.

[0536] An embodiment of the present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using photo data, voice data, and personal data of the deceased. This system includes interaction in a virtual space and is realized by combining specific software and hardware.

[0537] Data Entry

[0538] First, the user uploads the deceased's photo data, audio data, and personal data to the system using a terminal. This data is then sent to the server and stored. The terminal can be a PC or smartphone.

[0539] Data storage and analysis

[0540] The server stores the received data in persistent storage. Photo data is analyzed using facial recognition technology (OpenCV, dlib, etc.) and used to generate an avatar. Audio data is passed through a voice analysis engine (Tacotron2, WaveGlow, etc.) to extract characteristic voice patterns and use them to synthesize the deceased's voice. Personal data is analyzed using a natural language processing engine (BERT, GPT-3, etc.) to model the deceased's personality and speaking style.

[0541] Avatars and voice synthesis

[0542] The server uses Unity3D and other 3D modeling software to generate an avatar of the deceased person based on the analyzed photo data, and also builds a synthetic voice model from the audio data to imitate the deceased's voice, using Tacotron2 and WaveGlow.

[0543] Building a conversation response model

[0544] The server uses personal data and voice analysis data to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. This model uses generative AI models such as BERT and GPT-3 to recreate the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[0545] Conversation generation and response

[0546] When a user speaks into the device, the voice input is sent to the server, where it is analyzed and converted into text data. This text data is then input into a conversation response model to generate an appropriate response. The generated response is then played back in the deceased's voice using a speech synthesis model. The device then plays back audio and visuals, providing the user with a realistic conversation experience.

[0547] Interaction in virtual space

[0548] The aforementioned avatar and voice response model are implemented in a virtual space using Unity3D. Using VR technologies such as the Oculus SDK, users can experience realistic interactions. This allows for a more immersive and engaging conversational experience than simply playing audio and visuals.

[0549] For example, consider a scenario in which a user revisits a place that holds fond memories for their deceased grandfather in a virtual space. When the user says, "Grandpa, do you remember this place?", the server analyzes the voice data and responds in the deceased's voice, "Of course I remember. This is where you first rode your bike." At this time, the avatar is drawn in the form of the grandfather, and actually talks about the place in the deceased's voice, providing a highly realistic conversational experience.

[0550] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0551] "Grandpa, what do you think about the weather these days?"

[0552] "It used to be cooler, but it's gotten hotter recently."

[0553] In this way, a system is realized that provides a realistic conversation experience with a deceased person in a virtual store.

[0554] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0555] Step 1:

[0556] The device receives the photo data, audio data, and personal data of the deceased from the user. The user uploads this data, and the device sends it to the server. The input is the photo, audio, and personal data of the deceased, and the output is the transmission of this data to the server.

[0557] Step 2:

[0558] The server stores the received data in persistent storage, such as cloud storage or a database. The input is the deceased's photos, audio, and personal data, and the output is the storage of this data.

[0559] Step 3:

[0560] The server analyzes the photo data and generates an avatar. In this process, OpenCV and dlib are used to extract facial feature points, and Unity3D is used to generate the avatar as a 3D model. The input is the saved photo data, and the output is a 3D avatar model.

[0561] Step 4:

[0562] The server analyzes the voice data and builds a speech synthesis model. In this process, Tacotron2 and WaveGlow are used to extract voice features and generate a speech synthesis model that reproduces the voice of the deceased. The input is the saved voice data, and the output is the speech synthesis model.

[0563] Step 5:

[0564] The server analyzes the stored personal data and builds a conversation response model. In this process, text analysis is performed using BERT and GPT-3 to build a model that learns the personality and conversation patterns of the deceased. The input is the stored personal data, and the output is the conversation response model.

[0565] Step 6:

[0566] When a user speaks into the device, the voice input is sent to the server. The device captures the voice data and sends it to the server. The input is the user's voice, and the output is the voice data sent to the server.

[0567] Step 7:

[0568] The server converts the user's voice into text using a voice analysis engine. Here, voice data is analyzed using voice recognition technology and converted into text data. The input is the user's voice data, and the output is text data.

[0569] Step 8:

[0570] The server uses a conversational response model to generate an appropriate response. In this process, the converted text data is used as input, analyzed, and an optimal response to the user's question is generated. The input is the user's text data, and the output is the generated response sentence.

[0571] Step 9:

[0572] The server converts the generated response into voice data using a speech synthesis model. Using Tacotron2 and WaveGlow, the generated text response is synthesized into playable voice data in the deceased's voice. The input is the generated response, and the output is voice data.

[0573] Step 10:

[0574] The device plays the generated avatar and voice in a virtual space. Using Unity3D and the Oculus SDK, the device allows users to interact with the avatar of a deceased person in a virtual space. The input is a 3D model of the avatar and voice data, and the output is a realistic conversation experience in a virtual space.

[0575] 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.

[0576] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data, and also incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and adjusts responses accordingly.The purpose of this system is to provide a more natural and intimate conversation experience that is in line with the user's emotions.

[0577] Data Entry

[0578] First, the user enters the deceased's data using a terminal. The user uploads the deceased's photos, voice data, and personal data (such as educational background, personality, memories, etc.) to the system. This data is sent to the server and temporarily stored.

[0579] Data storage and analysis

[0580] The server receives the input data and stores it in persistent storage. Photo data is analyzed using facial recognition technology to generate an avatar. Audio data is passed through a speech analysis engine to extract distinctive speech patterns. Personal data is analyzed using a natural language processing engine to extract information to model the deceased's personality and tone of voice.

[0581] Avatars and voice synthesis

[0582] The server generates an avatar based on the analyzed photo data. A synthetic voice model is constructed from the audio data to reproduce the deceased's voice. This voice synthesis model mimics the characteristic pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice.

[0583] Building a conversation response model

[0584] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. The model is designed to reproduce natural conversation based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[0585] Using the Emotion Engine

[0586] The present invention incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions. By analyzing the user's voice input and recognizing their emotions, the server can generate an optimal response depending on the user's emotional state.

[0587] Conversation generation and response

[0588] The user speaks a question or conversation into the device. The device receives the voice input and sends the voice data to the server in real time. The server analyzes the voice data and converts it into text. The converted text is input into the conversation response model and emotion engine.

[0589] Emotion-based response generation

[0590] The server uses an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotions and tailor responses based on those emotions. For example, if the user is sad, the system will respond with comforting words and a gentle tone. The generated response is then passed to a speech synthesis model, which outputs it in the voice of the deceased.

[0591] Displaying the results

[0592] The device plays back the received audio and displays the generated avatar on the screen, allowing users to have a realistic conversation experience, as if the deceased person were responding.

[0593] Specific examples

[0594] For example, consider a sad user speaking into a device, "Grandpa, I miss you." The device sends the voice input to a server, which analyzes the speech and converts it into text. The conversational response model generates a response such as "I'm sorry to make you feel lonely. I'm always watching over you," and the emotion engine adjusts this response to a comforting tone. The adjusted response is output in the grandfather's voice through a speech synthesis model and played on the device. This makes the user feel as if the grandfather is comforting them.

[0595] The above is a specific embodiment of the present invention that combines data of the deceased person with an emotion engine.

[0596] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0597] Step 1:

[0598] The user uploads photographic data of the deceased person using the device. The uploaded photographic data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[0599] Step 2:

[0600] The user uploads the voice data of the deceased person using the device. The uploaded voice data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[0601] Step 3:

[0602] The user uses the device to input personal data of the deceased person (such as educational background, personality, memories, etc.) in text format. The input text data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[0603] Step 4:

[0604] The server analyzes the stored photo data and uses facial recognition technology to extract basic data for avatar generation. An avatar modeling the deceased's face is then generated based on this data. Furthermore, if the avatar of the deceased is to be generated as a 3D model, even more detailed facial features are extracted to create the 3D avatar.

[0605] Step 5:

[0606] The server runs the stored voice data through a voice analysis engine to extract the deceased's characteristic voice patterns (pitch, rhythm, accent, etc.) Based on this data, the server builds a voice model that synthesizes the deceased's voice.

[0607] Step 6:

[0608] The server passes the stored text data to a natural language processing (NLP) engine to extract characteristics such as the deceased's personality and speaking style. Based on the extracted data, the server builds a conversation response model.

[0609] Step 7:

[0610] The user speaks questions or conversations into the device, which receives the voice input and transmits the voice data to the server in real time.

[0611] Step 8:

[0612] The server passes the voice data received from the user to a speech recognition engine and converts it into text, which is then input to the conversation response model and emotion engine.

[0613] Step 9:

[0614] The server recognizes emotions from the user's voice input using an emotion engine, which analyzes the tone, speed, emphasis, etc. of the voice to identify the user's emotional state.

[0615] Step 10:

[0616] The server selects and generates an appropriate response from the conversational response model based on the analyzed user's emotions, for example, if the user speaks in a sad tone, the conversational response model selects a response containing comforting words.

[0617] Step 11:

[0618] The generated conversational responses are then passed to a speech synthesis model to be synthesized in the voice of the deceased, with the tone and rhythm of the response also adjusted based on the results of the emotion engine.

[0619] Step 12:

[0620] The device receives the audio data of the deceased's voice from the server and displays the generated avatar. Responses are played in the deceased's voice, and the avatar of the deceased moves in accordance with the response on the screen.

[0621] Step 13:

[0622] Users can enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased, and the user's emotions are reflected in the conversation, creating a more intimate and emotional exchange.

[0623] The above are the specific processing steps of the system for experiencing conversation with a deceased person that incorporates an emotion engine.

[0624] Example 2

[0625] 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."

[0626] Conventional conversation systems for the deceased have had difficulty providing natural, intimate conversations that respond to the user's emotional state. Responses that ignore the user's emotions result in a poor communication experience with the deceased, leading to an unsatisfactory feeling, and it is therefore difficult to expect any emotional healing or improvement in the quality of communication.

[0627] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the second embodiment is realized by the following means.

[0628] In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and storing photographic data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing voice data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing personal data of the deceased (such as educational background, personality, and memories), means for generating an avatar based on the received and stored photographic data, means for synthesizing the voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data, means for constructing a conversational response model based on the received and stored personal data, means for recognizing the user's emotional state, means for receiving and analyzing voice input from the user, means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses to the analyzed user's voice input, means for adjusting the generated conversational responses based on the user's emotional state, means for outputting the generated conversational responses in the voice of the deceased, and means for displaying the generated avatar. This makes it possible to provide a more natural and intimate conversational experience that is tailored to the user's emotions.

[0629] "Photo data of the deceased" refers to photographic data of the face and entire body of the deceased provided by the user.

[0630] "Voice data of the deceased" refers to recording data of the deceased's voice provided by the user.

[0631] "Personal data of the deceased" refers to detailed data about the deceased's educational background, personality, anecdotes, hobbies, etc.

[0632] "Means for generating an avatar" refers to software or hardware for digitally recreating the appearance of a deceased person based on photographic data of the deceased.

[0633] A "synthetic voice model" refers to a voice synthesis technology that reproduces the voice of a deceased person based on their voice data.

[0634] A "conversational response model" refers to an algorithm or system that generates appropriate responses to a user's questions or statements based on the deceased's personal data and voice data.

[0635] An "emotion engine" refers to a system that analyzes emotions from a user's voice and text data and adjusts conversational responses based on that.

[0636] "Means for receiving and analyzing voice input" refers to software or hardware that receives voice data uttered by a user, analyzes it, and converts it into text data.

[0637] "Means for selecting and generating conversational responses" refers to a system for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses based on analyzed user input.

[0638] "Means for tailoring conversational responses" refers to a system for changing the content and tone of conversational responses depending on the user's emotional state.

[0639] "Means for outputting in the voice of the deceased" refers to a system for audibly outputting the generated conversational response in the voice of the deceased.

[0640] "Means for displaying an avatar" refers to a system that visually displays the generated avatar on a user interface.

[0641] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data, and also incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and adjusts responses accordingly. The objective is to provide a more natural and intimate conversation experience that responds to the user's emotions.

[0642] Data Entry

[0643] First, the user enters the deceased's data using a terminal. The user uploads the deceased's photos, voice data, and personal data (such as educational background, personality, and memories) to the system. This data is then sent to the server and temporarily stored.

[0644] Data storage and analysis

[0645] The server receives the input data and stores it in persistent storage. Photo data is analyzed to generate an avatar using facial recognition technology (e.g., OpenCV). Voice data is analyzed using a voice analysis engine (e.g., Google Cloud Speech-to-Text) to extract distinctive voice patterns. Personal data is analyzed using a natural language processing engine (e.g., the BERT model) to extract information to model the deceased person's personality and tone of voice.

[0646] Avatars and voice synthesis

[0647] The server generates an avatar based on the analyzed photo data. To reproduce the deceased's voice, a synthetic voice model (e.g., Tacotron 2 or WaveNet) is constructed from the audio data. This voice synthesis model mimics the characteristic pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice.

[0648] Building a conversation response model

[0649] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model (such as GPT-3 or BERT) that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. The model is designed to reproduce natural conversation based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[0650] Using the Emotion Engine

[0651] This invention incorporates an emotion engine (e.g., emotion recognition using DeepMoji or RNN) that recognizes the user's emotions. By analyzing the user's voice input and recognizing their emotions, the server can generate an optimal response according to the user's emotional state.

[0652] Conversation generation and response

[0653] The user speaks a question or conversation into the device. The device receives the voice input and sends the voice data to the server in real time. The server analyzes the voice data and converts it into text. The converted text is input into a conversation response model and emotion engine. The server uses the emotion engine to recognize the user's emotion and adjusts the response based on that emotion. The generated response is passed to a speech synthesis model and output in the voice of the deceased.

[0654] Displaying the results

[0655] The device plays back the received audio and displays the generated avatar on the screen, allowing users to have a realistic conversation experience, as if the deceased person were responding.

[0656] Specific examples

[0657] For example, consider a sad user speaking into a device, "Grandpa, I miss you." The device sends the voice input to a server, which analyzes the speech and converts it into text. The conversational response model generates a response such as "I'm sorry to make you feel lonely. I'm always watching over you," and the emotion engine adjusts this response to a comforting tone. The adjusted response is output in the grandfather's voice through a speech synthesis model and played on the device. This makes the user feel as if the grandfather is comforting them.

[0658] Examples of prompt statements

[0659] "Generate a sweet message that sounds like your dog is speaking to you, based on the emotions you felt on the day your beloved dog died."

[0660] The above is a specific embodiment of the present invention that combines data of the deceased person with an emotion engine.

[0661] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0662] Step 1:

[0663] The user uses the terminal to enter the data of the deceased.

[0664] First, the user enters the necessary information into the form displayed on the device screen and clicks the "Upload" button. The device collects the deceased's photo data, audio data, and personal data, and sends the input data to the server.

[0665] The input is photos, voice, and personal information from the user, and the output is this data sent to the server.

[0666] Step 2:

[0667] The server receives the entered data and stores it in temporary storage.

[0668] The server temporarily stores the received data in non-persistent storage for subsequent analysis.

[0669] The input is photos, audio, and personal information sent from the terminal, and the output is this data stored on the server.

[0670] Step 3:

[0671] The server analyzes the photo data and extracts information for generating an avatar.

[0672] The server uses facial recognition technology (e.g., OpenCV) to extract features from the photo data and obtain information to digitize the face and body of the deceased.

[0673] The input is photo data stored on the server, and the output is feature information for generating an avatar.

[0674] Step 4:

[0675] The server analyzes the voice data and extracts characteristic voice patterns.

[0676] The server uses a speech analysis engine (such as Google Cloud Speech-to-Text) to extract characteristic speech patterns from the speech data and use them to build a synthetic speech model.

[0677] The input is speech data stored on the server, and the output is feature information of speech patterns.

[0678] Step 5:

[0679] The server analyzes the personal data and extracts the information necessary to build a conversation response model.

[0680] The server uses a natural language processing engine (e.g., the BERT model) to analyze the personal data provided by the user and extract information about the deceased person's personality and tone of voice.

[0681] The input is personal data stored on the server, and the output is the information necessary to build a conversation response model.

[0682] Step 6:

[0683] The server generates the avatar.

[0684] Based on the feature information obtained in step 3, the server uses a deep learning model (e.g., GAN: Generative Adversarial Network) to generate an avatar that digitally recreates the appearance of the deceased.

[0685] The input is feature information for avatar generation, and the output is the generated avatar.

[0686] Step 7:

[0687] The server builds a synthetic speech model.

[0688] Based on the voice patterns extracted in step 4, the server uses a voice synthesis model such as Tacotron 2 or WaveNet to build a model to synthesize the voice of the deceased.

[0689] The input is feature information of a speech pattern, and the output is a synthetic speech model.

[0690] Step 8:

[0691] The server builds a conversational response model.

[0692] Based on the information extracted in step 5, the server uses a natural language generation model such as GPT-3 or BERT to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user.

[0693] The input is the information necessary to construct a conversation response model, and the output is the conversation response model.

[0694] Step 9:

[0695] The server recognizes the user's emotional state.

[0696] Analyze the user's voice input and use an emotion engine (e.g., emotion recognition using DeepMoji or RNN) to recognize the user's current emotional state.

[0697] The input is speech input from the user and the output is the identified emotional state of the user.

[0698] Step 10:

[0699] The server converts voice input from the user into text.

[0700] The server uses a speech recognition API (e.g., Google Cloud Speech-to-Text) to convert the user's voice input into text data.

[0701] The input is voice data from the user, and the output is text data.

[0702] Step 11:

[0703] The server generates appropriate conversational responses and adjusts them based on the user's emotional state.

[0704] The server uses a conversational response model and an emotion engine to generate appropriate responses to text input from the user, and further adjusts the content and tone of the response based on the user's emotional state.

[0705] The input is text data and emotional states, and the output is a tailored response sentence.

[0706] Step 12:

[0707] The server outputs the adjusted response in the voice of the deceased using a speech synthesis model.

[0708] The server converts the generated response text into voice data using Tacotron 2 or WaveNet, and outputs it as a synthesized voice of the deceased.

[0709] The input is the tailored response sentence, and the output is audio data generated in the deceased's voice.

[0710] Step 13:

[0711] The device plays the generated audio and displays the avatar on the screen.

[0712] The device receives the voice data sent from the server, plays it through the speaker, and displays a generated avatar on the screen, creating the visual effect of the deceased person responding.

[0713] The input is the audio data and the avatar from the server, and the output is the audio being played and the avatar being displayed.

[0714] (Application example 2)

[0715] 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."

[0716] People have various reasons for wanting to interact with their deceased loved ones, but conventional systems have had the drawback of only being able to provide general interactions and not being able to respond in a way that takes into account the user's emotions. Furthermore, there have been no systems that allow for deeper emotional experiences, such as visiting places associated with the deceased. This has resulted in a lack of an emotional experience that allows users to feel connected to the deceased.

[0717] The identification processing by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and saving photo data of the deceased, means for receiving and saving voice data of the deceased, means for receiving and saving personal data of the deceased, means for generating an avatar based on the received and saved photo data, means for synthesizing the voice of the deceased based on the received and saved voice data, means for building a conversational response model based on the received and saved personal data, means for receiving and analyzing voice input from the user, means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses to the analyzed user voice input, means for outputting the generated conversational responses in the deceased's voice, means for displaying the generated avatar, means for recognizing the user's emotions and adjusting responses according to the emotions, and means for recreating places shared with the deceased in a 3D environment and providing the user with an avatar of the deceased to experience visiting those places. This allows the user not only to interact with the deceased but also to receive responses according to the user's emotions and virtually visit places shared with the deceased, thereby providing a deep emotional experience.

[0718] A "deceased person" is someone who is already dead.

[0719] "Photo data" refers to data that contains an image of the deceased person stored in digital format.

[0720] "Audio data" refers to data that contains the voice of a deceased person stored in digital format.

[0721] "Personal data" refers to data that includes information about the deceased person's education, personality, memories, etc.

[0722] An "avatar" is a digital human model generated from photographic data of a deceased person.

[0723] "Voice synthesis" is a technology that digitally reproduces the voice of a deceased person based on their voice data.

[0724] A "conversational response model" is an algorithm that generates appropriate responses to user input based on the deceased person's personal data.

[0725] "Emotion recognition" is a technology that recognizes a user's emotional state by analyzing the user's voice and facial expressions.

[0726] A "3D environment" is a virtual space that simulates a three-dimensional space using digital technology.

[0727] A "virtual tour" is a digital recreation of the experience of a user visiting a particular location using virtual reality technology.

[0728] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using the photo data, voice data, and personal data of the deceased, and also incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and adjusts responses accordingly, allowing users to not only converse with the deceased, but also to receive emotional responses and experience virtual memories.

[0729] Data entry and storage

[0730] The user uses the device to input the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data (educational history, personality, memories, etc.). This data is sent to the server and temporarily stored. The data received by the server is stored in permanent storage and used for the analysis process described below.

[0731] Avatar and voice synthesis generation

[0732] The server generates an avatar based on the received and stored photo data, using facial recognition technology to recreate the deceased's face in detail. For audio data, the server also uses a voice analysis engine to extract voice patterns and synthesize the deceased's voice.

[0733] Building a conversation response model

[0734] The server uses the deceased's personal data to build a conversational response model, which uses a natural language processing engine and is designed to reflect the deceased's personality and tone of voice, generating natural-sounding conversational responses to the user's voice input.

[0735] Use of emotion recognition engine

[0736] The server utilizes an emotion engine that analyzes the user's voice input and recognizes their emotional state, allowing the server to optimize its response according to the user's emotions.

[0737] Providing a virtual memory tour

[0738] The server generates a virtual tour that recreates memorable places with the deceased in a 3D environment, allowing the user and the deceased's avatar to visit those places, enabling the user to share deeply emotional memories with the deceased.

[0739] Examples and prompts

[0740] For example, if a user says, "I'm tired from work today," the system will recognize that emotion and the deceased will respond in a gentle tone, "You worked hard, thank you for your hard work."

[0741] Example prompt sentence:

[0742] "Sentiment Analysis: I'm tired from work today"

[0743] Hardware and software used

[0744] Hardware: Smartphone or PC microphone and speakers, high-performance server (cloud computing service)

[0745] software:

[0746] OpenAI GPT-3 API: Speech and Sentiment Analysis

[0747] Google Speech-to-Text API: Speech-to-text conversion

[0748] gTTS: Text to speech conversion

[0749] DeepFace: Facial Recognition and Expression Analysis

[0750] Pydub: Processing audio data

[0751] This allows users to use the multifunctional system to enjoy the experience of having realistic and emotional conversations with the deceased and visiting memorable places.

[0752] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0753] Step 1:

[0754] The user enters the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data into the device. The entered data is sent to the server via the Internet. The server receives and temporarily stores this data. At this stage, the user uploads data through the device, and the data is ready to be delivered to the server.

[0755] Step 2:

[0756] The server stores the received photo data in persistent storage. The server then analyzes the photo data and generates an avatar using facial recognition technology. This analysis generates a digital avatar that realistically resembles the deceased person's face.

[0757] Step 3:

[0758] The server stores the audio data in persistent storage. A speech analysis engine is used to extract distinctive voice patterns from the audio data and synthesize the deceased's voice. At this stage, the deceased's voice is digitally recreated.

[0759] Step 4:

[0760] The server stores personal data in persistent storage, and uses a natural language processing engine to extract the deceased person's personality and speaking style from the personal data and build a conversational response model, which enables natural conversations with the user.

[0761] Step 5:

[0762] The user speaks to the device. The device receives this voice input and sends it to the server via the Internet. At this stage, the user's voice data is sent to the server.

[0763] Step 6:

[0764] The server converts the received user voice data into text data using a speech analysis engine. The converted text data is input into a conversation response model and an emotion recognition engine. This conversion converts the voice data into text data for further analysis.

[0765] Step 7:

[0766] The server uses a conversational response model to generate appropriate responses to the user's text input. At the same time, it uses an emotion recognition engine to analyze the user's emotions and adjust the response based on their emotional state. At this stage, a response adapted to the user's emotions is generated.

[0767] Step 8:

[0768] The generated response is output in the voice of the deceased using a speech synthesis engine. The server generates the voice data and sends it to the device. The device plays the received voice data and displays the generated avatar on the screen. This process allows the user to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased.

[0769] Step 9:

[0770] The server recreates the places where the deceased shared memories in a 3D environment and generates a virtual tour of the places with the deceased's avatar, allowing users to relive and experience special memories with the deceased in a digital environment.

[0771] Through these steps, users can enjoy realistic conversations with the deceased, as well as emotional responses and virtual memory experiences.

[0772] 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.

[0773] 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.

[0774] 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.

[0775] [Third embodiment]

[0776] FIG. 5 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 310 according to the third embodiment.

[0777] 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.

[0778] 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).

[0779] 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.

[0780] 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.

[0781] 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).

[0782] 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.

[0783] 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.

[0784] 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.

[0785] 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.

[0786] 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.

[0787] 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."

[0788] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using their photo data, voice data, and personal data. This system operates through the cooperation of a terminal and a server, and is designed to be easy for users to use.

[0789] Data Entry

[0790] First, the user enters the deceased's data using a terminal. The user uploads the deceased's photos, voice data, and personal data (educational history, personality, memories, etc.) to the system. This data is sent to the server and temporarily stored.

[0791] Data storage and analysis

[0792] The server receives the input data and stores it in persistent storage. Photo data is analyzed using facial recognition technology to generate an avatar. Audio data is passed through a speech analysis engine to extract distinctive speech patterns. Personal data is analyzed using a natural language processing engine to extract information to model the deceased's personality and tone of voice.

[0793] Avatars and voice synthesis

[0794] The server generates an avatar based on the analyzed photo data. A synthetic voice model is constructed from the audio data to reproduce the deceased's voice. This voice synthesis model mimics the characteristic pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice.

[0795] Building a conversation response model

[0796] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. The model is designed to reproduce natural conversation based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[0797] Conversation generation and response

[0798] When a user speaks into the device, the voice input is sent to the server. The server analyzes the voice data and converts it into text. The converted text is input into a conversation response model to generate an appropriate response. The generated response is synthesized in the deceased's voice and sent to the device. The device plays the voice, providing the user with an experience as if the deceased were answering.

[0799] Specific examples

[0800] For example, consider a user talking to a deceased grandfather. The user asks the device, "Grandpa, what do you think about the weather these days?" The device sends the voice input to the server, which analyzes the speech and converts it into text. A conversation response model analyzes this text and generates a response such as, "It used to be cooler, but it's gotten hotter recently." This response is then sent to a speech synthesis model, which outputs it in the voice of the deceased. The device then plays back this audio, giving the user a realistic experience, as if the deceased were answering.

[0801] As described above, the present invention provides a system that allows users to easily enjoy the experience of having a realistic conversation with a deceased person.

[0802] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0803] Step 1:

[0804] The user uploads photographic data of the deceased person using the device. The uploaded photographic data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[0805] Step 2:

[0806] The user uploads the voice data of the deceased person using the device. The uploaded voice data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[0807] Step 3:

[0808] The user uses the device to input personal data of the deceased person (such as educational background, personality, memories, etc.) in text format. The input text data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[0809] Step 4:

[0810] The server analyzes the stored photo data and uses facial recognition technology to extract basic data for avatar generation. Based on this data, the server generates an avatar that resembles the face of the deceased person.

[0811] Step 5:

[0812] The server runs the stored voice data through a voice analysis engine to extract the deceased's characteristic voice patterns (pitch, rhythm, accent, etc.) Based on this data, the server builds a voice model that synthesizes the deceased's voice.

[0813] Step 6:

[0814] The server passes the stored text data to a natural language processing (NLP) engine to extract characteristics such as the deceased's personality and speaking style. Based on the extracted data, the server builds a conversation response model.

[0815] Step 7:

[0816] The user speaks questions or conversations into the device, which receives the voice input and transmits the voice data to the server in real time.

[0817] Step 8:

[0818] The server passes the voice data received from the user to a speech recognition engine and converts it into text, which is then input into a conversational response model.

[0819] Step 9:

[0820] The server uses the conversational response model to generate the best response to the user's question or statement, and the generated response text is passed to the speech synthesis model.

[0821] Step 10:

[0822] The server uses a speech synthesis model to synthesize a response text in the deceased's voice, and the generated speech is sent to the device.

[0823] Step 11:

[0824] The device plays back the received audio and displays the generated avatar on the screen, providing a realistic conversation experience, as if the deceased person were responding.

[0825] The above are the specific processing steps of a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience based on data about the deceased.

[0826] Example 1

[0827] 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."

[0828] In modern society, many people desire to connect with their deceased loved ones. However, there is a lack of suitable means to continue sharing memories with them. Current technology allows users to visually enjoy photos and videos of the deceased, but does not provide a way to experience interactive conversations with the deceased. This makes it difficult for users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased.

[0829] 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.

[0830] In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and storing image data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing voice data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing personal information of the deceased, means for generating a display character based on the received and stored image data, means for synthesizing a voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data, means for constructing a conversational response model based on the received and stored personal information, means for receiving and analyzing voice input from a user, means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses to the analyzed user voice input, means for outputting the generated conversational responses in the voice of the deceased, means for displaying the generated display character, means designed to allow a user to enjoy a realistic conversational experience, means for processing the analyzed image data using recognition technology, means for extracting characteristic voice patterns from the analyzed voice data using a voice analysis engine, means for analyzing the received and stored personal information using a natural language processing engine, means for capturing and transmitting user voice to the server, means for reconstructing responses using a synthetic voice model, and means for transmitting the generated responses to the terminal, thereby enabling a user to easily enjoy a realistic conversational experience with their deceased loved one.

[0831] "Deceased" refers to a person who has already passed away.

[0832] "Image data" is visual information such as photographs and pictures expressed in digital form.

[0833] "Audio data" means a digital recording of a human voice or sound.

[0834] "Personal Information" refers to information related to a specific individual, such as educational background, personality, memories, etc.

[0835] "Display Character" means a digitally generated visual representation of a person or character.

[0836] A "conversational response model" is a set of algorithms or programs that generate appropriate responses to user input.

[0837] "Server" means a computer system that stores, processes, transmits and receives data.

[0838] "Terminal" refers to a computer device or equipment that is directly operated by a user.

[0839] "Voice recognition technology" is a technology for analyzing input voice data and converting it into text.

[0840] A "speech synthesis model" is a set of algorithms and programs that generate a human voice based on text data.

[0841] A "natural language processing engine" is a collection of algorithms and programs for understanding and analyzing human language.

[0842] "Analysis" refers to the process of interpreting data and extracting structural meaning.

[0843] "Capture" refers to the process of capturing and recording data such as audio and video.

[0844] "Transmission" refers to the process of passing data from one system to another.

[0845] "Storage" refers to the process of capturing data and recording it on a storage medium so that it can be retrieved at a later date.

[0846] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0847] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data. This system operates with the cooperation of the user, terminal, and server. The system is designed to allow users to easily input the deceased's data and provide a realistic conversation experience based on that data.

[0848] Data Entry

[0849] First, the user uploads the deceased's data to the system using their device. The user launches a dedicated application and inputs the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data (educational history, personality, memories, etc.). This data is temporarily stored in local storage and then sent to the server.

[0850] Data storage and analysis

[0851] The server receives the data sent by the user and stores it in persistent storage. For example, it uses a cloud storage service (a commonly used persistent storage device). The server then analyzes the sent photo data using facial recognition technology (a commonly used image analysis technology). The server extracts characteristic voice patterns from the voice data using a voice analysis engine (a commonly used voice recognition technology). The server then analyzes the personal data using a natural language processing engine (a commonly used natural language processing technology) to extract information to model the personality and tone of voice of the deceased.

[0852] Avatars and voice synthesis

[0853] The server generates a display character based on the analyzed photo data. For example, it creates an avatar using a three-dimensional modeling tool (commonly used modeling software). Next, it builds a voice synthesis model from the audio data to reproduce the deceased's voice. This voice synthesis model mimics the characteristic pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice. Commonly available voice synthesis technology is used.

[0854] Building a conversation response model

[0855] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. This model uses a generative AI model (a commonly used generation technology) designed to reproduce natural conversation based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[0856] Conversation generation and response

[0857] When a user speaks into the device, the device captures the voice input and sends it to a server. The server uses speech recognition technology to analyze the voice data and convert it into text. This text is input into a conversation response model to generate an appropriate response. The generated response is input into a speech synthesis model to generate synthesized data in the deceased's voice. The server sends this synthesized voice data to the device, which then plays it back, providing the user with a realistic experience, as if the deceased were responding.

[0858] Specific examples

[0859] For example, consider a user talking to a deceased grandfather. The user asks the device, "Grandpa, what do you think about the weather these days?" The device captures the user's voice and sends it to the server. The server analyzes the voice and converts it into text. The conversation response model analyzes this text and generates a response such as, "It used to be cooler, but it's gotten hotter recently." This response is synthesized in the voice of the deceased person through a speech synthesis model and sent to the device. The device then plays back this synthesized voice, providing the user with a realistic experience, as if the grandfather were actually answering them.

[0860] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0861] "Grandpa, tell me about your educational background."

[0862] "Grandma, what do you think of the recent news?"

[0863] "Dad, tell me some old memories."

[0864] The present invention allows users to easily enjoy a realistic and interactive conversation experience with their deceased loved ones. This system is a powerful tool for enriching users' memories and maintaining connections with their loved ones.

[0865] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0866] Step 1: Data entry

[0867] The user launches a dedicated application using their device. The user inputs the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data (educational history, personality, memories, etc.). The input data is temporarily saved in local storage. The saved data is then sent from the device to the server. Specifically, when the user selects a photo file and presses the upload button, the image data is saved in local storage and sent to the server.

[0868] Input: Photo data, audio data, personal data of the deceased

[0869] Output: Data stored in local storage and data sent to the server

[0870] Step 2: Data storage and analysis

[0871] The server receives the data sent by the user and stores it in persistent storage. The server then analyzes the photo data using facial recognition technology to extract facial features. The server analyzes the audio data using a speech analysis engine to extract distinctive voice patterns. The server then analyzes the personal data using a natural language processing engine to extract information to model the personality and tone of voice of the deceased.

[0872] Input: Data sent to the server (photo data, audio data, personal data)

[0873] Output: Analysis results and feature information saved to persistent storage

[0874] Step 3: Avatar generation

[0875] The server generates a display character based on the analyzed photo data. Specifically, it uses a 3D modeling tool to create a 3D model of the features extracted by facial recognition technology. This model is configured so that the user can visually recognize the deceased.

[0876] Input: Analysis results and feature information (feature points of photo data)

[0877] Output: Generated 3D avatar

[0878] Step 4: Text-to-Speech

[0879] The server builds a speech synthesis model from the audio data. The model mimics the pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice based on a dataset containing characteristic speech patterns. The server then uses a speech synthesis engine to generate the response.

[0880] Input: Feature patterns extracted from speech data

[0881] Output: The speech synthesis model and the generated synthetic speech

[0882] Step 5: Building a conversational response model

[0883] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model, which uses a generative AI model designed to recreate natural conversations based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased. Data is used for training and model adjustment.

[0884] Input: Personal data and voice analysis data

[0885] Output: Conversational response model

[0886] Step 6: Receiving and parsing audio input

[0887] The user asks a question to the device. The device captures the voice input and sends it to the server. The server analyzes the voice data using voice recognition technology and converts it into text data.

[0888] Input: User voice input

[0889] Output: Data converted into text using speech recognition technology

[0890] Step 7: Generate a response

[0891] The server inputs the text data into a conversational response model to generate an appropriate response, which is then input into a speech synthesis model to be synthesized in the voice of the deceased.

[0892] Input: Text data converted by speech recognition

[0893] Output: Text responses and synthesized speech generated based on the conversational response model

[0894] Step 8: Play audio

[0895] The server sends the synthesized voice data to the device, which then plays it back, providing the user with a realistic experience, as if the deceased person were answering.

[0896] Input: Speech synthesis data

[0897] Output: Synthesized speech played on the device

[0898] (Application example 1)

[0899] 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."

[0900] Although many systems exist that allow users to have a conversation with a deceased loved one, simple voice or text responses are insufficient to make the interaction with the deceased feel more realistic. In particular, experiences in virtual spaces require more advanced visual and auditory interaction. Therefore, new technologies are needed that allow users to have a more moving and realistic interaction with the deceased.

[0901] 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.

[0902] In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and storing photographic data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing voice data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing personal data of the deceased, means for generating an avatar based on the received and stored photographic data, means for synthesizing the voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data, means for constructing a conversation response model based on the received and stored personal data, means for receiving and analyzing voice input from a user, means for selecting and generating appropriate conversation responses to the analyzed user voice input, means for outputting the generated conversation responses in the voice of the deceased, means for displaying the generated avatar, and means for the generated avatar to interact with the user in a virtual space, thereby enabling the user to experience a conversation with the deceased in a realistic and moving way.

[0903] "Photo data of the deceased" refers to image information of the face and body of a deceased person, and is used to generate an avatar.

[0904] "Voice data of the deceased" refers to recorded information of the voice of a deceased person, and is used for voice synthesis.

[0905] "Personal data of the deceased" refers to information such as the deceased's educational background, personality, and memories, and is used to build a conversation response model.

[0906] An "avatar" refers to a digital character with which a user can visually interact in a virtual space.

[0907] "Speech synthesis" refers to the process of recreating a particular voice based on input speech data.

[0908] A "conversational response model" refers to an algorithm for generating appropriate responses to user input.

[0909] "Voice input from the user" refers to voice information input when the user speaks to the system.

[0910] "Virtual space" refers to a virtually constructed digital environment that users can experience.

[0911] An embodiment of the present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using photo data, voice data, and personal data of the deceased. This system includes interaction in a virtual space and is realized by combining specific software and hardware.

[0912] Data Entry

[0913] First, the user uploads the deceased's photo data, audio data, and personal data to the system using a terminal. This data is then sent to the server and stored. The terminal can be a PC or smartphone.

[0914] Data storage and analysis

[0915] The server stores the received data in persistent storage. Photo data is analyzed using facial recognition technology (OpenCV, dlib, etc.) and used to generate an avatar. Audio data is passed through a voice analysis engine (Tacotron2, WaveGlow, etc.) to extract characteristic voice patterns and use them to synthesize the deceased's voice. Personal data is analyzed using a natural language processing engine (BERT, GPT-3, etc.) to model the deceased's personality and speaking style.

[0916] Avatars and voice synthesis

[0917] The server uses Unity3D and other 3D modeling software to generate an avatar of the deceased person based on the analyzed photo data, and also builds a synthetic voice model from the audio data to imitate the deceased's voice, using Tacotron2 and WaveGlow.

[0918] Building a conversation response model

[0919] The server uses personal data and voice analysis data to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. This model uses generative AI models such as BERT and GPT-3 to recreate the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[0920] Conversation generation and response

[0921] When a user speaks into the device, the voice input is sent to the server, where it is analyzed and converted into text data. This text data is then input into a conversation response model to generate an appropriate response. The generated response is then played back in the deceased's voice using a speech synthesis model. The device then plays back audio and visuals, providing the user with a realistic conversation experience.

[0922] Interaction in virtual space

[0923] The aforementioned avatar and voice response model are implemented in a virtual space using Unity3D. Using VR technologies such as the Oculus SDK, users can experience realistic interactions. This allows for a more immersive and engaging conversational experience than simply playing audio and visuals.

[0924] For example, consider a scenario in which a user revisits a place that holds fond memories for their deceased grandfather in a virtual space. When the user says, "Grandpa, do you remember this place?", the server analyzes the voice data and responds in the deceased's voice, "Of course I remember. This is where you first rode your bike." At this time, the avatar is drawn in the form of the grandfather, and actually talks about the place in the deceased's voice, providing a highly realistic conversational experience.

[0925] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0926] "Grandpa, what do you think about the weather these days?"

[0927] "It used to be cooler, but it's gotten hotter recently."

[0928] In this way, a system is realized that provides a realistic conversation experience with a deceased person in a virtual store.

[0929] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0930] Step 1:

[0931] The device receives the photo data, audio data, and personal data of the deceased from the user. The user uploads this data, and the device sends it to the server. The input is the photo, audio, and personal data of the deceased, and the output is the transmission of this data to the server.

[0932] Step 2:

[0933] The server stores the received data in persistent storage, such as cloud storage or a database. The input is the deceased's photos, audio, and personal data, and the output is the storage of this data.

[0934] Step 3:

[0935] The server analyzes the photo data and generates an avatar. In this process, OpenCV and dlib are used to extract facial feature points, and Unity3D is used to generate the avatar as a 3D model. The input is the saved photo data, and the output is a 3D avatar model.

[0936] Step 4:

[0937] The server analyzes the voice data and builds a speech synthesis model. In this process, Tacotron2 and WaveGlow are used to extract voice features and generate a speech synthesis model that reproduces the voice of the deceased. The input is the saved voice data, and the output is the speech synthesis model.

[0938] Step 5:

[0939] The server analyzes the stored personal data and builds a conversation response model. In this process, text analysis is performed using BERT and GPT-3 to build a model that learns the personality and conversation patterns of the deceased. The input is the stored personal data, and the output is the conversation response model.

[0940] Step 6:

[0941] When a user speaks into the device, the voice input is sent to the server. The device captures the voice data and sends it to the server. The input is the user's voice, and the output is the voice data sent to the server.

[0942] Step 7:

[0943] The server converts the user's voice into text using a voice analysis engine. Here, voice data is analyzed using voice recognition technology and converted into text data. The input is the user's voice data, and the output is text data.

[0944] Step 8:

[0945] The server uses a conversational response model to generate an appropriate response. In this process, the converted text data is used as input, analyzed, and an optimal response to the user's question is generated. The input is the user's text data, and the output is the generated response sentence.

[0946] Step 9:

[0947] The server converts the generated response into voice data using a speech synthesis model. Using Tacotron2 and WaveGlow, the generated text response is synthesized into playable voice data in the deceased's voice. The input is the generated response, and the output is voice data.

[0948] Step 10:

[0949] The device plays the generated avatar and voice in a virtual space. Using Unity3D and the Oculus SDK, the device allows users to interact with the avatar of a deceased person in a virtual space. The input is a 3D model of the avatar and voice data, and the output is a realistic conversation experience in a virtual space.

[0950] 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.

[0951] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data, and also incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and adjusts responses accordingly.The purpose of this system is to provide a more natural and intimate conversation experience that is in line with the user's emotions.

[0952] Data Entry

[0953] First, the user enters the deceased's data using a terminal. The user uploads the deceased's photos, voice data, and personal data (such as educational background, personality, memories, etc.) to the system. This data is sent to the server and temporarily stored.

[0954] Data storage and analysis

[0955] The server receives the input data and stores it in persistent storage. Photo data is analyzed using facial recognition technology to generate an avatar. Audio data is passed through a speech analysis engine to extract distinctive speech patterns. Personal data is analyzed using a natural language processing engine to extract information to model the deceased's personality and tone of voice.

[0956] Avatars and voice synthesis

[0957] The server generates an avatar based on the analyzed photo data. A synthetic voice model is constructed from the audio data to reproduce the deceased's voice. This voice synthesis model mimics the characteristic pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice.

[0958] Building a conversation response model

[0959] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. The model is designed to reproduce natural conversation based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[0960] Using the Emotion Engine

[0961] The present invention incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions. By analyzing the user's voice input and recognizing their emotions, the server can generate an optimal response depending on the user's emotional state.

[0962] Conversation generation and response

[0963] The user speaks a question or conversation into the device. The device receives the voice input and sends the voice data to the server in real time. The server analyzes the voice data and converts it into text. The converted text is input into the conversation response model and emotion engine.

[0964] Emotion-based response generation

[0965] The server uses an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotions and tailor responses based on those emotions. For example, if the user is sad, the system will respond with comforting words and a gentle tone. The generated response is then passed to a speech synthesis model, which outputs it in the voice of the deceased.

[0966] Displaying the results

[0967] The device plays back the received audio and displays the generated avatar on the screen, allowing users to have a realistic conversation experience, as if the deceased person were responding.

[0968] Specific examples

[0969] For example, consider a sad user speaking into a device, "Grandpa, I miss you." The device sends the voice input to a server, which analyzes the speech and converts it into text. The conversational response model generates a response such as "I'm sorry to make you feel lonely. I'm always watching over you," and the emotion engine adjusts this response to a comforting tone. The adjusted response is output in the grandfather's voice through a speech synthesis model and played on the device. This makes the user feel as if the grandfather is comforting them.

[0970] The above is a specific embodiment of the present invention that combines data of the deceased person with an emotion engine.

[0971] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0972] Step 1:

[0973] The user uploads photographic data of the deceased person using the device. The uploaded photographic data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[0974] Step 2:

[0975] The user uploads the voice data of the deceased person using the device. The uploaded voice data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[0976] Step 3:

[0977] The user uses the device to input personal data of the deceased person (such as educational background, personality, memories, etc.) in text format. The input text data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[0978] Step 4:

[0979] The server analyzes the stored photo data and uses facial recognition technology to extract basic data for avatar generation. An avatar modeling the deceased's face is then generated based on this data. Furthermore, if the avatar of the deceased is to be generated as a 3D model, even more detailed facial features are extracted to create the 3D avatar.

[0980] Step 5:

[0981] The server runs the stored voice data through a voice analysis engine to extract the deceased's characteristic voice patterns (pitch, rhythm, accent, etc.) Based on this data, the server builds a voice model that synthesizes the deceased's voice.

[0982] Step 6:

[0983] The server passes the stored text data to a natural language processing (NLP) engine to extract characteristics such as the deceased's personality and speaking style. Based on the extracted data, the server builds a conversation response model.

[0984] Step 7:

[0985] The user speaks questions or conversations into the device, which receives the voice input and transmits the voice data to the server in real time.

[0986] Step 8:

[0987] The server passes the voice data received from the user to a speech recognition engine and converts it into text, which is then input to the conversation response model and emotion engine.

[0988] Step 9:

[0989] The server recognizes emotions from the user's voice input using an emotion engine, which analyzes the tone, speed, emphasis, etc. of the voice to identify the user's emotional state.

[0990] Step 10:

[0991] The server selects and generates an appropriate response from the conversational response model based on the analyzed user's emotions, for example, if the user speaks in a sad tone, the conversational response model selects a response containing comforting words.

[0992] Step 11:

[0993] The generated conversational responses are then passed to a speech synthesis model to be synthesized in the voice of the deceased, with the tone and rhythm of the response also adjusted based on the results of the emotion engine.

[0994] Step 12:

[0995] The device receives the audio data of the deceased's voice from the server and displays the generated avatar. Responses are played in the deceased's voice, and the avatar of the deceased moves in accordance with the response on the screen.

[0996] Step 13:

[0997] Users can enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased, and the user's emotions are reflected in the conversation, creating a more intimate and emotional exchange.

[0998] The above are the specific processing steps of the system for experiencing conversation with a deceased person that incorporates an emotion engine.

[0999] Example 2

[1000] 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."

[1001] Conventional conversation systems for the deceased have had difficulty providing natural, intimate conversations that respond to the user's emotional state. Responses that ignore the user's emotions result in a poor communication experience with the deceased, leading to an unsatisfactory feeling, and it is therefore difficult to expect any emotional healing or improvement in the quality of communication.

[1002] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the second embodiment is realized by the following means.

[1003] In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and storing photographic data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing voice data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing personal data of the deceased (such as educational background, personality, and memories), means for generating an avatar based on the received and stored photographic data, means for synthesizing the voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data, means for constructing a conversational response model based on the received and stored personal data, means for recognizing the user's emotional state, means for receiving and analyzing voice input from the user, means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses to the analyzed user's voice input, means for adjusting the generated conversational responses based on the user's emotional state, means for outputting the generated conversational responses in the voice of the deceased, and means for displaying the generated avatar. This makes it possible to provide a more natural and intimate conversational experience that is tailored to the user's emotions.

[1004] "Photo data of the deceased" refers to photographic data of the face and entire body of the deceased provided by the user.

[1005] "Voice data of the deceased" refers to recording data of the deceased's voice provided by the user.

[1006] "Personal data of the deceased" refers to detailed data about the deceased's educational background, personality, anecdotes, hobbies, etc.

[1007] "Means for generating an avatar" refers to software or hardware for digitally recreating the appearance of a deceased person based on photographic data of the deceased.

[1008] A "synthetic voice model" refers to a voice synthesis technology that reproduces the voice of a deceased person based on their voice data.

[1009] A "conversational response model" refers to an algorithm or system that generates appropriate responses to a user's questions or statements based on the deceased's personal data and voice data.

[1010] An "emotion engine" refers to a system that analyzes emotions from a user's voice and text data and adjusts conversational responses based on that.

[1011] "Means for receiving and analyzing voice input" refers to software or hardware that receives voice data uttered by a user, analyzes it, and converts it into text data.

[1012] "Means for selecting and generating conversational responses" refers to a system for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses based on analyzed user input.

[1013] "Means for tailoring conversational responses" refers to a system for changing the content and tone of conversational responses depending on the user's emotional state.

[1014] "Means for outputting in the voice of the deceased" refers to a system for audibly outputting the generated conversational response in the voice of the deceased.

[1015] "Means for displaying an avatar" refers to a system that visually displays the generated avatar on a user interface.

[1016] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data, and also incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and adjusts responses accordingly. The objective is to provide a more natural and intimate conversation experience that responds to the user's emotions.

[1017] Data Entry

[1018] First, the user enters the deceased's data using a terminal. The user uploads the deceased's photos, voice data, and personal data (such as educational background, personality, and memories) to the system. This data is then sent to the server and temporarily stored.

[1019] Data storage and analysis

[1020] The server receives the input data and stores it in persistent storage. Photo data is analyzed to generate an avatar using facial recognition technology (e.g., OpenCV). Voice data is analyzed using a voice analysis engine (e.g., Google Cloud Speech-to-Text) to extract distinctive voice patterns. Personal data is analyzed using a natural language processing engine (e.g., the BERT model) to extract information to model the deceased person's personality and tone of voice.

[1021] Avatars and voice synthesis

[1022] The server generates an avatar based on the analyzed photo data. To reproduce the deceased's voice, a synthetic voice model (e.g., Tacotron 2 or WaveNet) is constructed from the audio data. This voice synthesis model mimics the characteristic pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice.

[1023] Building a conversation response model

[1024] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model (such as GPT-3 or BERT) that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. The model is designed to reproduce natural conversation based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[1025] Using the Emotion Engine

[1026] This invention incorporates an emotion engine (e.g., emotion recognition using DeepMoji or RNN) that recognizes the user's emotions. By analyzing the user's voice input and recognizing their emotions, the server can generate an optimal response according to the user's emotional state.

[1027] Conversation generation and response

[1028] The user speaks a question or conversation into the device. The device receives the voice input and sends the voice data to the server in real time. The server analyzes the voice data and converts it into text. The converted text is input into a conversation response model and emotion engine. The server uses the emotion engine to recognize the user's emotion and adjusts the response based on that emotion. The generated response is passed to a speech synthesis model and output in the voice of the deceased.

[1029] Displaying the results

[1030] The device plays back the received audio and displays the generated avatar on the screen, allowing users to have a realistic conversation experience, as if the deceased person were responding.

[1031] Specific examples

[1032] For example, consider a sad user speaking into a device, "Grandpa, I miss you." The device sends the voice input to a server, which analyzes the speech and converts it into text. The conversational response model generates a response such as "I'm sorry to make you feel lonely. I'm always watching over you," and the emotion engine adjusts this response to a comforting tone. The adjusted response is output in the grandfather's voice through a speech synthesis model and played on the device. This makes the user feel as if the grandfather is comforting them.

[1033] Examples of prompt statements

[1034] "Generate a sweet message that sounds like your dog is speaking to you, based on the emotions you felt on the day your beloved dog died."

[1035] The above is a specific embodiment of the present invention that combines data of the deceased person with an emotion engine.

[1036] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1037] Step 1:

[1038] The user uses the terminal to enter the data of the deceased.

[1039] First, the user enters the necessary information into the form displayed on the device screen and clicks the "Upload" button. The device collects the deceased's photo data, audio data, and personal data, and sends the input data to the server.

[1040] The input is photos, voice, and personal information from the user, and the output is this data sent to the server.

[1041] Step 2:

[1042] The server receives the entered data and stores it in temporary storage.

[1043] The server temporarily stores the received data in non-persistent storage for subsequent analysis.

[1044] The input is photos, audio, and personal information sent from the terminal, and the output is this data stored on the server.

[1045] Step 3:

[1046] The server analyzes the photo data and extracts information for generating an avatar.

[1047] The server uses facial recognition technology (e.g., OpenCV) to extract features from the photo data and obtain information to digitize the face and body of the deceased.

[1048] The input is photo data stored on the server, and the output is feature information for generating an avatar.

[1049] Step 4:

[1050] The server analyzes the voice data and extracts characteristic voice patterns.

[1051] The server uses a speech analysis engine (such as Google Cloud Speech-to-Text) to extract characteristic speech patterns from the speech data and use them to build a synthetic speech model.

[1052] The input is speech data stored on the server, and the output is feature information of speech patterns.

[1053] Step 5:

[1054] The server analyzes the personal data and extracts the information necessary to build a conversation response model.

[1055] The server uses a natural language processing engine (e.g., the BERT model) to analyze the personal data provided by the user and extract information about the deceased person's personality and tone of voice.

[1056] The input is personal data stored on the server, and the output is the information necessary to build a conversation response model.

[1057] Step 6:

[1058] The server generates the avatar.

[1059] Based on the feature information obtained in step 3, the server uses a deep learning model (e.g., GAN: Generative Adversarial Network) to generate an avatar that digitally recreates the appearance of the deceased.

[1060] The input is feature information for avatar generation, and the output is the generated avatar.

[1061] Step 7:

[1062] The server builds a synthetic speech model.

[1063] Based on the voice patterns extracted in step 4, the server uses a voice synthesis model such as Tacotron 2 or WaveNet to build a model to synthesize the voice of the deceased.

[1064] The input is feature information of a speech pattern, and the output is a synthetic speech model.

[1065] Step 8:

[1066] The server builds a conversational response model.

[1067] Based on the information extracted in step 5, the server uses a natural language generation model such as GPT-3 or BERT to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user.

[1068] The input is the information necessary to construct a conversation response model, and the output is the conversation response model.

[1069] Step 9:

[1070] The server recognizes the user's emotional state.

[1071] Analyze the user's voice input and use an emotion engine (e.g., emotion recognition using DeepMoji or RNN) to recognize the user's current emotional state.

[1072] The input is speech input from the user and the output is the identified emotional state of the user.

[1073] Step 10:

[1074] The server converts voice input from the user into text.

[1075] The server uses a speech recognition API (e.g., Google Cloud Speech-to-Text) to convert the user's voice input into text data.

[1076] The input is voice data from the user, and the output is text data.

[1077] Step 11:

[1078] The server generates appropriate conversational responses and adjusts them based on the user's emotional state.

[1079] The server uses a conversational response model and an emotion engine to generate appropriate responses to text input from the user, and further adjusts the content and tone of the response based on the user's emotional state.

[1080] The input is text data and emotional states, and the output is a tailored response sentence.

[1081] Step 12:

[1082] The server outputs the adjusted response in the voice of the deceased using a speech synthesis model.

[1083] The server converts the generated response text into voice data using Tacotron 2 or WaveNet, and outputs it as a synthesized voice of the deceased.

[1084] The input is the tailored response sentence, and the output is audio data generated in the deceased's voice.

[1085] Step 13:

[1086] The device plays the generated audio and displays the avatar on the screen.

[1087] The device receives the voice data sent from the server, plays it through the speaker, and displays a generated avatar on the screen, creating the visual effect of the deceased person responding.

[1088] The input is the audio data and the avatar from the server, and the output is the audio being played and the avatar being displayed.

[1089] (Application example 2)

[1090] 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."

[1091] People have various reasons for wanting to interact with their deceased loved ones, but conventional systems have had the drawback of only being able to provide general interactions and not being able to respond in a way that takes into account the user's emotions. Furthermore, there have been no systems that allow for deeper emotional experiences, such as visiting places associated with the deceased. This has resulted in a lack of an emotional experience that allows users to feel connected to the deceased.

[1092] The identification processing by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and saving photo data of the deceased, means for receiving and saving voice data of the deceased, means for receiving and saving personal data of the deceased, means for generating an avatar based on the received and saved photo data, means for synthesizing the voice of the deceased based on the received and saved voice data, means for building a conversational response model based on the received and saved personal data, means for receiving and analyzing voice input from the user, means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses to the analyzed user voice input, means for outputting the generated conversational responses in the deceased's voice, means for displaying the generated avatar, means for recognizing the user's emotions and adjusting responses according to the emotions, and means for recreating places shared with the deceased in a 3D environment and providing the user with an avatar of the deceased to experience visiting those places. This allows the user not only to interact with the deceased but also to receive responses according to the user's emotions and virtually visit places shared with the deceased, thereby providing a deep emotional experience.

[1093] A "deceased person" is someone who is already dead.

[1094] "Photo data" refers to data that contains an image of the deceased person stored in digital format.

[1095] "Audio data" refers to data that contains the voice of a deceased person stored in digital format.

[1096] "Personal data" refers to data that includes information about the deceased person's education, personality, memories, etc.

[1097] An "avatar" is a digital human model generated from photographic data of a deceased person.

[1098] "Voice synthesis" is a technology that digitally reproduces the voice of a deceased person based on their voice data.

[1099] A "conversational response model" is an algorithm that generates appropriate responses to user input based on the deceased person's personal data.

[1100] "Emotion recognition" is a technology that recognizes a user's emotional state by analyzing the user's voice and facial expressions.

[1101] A "3D environment" is a virtual space that simulates a three-dimensional space using digital technology.

[1102] A "virtual tour" is a digital recreation of the experience of a user visiting a particular location using virtual reality technology.

[1103] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using the photo data, voice data, and personal data of the deceased, and also incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and adjusts responses accordingly, allowing users to not only converse with the deceased, but also to receive emotional responses and experience virtual memories.

[1104] Data entry and storage

[1105] The user uses the device to input the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data (educational history, personality, memories, etc.). This data is sent to the server and temporarily stored. The data received by the server is stored in permanent storage and used for the analysis process described below.

[1106] Avatar and voice synthesis generation

[1107] The server generates an avatar based on the received and stored photo data, using facial recognition technology to recreate the deceased's face in detail. For audio data, the server also uses a voice analysis engine to extract voice patterns and synthesize the deceased's voice.

[1108] Building a conversation response model

[1109] The server uses the deceased's personal data to build a conversational response model, which uses a natural language processing engine and is designed to reflect the deceased's personality and tone of voice, generating natural-sounding conversational responses to the user's voice input.

[1110] Use of emotion recognition engine

[1111] The server utilizes an emotion engine that analyzes the user's voice input and recognizes their emotional state, allowing the server to optimize its response according to the user's emotions.

[1112] Providing a virtual memory tour

[1113] The server generates a virtual tour that recreates memorable places with the deceased in a 3D environment, allowing the user and the deceased's avatar to visit those places, enabling the user to share deeply emotional memories with the deceased.

[1114] Examples and prompts

[1115] For example, if a user says, "I'm tired from work today," the system will recognize that emotion and the deceased will respond in a gentle tone, "You worked hard, thank you for your hard work."

[1116] Example prompt sentence:

[1117] "Sentiment Analysis: I'm tired from work today"

[1118] Hardware and software used

[1119] Hardware: Smartphone or PC microphone and speakers, high-performance server (cloud computing service)

[1120] software:

[1121] OpenAI GPT-3 API: Speech and Sentiment Analysis

[1122] Google Speech-to-Text API: Speech-to-text conversion

[1123] gTTS: Text to speech conversion

[1124] DeepFace: Facial Recognition and Expression Analysis

[1125] Pydub: Processing audio data

[1126] This allows users to use the multifunctional system to enjoy the experience of having realistic and emotional conversations with the deceased and visiting memorable places.

[1127] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1128] Step 1:

[1129] The user enters the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data into the device. The entered data is sent to the server via the Internet. The server receives and temporarily stores this data. At this stage, the user uploads data through the device, and the data is ready to be delivered to the server.

[1130] Step 2:

[1131] The server stores the received photo data in persistent storage. The server then analyzes the photo data and generates an avatar using facial recognition technology. This analysis generates a digital avatar that realistically resembles the deceased person's face.

[1132] Step 3:

[1133] The server stores the audio data in persistent storage. A speech analysis engine is used to extract distinctive voice patterns from the audio data and synthesize the deceased's voice. At this stage, the deceased's voice is digitally recreated.

[1134] Step 4:

[1135] The server stores personal data in persistent storage, and uses a natural language processing engine to extract the deceased person's personality and speaking style from the personal data and build a conversational response model, which enables natural conversations with the user.

[1136] Step 5:

[1137] The user speaks to the device. The device receives this voice input and sends it to the server via the Internet. At this stage, the user's voice data is sent to the server.

[1138] Step 6:

[1139] The server converts the received user voice data into text data using a speech analysis engine. The converted text data is input into a conversation response model and an emotion recognition engine. This conversion converts the voice data into text data for further analysis.

[1140] Step 7:

[1141] The server uses a conversational response model to generate appropriate responses to the user's text input. At the same time, it uses an emotion recognition engine to analyze the user's emotions and adjust the response based on their emotional state. At this stage, a response adapted to the user's emotions is generated.

[1142] Step 8:

[1143] The generated response is output in the voice of the deceased using a speech synthesis engine. The server generates the voice data and sends it to the device. The device plays the received voice data and displays the generated avatar on the screen. This process allows the user to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased.

[1144] Step 9:

[1145] The server recreates the places where the deceased shared memories in a 3D environment and generates a virtual tour of the places with the deceased's avatar, allowing users to relive and experience special memories with the deceased in a digital environment.

[1146] Through these steps, users can enjoy realistic conversations with the deceased, as well as emotional responses and virtual memory experiences.

[1147] 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.

[1148] 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.

[1149] 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.

[1150] [Fourth embodiment]

[1151] FIG. 7 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 410 according to the fourth embodiment.

[1152] 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.

[1153] 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).

[1154] 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.

[1155] 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.

[1156] 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).

[1157] 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.

[1158] 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.

[1159] 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.

[1160] 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.

[1161] 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.

[1162] 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.

[1163] 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."

[1164] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using their photo data, voice data, and personal data. This system operates through the cooperation of a terminal and a server, and is designed to be easy for users to use.

[1165] Data Entry

[1166] First, the user enters the deceased's data using a terminal. The user uploads the deceased's photos, voice data, and personal data (educational history, personality, memories, etc.) to the system. This data is sent to the server and temporarily stored.

[1167] Data storage and analysis

[1168] The server receives the input data and stores it in persistent storage. Photo data is analyzed using facial recognition technology to generate an avatar. Audio data is passed through a speech analysis engine to extract distinctive speech patterns. Personal data is analyzed using a natural language processing engine to extract information to model the deceased's personality and tone of voice.

[1169] Avatars and voice synthesis

[1170] The server generates an avatar based on the analyzed photo data. A synthetic voice model is constructed from the audio data to reproduce the deceased's voice. This voice synthesis model mimics the characteristic pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice.

[1171] Building a conversation response model

[1172] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. The model is designed to reproduce natural conversation based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[1173] Conversation generation and response

[1174] When a user speaks into the device, the voice input is sent to the server. The server analyzes the voice data and converts it into text. The converted text is input into a conversation response model to generate an appropriate response. The generated response is synthesized in the deceased's voice and sent to the device. The device plays the voice, providing the user with an experience as if the deceased were answering.

[1175] Specific examples

[1176] For example, consider a user talking to a deceased grandfather. The user asks the device, "Grandpa, what do you think about the weather these days?" The device sends the voice input to the server, which analyzes the speech and converts it into text. A conversation response model analyzes this text and generates a response such as, "It used to be cooler, but it's gotten hotter recently." This response is then sent to a speech synthesis model, which outputs it in the voice of the deceased. The device then plays back this audio, giving the user a realistic experience, as if the deceased were answering.

[1177] As described above, the present invention provides a system that allows users to easily enjoy the experience of having a realistic conversation with a deceased person.

[1178] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1179] Step 1:

[1180] The user uploads photographic data of the deceased person using the device. The uploaded photographic data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[1181] Step 2:

[1182] The user uploads the voice data of the deceased person using the device. The uploaded voice data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[1183] Step 3:

[1184] The user uses the device to input personal data of the deceased person (such as educational background, personality, memories, etc.) in text format. The input text data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[1185] Step 4:

[1186] The server analyzes the stored photo data and uses facial recognition technology to extract basic data for avatar generation. Based on this data, the server generates an avatar that resembles the face of the deceased person.

[1187] Step 5:

[1188] The server runs the stored voice data through a voice analysis engine to extract the deceased's characteristic voice patterns (pitch, rhythm, accent, etc.) Based on this data, the server builds a voice model that synthesizes the deceased's voice.

[1189] Step 6:

[1190] The server passes the stored text data to a natural language processing (NLP) engine to extract characteristics such as the deceased's personality and speaking style. Based on the extracted data, the server builds a conversation response model.

[1191] Step 7:

[1192] The user speaks questions or conversations into the device, which receives the voice input and transmits the voice data to the server in real time.

[1193] Step 8:

[1194] The server passes the voice data received from the user to a speech recognition engine and converts it into text, which is then input into a conversational response model.

[1195] Step 9:

[1196] The server uses the conversational response model to generate the best response to the user's question or statement, and the generated response text is passed to the speech synthesis model.

[1197] Step 10:

[1198] The server uses a speech synthesis model to synthesize a response text in the deceased's voice, and the generated speech is sent to the device.

[1199] Step 11:

[1200] The device plays back the received audio and displays the generated avatar on the screen, providing a realistic conversation experience, as if the deceased person were responding.

[1201] The above are the specific processing steps of a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience based on data about the deceased.

[1202] Example 1

[1203] 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."

[1204] In modern society, many people desire to connect with their deceased loved ones. However, there is a lack of suitable means to continue sharing memories with them. Current technology allows users to visually enjoy photos and videos of the deceased, but does not provide a way to experience interactive conversations with the deceased. This makes it difficult for users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased.

[1205] 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.

[1206] In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and storing image data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing voice data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing personal information of the deceased, means for generating a display character based on the received and stored image data, means for synthesizing a voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data, means for constructing a conversational response model based on the received and stored personal information, means for receiving and analyzing voice input from a user, means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses to the analyzed user voice input, means for outputting the generated conversational responses in the voice of the deceased, means for displaying the generated display character, means designed to allow a user to enjoy a realistic conversational experience, means for processing the analyzed image data using recognition technology, means for extracting characteristic voice patterns from the analyzed voice data using a voice analysis engine, means for analyzing the received and stored personal information using a natural language processing engine, means for capturing and transmitting user voice to the server, means for reconstructing responses using a synthetic voice model, and means for transmitting the generated responses to the terminal, thereby enabling a user to easily enjoy a realistic conversational experience with their deceased loved one.

[1207] "Deceased" refers to a person who has already passed away.

[1208] "Image data" is visual information such as photographs and pictures expressed in digital form.

[1209] "Audio data" means a digital recording of a human voice or sound.

[1210] "Personal Information" refers to information related to a specific individual, such as educational background, personality, memories, etc.

[1211] "Display Character" means a digitally generated visual representation of a person or character.

[1212] A "conversational response model" is a set of algorithms or programs that generate appropriate responses to user input.

[1213] "Server" means a computer system that stores, processes, transmits and receives data.

[1214] "Terminal" refers to a computer device or equipment that is directly operated by a user.

[1215] "Voice recognition technology" is a technology for analyzing input voice data and converting it into text.

[1216] A "speech synthesis model" is a set of algorithms and programs that generate a human voice based on text data.

[1217] A "natural language processing engine" is a collection of algorithms and programs for understanding and analyzing human language.

[1218] "Analysis" refers to the process of interpreting data and extracting structural meaning.

[1219] "Capture" refers to the process of capturing and recording data such as audio and video.

[1220] "Transmission" refers to the process of passing data from one system to another.

[1221] "Storage" refers to the process of capturing data and recording it on a storage medium so that it can be retrieved at a later date.

[1222] MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[1223] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data. This system operates with the cooperation of the user, terminal, and server. The system is designed to allow users to easily input the deceased's data and provide a realistic conversation experience based on that data.

[1224] Data Entry

[1225] First, the user uploads the deceased's data to the system using their device. The user launches a dedicated application and inputs the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data (educational history, personality, memories, etc.). This data is temporarily stored in local storage and then sent to the server.

[1226] Data storage and analysis

[1227] The server receives the data sent by the user and stores it in persistent storage. For example, it uses a cloud storage service (a commonly used persistent storage device). The server then analyzes the sent photo data using facial recognition technology (a commonly used image analysis technology). The server extracts characteristic voice patterns from the voice data using a voice analysis engine (a commonly used voice recognition technology). The server then analyzes the personal data using a natural language processing engine (a commonly used natural language processing technology) to extract information to model the personality and tone of voice of the deceased.

[1228] Avatars and voice synthesis

[1229] The server generates a display character based on the analyzed photo data. For example, it creates an avatar using a three-dimensional modeling tool (commonly used modeling software). Next, it builds a voice synthesis model from the audio data to reproduce the deceased's voice. This voice synthesis model mimics the characteristic pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice. Commonly available voice synthesis technology is used.

[1230] Building a conversation response model

[1231] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. This model uses a generative AI model (a commonly used generation technology) designed to reproduce natural conversation based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[1232] Conversation generation and response

[1233] When a user speaks into the device, the device captures the voice input and sends it to a server. The server uses speech recognition technology to analyze the voice data and convert it into text. This text is input into a conversation response model to generate an appropriate response. The generated response is input into a speech synthesis model to generate synthesized data in the deceased's voice. The server sends this synthesized voice data to the device, which then plays it back, providing the user with a realistic experience, as if the deceased were responding.

[1234] Specific examples

[1235] For example, consider a user talking to a deceased grandfather. The user asks the device, "Grandpa, what do you think about the weather these days?" The device captures the user's voice and sends it to the server. The server analyzes the voice and converts it into text. The conversation response model analyzes this text and generates a response such as, "It used to be cooler, but it's gotten hotter recently." This response is synthesized in the voice of the deceased person through a speech synthesis model and sent to the device. The device then plays back this synthesized voice, providing the user with a realistic experience, as if the grandfather were actually answering them.

[1236] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1237] "Grandpa, tell me about your educational background."

[1238] "Grandma, what do you think of the recent news?"

[1239] "Dad, tell me some old memories."

[1240] The present invention allows users to easily enjoy a realistic and interactive conversation experience with their deceased loved ones. This system is a powerful tool for enriching users' memories and maintaining connections with their loved ones.

[1241] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1242] Step 1: Data entry

[1243] The user launches a dedicated application using their device. The user inputs the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data (educational history, personality, memories, etc.). The input data is temporarily saved in local storage. The saved data is then sent from the device to the server. Specifically, when the user selects a photo file and presses the upload button, the image data is saved in local storage and sent to the server.

[1244] Input: Photo data, audio data, personal data of the deceased

[1245] Output: Data stored in local storage and data sent to the server

[1246] Step 2: Data storage and analysis

[1247] The server receives the data sent by the user and stores it in persistent storage. The server then analyzes the photo data using facial recognition technology to extract facial features. The server analyzes the audio data using a speech analysis engine to extract distinctive voice patterns. The server then analyzes the personal data using a natural language processing engine to extract information to model the personality and tone of voice of the deceased.

[1248] Input: Data sent to the server (photo data, audio data, personal data)

[1249] Output: Analysis results and feature information saved to persistent storage

[1250] Step 3: Avatar generation

[1251] The server generates a display character based on the analyzed photo data. Specifically, it uses a 3D modeling tool to create a 3D model of the features extracted by facial recognition technology. This model is configured so that the user can visually recognize the deceased.

[1252] Input: Analysis results and feature information (feature points of photo data)

[1253] Output: Generated 3D avatar

[1254] Step 4: Text-to-Speech

[1255] The server builds a speech synthesis model from the audio data. The model mimics the pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice based on a dataset containing characteristic speech patterns. The server then uses a speech synthesis engine to generate the response.

[1256] Input: Feature patterns extracted from speech data

[1257] Output: The speech synthesis model and the generated synthetic speech

[1258] Step 5: Building a conversational response model

[1259] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model, which uses a generative AI model designed to recreate natural conversations based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased. Data is used for training and model adjustment.

[1260] Input: Personal data and voice analysis data

[1261] Output: Conversational response model

[1262] Step 6: Receiving and parsing audio input

[1263] The user asks a question to the device. The device captures the voice input and sends it to the server. The server analyzes the voice data using voice recognition technology and converts it into text data.

[1264] Input: User voice input

[1265] Output: Data converted into text using speech recognition technology

[1266] Step 7: Generate a response

[1267] The server inputs the text data into a conversational response model to generate an appropriate response, which is then input into a speech synthesis model to be synthesized in the voice of the deceased.

[1268] Input: Text data converted by speech recognition

[1269] Output: Text responses and synthesized speech generated based on the conversational response model

[1270] Step 8: Play audio

[1271] The server sends the synthesized voice data to the device, which then plays it back, providing the user with a realistic experience, as if the deceased person were answering.

[1272] Input: Speech synthesis data

[1273] Output: Synthesized speech played on the device

[1274] (Application example 1)

[1275] 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."

[1276] Although many systems exist that allow users to have a conversation with a deceased loved one, simple voice or text responses are insufficient to make the interaction with the deceased feel more realistic. In particular, experiences in virtual spaces require more advanced visual and auditory interaction. Therefore, new technologies are needed that allow users to have a more moving and realistic interaction with the deceased.

[1277] 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.

[1278] In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and storing photographic data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing voice data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing personal data of the deceased, means for generating an avatar based on the received and stored photographic data, means for synthesizing the voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data, means for constructing a conversation response model based on the received and stored personal data, means for receiving and analyzing voice input from a user, means for selecting and generating appropriate conversation responses to the analyzed user voice input, means for outputting the generated conversation responses in the voice of the deceased, means for displaying the generated avatar, and means for the generated avatar to interact with the user in a virtual space, thereby enabling the user to experience a conversation with the deceased in a realistic and moving way.

[1279] "Photo data of the deceased" refers to image information of the face and body of a deceased person, and is used to generate an avatar.

[1280] "Voice data of the deceased" refers to recorded information of the voice of a deceased person, and is used for voice synthesis.

[1281] "Personal data of the deceased" refers to information such as the deceased's educational background, personality, and memories, and is used to build a conversation response model.

[1282] An "avatar" refers to a digital character with which a user can visually interact in a virtual space.

[1283] "Speech synthesis" refers to the process of recreating a particular voice based on input speech data.

[1284] A "conversational response model" refers to an algorithm for generating appropriate responses to user input.

[1285] "Voice input from the user" refers to voice information input when the user speaks to the system.

[1286] "Virtual space" refers to a virtually constructed digital environment that users can experience.

[1287] An embodiment of the present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using photo data, voice data, and personal data of the deceased. This system includes interaction in a virtual space and is realized by combining specific software and hardware.

[1288] Data Entry

[1289] First, the user uploads the deceased's photo data, audio data, and personal data to the system using a terminal. This data is then sent to the server and stored. The terminal can be a PC or smartphone.

[1290] Data storage and analysis

[1291] The server stores the received data in persistent storage. Photo data is analyzed using facial recognition technology (OpenCV, dlib, etc.) and used to generate an avatar. Audio data is passed through a voice analysis engine (Tacotron2, WaveGlow, etc.) to extract characteristic voice patterns and use them to synthesize the deceased's voice. Personal data is analyzed using a natural language processing engine (BERT, GPT-3, etc.) to model the deceased's personality and speaking style.

[1292] Avatars and voice synthesis

[1293] The server uses Unity3D and other 3D modeling software to generate an avatar of the deceased person based on the analyzed photo data, and also builds a synthetic voice model from the audio data to imitate the deceased's voice, using Tacotron2 and WaveGlow.

[1294] Building a conversation response model

[1295] The server uses personal data and voice analysis data to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. This model uses generative AI models such as BERT and GPT-3 to recreate the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[1296] Conversation generation and response

[1297] When a user speaks into the device, the voice input is sent to the server, where it is analyzed and converted into text data. This text data is then input into a conversation response model to generate an appropriate response. The generated response is then played back in the deceased's voice using a speech synthesis model. The device then plays back audio and visuals, providing the user with a realistic conversation experience.

[1298] Interaction in virtual space

[1299] The aforementioned avatar and voice response model are implemented in a virtual space using Unity3D. Using VR technologies such as the Oculus SDK, users can experience realistic interactions. This allows for a more immersive and engaging conversational experience than simply playing audio and visuals.

[1300] For example, consider a scenario in which a user revisits a place that holds fond memories for their deceased grandfather in a virtual space. When the user says, "Grandpa, do you remember this place?", the server analyzes the voice data and responds in the deceased's voice, "Of course I remember. This is where you first rode your bike." At this time, the avatar is drawn in the form of the grandfather, and actually talks about the place in the deceased's voice, providing a highly realistic conversational experience.

[1301] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1302] "Grandpa, what do you think about the weather these days?"

[1303] "It used to be cooler, but it's gotten hotter recently."

[1304] In this way, a system is realized that provides a realistic conversation experience with a deceased person in a virtual store.

[1305] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1306] Step 1:

[1307] The device receives the photo data, audio data, and personal data of the deceased from the user. The user uploads this data, and the device sends it to the server. The input is the photo, audio, and personal data of the deceased, and the output is the transmission of this data to the server.

[1308] Step 2:

[1309] The server stores the received data in persistent storage, such as cloud storage or a database. The input is the deceased's photos, audio, and personal data, and the output is the storage of this data.

[1310] Step 3:

[1311] The server analyzes the photo data and generates an avatar. In this process, OpenCV and dlib are used to extract facial feature points, and Unity3D is used to generate the avatar as a 3D model. The input is the saved photo data, and the output is a 3D avatar model.

[1312] Step 4:

[1313] The server analyzes the voice data and builds a speech synthesis model. In this process, Tacotron2 and WaveGlow are used to extract voice features and generate a speech synthesis model that reproduces the voice of the deceased. The input is the saved voice data, and the output is the speech synthesis model.

[1314] Step 5:

[1315] The server analyzes the stored personal data and builds a conversation response model. In this process, text analysis is performed using BERT and GPT-3 to build a model that learns the personality and conversation patterns of the deceased. The input is the stored personal data, and the output is the conversation response model.

[1316] Step 6:

[1317] When a user speaks into the device, the voice input is sent to the server. The device captures the voice data and sends it to the server. The input is the user's voice, and the output is the voice data sent to the server.

[1318] Step 7:

[1319] The server converts the user's voice into text using a voice analysis engine. Here, voice data is analyzed using voice recognition technology and converted into text data. The input is the user's voice data, and the output is text data.

[1320] Step 8:

[1321] The server uses a conversational response model to generate an appropriate response. In this process, the converted text data is used as input, analyzed, and an optimal response to the user's question is generated. The input is the user's text data, and the output is the generated response sentence.

[1322] Step 9:

[1323] The server converts the generated response into voice data using a speech synthesis model. Using Tacotron2 and WaveGlow, the generated text response is synthesized into playable voice data in the deceased's voice. The input is the generated response, and the output is voice data.

[1324] Step 10:

[1325] The device plays the generated avatar and voice in a virtual space. Using Unity3D and the Oculus SDK, the device allows users to interact with the avatar of a deceased person in a virtual space. The input is a 3D model of the avatar and voice data, and the output is a realistic conversation experience in a virtual space.

[1326] 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.

[1327] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data, and also incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and adjusts responses accordingly.The purpose of this system is to provide a more natural and intimate conversation experience that is in line with the user's emotions.

[1328] Data Entry

[1329] First, the user enters the deceased's data using a terminal. The user uploads the deceased's photos, voice data, and personal data (such as educational background, personality, memories, etc.) to the system. This data is sent to the server and temporarily stored.

[1330] Data storage and analysis

[1331] The server receives the input data and stores it in persistent storage. Photo data is analyzed using facial recognition technology to generate an avatar. Audio data is passed through a speech analysis engine to extract distinctive speech patterns. Personal data is analyzed using a natural language processing engine to extract information to model the deceased's personality and tone of voice.

[1332] Avatars and voice synthesis

[1333] The server generates an avatar based on the analyzed photo data. A synthetic voice model is constructed from the audio data to reproduce the deceased's voice. This voice synthesis model mimics the characteristic pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice.

[1334] Building a conversation response model

[1335] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. The model is designed to reproduce natural conversation based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[1336] Using the Emotion Engine

[1337] The present invention incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions. By analyzing the user's voice input and recognizing their emotions, the server can generate an optimal response depending on the user's emotional state.

[1338] Conversation generation and response

[1339] The user speaks a question or conversation into the device. The device receives the voice input and sends the voice data to the server in real time. The server analyzes the voice data and converts it into text. The converted text is input into the conversation response model and emotion engine.

[1340] Emotion-based response generation

[1341] The server uses an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotions and tailor responses based on those emotions. For example, if the user is sad, the system will respond with comforting words and a gentle tone. The generated response is then passed to a speech synthesis model, which outputs it in the voice of the deceased.

[1342] Displaying the results

[1343] The device plays back the received audio and displays the generated avatar on the screen, allowing users to have a realistic conversation experience, as if the deceased person were responding.

[1344] Specific examples

[1345] For example, consider a sad user speaking into a device, "Grandpa, I miss you." The device sends the voice input to a server, which analyzes the speech and converts it into text. The conversational response model generates a response such as "I'm sorry to make you feel lonely. I'm always watching over you," and the emotion engine adjusts this response to a comforting tone. The adjusted response is output in the grandfather's voice through a speech synthesis model and played on the device. This makes the user feel as if the grandfather is comforting them.

[1346] The above is a specific embodiment of the present invention that combines data of the deceased person with an emotion engine.

[1347] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1348] Step 1:

[1349] The user uploads photographic data of the deceased person using the device. The uploaded photographic data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[1350] Step 2:

[1351] The user uploads the voice data of the deceased person using the device. The uploaded voice data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[1352] Step 3:

[1353] The user uses the device to input personal data of the deceased person (such as educational background, personality, memories, etc.) in text format. The input text data is sent from the device to the server and temporarily stored.

[1354] Step 4:

[1355] The server analyzes the stored photo data and uses facial recognition technology to extract basic data for avatar generation. An avatar modeling the deceased's face is then generated based on this data. Furthermore, if the avatar of the deceased is to be generated as a 3D model, even more detailed facial features are extracted to create the 3D avatar.

[1356] Step 5:

[1357] The server runs the stored voice data through a voice analysis engine to extract the deceased's characteristic voice patterns (pitch, rhythm, accent, etc.) Based on this data, the server builds a voice model that synthesizes the deceased's voice.

[1358] Step 6:

[1359] The server passes the stored text data to a natural language processing (NLP) engine to extract characteristics such as the deceased's personality and speaking style. Based on the extracted data, the server builds a conversation response model.

[1360] Step 7:

[1361] The user speaks questions or conversations into the device, which receives the voice input and transmits the voice data to the server in real time.

[1362] Step 8:

[1363] The server passes the voice data received from the user to a speech recognition engine and converts it into text, which is then input to the conversation response model and emotion engine.

[1364] Step 9:

[1365] The server recognizes emotions from the user's voice input using an emotion engine, which analyzes the tone, speed, emphasis, etc. of the voice to identify the user's emotional state.

[1366] Step 10:

[1367] The server selects and generates an appropriate response from the conversational response model based on the analyzed user's emotions, for example, if the user speaks in a sad tone, the conversational response model selects a response containing comforting words.

[1368] Step 11:

[1369] The generated conversational responses are then passed to a speech synthesis model to be synthesized in the voice of the deceased, with the tone and rhythm of the response also adjusted based on the results of the emotion engine.

[1370] Step 12:

[1371] The device receives the audio data of the deceased's voice from the server and displays the generated avatar. Responses are played in the deceased's voice, and the avatar of the deceased moves in accordance with the response on the screen.

[1372] Step 13:

[1373] Users can enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased, and the user's emotions are reflected in the conversation, creating a more intimate and emotional exchange.

[1374] The above are the specific processing steps of the system for experiencing conversation with a deceased person that incorporates an emotion engine.

[1375] Example 2

[1376] 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."

[1377] Conventional conversation systems for the deceased have had difficulty providing natural, intimate conversations that respond to the user's emotional state. Responses that ignore the user's emotions result in a poor communication experience with the deceased, leading to an unsatisfactory feeling, and it is therefore difficult to expect any emotional healing or improvement in the quality of communication.

[1378] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the second embodiment is realized by the following means.

[1379] In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and storing photographic data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing voice data of the deceased, means for receiving and storing personal data of the deceased (such as educational background, personality, and memories), means for generating an avatar based on the received and stored photographic data, means for synthesizing the voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data, means for constructing a conversational response model based on the received and stored personal data, means for recognizing the user's emotional state, means for receiving and analyzing voice input from the user, means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses to the analyzed user's voice input, means for adjusting the generated conversational responses based on the user's emotional state, means for outputting the generated conversational responses in the voice of the deceased, and means for displaying the generated avatar. This makes it possible to provide a more natural and intimate conversational experience that is tailored to the user's emotions.

[1380] "Photo data of the deceased" refers to photographic data of the face and entire body of the deceased provided by the user.

[1381] "Voice data of the deceased" refers to recording data of the deceased's voice provided by the user.

[1382] "Personal data of the deceased" refers to detailed data about the deceased's educational background, personality, anecdotes, hobbies, etc.

[1383] "Means for generating an avatar" refers to software or hardware for digitally recreating the appearance of a deceased person based on photographic data of the deceased.

[1384] A "synthetic voice model" refers to a voice synthesis technology that reproduces the voice of a deceased person based on their voice data.

[1385] A "conversational response model" refers to an algorithm or system that generates appropriate responses to a user's questions or statements based on the deceased's personal data and voice data.

[1386] An "emotion engine" refers to a system that analyzes emotions from a user's voice and text data and adjusts conversational responses based on that.

[1387] "Means for receiving and analyzing voice input" refers to software or hardware that receives voice data uttered by a user, analyzes it, and converts it into text data.

[1388] "Means for selecting and generating conversational responses" refers to a system for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses based on analyzed user input.

[1389] "Means for tailoring conversational responses" refers to a system for changing the content and tone of conversational responses depending on the user's emotional state.

[1390] "Means for outputting in the voice of the deceased" refers to a system for audibly outputting the generated conversational response in the voice of the deceased.

[1391] "Means for displaying an avatar" refers to a system that visually displays the generated avatar on a user interface.

[1392] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data, and also incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and adjusts responses accordingly. The objective is to provide a more natural and intimate conversation experience that responds to the user's emotions.

[1393] Data Entry

[1394] First, the user enters the deceased's data using a terminal. The user uploads the deceased's photos, voice data, and personal data (such as educational background, personality, and memories) to the system. This data is then sent to the server and temporarily stored.

[1395] Data storage and analysis

[1396] The server receives the input data and stores it in persistent storage. Photo data is analyzed to generate an avatar using facial recognition technology (e.g., OpenCV). Voice data is analyzed using a voice analysis engine (e.g., Google Cloud Speech-to-Text) to extract distinctive voice patterns. Personal data is analyzed using a natural language processing engine (e.g., the BERT model) to extract information to model the deceased person's personality and tone of voice.

[1397] Avatars and voice synthesis

[1398] The server generates an avatar based on the analyzed photo data. To reproduce the deceased's voice, a synthetic voice model (e.g., Tacotron 2 or WaveNet) is constructed from the audio data. This voice synthesis model mimics the characteristic pitch and rhythm of the deceased's voice.

[1399] Building a conversation response model

[1400] The server uses personal data and speech analysis data to build a conversational response model (such as GPT-3 or BERT) that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user. The model is designed to reproduce natural conversation based on the personality and speaking style of the deceased.

[1401] Using the Emotion Engine

[1402] This invention incorporates an emotion engine (e.g., emotion recognition using DeepMoji or RNN) that recognizes the user's emotions. By analyzing the user's voice input and recognizing their emotions, the server can generate an optimal response according to the user's emotional state.

[1403] Conversation generation and response

[1404] The user speaks a question or conversation into the device. The device receives the voice input and sends the voice data to the server in real time. The server analyzes the voice data and converts it into text. The converted text is input into a conversation response model and emotion engine. The server uses the emotion engine to recognize the user's emotion and adjusts the response based on that emotion. The generated response is passed to a speech synthesis model and output in the voice of the deceased.

[1405] Displaying the results

[1406] The device plays back the received audio and displays the generated avatar on the screen, allowing users to have a realistic conversation experience, as if the deceased person were responding.

[1407] Specific examples

[1408] For example, consider a sad user speaking into a device, "Grandpa, I miss you." The device sends the voice input to a server, which analyzes the speech and converts it into text. The conversational response model generates a response such as "I'm sorry to make you feel lonely. I'm always watching over you," and the emotion engine adjusts this response to a comforting tone. The adjusted response is output in the grandfather's voice through a speech synthesis model and played on the device. This makes the user feel as if the grandfather is comforting them.

[1409] Examples of prompt statements

[1410] "Generate a sweet message that sounds like your dog is speaking to you, based on the emotions you felt on the day your beloved dog died."

[1411] The above is a specific embodiment of the present invention that combines data of the deceased person with an emotion engine.

[1412] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1413] Step 1:

[1414] The user uses the terminal to enter the data of the deceased.

[1415] First, the user enters the necessary information into the form displayed on the device screen and clicks the "Upload" button. The device collects the deceased's photo data, audio data, and personal data, and sends the input data to the server.

[1416] The input is photos, voice, and personal information from the user, and the output is this data sent to the server.

[1417] Step 2:

[1418] The server receives the entered data and stores it in temporary storage.

[1419] The server temporarily stores the received data in non-persistent storage for subsequent analysis.

[1420] The input is photos, audio, and personal information sent from the terminal, and the output is this data stored on the server.

[1421] Step 3:

[1422] The server analyzes the photo data and extracts information for generating an avatar.

[1423] The server uses facial recognition technology (e.g., OpenCV) to extract features from the photo data and obtain information to digitize the face and body of the deceased.

[1424] The input is photo data stored on the server, and the output is feature information for generating an avatar.

[1425] Step 4:

[1426] The server analyzes the voice data and extracts characteristic voice patterns.

[1427] The server uses a speech analysis engine (such as Google Cloud Speech-to-Text) to extract characteristic speech patterns from the speech data and use them to build a synthetic speech model.

[1428] The input is speech data stored on the server, and the output is feature information of speech patterns.

[1429] Step 5:

[1430] The server analyzes the personal data and extracts the information necessary to build a conversation response model.

[1431] The server uses a natural language processing engine (e.g., the BERT model) to analyze the personal data provided by the user and extract information about the deceased person's personality and tone of voice.

[1432] The input is personal data stored on the server, and the output is the information necessary to build a conversation response model.

[1433] Step 6:

[1434] The server generates the avatar.

[1435] Based on the feature information obtained in step 3, the server uses a deep learning model (e.g., GAN: Generative Adversarial Network) to generate an avatar that digitally recreates the appearance of the deceased.

[1436] The input is feature information for avatar generation, and the output is the generated avatar.

[1437] Step 7:

[1438] The server builds a synthetic speech model.

[1439] Based on the voice patterns extracted in step 4, the server uses a voice synthesis model such as Tacotron 2 or WaveNet to build a model to synthesize the voice of the deceased.

[1440] The input is feature information of a speech pattern, and the output is a synthetic speech model.

[1441] Step 8:

[1442] The server builds a conversational response model.

[1443] Based on the information extracted in step 5, the server uses a natural language generation model such as GPT-3 or BERT to build a conversational response model that generates appropriate responses to questions entered by the user.

[1444] The input is the information necessary to construct a conversation response model, and the output is the conversation response model.

[1445] Step 9:

[1446] The server recognizes the user's emotional state.

[1447] Analyze the user's voice input and use an emotion engine (e.g., emotion recognition using DeepMoji or RNN) to recognize the user's current emotional state.

[1448] The input is speech input from the user and the output is the identified emotional state of the user.

[1449] Step 10:

[1450] The server converts voice input from the user into text.

[1451] The server uses a speech recognition API (e.g., Google Cloud Speech-to-Text) to convert the user's voice input into text data.

[1452] The input is voice data from the user, and the output is text data.

[1453] Step 11:

[1454] The server generates appropriate conversational responses and adjusts them based on the user's emotional state.

[1455] The server uses a conversational response model and an emotion engine to generate appropriate responses to text input from the user, and further adjusts the content and tone of the response based on the user's emotional state.

[1456] The input is text data and emotional states, and the output is a tailored response sentence.

[1457] Step 12:

[1458] The server outputs the adjusted response in the voice of the deceased using a speech synthesis model.

[1459] The server converts the generated response text into voice data using Tacotron 2 or WaveNet, and outputs it as a synthesized voice of the deceased.

[1460] The input is the tailored response sentence, and the output is audio data generated in the deceased's voice.

[1461] Step 13:

[1462] The device plays the generated audio and displays the avatar on the screen.

[1463] The device receives the voice data sent from the server, plays it through the speaker, and displays a generated avatar on the screen, creating the visual effect of the deceased person responding.

[1464] The input is the audio data and the avatar from the server, and the output is the audio being played and the avatar being displayed.

[1465] (Application example 2)

[1466] 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."

[1467] People have various reasons for wanting to interact with their deceased loved ones, but conventional systems have had the drawback of only being able to provide general interactions and not being able to respond in a way that takes into account the user's emotions. Furthermore, there have been no systems that allow for deeper emotional experiences, such as visiting places associated with the deceased. This has resulted in a lack of an emotional experience that allows users to feel connected to the deceased.

[1468] The identification processing by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for receiving and saving photo data of the deceased, means for receiving and saving voice data of the deceased, means for receiving and saving personal data of the deceased, means for generating an avatar based on the received and saved photo data, means for synthesizing the voice of the deceased based on the received and saved voice data, means for building a conversational response model based on the received and saved personal data, means for receiving and analyzing voice input from the user, means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses to the analyzed user voice input, means for outputting the generated conversational responses in the deceased's voice, means for displaying the generated avatar, means for recognizing the user's emotions and adjusting responses according to the emotions, and means for recreating places shared with the deceased in a 3D environment and providing the user with an avatar of the deceased to experience visiting those places. This allows the user not only to interact with the deceased but also to receive responses according to the user's emotions and virtually visit places shared with the deceased, thereby providing a deep emotional experience.

[1469] A "deceased person" is someone who is already dead.

[1470] "Photo data" refers to data that contains an image of the deceased person stored in digital format.

[1471] "Audio data" refers to data that contains the voice of a deceased person stored in digital format.

[1472] "Personal data" refers to data that includes information about the deceased person's education, personality, memories, etc.

[1473] An "avatar" is a digital human model generated from photographic data of a deceased person.

[1474] "Voice synthesis" is a technology that digitally reproduces the voice of a deceased person based on their voice data.

[1475] A "conversational response model" is an algorithm that generates appropriate responses to user input based on the deceased person's personal data.

[1476] "Emotion recognition" is a technology that recognizes a user's emotional state by analyzing the user's voice and facial expressions.

[1477] A "3D environment" is a virtual space that simulates a three-dimensional space using digital technology.

[1478] A "virtual tour" is a digital recreation of the experience of a user visiting a particular location using virtual reality technology.

[1479] The present invention is a system that allows users to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased using the photo data, voice data, and personal data of the deceased, and also incorporates an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and adjusts responses accordingly, allowing users to not only converse with the deceased, but also to receive emotional responses and experience virtual memories.

[1480] Data entry and storage

[1481] The user uses the device to input the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data (educational history, personality, memories, etc.). This data is sent to the server and temporarily stored. The data received by the server is stored in permanent storage and used for the analysis process described below.

[1482] Avatar and voice synthesis generation

[1483] The server generates an avatar based on the received and stored photo data, using facial recognition technology to recreate the deceased's face in detail. For audio data, the server also uses a voice analysis engine to extract voice patterns and synthesize the deceased's voice.

[1484] Building a conversation response model

[1485] The server uses the deceased's personal data to build a conversational response model, which uses a natural language processing engine and is designed to reflect the deceased's personality and tone of voice, generating natural-sounding conversational responses to the user's voice input.

[1486] Use of emotion recognition engine

[1487] The server utilizes an emotion engine that analyzes the user's voice input and recognizes their emotional state, allowing the server to optimize its response according to the user's emotions.

[1488] Providing a virtual memory tour

[1489] The server generates a virtual tour that recreates memorable places with the deceased in a 3D environment, allowing the user and the deceased's avatar to visit those places, enabling the user to share deeply emotional memories with the deceased.

[1490] Examples and prompts

[1491] For example, if a user says, "I'm tired from work today," the system will recognize that emotion and the deceased will respond in a gentle tone, "You worked hard, thank you for your hard work."

[1492] Example prompt sentence:

[1493] "Sentiment Analysis: I'm tired from work today"

[1494] Hardware and software used

[1495] Hardware: Smartphone or PC microphone and speakers, high-performance server (cloud computing service)

[1496] software:

[1497] OpenAI GPT-3 API: Speech and Sentiment Analysis

[1498] Google Speech-to-Text API: Speech-to-text conversion

[1499] gTTS: Text to speech conversion

[1500] DeepFace: Facial Recognition and Expression Analysis

[1501] Pydub: Processing audio data

[1502] This allows users to use the multifunctional system to enjoy the experience of having realistic and emotional conversations with the deceased and visiting memorable places.

[1503] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1504] Step 1:

[1505] The user enters the deceased's photo data, voice data, and personal data into the device. The entered data is sent to the server via the Internet. The server receives and temporarily stores this data. At this stage, the user uploads data through the device, and the data is ready to be delivered to the server.

[1506] Step 2:

[1507] The server stores the received photo data in persistent storage. The server then analyzes the photo data and generates an avatar using facial recognition technology. This analysis generates a digital avatar that realistically resembles the deceased person's face.

[1508] Step 3:

[1509] The server stores the audio data in persistent storage. A speech analysis engine is used to extract distinctive voice patterns from the audio data and synthesize the deceased's voice. At this stage, the deceased's voice is digitally recreated.

[1510] Step 4:

[1511] The server stores personal data in persistent storage, and uses a natural language processing engine to extract the deceased person's personality and speaking style from the personal data and build a conversational response model, which enables natural conversations with the user.

[1512] Step 5:

[1513] The user speaks to the device. The device receives this voice input and sends it to the server via the Internet. At this stage, the user's voice data is sent to the server.

[1514] Step 6:

[1515] The server converts the received user voice data into text data using a speech analysis engine. The converted text data is input into a conversation response model and an emotion recognition engine. This conversion converts the voice data into text data for further analysis.

[1516] Step 7:

[1517] The server uses a conversational response model to generate appropriate responses to the user's text input. At the same time, it uses an emotion recognition engine to analyze the user's emotions and adjust the response based on their emotional state. At this stage, a response adapted to the user's emotions is generated.

[1518] Step 8:

[1519] The generated response is output in the voice of the deceased using a speech synthesis engine. The server generates the voice data and sends it to the device. The device plays the received voice data and displays the generated avatar on the screen. This process allows the user to enjoy a realistic conversation experience with the deceased.

[1520] Step 9:

[1521] The server recreates the places where the deceased shared memories in a 3D environment and generates a virtual tour of the places with the deceased's avatar, allowing users to relive and experience special memories with the deceased in a digital environment.

[1522] Through these steps, users can enjoy realistic conversations with the deceased, as well as emotional responses and virtual memory experiences.

[1523] 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.

[1524] 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.

[1525] 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.

[1526] 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.

[1527] 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.

[1528] 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.

[1529] 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).

[1530] 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.

[1531] 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."

[1532] 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.

[1533] 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).

[1534] 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.

[1535] 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.

[1536] 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.

[1537] 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.

[1538] 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.

[1539] 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.

[1540] 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.

[1541] 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.

[1542] 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.

[1543] 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.

[1544] The following is further disclosed regarding the above embodiment.

[1545] (Claim 1)

[1546] means for receiving and storing photographic data of the deceased;

[1547] means for receiving and storing audio data of the deceased;

[1548] means of receiving and storing the deceased person's personal data (educational history, personality, memories, etc.);

[1549] A means for generating an avatar based on the received and stored photo data;

[1550] means for synthesizing the voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data;

[1551] a means for constructing a conversation response model based on the received and stored personal data;

[1552] means for receiving and analyzing voice input from a user;

[1553] means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses to the analyzed user speech input;

[1554] means for outputting the generated conversational response in the voice of the deceased;

[1555] a means for displaying the generated avatar;

[1556] A system including:

[1557] (Claim 2)

[1558] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for generating an avatar of the deceased person as a 3D model.

[1559] (Claim 3)

[1560] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for converting user-input voice data into text data using a voice analysis engine.

[1561] "Example 1"

[1562] (Claim 1)

[1563] means for receiving and storing image data of the deceased;

[1564] means for receiving and storing audio data of the deceased;

[1565] a means of receiving and storing personal information of the deceased;

[1566] means for generating a display character based on the received and stored image data;

[1567] means for synthesizing the voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data;

[1568] means for constructing a conversation response model based on the received and stored personal information;

[1569] means for receiving and analyzing voice input from a user;

[1570] means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses to the analyzed user speech input;

[1571] means for outputting the generated conversational response in the voice of the deceased;

[1572] a means for displaying the generated display character;

[1573] A means designed to enable users to enjoy a realistic conversational experience;

[1574] means for processing the analyzed image data using recognition techniques;

[1575] means for extracting characteristic voice patterns from the voice data analyzed using a voice analysis engine;

[1576] means for analyzing the received and stored personal information using a natural language processing engine;

[1577] means for capturing and transmitting user speech to a server;

[1578] means for reconstructing a response using a synthetic speech model;

[1579] means for transmitting the generated response to the terminal;

[1580] A system including:

[1581] (Claim 2)

[1582] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for generating the display character as a three-dimensional model.

[1583] (Claim 3)

[1584] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for converting user-input voice data into text data using a voice analysis engine.

[1585] "Application Example 1"

[1586] (Claim 1)

[1587] means for receiving and storing photographic data of the deceased;

[1588] means for receiving and storing audio data of the deceased;

[1589] means for receiving and storing the personal data of the deceased;

[1590] A means for generating an avatar based on the received and stored photo data;

[1591] means for synthesizing the voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data;

[1592] a means for constructing a conversation response model based on the received and stored personal data;

[1593] means for receiving and analyzing voice input from a user;

[1594] means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses to the analyzed user speech input;

[1595] means for outputting the generated conversational response in the voice of the deceased;

[1596] a means for displaying the generated avatar;

[1597] A means for allowing the avatar generated in the virtual space to interact with the user;

[1598] A system including:

[1599] (Claim 2)

[1600] The system of claim 1, further comprising means for placing the avatar in a virtual space as a 3D model.

[1601] (Claim 3)

[1602] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for converting user-input voice data into text data using a voice analysis engine.

[1603] "Example 2: Combining Emotion Engines"

[1604] (Claim 1)

[1605] means for receiving and storing photographic data of the deceased;

[1606] means for receiving and storing audio data of the deceased;

[1607] means of receiving and storing the deceased person's personal data (educational history, personality, memories, etc.);

[1608] A means for generating an avatar based on the received and stored photo data;

[1609] means for synthesizing the voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data;

[1610] a means for constructing a conversation response model based on the received and stored personal data;

[1611] means for recognizing the emotional state of a user;

[1612] means for receiving and analyzing voice input from a user;

[1613] means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses to the analyzed user speech input;

[1614] means for adjusting the generated conversational responses based on the emotional state of the user;

[1615] means for outputting the generated conversational response in the voice of the deceased;

[1616] a means for displaying the generated avatar;

[1617] A system including:

[1618] (Claim 2)

[1619] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for generating an avatar of the deceased person as a 3D model.

[1620] (Claim 3)

[1621] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for converting user-input voice data into text data using a voice analysis engine.

[1622] "Application example 2 when combining emotion engines"

[1623] (Claim 1)

[1624] means for receiving and storing photographic data of the deceased;

[1625] means for receiving and storing audio data of the deceased;

[1626] means for receiving and storing the personal data of the deceased;

[1627] A means for generating an avatar based on the received and stored photo data;

[1628] means for synthesizing the voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data;

[1629] a means for constructing a conversation response model based on the received and stored personal data;

[1630] means for receiving and analyzing voice input from a user;

[1631] means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses to the analyzed user speech input;

[1632] means for outputting the generated conversational response in the voice of the deceased;

[1633] a means for displaying the generated avatar;

[1634] means for recognizing a user's emotion and adjusting responses accordingly;

[1635] A means to recreate memorable places with the deceased in a 3D environment and provide an experience where the user and the deceased's avatar can visit those places;

[1636] A system including:

[1637] (Claim 2)

[1638] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for generating an avatar of the deceased person as a 3D model.

[1639] (Claim 3)

[1640] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for converting user-input voice data into text data using a voice analysis engine. [Explanation of symbols]

[1641] 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 receiving and storing photographic data of the deceased; means for receiving and storing audio data of the deceased; means of receiving and storing personal data of the deceased (educational history, personality, memories, etc.); A means for generating an avatar based on the received and stored photo data; means for synthesizing the voice of the deceased based on the received and stored voice data; a means for constructing a conversation response model based on the received and stored personal data; means for receiving and analyzing voice input from a user; means for selecting and generating appropriate conversational responses to the analyzed user speech input; means for outputting the generated conversational response in the voice of the deceased; a means for displaying the generated avatar; A system including:

2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising means for generating an avatar of the deceased person as a 3D model.

3. 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for converting user-input voice data into text data using a voice analysis engine.

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