System

Abstract

A system is provided.SOLUTION: A system comprising: means for a user to input product information by voice or text; means for converting the voice input into a text; means for generating a search query from the text; means for transmitting the search query to a server; means for searching a database by the server to acquire information on the product; means for displaying or providing the acquired product information to the user by voice; and means for providing countermeasure information when there is no stock.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

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

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

[0004] In the past, large-scale shopping centers faced the challenge of quickly and accurately determining the location, price, and stock status of products users wanted. Directly contacting store staff can be time-consuming, especially if the staff is busy or unfamiliar with the product. Furthermore, online product inventory information is not updated in real time, meaning that products may be out of stock even when customers visit the store. These situations can be extremely frustrating for users and can degrade the quality of their shopping experience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The present invention provides a system that quickly and accurately provides information such as product location, price, and stock status when a user inputs the name of a product by voice or text. Specifically, the proposed system includes a means for a user to input product information by voice or text, a means for converting the voice input into text, a means for generating a search query from the text, a means for transmitting the generated query to a server, a means for the server to search a database to obtain product information, a means for displaying or providing the obtained product information to the user by voice, and a means for providing information on what to do if the product is out of stock. By using this system, a user can efficiently obtain product information via voice or text, and can quickly obtain information such as replacement information and the next expected arrival date even if the product is out of stock.

[0006] "User" refers to a person who uses this system to search for product information.

[0007] "Voice or text" refers to the method by which a user inputs product information into the system.

[0008] "Product information" refers to information such as the name, price, availability, and location of the product the user is looking for.

[0009] "Voice input" refers to a method in which a user verbally communicates product information to the system using a microphone or the like.

[0010] "Text data" refers to speech input converted into text or text entered directly by the user.

[0011] A "query" refers to a search request made to a database.

[0012] "Server" refers to a computer system that executes queries against a database, retrieves the results, and returns them to the terminal.

[0013] "Database" refers to a collection of information in which product information is stored.

[0014] "Means for obtaining" refers to the method by which the server searches the database for product information and obtains the results.

[0015] "Means for providing by display or sound" refers to a method for providing the acquired product information to the user visually or aurally.

[0016] "Information on what to do when the product is out of stock" refers to information such as information on alternative products and information on when the product the user is looking for is out of stock. [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 relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in a large-scale shopping center. The following describes in detail an embodiment of the present invention, a specific system configuration, and its operation.

[0039] System configuration

[0040] The system consists of the following main components:

[0041] 1. A device where users can input product information by voice or text

[0042] 2. A speech recognition module that converts voice input into text

[0043] 3. Search query generation module that generates search queries from text data

[0044] 4. A server that receives search queries and searches the database for product information

[0045] 5. A terminal that displays or provides audio search results from the server to the user

[0046] 6. Server that provides information on replacements and arrival schedules when items are out of stock

[0047] Program processing

[0048] The operation of this system is as follows.

[0049] User Input

[0050] The user inputs information about the product they want into the terminal in voice or text format. For example, they may input a voice command such as, "Where is the iPhone (registered trademark) 14 Pro?"

[0051] Speech Recognition and Text Analytics

[0052] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using a speech recognition module. For example, the voice input "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text data. The text input information then proceeds to the next step.

[0053] Generating a search query

[0054] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data, for example, a query in the format "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0055] Submitting queries and searching the database

[0056] The terminal sends the generated search query to the server, which searches a database based on the received query to obtain information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status).

[0057] Returning and displaying search results

[0058] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. For example, it might display or output something like, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[0059] What to do if there is no stock

[0060] If the server determines from the database that the product is out of stock, it generates additional information, including replacement information and the next expected arrival date. This information is returned to the terminal and provided to the user, for example, "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[0061] Specific examples

[0062] Example 1: Product search and stock check

[0063] A user utters, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0064] The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0065] The terminal sends a query to the server.

[0066] The server searches the database based on the query and retrieves the result "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, In ​​stock: 3."

[0067] The server sends the results back to the terminal, which displays them and speaks them to the user.

[0068] Example 2: What to do when there is no stock

[0069] A user texts, "Where is my Samsung Galaxy S20?"

[0070] The device generates the search query "Product name: Samsung Galaxy S20."

[0071] The terminal sends a query to the server.

[0072] The server searches the database based on the query and finds that the item is out of stock.

[0073] The server generates alternative information such as "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[0074] The server returns the alternative information to the terminal, which displays it and audibly conveys it to the user.

[0075] As described above, the present invention provides a specific method for efficiently obtaining product information desired by a user, and has the effect of improving the user's shopping experience.

[0076] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0077] Step 1:

[0078] Users can enter information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, such as "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0079] Step 2:

[0080] The device detects voice input, and the voice recognition module converts the voice into text. In the case of text input, the device receives the text data as is.

[0081] Step 3:

[0082] The system filters out unnecessary noise and irrelevant information from the text data acquired by the device and generates appropriate search queries, such as "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0083] Step 4:

[0084] The device generates a search query and sends it to the server. For example, a query in the format "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro" is sent to the server.

[0085] Step 5:

[0086] The server parses the query and performs a search against a database that contains information such as product location, price, and availability.

[0087] Step 6:

[0088] The server retrieves search results from the database and aggregates product information that corresponds to the query, such as "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, In ​​stock: 3."

[0089] Step 7:

[0090] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal. For example, the aggregated information above is sent to the terminal.

[0091] Step 8:

[0092] The device analyzes the returned product information and displays it visually to the user. It also uses a speech synthesis function to provide the information to the user aloud. For example, it might say, "The iPhone 14 Pro is in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock."

[0093] Step 9:

[0094] If the server determines that the item is out of stock, it generates replacement information or information about the expected arrival date. For example, it generates information such as "out of stock, next arrival is next week."

[0095] Step 10:

[0096] The server then returns the generated replacement information to the device, for example in the form "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[0097] Step 11:

[0098] The device can analyze the alternative information and display it visually to the user, or it can use speech synthesis to provide the information to the user aloud, for example, "The Samsung Galaxy S20 is currently out of stock. The next shipment is expected next week."

[0099] Example 1

[0100] 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."

[0101] In today's large-scale shopping centers, it is often difficult for users to quickly and accurately find the products they are looking for. It is also difficult to grasp product inventory information and arrival schedule information in real time. Furthermore, systems that use voice input are prone to misrecognition and noise, so highly accurate information provision is required. Therefore, the challenge is to provide a system that allows users to easily and accurately obtain product information.

[0102] 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.

[0103] In this invention, the server includes means for a user to input product information by voice or text, means for converting the voice input into text, means for generating a search query from the text, means for transmitting the search query to the server, means for the server to search a database to obtain product information, means for providing the obtained product information to the user by display or voice, means for providing information on countermeasures when the product is out of stock, means for automatically generating an appropriate search query using a generative AI model, and means for providing the obtained product information by voice using voice synthesis technology, thereby enabling users to quickly and accurately obtain desired product information.

[0104] A "user" is someone who uses the system to search for product information.

[0105] "Product information" refers to detailed information about a product, such as its location, price, stock status, and expected arrival date.

[0106] "Voice input" is information that a user inputs into the system through speech.

[0107] "Text input" is information that a user inputs into a system through text.

[0108] A "voice recognition module" is a software and hardware component for converting voice input into text data.

[0109] A "search query" is a statement for database search that is generated based on the product information that a user is looking for.

[0110] A "server" is a computer system that receives a search query sent by a user, searches a database to obtain product information, and returns that information to the terminal.

[0111] A "database" is a collection of digital storage devices for storing and managing product information.

[0112] A "generative AI model" is an artificial intelligence technology that uses natural language processing technology to automatically generate appropriate search queries.

[0113] "Speech synthesis technology" is a technology that converts text data into speech and reads it aloud.

[0114] "Alternative information" is additional information such as similar products provided when an item is out of stock or the next expected arrival date.

[0115] The present invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in large-scale shopping centers. This system includes the following main components:

[0116] System configuration

[0117] The system consists of the following main components:

[0118] 1. A device where users can input product information by voice or text

[0119] 2. A speech recognition module that converts voice input into text

[0120] 3. Search query generation module that generates search queries from text data

[0121] 4. A server that receives search queries and searches the database for product information

[0122] 5. A terminal that displays or provides audio search results from the server to the user

[0123] 6. Server that provides information on replacements and arrival schedules when items are out of stock

[0124] System Operation

[0125] User Input

[0126] Users can input information about the product they want into the device using voice or text. For example, users can input information such as "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0127] Speech Recognition and Text Analytics

[0128] The device converts the speech into text data using a speech recognition module (specifically, the Google® Cloud Speech-to-Text API). For example, the speech "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text data. The text input information then proceeds to the next step.

[0129] Generating a search query

[0130] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data. This process uses natural language processing (NLP) techniques. For example, it generates a query in the format "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro." It then uses a generative AI model (e.g., GPT-4 (registered trademark)) to convert the query into the appropriate format.

[0131] Submitting queries and searching the database

[0132] The terminal sends the generated search query to the server, which searches a database (e.g., MySQL (registered trademark), PostgreSQL) based on the received query to obtain information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status).

[0133] Returning and displaying search results

[0134] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis (specifically, Amazon Polly, etc.). For example, it might display or output a message like, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[0135] What to do if there is no stock

[0136] If the server finds that the product is out of stock after a database search, it generates replacement information and information about the next expected arrival date. This information is returned to the terminal and provided to the user in the form of "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[0137] Specific examples

[0138] Example 1: Product search and stock check

[0139] 1. The user utters, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0140] 2. The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0141] 3. The device sends a query to the server.

[0142] 4. The server searches the database based on the query and retrieves the result "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, In ​​stock: 3."

[0143] 5. The server sends the results back to the terminal, which displays them and speaks them to the user.

[0144] Example 2: What to do when there is no stock

[0145] 1. A user texts, "Where is my Samsung Galaxy S20?"

[0146] 2. The device generates the search query "Product Name: Samsung Galaxy S20."

[0147] 3. The device sends a query to the server.

[0148] 4. The server searches the database based on the query and finds that the item is out of stock.

[0149] 5. The server generates alternative information: "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[0150] 6. The server returns the alternative information to the terminal, which displays it and audibly conveys it to the user.

[0151] As described above, the present invention provides a specific method for efficiently obtaining product information desired by a user, and has the effect of improving the user's shopping experience.

[0152] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0153] Step 1: User Input

[0154] A user uses a device such as a smartphone or tablet to input information about a desired product in voice or text format. As a specific example, consider the case where a user voice-inputs, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?" This input is sent to the device. The input is provided to the device in the data format of "user inputting product information by voice."

[0155] Step 2: Speech recognition and text analysis

[0156] The device uses a speech recognition module to convert speech into text data. Specifically, the device uses the Google Cloud Speech-to-Text API to convert the speech "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" into text data. The input is "speech data from the user" and the output is "text data." The converted text then proceeds to the next step.

[0157] Step 3: Generating a search query

[0158] The device generates appropriate search queries from the text data. This process uses natural language processing technology. Specifically, the device uses a generative AI model (e.g., GPT-4) to automatically generate search queries in the format "Product Name: iPhone 14 Pro." The input is "text data" and the output is "search queries."

[0159] Step 4: Submitting a query and searching the database

[0160] The device sends the generated search query to the server. The server searches the database based on the received query to retrieve product information. Specifically, the server searches the MySQL database and retrieves the result "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, Stock: 3 units." The input is the "search query" and the output is "product information."

[0161] Step 5: Return and display search results

[0162] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. Specifically, the device uses Amazon Polly to display or output the following message: "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock." The input is "product information," and the output is "display or audio output."

[0163] Step 6: What to do if there is no stock

[0164] If the server finds that the product is out of stock as a result of a database search, it generates replacement information and information about the next expected arrival date. Specifically, the server generates replacement information such as "out of stock, next arrival scheduled for next week." The server returns this information to the terminal, which then presents it to the user. The input is "out of stock information," and the output is "replacement information and information about the next expected arrival date."

[0165] (Application example 1)

[0166] 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."

[0167] The challenge is that users cannot quickly and accurately obtain information about the products they want in physical stores. Another problem is that alternative information cannot be provided appropriately when an item is out of stock. Furthermore, the lack of a system that provides real-time information in response to user voice input means that the user's shopping experience is not improved.

[0168] 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.

[0169] In this invention, the server includes: means for a user to input product information by voice or text; means for converting the voice input into text; means for generating a search query from the text; means for the server to search a database to obtain product information; means for displaying or providing the obtained product information to the user by voice; means for providing information on what to do if the product is out of stock; and means for obtaining product information in real time in response to the user's voice input and displaying or providing voice guidance on the smart device. This enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information on products they want in a physical store and provides information on alternative products in real time if the product is out of stock, thereby improving their shopping experience.

[0170] A "user" is a consumer who uses the system to search for product information.

[0171] "Means for inputting product information by voice or text" refers to a device or application that allows a user to input product information in voice or text format.

[0172] A "means for converting voice input into text" is software or a device that has the function of analyzing a user's voice and converting it into text data.

[0173] The "means for generating a search query from text" is a software module that generates a query for searching for product information based on input text data.

[0174] The "means for transmitting a search query to a server" refers to a device or application that has the function of transmitting the generated search query to a server via a network.

[0175] "Means for the server to search the database and obtain product information" refers to the function of searching and obtaining the relevant product information from the database using the search query received by the server.

[0176] The "means for displaying or providing audio information to the user about the acquired product information" refers to a device or application that visually displays or audio-guides the product information returned from the server to the user.

[0177] The "means for providing countermeasure information in case of out of stock" is a function that provides the user with information on substitute products and the next expected arrival date when the searched product is out of stock.

[0178] "Means for acquiring product information in real time in response to the user's voice input and displaying or providing voice guidance on a smart device" refers to a function that processes the user's voice input in real time and instantly displays or provides guidance on the product information on a device such as a smartphone or smart glasses.

[0179] This invention relates to a system that allows users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in physical stores. This system searches for product information in real time based on the user's voice or text input, and displays the results on a smart device or provides voice guidance. The specific system configuration and operation are described below.

[0180] System configuration

[0181] The system mainly consists of the following components:

[0182] 1. How users can enter product information by voice or text:

[0183] This is achieved through devices such as smartphones and smart glasses.

[0184] 2. Means of converting voice input to text:

[0185] Use the speech_recognition library to convert speech into highly accurate text data.

[0186] 3. How to generate a search query from text:

[0187] A software module that analyzes text and generates queries for product searches.

[0188] 4. Means for sending search queries to the server:

[0189] Send the query to the server over the network using the HTTP client library requests.

[0190] 5. How the server searches the database to get product information:

[0191] The server-side program searches the product database based on the received query and obtains the relevant product information.

[0192] 6. Means for displaying or providing audio of the acquired product information to the user:

[0193] The acquired information is displayed on the smart device, or a voice synthesis tool (pyttsx3) is used to provide audio guidance to the user.

[0194] 7. Means of providing information on what to do if there is no stock:

[0195] When the server obtains out-of-stock information, it generates substitute products and the next expected arrival date and notifies the user.

[0196] 8. Means for obtaining product information in real time in response to user voice input and displaying or providing voice guidance on a smart device:

[0197] This provides users with real-time information and improves their shopping experience.

[0198] Program processing

[0199] 1. User Input

[0200] A user speaks, "Where can I find the latest smartphone?"

[0201] 2. Speech Recognition and Text Analysis

[0202] The smart device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: latest smartphone."

[0203] 3. Submitting a query and searching the database

[0204] A query is sent to the server, and the server searches the database based on the query to obtain product information.

[0205] 4. Returning and Displaying Search Results

[0206] For example, it might return a result like, "This smartphone is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $800 and there are five in stock."

[0207] 5. What to do if there is no stock

[0208] If "Product name: Latest smartphone" is out of stock, the server generates information saying "Currently out of stock. The next shipment is expected to arrive next week" and notifies the user.

[0209] Specific examples

[0210] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0211] If a user utters the voice command "Where is the latest smartphone?", the following sequence of events occurs:

[0212] 1. Convert the user's voice input into highly accurate text data.

[0213] 2. Analyze the text data to generate a search query and send it to the server.

[0214] 3. The server searches the database to retrieve the product information.

[0215] 4. The acquired information is displayed on the smart device and guidance is given to the user via voice.

[0216] This allows users to quickly and accurately obtain product information in physical stores, improving their shopping experience.

[0217] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0218] Step 1:

[0219] User Input

[0220] A user uses a smart device (e.g., a smartphone or smart glasses) to input information about a desired product using voice or text. For example, a voice input may be, "Where can I find the latest smartphone?" Based on this input, the smart device obtains voice or text data. As a result of this step, user input data (voice or text) is generated.

[0221] Step 2:

[0222] Speech recognition and text conversion

[0223] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using the speech_recognition library. It uses a specific noise reduction algorithm to clean the input data, and then performs speech recognition. For example, the voice input "Where is the latest smartphone?" is converted into text data "Where is the latest smartphone?". The result of this step is text data.

[0224] Step 3:

[0225] Generating a search query

[0226] The device analyzes the text data obtained in step 2 and generates a query for a product search. For example, from the text data "Where can I find the latest smartphone?", the device creates a search query "Product name: latest smartphone." As a result of this step, a search query is generated.

[0227] Step 4:

[0228] Submitting a query

[0229] The device sends the generated search query to the server. It uses the HTTP client library, requests, to send the query data to the server over the network. As a result of this step, the query data is sent to the server.

[0230] Step 5:

[0231] Database search

[0232] The server searches the database based on the received search query. Using a specific algorithm, it retrieves the relevant product information from the database. For example, it retrieves the location, price, and availability of the product corresponding to "Product name: latest smartphone." As a result of this step, the product information is extracted.

[0233] Step 6:

[0234] Returning and displaying search results

[0235] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal. The smart device displays the returned information to the user and provides voice guidance using a speech synthesis tool (pyttsx3). For example, the smart device may display and guide the user, saying, "The latest smartphone is in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $800 and there are five in stock." As a result of this step, the product information is provided to the user.

[0236] Step 7:

[0237] What to do if there is no stock

[0238] If the database search results in a product being out of stock, the server finds information about alternative products and the next expected arrival date. For example, it generates information such as "The latest smartphone is out of stock. The next arrival date is next week." The server returns this alternative information to the terminal, which notifies the user. As a result of this step, the alternative information is provided to the user.

[0239] 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.

[0240] This invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in large-scale shopping centers. In particular, it aims to provide a more personalized user experience by combining an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and provides information and follow-ups according to those emotions.

[0241] System configuration

[0242] The system consists of the following main components:

[0243] 1. A device where users can input product information by voice or text

[0244] 2. A speech recognition module that converts voice input into text

[0245] 3. Search query generation module that generates search queries from text data

[0246] 4. A server that receives search queries and searches the database for product information

[0247] 5. A terminal that displays or provides audio search results from the server to the user

[0248] 6. Server that provides information on replacements and arrival schedules when items are out of stock

[0249] 7. Emotion engine that recognizes user emotions

[0250] Program processing

[0251] The operation of this system is as follows.

[0252] User Input

[0253] Users input information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, for example, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0254] Speech Recognition and Text Analytics

[0255] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using a speech recognition module. For example, the voice input "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text data. The text input information then proceeds to the next step.

[0256] emotion recognition

[0257] The device then sends the converted text data to an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotions. For example, emotions such as "excitement" or "disappointment" can be analyzed from the user's voice and text.

[0258] Generating a search query

[0259] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data, for example, "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0260] Submitting queries and searching the database

[0261] The terminal sends the generated search query to the server, which searches a database based on the received query to obtain information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status).

[0262] Returning and displaying search results

[0263] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. For example, it might display or output something like, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[0264] Emotion-based information customization

[0265] The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and customizes the information provided. For example, if the user is in a hurry, the device will provide concise and quick instructions, such as "The iPhone 14 Pro is on the second floor, the first shelf on the right."

[0266] What to do if there is no stock

[0267] If the server determines from the database that the product is out of stock, it generates additional information, including replacement information and the next expected arrival date. This information is returned to the terminal and provided to the user, for example, "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[0268] Emotion-Based Follow-Up

[0269] If the user is expressing negative emotions such as disappointment or anger, the emotion engine will detect that emotion and trigger a specific action (such as providing contact information for customer support), such as "This item is currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. Please contact customer support for more information."

[0270] Specific examples

[0271] Example 1: Product Search and Emotion Recognition

[0272] A user speaks, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0273] The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0274] The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is excited.

[0275] The device sends a query to the server, and the server retrieves the information and sends it back.

[0276] The device will display, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It is priced at $999 and there are three in stock," and a voice will provide further details, "It's on the second floor, first shelf on the right."

[0277] Example 2: Emotion recognition and follow-up when out of stock

[0278] A user texts in "Where is my Samsung Galaxy S20?"

[0279] The device generates the search query "Product name: Samsung Galaxy S20."

[0280] The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is anxious.

[0281] The device sends a query to the server, and the server retrieves the information and sends it back.

[0282] The server confirms that there is no stock and generates alternative information such as "out of stock, next arrival expected next week."

[0283] The device will display the message "Currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. If you need more information, please contact customer support" and provide a voice guide.

[0284] In this way, the present invention can efficiently obtain product information that users desire, and by using an emotion engine, it is possible to provide personalized information, thereby dramatically improving the user experience.

[0285] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0286] Step 1:

[0287] Users can enter information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, such as "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0288] Step 2:

[0289] The device detects voice input, and the voice recognition module converts the voice into text. In the case of text input, the device receives the text data as is.

[0290] Step 3:

[0291] The system filters out unnecessary noise and irrelevant information from the text data acquired by the device and generates appropriate search queries, such as "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0292] Step 4:

[0293] The device sends the converted text data to an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotions, such as "excitement" or "disappointment" from the user's voice and text.

[0294] Step 5:

[0295] The device generates a search query and sends it to the server. For example, a query in the format "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro" is sent to the server.

[0296] Step 6:

[0297] The server parses the query and performs a search against a database that contains information such as product location, price, and availability.

[0298] Step 7:

[0299] The server retrieves search results from the database and aggregates product information that corresponds to the query, such as "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, In ​​stock: 3."

[0300] Step 8:

[0301] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal. For example, the aggregated information above is sent to the terminal.

[0302] Step 9:

[0303] The device analyzes the returned product information and displays it visually to the user. It also uses a speech synthesis function to provide the information to the user aloud. For example, it might say, "The iPhone 14 Pro is in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock."

[0304] Step 10:

[0305] The device will customize the information it provides based on the user's emotions. For example, if the user is excited, it will provide more concise and specific instructions, such as "The iPhone 14 Pro is on the second floor, the first shelf on the right."

[0306] Step 11:

[0307] If the server determines that the item is out of stock, it generates replacement information or information about the expected arrival date. For example, it generates information such as "out of stock, next arrival is next week."

[0308] Step 12:

[0309] The server then returns the generated replacement information to the device, for example in the form "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[0310] Step 13:

[0311] The device can analyze the alternative information and display it visually to the user, or it can use speech synthesis to provide the information to the user aloud, for example, "This item is currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. Please contact customer support for more information."

[0312] Step 14:

[0313] If the device recognizes that the user's sentiment is negative, it can trigger a specific action, such as providing contact information for customer support, such as saying, "This item is currently out of stock. Please contact customer support."

[0314] Example 2

[0315] 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."

[0316] The present invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want, and that also provides personalized information by recognizing the user's emotions. Conventional shopping systems have had problems with the cumbersome process of obtaining product information, which reduces user satisfaction. Furthermore, there are also problems with insufficient measures to deal with out-of-stock items, which increases user dissatisfaction.

[0317] 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.

[0318] In this invention, the server includes a means for recognizing a user's emotion, a means for customizing information to be provided based on the recognized emotion, and a means for providing follow-up information to a user who has expressed a negative emotion. This not only enables efficient acquisition of product information desired by the user, but also enables provision of personalized information according to the emotion. This dramatically improves user satisfaction and reduces dissatisfaction.

[0319] "User" refers to a consumer or user who uses the system to search for or inquire about product information.

[0320] "Voice input" refers to spoken instructions or questions given by a user using a microphone or voice recognition device.

[0321] "Text" refers to character information that a user inputs using a keyboard or touch screen.

[0322] "Product Information" refers to data including detailed information such as product price, availability, and location.

[0323] "Voice-to-text conversion means" refers to technology that uses speech recognition software or hardware to convert a voice signal into corresponding text data.

[0324] A "search query" refers to a specific query statement for searching a database, generated from text entered by a user.

[0325] "Server" refers to a computer system that receives a search query and searches a database for relevant product information.

[0326] A "database" refers to a collection of data for storing detailed product information, stock status, pricing information, etc.

[0327] "Inventory" refers to the quantity of a particular product currently available for sale.

[0328] "Countermeasure information" refers to information such as alternative products and the next expected arrival date that is provided when a product is out of stock.

[0329] "Means for recognizing user emotions" refers to technology that analyzes the user's emotional state from their voice or text.

[0330] "Means for customizing information provided based on recognized emotions" refers to technology that adjusts the product information and guidance methods provided depending on the user's emotional state.

[0331] "Means for providing follow-up information to users who express negative emotions" refers to technology that provides additional support or alternatives when a user expresses negative emotions such as disappointment or anger.

[0332] This invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in large-scale shopping centers. In particular, it aims to provide a more personalized user experience by combining an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and provides information and follow-ups according to those emotions.

[0333] System configuration

[0334] The system consists of the following main components:

[0335] 1. A device where users can input product information by voice or text

[0336] 2. A speech recognition module that converts voice input into text

[0337] 3. Search query generation module that generates search queries from text data

[0338] 4. A server that receives search queries and searches the database for product information

[0339] 5. A terminal that displays or provides audio search results from the server to the user

[0340] 6. Server that provides information on replacements and arrival schedules when items are out of stock

[0341] 7. Emotion engine that recognizes user emotions

[0342] Program processing

[0343] The operation of this system is as follows.

[0344] Users input information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, for example, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0345] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using a speech recognition module. Specifically, the Google Cloud Speech-to-Text API is used for speech recognition. This converts the speech "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" into text data. The text input information then proceeds to the next step.

[0346] The converted text data is then sent from the device to an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions. The emotion engine uses IBM Watson (registered trademark) Tone Analyzer, which analyzes emotions such as "excitement" or "disappointment" from the user's voice and text.

[0347] The device then generates an appropriate search query from the text data, for example, "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0348] The terminal sends the generated search query to the server. The server searches the database based on the received query and obtains information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status). The database uses PostgreSQL, MySQL, or similar.

[0349] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. Speech synthesis uses Amazon Polly or Google Text-to-Speech. For example, the device might display or output a message saying, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock."

[0350] The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and customizes the information accordingly. For example, if the user is in a hurry, the device will provide concise and quick instructions, providing detailed information such as "The iPhone 14 Pro is on the second floor, the first shelf on the right."

[0351] Furthermore, if the server finds that the product is out of stock after a database search, it generates additional information including replacement information and the next expected arrival date. This information is returned to the terminal and provided to the user in the form of "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[0352] If the user expresses negative emotions such as disappointment or anger, the emotion engine detects this emotion and triggers a specific action (such as providing contact information for customer support), such as "This item is currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. Please contact customer support for more information."

[0353] Specific examples

[0354] Example 1: Product Search and Emotion Recognition

[0355] 1. The user speaks, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0356] 2. The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0357] 3. The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is excited.

[0358] 4. The device sends a query to the server, which retrieves the information and sends it back.

[0359] 5. The device will display, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It is priced at $999 and there are three in stock," and a voice will provide further guidance, "It's on the second floor, on the first shelf on the right."

[0360] Example 2: Emotion recognition and follow-up when out of stock

[0361] 1. The user texts in "Where is my Samsung Galaxy S20?"

[0362] 2. The device generates the search query "Product Name: Samsung Galaxy S20."

[0363] 3. The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is anxious.

[0364] 4. The device sends a query to the server, which retrieves the information and sends it back.

[0365] 5. The server confirms that the item is out of stock and generates alternative information such as "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[0366] 6. The device will display and provide a voice prompt saying, "This item is currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. If you require further details, please contact customer support."

[0367] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0368] Product search and emotion recognition prompts

[0369] "Say 'Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?' and use voice recognition, emotion recognition, and database lookup to provide the information to the user."

[0370] Out of stock prompt

[0371] "Text 'Where is the Samsung Galaxy S20?' to check emotion recognition and stock information. If it's out of stock, provide follow-up information."

[0372] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0373] Step 1:

[0374] The user inputs information about the product they want into the device in voice or text format. For example, they might say, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?" The input data is voice data or text data.

[0375] Step 2:

[0376] The device converts voice input into text data using a speech recognition module. Specifically, the Google Cloud Speech-to-Text API is used for speech recognition. This converts voice data into text data. For example, the speech "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text data "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0377] Step 3:

[0378] The device sends the converted text data to an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotion. The emotion engine uses IBM Watson Tone Analyzer. The input data is text data, and the output is the user's emotional information (e.g., "excitement," "disappointment," etc.). For example, the emotion "excitement" is recognized from the text "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0379] Step 4:

[0380] The terminal generates an appropriate search query from the text data. A search query generation module is used to analyze the text data and generate a search query. The input data is text data, and the output is a search query (e.g., "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro"). For example, the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro" is generated from the text data "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0381] Step 5:

[0382] The device sends the generated search query to the server. The input data is the search query, and the output is a data request with the search results. For example, the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro" is sent to the server.

[0383] Step 6:

[0384] The server searches a database based on the received search query and retrieves information about the relevant product. For example, it uses a database such as PostgreSQL or MySQL. The input data is the search query, and the output is detailed product information (e.g., price, location, stock status, etc.). For example, in response to the query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro," the server retrieves the information "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[0385] Step 7:

[0386] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal. The input data is detailed product information, and the output is data sent to the user. For example, the server might return detailed information such as, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[0387] Step 8:

[0388] The device displays the returned product information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. Speech synthesis uses Amazon Polly or Google Text-to-Speech. The input data is detailed product information, and the output is display information or voice output. For example, the device might display information such as "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock," and then provide a voice prompt saying, "It's on the second floor, on the first shelf on the right."

[0389] Step 9:

[0390] The information provided is customized according to the user's emotions recognized by the emotion engine. The input data is emotional information, and the output is customized guidance information. For example, if the user is in a hurry, the system will provide concise and quick guidance, providing detailed information such as, "The iPhone 14 Pro is on the second floor, the first shelf on the right."

[0391] Step 10:

[0392] If the server finds that the product is out of stock as a result of a database search, it generates replacement information and information on the next expected arrival date. The input data is the inventory status, and the output is the replacement information and the expected arrival date. For example, it may return to the terminal and provide to the user a message such as "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[0393] Step 11:

[0394] The emotion engine triggers a specific action (such as providing contact information for customer support) for users who express negative emotions such as disappointment or anger. The input data is emotion information, and the output is follow-up information. For example, it might say, "We are currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. If you need more information, please contact customer support."

[0395] (Application example 2)

[0396] 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."

[0397] In today's large-scale shopping centers, it is often difficult for users to quickly and accurately find the products they want. This is particularly true when an item is out of stock or when product information is complex, significantly impairing the user experience. Furthermore, the current system lacks information provision that takes user emotions into consideration, and optimal support is not provided to individual users. This often leads to frustration and reduced satisfaction, creating a problem. There is a need for a system that can solve these issues and provide personalized information based on user emotions.

[0398] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.

[0399] In this invention, the server includes means for analyzing the user's emotions and personalizing information based on the emotions, means for providing simple and quick guidance when the user is impatient, and means for activating a specific action when the user shows disappointment or anger, thereby enabling personalized information provision that takes the user's emotions into consideration.

[0400] A "user" is an individual or organization that uses the system to search for product information and has the intention to purchase.

[0401] "Voice input" refers to voice instructions or questions given by the user through a microphone.

[0402] "Text input" refers to character information that a user inputs using an input device such as a keyboard.

[0403] "Means for converting to text" refers to a module that analyzes voice input and converts it into corresponding text information.

[0404] A "search query" is a specific search expression that is generated by the system to query the server for product information.

[0405] "Server" refers to a computing resource that processes search queries received from users and retrieves or provides information from a database.

[0406] A "database" is an electronic collection of information that systematically stores and manages product information and inventory information.

[0407] The "display means" refers to a function for visually displaying the acquired product information on the user's terminal screen.

[0408] "Means for providing information by voice" refers to a function that uses voice synthesis technology to convey acquired information to the user by voice.

[0409] "Countermeasure information" refers to additional information such as alternatives and expected arrival dates that are provided to users when a particular product is out of stock.

[0410] "Emotion engine" refers to a system component that analyzes user input and determines their emotional state.

[0411] "Personalization" is the act of customizing information according to a user's specific needs or emotional state.

[0412] "Concise and prompt guidance" refers to the act of quickly providing the minimum necessary information when the user is in a hurry.

[0413] "Specific actions" include additional remedial measures that are initiated when a user expresses disappointment or anger, such as providing contact information for customer support.

[0414] System Overview

[0415] The system for implementing this invention allows users to easily search for product information using voice or text, and provides personalized information based on the emotions expressed during the search. The main components include a voice recognition module, an emotion engine, a search query generation module, a server, a database, information display means, and voice output means.

[0416] Hardware and software used

[0417] Hardware:

[0418] User terminal devices such as smartphones and tablets

[0419] A server with internet access

[0420] software:

[0421] Voice recognition software (e.g., Google Speech-to-Text API)

[0422] Sentiment analysis software (e.g. TextBlob)

[0423] Database management software (e.g., MySQL)

[0424] Text-to-speech software (e.g., Google Text-to-Speech API)

[0425] System Operation

[0426] The user inputs information about the product they want into the device using voice or text. For example, consider the voice input of "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0427] Speech to text:

[0428] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using a speech recognition module (Google Speech-to-Text API), and the text input information proceeds to the next step as is.

[0429] Emotion recognition:

[0430] The device sends the converted text data to emotion analysis software (TextBlob) to recognize the user's emotions. For example, emotions such as "excitement" or "disappointment" can be detected from the user's voice and text.

[0431] Generating a search query:

[0432] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data, for example, "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0433] Query the server and search the database:

[0434] The terminal sends the generated search query to the server, which searches a database (MySQL) based on the received query and obtains information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status).

[0435] Display or speak information:

[0436] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis software (Google Text-to-Speech API). For example, the device might say, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock."

[0437] Specific examples

[0438] As a specific example, consider the following scenario.

[0439] 1. The user speaks, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0440] 2. The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0441] 3. The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is excited.

[0442] 4. The device sends a query to the server, which retrieves the information and sends it back.

[0443] 5. The device will display, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock," and a voice will provide further details, "It's on the second floor, on the first shelf on the right."

[0444] Example prompt sentence:

[0445] When a user starts speaking, say, "I want a Samsung Galaxy S21," the app converts that speech to text, analyzes sentiment with an emotion engine, sends a search query to get product location and availability information, and displays or speaks personalized instructions to the user.

[0446] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0447] Step 1:

[0448] The user inputs product information by voice or text.

[0449] Input: User voice or text

[0450] Output: Audio data or text data

[0451] Specific action: A user uses a smartphone or tablet to speak or type something, for example, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0452] Step 2:

[0453] The device converts the voice input into text using a speech recognition module.

[0454] Input: Audio data

[0455] Output: Text data

[0456] Specific operation: The device's voice recognition software (e.g., Google Speech-to-Text API) analyzes the user's voice and converts it into text. For example, the spoken phrase "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text.

[0457] Step 3:

[0458] The terminal transmits the converted text data to an emotion engine, which analyzes the user's emotions.

[0459] Input: Text data

[0460] Output: Emotional information

[0461] How it works: The device's emotion analysis software (e.g., TextBlob) analyzes the text data and determines whether the emotion is positive, neutral, or negative. For example, it generates emotion information such as "excited" or "disappointed."

[0462] Step 4:

[0463] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data.

[0464] Input: Text data

[0465] Output: Search query

[0466] Specific operation: The device analyzes the text data and generates a search query such as "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0467] Step 5:

[0468] The terminal transmits the generated search query to the server.

[0469] Input: Search query

[0470] Output: Search query submission results

[0471] Specific operation: The search query generated by the device is sent to a server via the Internet.

[0472] Step 6:

[0473] The server searches the database based on the received query and obtains information about the product.

[0474] Input: Search query

[0475] Output: Product information

[0476] Specific operation: The server's database management software (e.g., MySQL) processes the received query and obtains information such as the location, price, and stock status of the relevant product.

[0477] Step 7:

[0478] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal.

[0479] Input: Product information

[0480] Output: Product information returned

[0481] Specific operation: The server collects the product information and sends it to the terminal.

[0482] Step 8:

[0483] The terminal displays or provides audio information about the returned product to the user.

[0484] Input: Product information

[0485] Output: Display or audio information

[0486] Specific operation: The device displays the product information it has acquired as text on the screen or provides a voice guide using speech synthesis software (e.g., Google Text-to-Speech API). For example, it might display or output a message saying, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It is priced at $999 and there are three in stock."

[0487] Step 9:

[0488] The device personalizes information based on the user's emotions.

[0489] Input: Emotion information, product information

[0490] Output: personalized display or audio information

[0491] Specific actions: Based on the information from the emotion engine, if the user is impatient, provide concise and quick instructions, or if the user shows disappointment or anger, trigger a specific action (e.g., provide customer support contact information). For example, add specific instructions such as, "If you are in a hurry, please use the escalator on the left."

[0492] Step 10:

[0493] The server provides alternatives and arrival schedules when the item is out of stock.

[0494] Input: Search query

[0495] Output: Alternatives or availability information

[0496] Specific operation: The server checks product information, and if it is out of stock, generates alternative information including the stock status of other stores and the next expected arrival date, and sends it to the terminal. For example, it displays or outputs a message such as, "Currently out of stock, but the next arrival date is next week."

[0497] 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.

[0498] 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.

[0499] 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.

[0500] [Second embodiment]

[0501] FIG. 3 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 210 according to the second embodiment.

[0502] 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.

[0503] 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).

[0504] 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.

[0505] 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.

[0506] 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).

[0507] 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.

[0508] 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.

[0509] 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.

[0510] 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.

[0511] 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.

[0512] 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."

[0513] The present invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in a large-scale shopping center. The following describes in detail an embodiment of the present invention, a specific system configuration, and its operation.

[0514] System configuration

[0515] The system consists of the following main components:

[0516] 1. A device where users can input product information by voice or text

[0517] 2. A speech recognition module that converts voice input into text

[0518] 3. Search query generation module that generates search queries from text data

[0519] 4. A server that receives search queries and searches the database for product information

[0520] 5. A terminal that displays or provides audio search results from the server to the user

[0521] 6. Server that provides information on replacements and arrival schedules when items are out of stock

[0522] Program processing

[0523] The operation of this system is as follows.

[0524] User Input

[0525] Users input information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, for example, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0526] Speech Recognition and Text Analytics

[0527] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using a speech recognition module. For example, the voice input "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text data. The text input information then proceeds to the next step.

[0528] Generating a search query

[0529] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data, for example, a query in the format "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0530] Submitting queries and searching the database

[0531] The terminal sends the generated search query to the server, which searches a database based on the received query to obtain information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status).

[0532] Returning and displaying search results

[0533] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. For example, it might display or output something like, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[0534] What to do if there is no stock

[0535] If the server determines from the database that the product is out of stock, it generates additional information, including replacement information and the next expected arrival date. This information is returned to the terminal and provided to the user, for example, "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[0536] Specific examples

[0537] Example 1: Product search and stock check

[0538] A user utters, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0539] The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0540] The terminal sends a query to the server.

[0541] The server searches the database based on the query and retrieves the result "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, In ​​stock: 3."

[0542] The server sends the results back to the terminal, which displays them and speaks them to the user.

[0543] Example 2: What to do when there is no stock

[0544] A user texts, "Where is my Samsung Galaxy S20?"

[0545] The device generates the search query "Product name: Samsung Galaxy S20."

[0546] The terminal sends a query to the server.

[0547] The server searches the database based on the query and finds that the item is out of stock.

[0548] The server generates alternative information such as "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[0549] The server returns the alternative information to the terminal, which displays it and audibly conveys it to the user.

[0550] As described above, the present invention provides a specific method for efficiently obtaining product information desired by a user, and has the effect of improving the user's shopping experience.

[0551] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0552] Step 1:

[0553] Users can enter information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, such as "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0554] Step 2:

[0555] The device detects voice input, and the voice recognition module converts the voice into text. In the case of text input, the device receives the text data as is.

[0556] Step 3:

[0557] The system filters out unnecessary noise and irrelevant information from the text data acquired by the device and generates appropriate search queries, such as "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0558] Step 4:

[0559] The device generates a search query and sends it to the server. For example, a query in the format "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro" is sent to the server.

[0560] Step 5:

[0561] The server parses the query and performs a search against a database that contains information such as product location, price, and availability.

[0562] Step 6:

[0563] The server retrieves search results from the database and aggregates product information that corresponds to the query, such as "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, In ​​stock: 3."

[0564] Step 7:

[0565] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal. For example, the aggregated information above is sent to the terminal.

[0566] Step 8:

[0567] The device analyzes the returned product information and displays it visually to the user. It also uses a speech synthesis function to provide the information to the user aloud. For example, it might say, "The iPhone 14 Pro is in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock."

[0568] Step 9:

[0569] If the server determines that the item is out of stock, it generates replacement information or information about the expected arrival date. For example, it generates information such as "out of stock, next arrival is next week."

[0570] Step 10:

[0571] The server then returns the generated replacement information to the device, for example in the form "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[0572] Step 11:

[0573] The device can analyze the alternative information and display it visually to the user, or it can use speech synthesis to provide the information to the user aloud, for example, "The Samsung Galaxy S20 is currently out of stock. The next shipment is expected next week."

[0574] Example 1

[0575] 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."

[0576] In today's large-scale shopping centers, it is often difficult for users to quickly and accurately find the products they are looking for. It is also difficult to grasp product inventory information and arrival schedule information in real time. Furthermore, systems that use voice input are prone to misrecognition and noise, so highly accurate information provision is required. Therefore, the challenge is to provide a system that allows users to easily and accurately obtain product information.

[0577] 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.

[0578] In this invention, the server includes means for a user to input product information by voice or text, means for converting the voice input into text, means for generating a search query from the text, means for transmitting the search query to the server, means for the server to search a database to obtain product information, means for providing the obtained product information to the user by display or voice, means for providing information on countermeasures when the product is out of stock, means for automatically generating an appropriate search query using a generative AI model, and means for providing the obtained product information by voice using voice synthesis technology, thereby enabling users to quickly and accurately obtain desired product information.

[0579] A "user" is someone who uses the system to search for product information.

[0580] "Product information" refers to detailed information about a product, such as its location, price, stock status, and expected arrival date.

[0581] "Voice input" is information that a user inputs into the system through speech.

[0582] "Text input" is information that a user inputs into a system through text.

[0583] A "voice recognition module" is a software and hardware component for converting voice input into text data.

[0584] A "search query" is a statement for database search that is generated based on the product information that a user is looking for.

[0585] A "server" is a computer system that receives a search query sent by a user, searches a database to obtain product information, and returns that information to the terminal.

[0586] A "database" is a collection of digital storage devices for storing and managing product information.

[0587] A "generative AI model" is an artificial intelligence technology that uses natural language processing technology to automatically generate appropriate search queries.

[0588] "Speech synthesis technology" is a technology that converts text data into speech and reads it aloud.

[0589] "Alternative information" is additional information such as similar products provided when an item is out of stock or the next expected arrival date.

[0590] The present invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in large-scale shopping centers. This system includes the following main components:

[0591] System configuration

[0592] The system consists of the following main components:

[0593] 1. A device where users can input product information by voice or text

[0594] 2. A speech recognition module that converts voice input into text

[0595] 3. Search query generation module that generates search queries from text data

[0596] 4. A server that receives search queries and searches the database for product information

[0597] 5. A terminal that displays or provides audio search results from the server to the user

[0598] 6. Server that provides information on replacements and arrival schedules when items are out of stock

[0599] System Operation

[0600] User Input

[0601] Users can input information about the product they want into the device using voice or text. For example, users can input information such as "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0602] Speech Recognition and Text Analytics

[0603] The device converts the speech into text data using a speech recognition module (specifically, the Google Cloud Speech-to-Text API). For example, the speech "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text data. The text input information then proceeds to the next step.

[0604] Generating a search query

[0605] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data using natural language processing (NLP) techniques. For example, it generates a query in the format "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro." It then uses a generative AI model (e.g., GPT-4) to convert the query into the appropriate format.

[0606] Submitting queries and searching the database

[0607] The device sends the generated search query to the server, which searches a database (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL) based on the received query to obtain information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status).

[0608] Returning and displaying search results

[0609] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis (specifically, Amazon Polly, etc.). For example, it might display or output a message like, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[0610] What to do if there is no stock

[0611] If the server finds that the product is out of stock after a database search, it generates replacement information and information about the next expected arrival date. This information is returned to the terminal and provided to the user in the form of "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[0612] Specific examples

[0613] Example 1: Product search and stock check

[0614] 1. The user utters, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0615] 2. The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0616] 3. The device sends a query to the server.

[0617] 4. The server searches the database based on the query and retrieves the result "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, In ​​stock: 3."

[0618] 5. The server sends the results back to the terminal, which displays them and speaks them to the user.

[0619] Example 2: What to do when there is no stock

[0620] 1. A user texts, "Where is my Samsung Galaxy S20?"

[0621] 2. The device generates the search query "Product Name: Samsung Galaxy S20."

[0622] 3. The device sends a query to the server.

[0623] 4. The server searches the database based on the query and finds that the item is out of stock.

[0624] 5. The server generates alternative information: "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[0625] 6. The server returns the alternative information to the terminal, which displays it and audibly conveys it to the user.

[0626] As described above, the present invention provides a specific method for efficiently obtaining product information desired by a user, and has the effect of improving the user's shopping experience.

[0627] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0628] Step 1: User Input

[0629] A user uses a device such as a smartphone or tablet to input information about a desired product in voice or text format. As a specific example, consider the case where a user voice-inputs, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?" This input is sent to the device. The input is provided to the device in the data format of "user inputting product information by voice."

[0630] Step 2: Speech recognition and text analysis

[0631] The device uses a speech recognition module to convert speech into text data. Specifically, the device uses the Google Cloud Speech-to-Text API to convert the speech "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" into text data. The input is "speech data from the user" and the output is "text data." The converted text then proceeds to the next step.

[0632] Step 3: Generating a search query

[0633] The device generates appropriate search queries from the text data. This process uses natural language processing technology. Specifically, the device uses a generative AI model (e.g., GPT-4) to automatically generate search queries in the format "Product Name: iPhone 14 Pro." The input is "text data" and the output is "search queries."

[0634] Step 4: Submitting a query and searching the database

[0635] The device sends the generated search query to the server. The server searches the database based on the received query to retrieve product information. Specifically, the server searches the MySQL database and retrieves the result "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, Stock: 3 units." The input is the "search query" and the output is "product information."

[0636] Step 5: Return and display search results

[0637] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. Specifically, the device uses Amazon Polly to display or output the following message: "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock." The input is "product information," and the output is "display or audio output."

[0638] Step 6: What to do if there is no stock

[0639] If the server finds that the product is out of stock as a result of a database search, it generates replacement information and information about the next expected arrival date. Specifically, the server generates replacement information such as "out of stock, next arrival scheduled for next week." The server returns this information to the terminal, which then presents it to the user. The input is "out of stock information," and the output is "replacement information and information about the next expected arrival date."

[0640] (Application example 1)

[0641] 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."

[0642] The challenge is that users cannot quickly and accurately obtain information about the products they want in physical stores. Another problem is that alternative information cannot be provided appropriately when an item is out of stock. Furthermore, the lack of a system that provides real-time information in response to user voice input means that the user's shopping experience is not improved.

[0643] 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.

[0644] In this invention, the server includes: means for a user to input product information by voice or text; means for converting the voice input into text; means for generating a search query from the text; means for the server to search a database to obtain product information; means for displaying or providing the obtained product information to the user by voice; means for providing information on what to do if the product is out of stock; and means for obtaining product information in real time in response to the user's voice input and displaying or providing voice guidance on the smart device. This enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information on products they want in a physical store and provides information on alternative products in real time if the product is out of stock, thereby improving their shopping experience.

[0645] A "user" is a consumer who uses the system to search for product information.

[0646] "Means for inputting product information by voice or text" refers to a device or application that allows a user to input product information in voice or text format.

[0647] A "means for converting voice input into text" is software or a device that has the function of analyzing a user's voice and converting it into text data.

[0648] The "means for generating a search query from text" is a software module that generates a query for searching for product information based on input text data.

[0649] The "means for transmitting a search query to a server" refers to a device or application that has the function of transmitting the generated search query to a server via a network.

[0650] "Means for the server to search the database and obtain product information" refers to the function of searching and obtaining the relevant product information from the database using the search query received by the server.

[0651] The "means for displaying or providing audio information to the user about the acquired product information" refers to a device or application that visually displays or audio-guides the product information returned from the server to the user.

[0652] The "means for providing countermeasure information in case of out of stock" is a function that provides the user with information on substitute products and the next expected arrival date when the searched product is out of stock.

[0653] "Means for acquiring product information in real time in response to the user's voice input and displaying or providing voice guidance on a smart device" refers to a function that processes the user's voice input in real time and instantly displays or provides guidance on the product information on a device such as a smartphone or smart glasses.

[0654] This invention relates to a system that allows users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in physical stores. This system searches for product information in real time based on the user's voice or text input, and displays the results on a smart device or provides voice guidance. The specific system configuration and operation are described below.

[0655] System configuration

[0656] The system mainly consists of the following components:

[0657] 1. How users can enter product information by voice or text:

[0658] This is achieved through devices such as smartphones and smart glasses.

[0659] 2. Means of converting voice input to text:

[0660] Use the speech_recognition library to convert speech into highly accurate text data.

[0661] 3. How to generate a search query from text:

[0662] A software module that analyzes text and generates queries for product searches.

[0663] 4. Means for sending search queries to the server:

[0664] Send the query to the server over the network using the HTTP client library requests.

[0665] 5. How the server searches the database to get product information:

[0666] The server-side program searches the product database based on the received query and obtains the relevant product information.

[0667] 6. Means for displaying or providing audio of the acquired product information to the user:

[0668] The acquired information is displayed on the smart device, or a voice synthesis tool (pyttsx3) is used to provide audio guidance to the user.

[0669] 7. Means of providing information on what to do if there is no stock:

[0670] When the server obtains out-of-stock information, it generates substitute products and the next expected arrival date and notifies the user.

[0671] 8. Means for obtaining product information in real time in response to user voice input and displaying or providing voice guidance on a smart device:

[0672] This provides users with real-time information and improves their shopping experience.

[0673] Program processing

[0674] 1. User Input

[0675] A user speaks, "Where can I find the latest smartphone?"

[0676] 2. Speech Recognition and Text Analysis

[0677] The smart device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: latest smartphone."

[0678] 3. Submitting a query and searching the database

[0679] A query is sent to the server, and the server searches the database based on the query to obtain product information.

[0680] 4. Returning and Displaying Search Results

[0681] For example, it might return a result like, "This smartphone is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $800 and there are five in stock."

[0682] 5. What to do if there is no stock

[0683] If "Product name: Latest smartphone" is out of stock, the server generates information saying "Currently out of stock. The next shipment is expected to arrive next week" and notifies the user.

[0684] Specific examples

[0685] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0686] If a user utters the voice command "Where is the latest smartphone?", the following sequence of events occurs:

[0687] 1. Convert the user's voice input into highly accurate text data.

[0688] 2. Analyze the text data to generate a search query and send it to the server.

[0689] 3. The server searches the database to retrieve the product information.

[0690] 4. The acquired information is displayed on the smart device and guidance is given to the user via voice.

[0691] This allows users to quickly and accurately obtain product information in physical stores, improving their shopping experience.

[0692] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0693] Step 1:

[0694] User Input

[0695] A user uses a smart device (e.g., a smartphone or smart glasses) to input information about a desired product using voice or text. For example, a voice input may be, "Where can I find the latest smartphone?" Based on this input, the smart device obtains voice or text data. As a result of this step, user input data (voice or text) is generated.

[0696] Step 2:

[0697] Speech recognition and text conversion

[0698] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using the speech_recognition library. It uses a specific noise reduction algorithm to clean the input data, and then performs speech recognition. For example, the voice input "Where is the latest smartphone?" is converted into text data "Where is the latest smartphone?". The result of this step is text data.

[0699] Step 3:

[0700] Generating a search query

[0701] The device analyzes the text data obtained in step 2 and generates a query for a product search. For example, from the text data "Where can I find the latest smartphone?", the device creates a search query "Product name: latest smartphone." As a result of this step, a search query is generated.

[0702] Step 4:

[0703] Submitting a query

[0704] The device sends the generated search query to the server. It uses the HTTP client library, requests, to send the query data to the server over the network. As a result of this step, the query data is sent to the server.

[0705] Step 5:

[0706] Database search

[0707] The server searches the database based on the received search query. Using a specific algorithm, it retrieves the relevant product information from the database. For example, it retrieves the location, price, and availability of the product corresponding to "Product name: latest smartphone." As a result of this step, the product information is extracted.

[0708] Step 6:

[0709] Returning and displaying search results

[0710] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal. The smart device displays the returned information to the user and provides voice guidance using a speech synthesis tool (pyttsx3). For example, the smart device may display and guide the user, saying, "The latest smartphone is in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $800 and there are five in stock." As a result of this step, the product information is provided to the user.

[0711] Step 7:

[0712] What to do if there is no stock

[0713] If the database search results in a product being out of stock, the server finds information about alternative products and the next expected arrival date. For example, it generates information such as "The latest smartphone is out of stock. The next arrival date is next week." The server returns this alternative information to the terminal, which notifies the user. As a result of this step, the alternative information is provided to the user.

[0714] 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.

[0715] This invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in large-scale shopping centers. In particular, it aims to provide a more personalized user experience by combining an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and provides information and follow-ups according to those emotions.

[0716] System configuration

[0717] The system consists of the following main components:

[0718] 1. A device where users can input product information by voice or text

[0719] 2. A speech recognition module that converts voice input into text

[0720] 3. Search query generation module that generates search queries from text data

[0721] 4. A server that receives search queries and searches the database for product information

[0722] 5. A terminal that displays or provides audio search results from the server to the user

[0723] 6. Server that provides information on replacements and arrival schedules when items are out of stock

[0724] 7. Emotion engine that recognizes user emotions

[0725] Program processing

[0726] The operation of this system is as follows.

[0727] User Input

[0728] Users input information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, for example, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0729] Speech Recognition and Text Analytics

[0730] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using a speech recognition module. For example, the voice input "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text data. The text input information then proceeds to the next step.

[0731] emotion recognition

[0732] The device then sends the converted text data to an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotions. For example, emotions such as "excitement" or "disappointment" can be analyzed from the user's voice and text.

[0733] Generating a search query

[0734] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data, for example, "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0735] Submitting queries and searching the database

[0736] The terminal sends the generated search query to the server, which searches a database based on the received query to obtain information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status).

[0737] Returning and displaying search results

[0738] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. For example, it might display or output something like, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[0739] Emotion-based information customization

[0740] The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and customizes the information provided. For example, if the user is in a hurry, the device will provide concise and quick instructions, such as "The iPhone 14 Pro is on the second floor, the first shelf on the right."

[0741] What to do if there is no stock

[0742] If the server determines from the database that the product is out of stock, it generates additional information, including replacement information and the next expected arrival date. This information is returned to the terminal and provided to the user, for example, "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[0743] Emotion-Based Follow-Up

[0744] If the user is expressing negative emotions such as disappointment or anger, the emotion engine will detect that emotion and trigger a specific action (such as providing contact information for customer support), such as "This item is currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. Please contact customer support for more information."

[0745] Specific examples

[0746] Example 1: Product Search and Emotion Recognition

[0747] A user speaks, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0748] The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0749] The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is excited.

[0750] The device sends a query to the server, and the server retrieves the information and sends it back.

[0751] The device will display, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It is priced at $999 and there are three in stock," and a voice will provide further details, "It's on the second floor, first shelf on the right."

[0752] Example 2: Emotion recognition and follow-up when out of stock

[0753] A user texts in "Where is my Samsung Galaxy S20?"

[0754] The device generates the search query "Product name: Samsung Galaxy S20."

[0755] The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is anxious.

[0756] The device sends a query to the server, and the server retrieves the information and sends it back.

[0757] The server confirms that there is no stock and generates alternative information such as "out of stock, next arrival expected next week."

[0758] The device will display the message "Currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. If you need more information, please contact customer support" and provide a voice guide.

[0759] In this way, the present invention can efficiently obtain product information that users desire, and by using an emotion engine, it is possible to provide personalized information, thereby dramatically improving the user experience.

[0760] The processing flow will be explained below.

[0761] Step 1:

[0762] Users can enter information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, such as "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0763] Step 2:

[0764] The device detects voice input, and the voice recognition module converts the voice into text. In the case of text input, the device receives the text data as is.

[0765] Step 3:

[0766] The system filters out unnecessary noise and irrelevant information from the text data acquired by the device and generates appropriate search queries, such as "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0767] Step 4:

[0768] The device sends the converted text data to an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotions, such as "excitement" or "disappointment" from the user's voice and text.

[0769] Step 5:

[0770] The device generates a search query and sends it to the server. For example, a query in the format "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro" is sent to the server.

[0771] Step 6:

[0772] The server parses the query and performs a search against a database that contains information such as product location, price, and availability.

[0773] Step 7:

[0774] The server retrieves search results from the database and aggregates product information that corresponds to the query, such as "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, In ​​stock: 3."

[0775] Step 8:

[0776] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal. For example, the aggregated information above is sent to the terminal.

[0777] Step 9:

[0778] The device analyzes the returned product information and displays it visually to the user. It also uses a speech synthesis function to provide the information to the user aloud. For example, it might say, "The iPhone 14 Pro is in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock."

[0779] Step 10:

[0780] The device will customize the information it provides based on the user's emotions. For example, if the user is excited, it will provide more concise and specific instructions, such as "The iPhone 14 Pro is on the second floor, the first shelf on the right."

[0781] Step 11:

[0782] If the server determines that the item is out of stock, it generates replacement information or information about the expected arrival date. For example, it generates information such as "out of stock, next arrival is next week."

[0783] Step 12:

[0784] The server then returns the generated replacement information to the device, for example in the form "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[0785] Step 13:

[0786] The device can analyze the alternative information and display it visually to the user, or it can use speech synthesis to provide the information to the user aloud, for example, "This item is currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. Please contact customer support for more information."

[0787] Step 14:

[0788] If the device recognizes that the user's sentiment is negative, it can trigger a specific action, such as providing contact information for customer support, such as saying, "This item is currently out of stock. Please contact customer support."

[0789] Example 2

[0790] 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."

[0791] The present invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want, and that also provides personalized information by recognizing the user's emotions. Conventional shopping systems have had problems with the cumbersome process of obtaining product information, which reduces user satisfaction. Furthermore, there are also problems with insufficient measures to deal with out-of-stock items, which increases user dissatisfaction.

[0792] 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.

[0793] In this invention, the server includes a means for recognizing a user's emotion, a means for customizing information to be provided based on the recognized emotion, and a means for providing follow-up information to a user who has expressed a negative emotion. This not only enables efficient acquisition of product information desired by the user, but also enables provision of personalized information according to the emotion. This dramatically improves user satisfaction and reduces dissatisfaction.

[0794] "User" refers to a consumer or user who uses the system to search for or inquire about product information.

[0795] "Voice input" refers to spoken instructions or questions given by a user using a microphone or voice recognition device.

[0796] "Text" refers to character information that a user inputs using a keyboard or touch screen.

[0797] "Product Information" refers to data including detailed information such as product price, availability, and location.

[0798] "Voice-to-text conversion means" refers to technology that uses speech recognition software or hardware to convert a voice signal into corresponding text data.

[0799] A "search query" refers to a specific query statement for searching a database, generated from text entered by a user.

[0800] "Server" refers to a computer system that receives a search query and searches a database for relevant product information.

[0801] A "database" refers to a collection of data for storing detailed product information, stock status, pricing information, etc.

[0802] "Inventory" refers to the quantity of a particular product currently available for sale.

[0803] "Countermeasure information" refers to information such as alternative products and the next expected arrival date that is provided when a product is out of stock.

[0804] "Means for recognizing user emotions" refers to technology that analyzes the user's emotional state from their voice or text.

[0805] "Means for customizing information provided based on recognized emotions" refers to technology that adjusts the product information and guidance methods provided depending on the user's emotional state.

[0806] "Means for providing follow-up information to users who express negative emotions" refers to technology that provides additional support or alternatives when a user expresses negative emotions such as disappointment or anger.

[0807] This invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in large-scale shopping centers. In particular, it aims to provide a more personalized user experience by combining an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and provides information and follow-ups according to those emotions.

[0808] System configuration

[0809] The system consists of the following main components:

[0810] 1. A device where users can input product information by voice or text

[0811] 2. A speech recognition module that converts voice input into text

[0812] 3. Search query generation module that generates search queries from text data

[0813] 4. A server that receives search queries and searches the database for product information

[0814] 5. A terminal that displays or provides audio search results from the server to the user

[0815] 6. Server that provides information on replacements and arrival schedules when items are out of stock

[0816] 7. Emotion engine that recognizes user emotions

[0817] Program processing

[0818] The operation of this system is as follows.

[0819] Users input information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, for example, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0820] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using a speech recognition module. Specifically, the Google Cloud Speech-to-Text API is used for speech recognition. This converts the speech "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" into text data. The text input information then proceeds to the next step.

[0821] The converted text data is then sent from the device to an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions. The emotion engine uses IBM Watson Tone Analyzer, which analyzes emotions such as "excitement" or "disappointment" from the user's voice and text.

[0822] The device then generates an appropriate search query from the text data, for example, "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0823] The terminal sends the generated search query to the server. The server searches the database based on the received query and obtains information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status). The database uses PostgreSQL, MySQL, or similar.

[0824] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. Speech synthesis uses Amazon Polly or Google Text-to-Speech. For example, the device might display or output a message saying, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock."

[0825] The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and customizes the information accordingly. For example, if the user is in a hurry, the device will provide concise and quick instructions, providing detailed information such as "The iPhone 14 Pro is on the second floor, the first shelf on the right."

[0826] Furthermore, if the server finds that the product is out of stock after a database search, it generates additional information including replacement information and the next expected arrival date. This information is returned to the terminal and provided to the user in the form of "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[0827] If the user expresses negative emotions such as disappointment or anger, the emotion engine detects this emotion and triggers a specific action (such as providing contact information for customer support), such as "This item is currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. Please contact customer support for more information."

[0828] Specific examples

[0829] Example 1: Product Search and Emotion Recognition

[0830] 1. The user speaks, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0831] 2. The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0832] 3. The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is excited.

[0833] 4. The device sends a query to the server, which retrieves the information and sends it back.

[0834] 5. The device will display, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It is priced at $999 and there are three in stock," and a voice will provide further guidance, "It's on the second floor, on the first shelf on the right."

[0835] Example 2: Emotion recognition and follow-up when out of stock

[0836] 1. The user texts in "Where is my Samsung Galaxy S20?"

[0837] 2. The device generates the search query "Product Name: Samsung Galaxy S20."

[0838] 3. The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is anxious.

[0839] 4. The device sends a query to the server, which retrieves the information and sends it back.

[0840] 5. The server confirms that the item is out of stock and generates alternative information such as "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[0841] 6. The device will display and provide a voice prompt saying, "This item is currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. If you require further details, please contact customer support."

[0842] Prompt Sentence Examples

[0843] Product search and emotion recognition prompts

[0844] "Say 'Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?' and use voice recognition, emotion recognition, and database lookup to provide the information to the user."

[0845] Out of stock prompt

[0846] "Text 'Where is the Samsung Galaxy S20?' to check emotion recognition and stock information. If it's out of stock, provide follow-up information."

[0847] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0848] Step 1:

[0849] The user inputs information about the product they want into the device in voice or text format. For example, they might say, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?" The input data is voice data or text data.

[0850] Step 2:

[0851] The device converts voice input into text data using a speech recognition module. Specifically, the Google Cloud Speech-to-Text API is used for speech recognition. This converts voice data into text data. For example, the speech "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text data "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0852] Step 3:

[0853] The device sends the converted text data to an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotion. The emotion engine uses IBM Watson Tone Analyzer. The input data is text data, and the output is the user's emotional information (e.g., "excitement," "disappointment," etc.). For example, the emotion "excitement" is recognized from the text "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0854] Step 4:

[0855] The terminal generates an appropriate search query from the text data. A search query generation module is used to analyze the text data and generate a search query. The input data is text data, and the output is a search query (e.g., "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro"). For example, the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro" is generated from the text data "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0856] Step 5:

[0857] The device sends the generated search query to the server. The input data is the search query, and the output is a data request with the search results. For example, the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro" is sent to the server.

[0858] Step 6:

[0859] The server searches a database based on the received search query and retrieves information about the relevant product. For example, it uses a database such as PostgreSQL or MySQL. The input data is the search query, and the output is detailed product information (e.g., price, location, stock status, etc.). For example, in response to the query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro," the server retrieves the information "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[0860] Step 7:

[0861] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal. The input data is detailed product information, and the output is data sent to the user. For example, the server might return detailed information such as, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[0862] Step 8:

[0863] The device displays the returned product information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. Speech synthesis uses Amazon Polly or Google Text-to-Speech. The input data is detailed product information, and the output is display information or voice output. For example, the device might display information such as "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock," and then provide a voice prompt saying, "It's on the second floor, on the first shelf on the right."

[0864] Step 9:

[0865] The information provided is customized according to the user's emotions recognized by the emotion engine. The input data is emotional information, and the output is customized guidance information. For example, if the user is in a hurry, the system will provide concise and quick guidance, providing detailed information such as, "The iPhone 14 Pro is on the second floor, the first shelf on the right."

[0866] Step 10:

[0867] If the server finds that the product is out of stock as a result of a database search, it generates replacement information and information on the next expected arrival date. The input data is the inventory status, and the output is the replacement information and the expected arrival date. For example, it may return to the terminal and provide to the user a message such as "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[0868] Step 11:

[0869] The emotion engine triggers a specific action (such as providing contact information for customer support) for users who express negative emotions such as disappointment or anger. The input data is emotion information, and the output is follow-up information. For example, it might say, "We are currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. If you need more information, please contact customer support."

[0870] (Application example 2)

[0871] 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."

[0872] In today's large-scale shopping centers, it is often difficult for users to quickly and accurately find the products they want. This is particularly true when an item is out of stock or when product information is complex, significantly impairing the user experience. Furthermore, the current system lacks information provision that takes user emotions into consideration, and optimal support is not provided to individual users. This often leads to frustration and reduced satisfaction, creating a problem. There is a need for a system that can solve these issues and provide personalized information based on user emotions.

[0873] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.

[0874] In this invention, the server includes means for analyzing the user's emotions and personalizing information based on the emotions, means for providing simple and quick guidance when the user is impatient, and means for activating a specific action when the user shows disappointment or anger, thereby enabling personalized information provision that takes the user's emotions into consideration.

[0875] A "user" is an individual or organization that uses the system to search for product information and has the intention to purchase.

[0876] "Voice input" refers to voice instructions or questions given by the user through a microphone.

[0877] "Text input" refers to character information that a user inputs using an input device such as a keyboard.

[0878] "Means for converting to text" refers to a module that analyzes voice input and converts it into corresponding text information.

[0879] A "search query" is a specific search expression that is generated by the system to query the server for product information.

[0880] "Server" refers to a computing resource that processes search queries received from users and retrieves or provides information from a database.

[0881] A "database" is an electronic collection of information that systematically stores and manages product information and inventory information.

[0882] The "display means" refers to a function for visually displaying the acquired product information on the user's terminal screen.

[0883] "Means for providing information by voice" refers to a function that uses voice synthesis technology to convey acquired information to the user by voice.

[0884] "Countermeasure information" refers to additional information such as alternatives and expected arrival dates that are provided to users when a particular product is out of stock.

[0885] "Emotion engine" refers to a system component that analyzes user input and determines their emotional state.

[0886] "Personalization" is the act of customizing information according to a user's specific needs or emotional state.

[0887] "Concise and prompt guidance" refers to the act of quickly providing the minimum necessary information when the user is in a hurry.

[0888] "Specific actions" include additional remedial measures that are initiated when a user expresses disappointment or anger, such as providing contact information for customer support.

[0889] System Overview

[0890] The system for implementing this invention allows users to easily search for product information using voice or text, and provides personalized information based on the emotions expressed during the search. The main components include a voice recognition module, an emotion engine, a search query generation module, a server, a database, information display means, and voice output means.

[0891] Hardware and software used

[0892] Hardware:

[0893] User terminal devices such as smartphones and tablets

[0894] A server with internet access

[0895] software:

[0896] Voice recognition software (e.g., Google Speech-to-Text API)

[0897] Sentiment analysis software (e.g. TextBlob)

[0898] Database management software (e.g., MySQL)

[0899] Text-to-speech software (e.g., Google Text-to-Speech API)

[0900] System Operation

[0901] The user inputs information about the product they want into the device using voice or text. For example, consider the voice input of "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0902] Speech to text:

[0903] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using a speech recognition module (Google Speech-to-Text API), and the text input information proceeds to the next step as is.

[0904] Emotion recognition:

[0905] The device sends the converted text data to emotion analysis software (TextBlob) to recognize the user's emotions. For example, emotions such as "excitement" or "disappointment" can be detected from the user's voice and text.

[0906] Generating a search query:

[0907] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data, for example, "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0908] Query the server and search the database:

[0909] The terminal sends the generated search query to the server, which searches a database (MySQL) based on the received query and obtains information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status).

[0910] Display or speak information:

[0911] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis software (Google Text-to-Speech API). For example, the device might say, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock."

[0912] Specific examples

[0913] As a specific example, consider the following scenario.

[0914] 1. The user speaks, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0915] 2. The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0916] 3. The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is excited.

[0917] 4. The device sends a query to the server, which retrieves the information and sends it back.

[0918] 5. The device will display, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock," and a voice will provide further details, "It's on the second floor, on the first shelf on the right."

[0919] Example prompt sentence:

[0920] When a user starts speaking, say, "I want a Samsung Galaxy S21," the app converts that speech to text, analyzes sentiment with an emotion engine, sends a search query to get product location and availability information, and displays or speaks personalized instructions to the user.

[0921] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0922] Step 1:

[0923] The user inputs product information by voice or text.

[0924] Input: User voice or text

[0925] Output: Audio data or text data

[0926] Specific action: A user uses a smartphone or tablet to speak or type something, for example, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[0927] Step 2:

[0928] The device converts the voice input into text using a speech recognition module.

[0929] Input: Audio data

[0930] Output: Text data

[0931] Specific operation: The device's voice recognition software (e.g., Google Speech-to-Text API) analyzes the user's voice and converts it into text. For example, the spoken phrase "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text.

[0932] Step 3:

[0933] The terminal transmits the converted text data to an emotion engine, which analyzes the user's emotions.

[0934] Input: Text data

[0935] Output: Emotional information

[0936] How it works: The device's emotion analysis software (e.g., TextBlob) analyzes the text data and determines whether the emotion is positive, neutral, or negative. For example, it generates emotion information such as "excited" or "disappointed."

[0937] Step 4:

[0938] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data.

[0939] Input: Text data

[0940] Output: Search query

[0941] Specific operation: The device analyzes the text data and generates a search query such as "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[0942] Step 5:

[0943] The terminal transmits the generated search query to the server.

[0944] Input: Search query

[0945] Output: Search query submission results

[0946] Specific operation: The search query generated by the device is sent to a server via the Internet.

[0947] Step 6:

[0948] The server searches the database based on the received query and obtains information about the product.

[0949] Input: Search query

[0950] Output: Product information

[0951] Specific operation: The server's database management software (e.g., MySQL) processes the received query and obtains information such as the location, price, and stock status of the relevant product.

[0952] Step 7:

[0953] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal.

[0954] Input: Product information

[0955] Output: Product information returned

[0956] Specific operation: The server collects the product information and sends it to the terminal.

[0957] Step 8:

[0958] The terminal displays or provides audio information about the returned product to the user.

[0959] Input: Product information

[0960] Output: Display or audio information

[0961] Specific operation: The device displays the product information it has acquired as text on the screen or provides a voice guide using speech synthesis software (e.g., Google Text-to-Speech API). For example, it might display or output a message saying, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It is priced at $999 and there are three in stock."

[0962] Step 9:

[0963] The device personalizes information based on the user's emotions.

[0964] Input: Emotion information, product information

[0965] Output: personalized display or audio information

[0966] Specific actions: Based on the information from the emotion engine, if the user is impatient, provide concise and quick instructions, or if the user shows disappointment or anger, trigger a specific action (e.g., provide customer support contact information). For example, add specific instructions such as, "If you are in a hurry, please use the escalator on the left."

[0967] Step 10:

[0968] The server provides alternatives and arrival schedules when the item is out of stock.

[0969] Input: Search query

[0970] Output: Alternatives or availability information

[0971] Specific operation: The server checks product information, and if it is out of stock, generates alternative information including the stock status of other stores and the next expected arrival date, and sends it to the terminal. For example, it displays or outputs a message such as, "Currently out of stock, but the next arrival date is next week."

[0972] 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.

[0973] 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.

[0974] 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.

[0975] [Third embodiment]

[0976] FIG. 5 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 310 according to the third embodiment.

[0977] 5, the data processing system 310 includes the data processing device 12 and a headset type terminal 314. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.

[0978] 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).

[0979] 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.

[0980] 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.

[0981] 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).

[0982] 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.

[0983] 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.

[0984] 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.

[0985] 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.

[0986] 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.

[0987] 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."

[0988] The present invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in a large-scale shopping center. The following describes in detail an embodiment of the present invention, a specific system configuration, and its operation.

[0989] System configuration

[0990] The system consists of the following main components:

[0991] 1. A device where users can input product information by voice or text

[0992] 2. A speech recognition module that converts voice input into text

[0993] 3. Search query generation module that generates search queries from text data

[0994] 4. A server that receives search queries and searches the database for product information

[0995] 5. A terminal that displays or provides audio search results from the server to the user

[0996] 6. Server that provides information on replacements and arrival schedules when items are out of stock

[0997] Program processing

[0998] The operation of this system is as follows.

[0999] User Input

[1000] Users input information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, for example, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1001] Speech Recognition and Text Analytics

[1002] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using a speech recognition module. For example, the voice input "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text data. The text input information then proceeds to the next step.

[1003] Generating a search query

[1004] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data, for example, a query in the format "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1005] Submitting queries and searching the database

[1006] The terminal sends the generated search query to the server, which searches a database based on the received query to obtain information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status).

[1007] Returning and displaying search results

[1008] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. For example, it might display or output something like, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[1009] What to do if there is no stock

[1010] If the server determines from the database that the product is out of stock, it generates additional information, including replacement information and the next expected arrival date. This information is returned to the terminal and provided to the user, for example, "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[1011] Specific examples

[1012] Example 1: Product search and stock check

[1013] A user utters, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1014] The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1015] The terminal sends a query to the server.

[1016] The server searches the database based on the query and retrieves the result "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, In ​​stock: 3."

[1017] The server sends the results back to the terminal, which displays them and speaks them to the user.

[1018] Example 2: What to do when there is no stock

[1019] A user texts, "Where is my Samsung Galaxy S20?"

[1020] The device generates the search query "Product name: Samsung Galaxy S20."

[1021] The terminal sends a query to the server.

[1022] The server searches the database based on the query and finds that the item is out of stock.

[1023] The server generates alternative information such as "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[1024] The server returns the alternative information to the terminal, which displays it and audibly conveys it to the user.

[1025] As described above, the present invention provides a specific method for efficiently obtaining product information desired by a user, and has the effect of improving the user's shopping experience.

[1026] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1027] Step 1:

[1028] Users can enter information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, such as "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1029] Step 2:

[1030] The device detects voice input, and the voice recognition module converts the voice into text. In the case of text input, the device receives the text data as is.

[1031] Step 3:

[1032] The system filters out unnecessary noise and irrelevant information from the text data acquired by the device and generates appropriate search queries, such as "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1033] Step 4:

[1034] The device generates a search query and sends it to the server. For example, a query in the format "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro" is sent to the server.

[1035] Step 5:

[1036] The server parses the query and performs a search against a database that contains information such as product location, price, and availability.

[1037] Step 6:

[1038] The server retrieves search results from the database and aggregates product information that corresponds to the query, such as "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, In ​​stock: 3."

[1039] Step 7:

[1040] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal. For example, the aggregated information above is sent to the terminal.

[1041] Step 8:

[1042] The device analyzes the returned product information and displays it visually to the user. It also uses a speech synthesis function to provide the information to the user aloud. For example, it might say, "The iPhone 14 Pro is in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock."

[1043] Step 9:

[1044] If the server determines that the item is out of stock, it generates replacement information or information about the expected arrival date. For example, it generates information such as "out of stock, next arrival is next week."

[1045] Step 10:

[1046] The server then returns the generated replacement information to the device, for example in the form "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[1047] Step 11:

[1048] The device can analyze the alternative information and display it visually to the user, or it can use speech synthesis to provide the information to the user aloud, for example, "The Samsung Galaxy S20 is currently out of stock. The next shipment is expected next week."

[1049] Example 1

[1050] 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."

[1051] In today's large-scale shopping centers, it is often difficult for users to quickly and accurately find the products they are looking for. It is also difficult to grasp product inventory information and arrival schedule information in real time. Furthermore, systems that use voice input are prone to misrecognition and noise, so highly accurate information provision is required. Therefore, the challenge is to provide a system that allows users to easily and accurately obtain product information.

[1052] 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.

[1053] In this invention, the server includes means for a user to input product information by voice or text, means for converting the voice input into text, means for generating a search query from the text, means for transmitting the search query to the server, means for the server to search a database to obtain product information, means for providing the obtained product information to the user by display or voice, means for providing information on countermeasures when the product is out of stock, means for automatically generating an appropriate search query using a generative AI model, and means for providing the obtained product information by voice using voice synthesis technology, thereby enabling users to quickly and accurately obtain desired product information.

[1054] A "user" is someone who uses the system to search for product information.

[1055] "Product information" refers to detailed information about a product, such as its location, price, stock status, and expected arrival date.

[1056] "Voice input" is information that a user inputs into the system through speech.

[1057] "Text input" is information that a user inputs into a system through text.

[1058] A "voice recognition module" is a software and hardware component for converting voice input into text data.

[1059] A "search query" is a statement for database search that is generated based on the product information that a user is looking for.

[1060] A "server" is a computer system that receives a search query sent by a user, searches a database to obtain product information, and returns that information to the terminal.

[1061] A "database" is a collection of digital storage devices for storing and managing product information.

[1062] A "generative AI model" is an artificial intelligence technology that uses natural language processing technology to automatically generate appropriate search queries.

[1063] "Speech synthesis technology" is a technology that converts text data into speech and reads it aloud.

[1064] "Alternative information" is additional information such as similar products provided when an item is out of stock or the next expected arrival date.

[1065] The present invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in large-scale shopping centers. This system includes the following main components:

[1066] System configuration

[1067] The system consists of the following main components:

[1068] 1. A device where users can input product information by voice or text

[1069] 2. A speech recognition module that converts voice input into text

[1070] 3. Search query generation module that generates search queries from text data

[1071] 4. A server that receives search queries and searches the database for product information

[1072] 5. A terminal that displays or provides audio search results from the server to the user

[1073] 6. Server that provides information on replacements and arrival schedules when items are out of stock

[1074] System Operation

[1075] User Input

[1076] Users can input information about the product they want into the device using voice or text. For example, users can input information such as "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1077] Speech Recognition and Text Analytics

[1078] The device converts the speech into text data using a speech recognition module (specifically, the Google Cloud Speech-to-Text API). For example, the speech "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text data. The text input information then proceeds to the next step.

[1079] Generating a search query

[1080] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data using natural language processing (NLP) techniques. For example, it generates a query in the format "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro." It then uses a generative AI model (e.g., GPT-4) to convert the query into the appropriate format.

[1081] Submitting queries and searching the database

[1082] The device sends the generated search query to the server, which searches a database (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL) based on the received query to obtain information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status).

[1083] Returning and displaying search results

[1084] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis (specifically, Amazon Polly, etc.). For example, it might display or output a message like, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[1085] What to do if there is no stock

[1086] If the server finds that the product is out of stock after a database search, it generates replacement information and information about the next expected arrival date. This information is returned to the terminal and provided to the user in the form of "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[1087] Specific examples

[1088] Example 1: Product search and stock check

[1089] 1. The user utters, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1090] 2. The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1091] 3. The device sends a query to the server.

[1092] 4. The server searches the database based on the query and retrieves the result "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, In ​​stock: 3."

[1093] 5. The server sends the results back to the terminal, which displays them and speaks them to the user.

[1094] Example 2: What to do when there is no stock

[1095] 1. A user texts, "Where is my Samsung Galaxy S20?"

[1096] 2. The device generates the search query "Product Name: Samsung Galaxy S20."

[1097] 3. The device sends a query to the server.

[1098] 4. The server searches the database based on the query and finds that the item is out of stock.

[1099] 5. The server generates alternative information: "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[1100] 6. The server returns the alternative information to the terminal, which displays it and audibly conveys it to the user.

[1101] As described above, the present invention provides a specific method for efficiently obtaining product information desired by a user, and has the effect of improving the user's shopping experience.

[1102] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1103] Step 1: User Input

[1104] A user uses a device such as a smartphone or tablet to input information about a desired product in voice or text format. As a specific example, consider the case where a user voice-inputs, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?" This input is sent to the device. The input is provided to the device in the data format of "user inputting product information by voice."

[1105] Step 2: Speech recognition and text analysis

[1106] The device uses a speech recognition module to convert speech into text data. Specifically, the device uses the Google Cloud Speech-to-Text API to convert the speech "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" into text data. The input is "speech data from the user" and the output is "text data." The converted text then proceeds to the next step.

[1107] Step 3: Generating a search query

[1108] The device generates appropriate search queries from the text data. This process uses natural language processing technology. Specifically, the device uses a generative AI model (e.g., GPT-4) to automatically generate search queries in the format "Product Name: iPhone 14 Pro." The input is "text data" and the output is "search queries."

[1109] Step 4: Submitting a query and searching the database

[1110] The device sends the generated search query to the server. The server searches the database based on the received query to retrieve product information. Specifically, the server searches the MySQL database and retrieves the result "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, Stock: 3 units." The input is the "search query" and the output is "product information."

[1111] Step 5: Return and display search results

[1112] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. Specifically, the device uses Amazon Polly to display or output the following message: "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock." The input is "product information," and the output is "display or audio output."

[1113] Step 6: What to do if there is no stock

[1114] If the server finds that the product is out of stock as a result of a database search, it generates replacement information and information about the next expected arrival date. Specifically, the server generates replacement information such as "out of stock, next arrival scheduled for next week." The server returns this information to the terminal, which then presents it to the user. The input is "out of stock information," and the output is "replacement information and information about the next expected arrival date."

[1115] (Application example 1)

[1116] 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."

[1117] The challenge is that users cannot quickly and accurately obtain information about the products they want in physical stores. Another problem is that alternative information cannot be provided appropriately when an item is out of stock. Furthermore, the lack of a system that provides real-time information in response to user voice input means that the user's shopping experience is not improved.

[1118] 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.

[1119] In this invention, the server includes: means for a user to input product information by voice or text; means for converting the voice input into text; means for generating a search query from the text; means for the server to search a database to obtain product information; means for displaying or providing the obtained product information to the user by voice; means for providing information on what to do if the product is out of stock; and means for obtaining product information in real time in response to the user's voice input and displaying or providing voice guidance on the smart device. This enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information on products they want in a physical store and provides information on alternative products in real time if the product is out of stock, thereby improving their shopping experience.

[1120] A "user" is a consumer who uses the system to search for product information.

[1121] "Means for inputting product information by voice or text" refers to a device or application that allows a user to input product information in voice or text format.

[1122] A "means for converting voice input into text" is software or a device that has the function of analyzing a user's voice and converting it into text data.

[1123] The "means for generating a search query from text" is a software module that generates a query for searching for product information based on input text data.

[1124] The "means for transmitting a search query to a server" refers to a device or application that has the function of transmitting the generated search query to a server via a network.

[1125] "Means for the server to search the database and obtain product information" refers to the function of searching and obtaining the relevant product information from the database using the search query received by the server.

[1126] The "means for displaying or providing audio information to the user about the acquired product information" refers to a device or application that visually displays or audio-guides the product information returned from the server to the user.

[1127] The "means for providing countermeasure information in case of out of stock" is a function that provides the user with information on substitute products and the next expected arrival date when the searched product is out of stock.

[1128] "Means for acquiring product information in real time in response to the user's voice input and displaying or providing voice guidance on a smart device" refers to a function that processes the user's voice input in real time and instantly displays or provides guidance on the product information on a device such as a smartphone or smart glasses.

[1129] This invention relates to a system that allows users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in physical stores. This system searches for product information in real time based on the user's voice or text input, and displays the results on a smart device or provides voice guidance. The specific system configuration and operation are described below.

[1130] System configuration

[1131] The system mainly consists of the following components:

[1132] 1. How users can enter product information by voice or text:

[1133] This is achieved through devices such as smartphones and smart glasses.

[1134] 2. Means of converting voice input to text:

[1135] Use the speech_recognition library to convert speech into highly accurate text data.

[1136] 3. How to generate a search query from text:

[1137] A software module that analyzes text and generates queries for product searches.

[1138] 4. Means for sending search queries to the server:

[1139] Send the query to the server over the network using the HTTP client library requests.

[1140] 5. How the server searches the database to get product information:

[1141] The server-side program searches the product database based on the received query and obtains the relevant product information.

[1142] 6. Means for displaying or providing audio of the acquired product information to the user:

[1143] The acquired information is displayed on the smart device, or a voice synthesis tool (pyttsx3) is used to provide audio guidance to the user.

[1144] 7. Means of providing information on what to do if there is no stock:

[1145] When the server obtains out-of-stock information, it generates substitute products and the next expected arrival date and notifies the user.

[1146] 8. Means for obtaining product information in real time in response to user voice input and displaying or providing voice guidance on a smart device:

[1147] This provides users with real-time information and improves their shopping experience.

[1148] Program processing

[1149] 1. User Input

[1150] A user speaks, "Where can I find the latest smartphone?"

[1151] 2. Speech Recognition and Text Analysis

[1152] The smart device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: latest smartphone."

[1153] 3. Submitting a query and searching the database

[1154] A query is sent to the server, and the server searches the database based on the query to obtain product information.

[1155] 4. Returning and Displaying Search Results

[1156] For example, it might return a result like, "This smartphone is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $800 and there are five in stock."

[1157] 5. What to do if there is no stock

[1158] If "Product name: Latest smartphone" is out of stock, the server generates information saying "Currently out of stock. The next shipment is expected to arrive next week" and notifies the user.

[1159] Specific examples

[1160] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1161] If a user utters the voice command "Where is the latest smartphone?", the following sequence of events occurs:

[1162] 1. Convert the user's voice input into highly accurate text data.

[1163] 2. Analyze the text data to generate a search query and send it to the server.

[1164] 3. The server searches the database to retrieve the product information.

[1165] 4. The acquired information is displayed on the smart device and guidance is given to the user via voice.

[1166] This allows users to quickly and accurately obtain product information in physical stores, improving their shopping experience.

[1167] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1168] Step 1:

[1169] User Input

[1170] A user uses a smart device (e.g., a smartphone or smart glasses) to input information about a desired product using voice or text. For example, a voice input may be, "Where can I find the latest smartphone?" Based on this input, the smart device obtains voice or text data. As a result of this step, user input data (voice or text) is generated.

[1171] Step 2:

[1172] Speech recognition and text conversion

[1173] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using the speech_recognition library. It uses a specific noise reduction algorithm to clean the input data, and then performs speech recognition. For example, the voice input "Where is the latest smartphone?" is converted into text data "Where is the latest smartphone?". The result of this step is text data.

[1174] Step 3:

[1175] Generating a search query

[1176] The device analyzes the text data obtained in step 2 and generates a query for a product search. For example, from the text data "Where can I find the latest smartphone?", the device creates a search query "Product name: latest smartphone." As a result of this step, a search query is generated.

[1177] Step 4:

[1178] Submitting a query

[1179] The device sends the generated search query to the server. It uses the HTTP client library, requests, to send the query data to the server over the network. As a result of this step, the query data is sent to the server.

[1180] Step 5:

[1181] Database search

[1182] The server searches the database based on the received search query. Using a specific algorithm, it retrieves the relevant product information from the database. For example, it retrieves the location, price, and availability of the product corresponding to "Product name: latest smartphone." As a result of this step, the product information is extracted.

[1183] Step 6:

[1184] Returning and displaying search results

[1185] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal. The smart device displays the returned information to the user and provides voice guidance using a speech synthesis tool (pyttsx3). For example, the smart device may display and guide the user, saying, "The latest smartphone is in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $800 and there are five in stock." As a result of this step, the product information is provided to the user.

[1186] Step 7:

[1187] What to do if there is no stock

[1188] If the database search results in a product being out of stock, the server finds information about alternative products and the next expected arrival date. For example, it generates information such as "The latest smartphone is out of stock. The next arrival date is next week." The server returns this alternative information to the terminal, which notifies the user. As a result of this step, the alternative information is provided to the user.

[1189] 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.

[1190] This invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in large-scale shopping centers. In particular, it aims to provide a more personalized user experience by combining an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and provides information and follow-ups according to those emotions.

[1191] System configuration

[1192] The system consists of the following main components:

[1193] 1. A device where users can input product information by voice or text

[1194] 2. A speech recognition module that converts voice input into text

[1195] 3. Search query generation module that generates search queries from text data

[1196] 4. A server that receives search queries and searches the database for product information

[1197] 5. A terminal that displays or provides audio search results from the server to the user

[1198] 6. Server that provides information on replacements and arrival schedules when items are out of stock

[1199] 7. Emotion engine that recognizes user emotions

[1200] Program processing

[1201] The operation of this system is as follows.

[1202] User Input

[1203] Users input information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, for example, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1204] Speech Recognition and Text Analytics

[1205] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using a speech recognition module. For example, the voice input "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text data. The text input information then proceeds to the next step.

[1206] emotion recognition

[1207] The device then sends the converted text data to an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotions. For example, emotions such as "excitement" or "disappointment" can be analyzed from the user's voice and text.

[1208] Generating a search query

[1209] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data, for example, "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1210] Submitting queries and searching the database

[1211] The terminal sends the generated search query to the server, which searches a database based on the received query to obtain information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status).

[1212] Returning and displaying search results

[1213] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. For example, it might display or output something like, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[1214] Emotion-based information customization

[1215] The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and customizes the information provided. For example, if the user is in a hurry, the device will provide concise and quick instructions, such as "The iPhone 14 Pro is on the second floor, the first shelf on the right."

[1216] What to do if there is no stock

[1217] If the server determines from the database that the product is out of stock, it generates additional information, including replacement information and the next expected arrival date. This information is returned to the terminal and provided to the user, for example, "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[1218] Emotion-Based Follow-Up

[1219] If the user is expressing negative emotions such as disappointment or anger, the emotion engine will detect that emotion and trigger a specific action (such as providing contact information for customer support), such as "This item is currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. Please contact customer support for more information."

[1220] Specific examples

[1221] Example 1: Product Search and Emotion Recognition

[1222] A user speaks, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1223] The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1224] The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is excited.

[1225] The device sends a query to the server, and the server retrieves the information and sends it back.

[1226] The device will display, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It is priced at $999 and there are three in stock," and a voice will provide further details, "It's on the second floor, first shelf on the right."

[1227] Example 2: Emotion recognition and follow-up when out of stock

[1228] A user texts in "Where is my Samsung Galaxy S20?"

[1229] The device generates the search query "Product name: Samsung Galaxy S20."

[1230] The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is anxious.

[1231] The device sends a query to the server, and the server retrieves the information and sends it back.

[1232] The server confirms that there is no stock and generates alternative information such as "out of stock, next arrival expected next week."

[1233] The device will display the message "Currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. If you need more information, please contact customer support" and provide a voice guide.

[1234] In this way, the present invention can efficiently obtain product information that users desire, and by using an emotion engine, it is possible to provide personalized information, thereby dramatically improving the user experience.

[1235] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1236] Step 1:

[1237] Users can enter information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, such as "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1238] Step 2:

[1239] The device detects voice input, and the voice recognition module converts the voice into text. In the case of text input, the device receives the text data as is.

[1240] Step 3:

[1241] The system filters out unnecessary noise and irrelevant information from the text data acquired by the device and generates appropriate search queries, such as "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1242] Step 4:

[1243] The device sends the converted text data to an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotions, such as "excitement" or "disappointment" from the user's voice and text.

[1244] Step 5:

[1245] The device generates a search query and sends it to the server. For example, a query in the format "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro" is sent to the server.

[1246] Step 6:

[1247] The server parses the query and performs a search against a database that contains information such as product location, price, and availability.

[1248] Step 7:

[1249] The server retrieves search results from the database and aggregates product information that corresponds to the query, such as "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, In ​​stock: 3."

[1250] Step 8:

[1251] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal. For example, the aggregated information above is sent to the terminal.

[1252] Step 9:

[1253] The device analyzes the returned product information and displays it visually to the user. It also uses a speech synthesis function to provide the information to the user aloud. For example, it might say, "The iPhone 14 Pro is in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock."

[1254] Step 10:

[1255] The device will customize the information it provides based on the user's emotions. For example, if the user is excited, it will provide more concise and specific instructions, such as "The iPhone 14 Pro is on the second floor, the first shelf on the right."

[1256] Step 11:

[1257] If the server determines that the item is out of stock, it generates replacement information or information about the expected arrival date. For example, it generates information such as "out of stock, next arrival is next week."

[1258] Step 12:

[1259] The server then returns the generated replacement information to the device, for example in the form "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[1260] Step 13:

[1261] The device can analyze the alternative information and display it visually to the user, or it can use speech synthesis to provide the information to the user aloud, for example, "This item is currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. Please contact customer support for more information."

[1262] Step 14:

[1263] If the device recognizes that the user's sentiment is negative, it can trigger a specific action, such as providing contact information for customer support, such as saying, "This item is currently out of stock. Please contact customer support."

[1264] Example 2

[1265] 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."

[1266] The present invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want, and that also provides personalized information by recognizing the user's emotions. Conventional shopping systems have had problems with the cumbersome process of obtaining product information, which reduces user satisfaction. Furthermore, there are also problems with insufficient measures to deal with out-of-stock items, which increases user dissatisfaction.

[1267] 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.

[1268] In this invention, the server includes a means for recognizing a user's emotion, a means for customizing information to be provided based on the recognized emotion, and a means for providing follow-up information to a user who has expressed a negative emotion. This not only enables efficient acquisition of product information desired by the user, but also enables provision of personalized information according to the emotion. This dramatically improves user satisfaction and reduces dissatisfaction.

[1269] "User" refers to a consumer or user who uses the system to search for or inquire about product information.

[1270] "Voice input" refers to spoken instructions or questions given by a user using a microphone or voice recognition device.

[1271] "Text" refers to character information that a user inputs using a keyboard or touch screen.

[1272] "Product Information" refers to data including detailed information such as product price, availability, and location.

[1273] "Voice-to-text conversion means" refers to technology that uses speech recognition software or hardware to convert a voice signal into corresponding text data.

[1274] A "search query" refers to a specific query statement for searching a database, generated from text entered by a user.

[1275] "Server" refers to a computer system that receives a search query and searches a database for relevant product information.

[1276] A "database" refers to a collection of data for storing detailed product information, stock status, pricing information, etc.

[1277] "Inventory" refers to the quantity of a particular product currently available for sale.

[1278] "Countermeasure information" refers to information such as alternative products and the next expected arrival date that is provided when a product is out of stock.

[1279] "Means for recognizing user emotions" refers to technology that analyzes the user's emotional state from their voice or text.

[1280] "Means for customizing information provided based on recognized emotions" refers to technology that adjusts the product information and guidance methods provided depending on the user's emotional state.

[1281] "Means for providing follow-up information to users who express negative emotions" refers to technology that provides additional support or alternatives when a user expresses negative emotions such as disappointment or anger.

[1282] This invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in large-scale shopping centers. In particular, it aims to provide a more personalized user experience by combining an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and provides information and follow-ups according to those emotions.

[1283] System configuration

[1284] The system consists of the following main components:

[1285] 1. A device where users can input product information by voice or text

[1286] 2. A speech recognition module that converts voice input into text

[1287] 3. Search query generation module that generates search queries from text data

[1288] 4. A server that receives search queries and searches the database for product information

[1289] 5. A terminal that displays or provides audio search results from the server to the user

[1290] 6. Server that provides information on replacements and arrival schedules when items are out of stock

[1291] 7. Emotion engine that recognizes user emotions

[1292] Program processing

[1293] The operation of this system is as follows.

[1294] Users input information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, for example, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1295] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using a speech recognition module. Specifically, the Google Cloud Speech-to-Text API is used for speech recognition. This converts the speech "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" into text data. The text input information then proceeds to the next step.

[1296] The converted text data is then sent from the device to an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions. The emotion engine uses IBM Watson Tone Analyzer, which analyzes emotions such as "excitement" or "disappointment" from the user's voice and text.

[1297] The device then generates an appropriate search query from the text data, for example, "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1298] The terminal sends the generated search query to the server. The server searches the database based on the received query and obtains information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status). The database uses PostgreSQL, MySQL, or similar.

[1299] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. Speech synthesis uses Amazon Polly or Google Text-to-Speech. For example, the device might display or output a message saying, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock."

[1300] The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and customizes the information accordingly. For example, if the user is in a hurry, the device will provide concise and quick instructions, providing detailed information such as "The iPhone 14 Pro is on the second floor, the first shelf on the right."

[1301] Furthermore, if the server finds that the product is out of stock after a database search, it generates additional information including replacement information and the next expected arrival date. This information is returned to the terminal and provided to the user in the form of "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[1302] If the user expresses negative emotions such as disappointment or anger, the emotion engine detects this emotion and triggers a specific action (such as providing contact information for customer support), such as "This item is currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. Please contact customer support for more information."

[1303] Specific examples

[1304] Example 1: Product Search and Emotion Recognition

[1305] 1. The user speaks, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1306] 2. The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1307] 3. The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is excited.

[1308] 4. The device sends a query to the server, which retrieves the information and sends it back.

[1309] 5. The device will display, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It is priced at $999 and there are three in stock," and a voice will provide further guidance, "It's on the second floor, on the first shelf on the right."

[1310] Example 2: Emotion recognition and follow-up when out of stock

[1311] 1. The user texts in "Where is my Samsung Galaxy S20?"

[1312] 2. The device generates the search query "Product Name: Samsung Galaxy S20."

[1313] 3. The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is anxious.

[1314] 4. The device sends a query to the server, which retrieves the information and sends it back.

[1315] 5. The server confirms that the item is out of stock and generates alternative information such as "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[1316] 6. The device will display and provide a voice prompt saying, "This item is currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. If you require further details, please contact customer support."

[1317] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1318] Product search and emotion recognition prompts

[1319] "Say 'Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?' and use voice recognition, emotion recognition, and database lookup to provide the information to the user."

[1320] Out of stock prompt

[1321] "Text 'Where is the Samsung Galaxy S20?' to check emotion recognition and stock information. If it's out of stock, provide follow-up information."

[1322] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1323] Step 1:

[1324] The user inputs information about the product they want into the device in voice or text format. For example, they might say, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?" The input data is voice data or text data.

[1325] Step 2:

[1326] The device converts voice input into text data using a speech recognition module. Specifically, the Google Cloud Speech-to-Text API is used for speech recognition. This converts voice data into text data. For example, the speech "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text data "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1327] Step 3:

[1328] The device sends the converted text data to an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotion. The emotion engine uses IBM Watson Tone Analyzer. The input data is text data, and the output is the user's emotional information (e.g., "excitement," "disappointment," etc.). For example, the emotion "excitement" is recognized from the text "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1329] Step 4:

[1330] The terminal generates an appropriate search query from the text data. A search query generation module is used to analyze the text data and generate a search query. The input data is text data, and the output is a search query (e.g., "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro"). For example, the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro" is generated from the text data "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1331] Step 5:

[1332] The device sends the generated search query to the server. The input data is the search query, and the output is a data request with the search results. For example, the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro" is sent to the server.

[1333] Step 6:

[1334] The server searches a database based on the received search query and retrieves information about the relevant product. For example, it uses a database such as PostgreSQL or MySQL. The input data is the search query, and the output is detailed product information (e.g., price, location, stock status, etc.). For example, in response to the query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro," the server retrieves the information "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[1335] Step 7:

[1336] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal. The input data is detailed product information, and the output is data sent to the user. For example, the server might return detailed information such as, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[1337] Step 8:

[1338] The device displays the returned product information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. Speech synthesis uses Amazon Polly or Google Text-to-Speech. The input data is detailed product information, and the output is display information or voice output. For example, the device might display information such as "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock," and then provide a voice prompt saying, "It's on the second floor, on the first shelf on the right."

[1339] Step 9:

[1340] The information provided is customized according to the user's emotions recognized by the emotion engine. The input data is emotional information, and the output is customized guidance information. For example, if the user is in a hurry, the system will provide concise and quick guidance, providing detailed information such as, "The iPhone 14 Pro is on the second floor, the first shelf on the right."

[1341] Step 10:

[1342] If the server finds that the product is out of stock as a result of a database search, it generates replacement information and information on the next expected arrival date. The input data is the inventory status, and the output is the replacement information and the expected arrival date. For example, it may return to the terminal and provide to the user a message such as "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[1343] Step 11:

[1344] The emotion engine triggers a specific action (such as providing contact information for customer support) for users who express negative emotions such as disappointment or anger. The input data is emotion information, and the output is follow-up information. For example, it might say, "We are currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. If you need more information, please contact customer support."

[1345] (Application example 2)

[1346] 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."

[1347] In today's large-scale shopping centers, it is often difficult for users to quickly and accurately find the products they want. This is particularly true when an item is out of stock or when product information is complex, significantly impairing the user experience. Furthermore, the current system lacks information provision that takes user emotions into consideration, and optimal support is not provided to individual users. This often leads to frustration and reduced satisfaction, creating a problem. There is a need for a system that can solve these issues and provide personalized information based on user emotions.

[1348] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.

[1349] In this invention, the server includes means for analyzing the user's emotions and personalizing information based on the emotions, means for providing simple and quick guidance when the user is impatient, and means for activating a specific action when the user shows disappointment or anger, thereby enabling personalized information provision that takes the user's emotions into consideration.

[1350] A "user" is an individual or organization that uses the system to search for product information and has the intention to purchase.

[1351] "Voice input" refers to voice instructions or questions given by the user through a microphone.

[1352] "Text input" refers to character information that a user inputs using an input device such as a keyboard.

[1353] "Means for converting to text" refers to a module that analyzes voice input and converts it into corresponding text information.

[1354] A "search query" is a specific search expression that is generated by the system to query the server for product information.

[1355] "Server" refers to a computing resource that processes search queries received from users and retrieves or provides information from a database.

[1356] A "database" is an electronic collection of information that systematically stores and manages product information and inventory information.

[1357] The "display means" refers to a function for visually displaying the acquired product information on the user's terminal screen.

[1358] "Means for providing information by voice" refers to a function that uses voice synthesis technology to convey acquired information to the user by voice.

[1359] "Countermeasure information" refers to additional information such as alternatives and expected arrival dates that are provided to users when a particular product is out of stock.

[1360] "Emotion engine" refers to a system component that analyzes user input and determines their emotional state.

[1361] "Personalization" is the act of customizing information according to a user's specific needs or emotional state.

[1362] "Concise and prompt guidance" refers to the act of quickly providing the minimum necessary information when the user is in a hurry.

[1363] "Specific actions" include additional remedial measures that are initiated when a user expresses disappointment or anger, such as providing contact information for customer support.

[1364] System Overview

[1365] The system for implementing this invention allows users to easily search for product information using voice or text, and provides personalized information based on the emotions expressed during the search. The main components include a voice recognition module, an emotion engine, a search query generation module, a server, a database, information display means, and voice output means.

[1366] Hardware and software used

[1367] Hardware:

[1368] User terminal devices such as smartphones and tablets

[1369] A server with internet access

[1370] software:

[1371] Voice recognition software (e.g., Google Speech-to-Text API)

[1372] Sentiment analysis software (e.g. TextBlob)

[1373] Database management software (e.g., MySQL)

[1374] Text-to-speech software (e.g., Google Text-to-Speech API)

[1375] System Operation

[1376] The user inputs information about the product they want into the device using voice or text. For example, consider the voice input of "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1377] Speech to text:

[1378] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using a speech recognition module (Google Speech-to-Text API), and the text input information proceeds to the next step as is.

[1379] Emotion recognition:

[1380] The device sends the converted text data to emotion analysis software (TextBlob) to recognize the user's emotions. For example, emotions such as "excitement" or "disappointment" can be detected from the user's voice and text.

[1381] Generating a search query:

[1382] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data, for example, "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1383] Query the server and search the database:

[1384] The terminal sends the generated search query to the server, which searches a database (MySQL) based on the received query and obtains information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status).

[1385] Display or speak information:

[1386] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis software (Google Text-to-Speech API). For example, the device might say, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock."

[1387] Specific examples

[1388] As a specific example, consider the following scenario.

[1389] 1. The user speaks, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1390] 2. The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1391] 3. The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is excited.

[1392] 4. The device sends a query to the server, which retrieves the information and sends it back.

[1393] 5. The device will display, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock," and a voice will provide further details, "It's on the second floor, on the first shelf on the right."

[1394] Example prompt sentence:

[1395] When a user starts speaking, say, "I want a Samsung Galaxy S21," the app converts that speech to text, analyzes sentiment with an emotion engine, sends a search query to get product location and availability information, and displays or speaks personalized instructions to the user.

[1396] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1397] Step 1:

[1398] The user inputs product information by voice or text.

[1399] Input: User voice or text

[1400] Output: Audio data or text data

[1401] Specific action: A user uses a smartphone or tablet to speak or type something, for example, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1402] Step 2:

[1403] The device converts the voice input into text using a speech recognition module.

[1404] Input: Audio data

[1405] Output: Text data

[1406] Specific operation: The device's voice recognition software (e.g., Google Speech-to-Text API) analyzes the user's voice and converts it into text. For example, the spoken phrase "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text.

[1407] Step 3:

[1408] The terminal transmits the converted text data to an emotion engine, which analyzes the user's emotions.

[1409] Input: Text data

[1410] Output: Emotional information

[1411] How it works: The device's emotion analysis software (e.g., TextBlob) analyzes the text data and determines whether the emotion is positive, neutral, or negative. For example, it generates emotion information such as "excited" or "disappointed."

[1412] Step 4:

[1413] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data.

[1414] Input: Text data

[1415] Output: Search query

[1416] Specific operation: The device analyzes the text data and generates a search query such as "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1417] Step 5:

[1418] The terminal transmits the generated search query to the server.

[1419] Input: Search query

[1420] Output: Search query submission results

[1421] Specific operation: The search query generated by the device is sent to a server via the Internet.

[1422] Step 6:

[1423] The server searches the database based on the received query and obtains information about the product.

[1424] Input: Search query

[1425] Output: Product information

[1426] Specific operation: The server's database management software (e.g., MySQL) processes the received query and obtains information such as the location, price, and stock status of the relevant product.

[1427] Step 7:

[1428] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal.

[1429] Input: Product information

[1430] Output: Product information returned

[1431] Specific operation: The server collects the product information and sends it to the terminal.

[1432] Step 8:

[1433] The terminal displays or provides audio information about the returned product to the user.

[1434] Input: Product information

[1435] Output: Display or audio information

[1436] Specific operation: The device displays the product information it has acquired as text on the screen or provides a voice guide using speech synthesis software (e.g., Google Text-to-Speech API). For example, it might display or output a message saying, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It is priced at $999 and there are three in stock."

[1437] Step 9:

[1438] The device personalizes information based on the user's emotions.

[1439] Input: Emotion information, product information

[1440] Output: personalized display or audio information

[1441] Specific actions: Based on the information from the emotion engine, if the user is impatient, provide concise and quick instructions, or if the user shows disappointment or anger, trigger a specific action (e.g., provide customer support contact information). For example, add specific instructions such as, "If you are in a hurry, please use the escalator on the left."

[1442] Step 10:

[1443] The server provides alternatives and arrival schedules when the item is out of stock.

[1444] Input: Search query

[1445] Output: Alternatives or availability information

[1446] Specific operation: The server checks product information, and if it is out of stock, generates alternative information including the stock status of other stores and the next expected arrival date, and sends it to the terminal. For example, it displays or outputs a message such as, "Currently out of stock, but the next arrival date is next week."

[1447] 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.

[1448] 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.

[1449] 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.

[1450] [Fourth embodiment]

[1451] FIG. 7 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 410 according to the fourth embodiment.

[1452] 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.

[1453] 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).

[1454] 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.

[1455] 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.

[1456] 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).

[1457] 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.

[1458] 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.

[1459] 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.

[1460] 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.

[1461] 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.

[1462] 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.

[1463] 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."

[1464] The present invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in a large-scale shopping center. The following describes in detail an embodiment of the present invention, a specific system configuration, and its operation.

[1465] System configuration

[1466] The system consists of the following main components:

[1467] 1. A device where users can input product information by voice or text

[1468] 2. A speech recognition module that converts voice input into text

[1469] 3. Search query generation module that generates search queries from text data

[1470] 4. A server that receives search queries and searches the database for product information

[1471] 5. A terminal that displays or provides audio search results from the server to the user

[1472] 6. Server that provides information on replacements and arrival schedules when items are out of stock

[1473] Program processing

[1474] The operation of this system is as follows.

[1475] User Input

[1476] Users input information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, for example, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1477] Speech Recognition and Text Analytics

[1478] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using a speech recognition module. For example, the voice input "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text data. The text input information then proceeds to the next step.

[1479] Generating a search query

[1480] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data, for example, a query in the format "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1481] Submitting queries and searching the database

[1482] The terminal sends the generated search query to the server, which searches a database based on the received query to obtain information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status).

[1483] Returning and displaying search results

[1484] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. For example, it might display or output something like, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[1485] What to do if there is no stock

[1486] If the server determines from the database that the product is out of stock, it generates additional information, including replacement information and the next expected arrival date. This information is returned to the terminal and provided to the user, for example, "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[1487] Specific examples

[1488] Example 1: Product search and stock check

[1489] A user utters, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1490] The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1491] The terminal sends a query to the server.

[1492] The server searches the database based on the query and retrieves the result "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, In ​​stock: 3."

[1493] The server sends the results back to the terminal, which displays them and speaks them to the user.

[1494] Example 2: What to do when there is no stock

[1495] A user texts, "Where is my Samsung Galaxy S20?"

[1496] The device generates the search query "Product name: Samsung Galaxy S20."

[1497] The terminal sends a query to the server.

[1498] The server searches the database based on the query and finds that the item is out of stock.

[1499] The server generates alternative information such as "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[1500] The server returns the alternative information to the terminal, which displays it and audibly conveys it to the user.

[1501] As described above, the present invention provides a specific method for efficiently obtaining product information desired by a user, and has the effect of improving the user's shopping experience.

[1502] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1503] Step 1:

[1504] Users can enter information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, such as "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1505] Step 2:

[1506] The device detects voice input, and the voice recognition module converts the voice into text. In the case of text input, the device receives the text data as is.

[1507] Step 3:

[1508] The system filters out unnecessary noise and irrelevant information from the text data acquired by the device and generates appropriate search queries, such as "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1509] Step 4:

[1510] The device generates a search query and sends it to the server. For example, a query in the format "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro" is sent to the server.

[1511] Step 5:

[1512] The server parses the query and performs a search against a database that contains information such as product location, price, and availability.

[1513] Step 6:

[1514] The server retrieves search results from the database and aggregates product information that corresponds to the query, such as "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, In ​​stock: 3."

[1515] Step 7:

[1516] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal. For example, the aggregated information above is sent to the terminal.

[1517] Step 8:

[1518] The device analyzes the returned product information and displays it visually to the user. It also uses a speech synthesis function to provide the information to the user aloud. For example, it might say, "The iPhone 14 Pro is in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock."

[1519] Step 9:

[1520] If the server determines that the item is out of stock, it generates replacement information or information about the expected arrival date. For example, it generates information such as "out of stock, next arrival is next week."

[1521] Step 10:

[1522] The server then returns the generated replacement information to the device, for example in the form "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[1523] Step 11:

[1524] The device can analyze the alternative information and display it visually to the user, or it can use speech synthesis to provide the information to the user aloud, for example, "The Samsung Galaxy S20 is currently out of stock. The next shipment is expected next week."

[1525] Example 1

[1526] 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."

[1527] In today's large-scale shopping centers, it is often difficult for users to quickly and accurately find the products they are looking for. It is also difficult to grasp product inventory information and arrival schedule information in real time. Furthermore, systems that use voice input are prone to misrecognition and noise, so highly accurate information provision is required. Therefore, the challenge is to provide a system that allows users to easily and accurately obtain product information.

[1528] 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.

[1529] In this invention, the server includes means for a user to input product information by voice or text, means for converting the voice input into text, means for generating a search query from the text, means for transmitting the search query to the server, means for the server to search a database to obtain product information, means for providing the obtained product information to the user by display or voice, means for providing information on countermeasures when the product is out of stock, means for automatically generating an appropriate search query using a generative AI model, and means for providing the obtained product information by voice using voice synthesis technology, thereby enabling users to quickly and accurately obtain desired product information.

[1530] A "user" is someone who uses the system to search for product information.

[1531] "Product information" refers to detailed information about a product, such as its location, price, stock status, and expected arrival date.

[1532] "Voice input" is information that a user inputs into the system through speech.

[1533] "Text input" is information that a user inputs into a system through text.

[1534] A "voice recognition module" is a software and hardware component for converting voice input into text data.

[1535] A "search query" is a statement for database search that is generated based on the product information that a user is looking for.

[1536] A "server" is a computer system that receives a search query sent by a user, searches a database to obtain product information, and returns that information to the terminal.

[1537] A "database" is a collection of digital storage devices for storing and managing product information.

[1538] A "generative AI model" is an artificial intelligence technology that uses natural language processing technology to automatically generate appropriate search queries.

[1539] "Speech synthesis technology" is a technology that converts text data into speech and reads it aloud.

[1540] "Alternative information" is additional information such as similar products provided when an item is out of stock or the next expected arrival date.

[1541] The present invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in large-scale shopping centers. This system includes the following main components:

[1542] System configuration

[1543] The system consists of the following main components:

[1544] 1. A device where users can input product information by voice or text

[1545] 2. A speech recognition module that converts voice input into text

[1546] 3. Search query generation module that generates search queries from text data

[1547] 4. A server that receives search queries and searches the database for product information

[1548] 5. A terminal that displays or provides audio search results from the server to the user

[1549] 6. Server that provides information on replacements and arrival schedules when items are out of stock

[1550] System Operation

[1551] User Input

[1552] Users can input information about the product they want into the device using voice or text. For example, users can input information such as "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1553] Speech Recognition and Text Analytics

[1554] The device converts the speech into text data using a speech recognition module (specifically, the Google Cloud Speech-to-Text API). For example, the speech "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text data. The text input information then proceeds to the next step.

[1555] Generating a search query

[1556] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data using natural language processing (NLP) techniques. For example, it generates a query in the format "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro." It then uses a generative AI model (e.g., GPT-4) to convert the query into the appropriate format.

[1557] Submitting queries and searching the database

[1558] The device sends the generated search query to the server, which searches a database (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL) based on the received query to obtain information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status).

[1559] Returning and displaying search results

[1560] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis (specifically, Amazon Polly, etc.). For example, it might display or output a message like, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[1561] What to do if there is no stock

[1562] If the server finds that the product is out of stock after a database search, it generates replacement information and information about the next expected arrival date. This information is returned to the terminal and provided to the user in the form of "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[1563] Specific examples

[1564] Example 1: Product search and stock check

[1565] 1. The user utters, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1566] 2. The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1567] 3. The device sends a query to the server.

[1568] 4. The server searches the database based on the query and retrieves the result "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, In ​​stock: 3."

[1569] 5. The server sends the results back to the terminal, which displays them and speaks them to the user.

[1570] Example 2: What to do when there is no stock

[1571] 1. A user texts, "Where is my Samsung Galaxy S20?"

[1572] 2. The device generates the search query "Product Name: Samsung Galaxy S20."

[1573] 3. The device sends a query to the server.

[1574] 4. The server searches the database based on the query and finds that the item is out of stock.

[1575] 5. The server generates alternative information: "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[1576] 6. The server returns the alternative information to the terminal, which displays it and audibly conveys it to the user.

[1577] As described above, the present invention provides a specific method for efficiently obtaining product information desired by a user, and has the effect of improving the user's shopping experience.

[1578] The flow of the identification process in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1579] Step 1: User Input

[1580] A user uses a device such as a smartphone or tablet to input information about a desired product in voice or text format. As a specific example, consider the case where a user voice-inputs, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?" This input is sent to the device. The input is provided to the device in the data format of "user inputting product information by voice."

[1581] Step 2: Speech recognition and text analysis

[1582] The device uses a speech recognition module to convert speech into text data. Specifically, the device uses the Google Cloud Speech-to-Text API to convert the speech "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" into text data. The input is "speech data from the user" and the output is "text data." The converted text then proceeds to the next step.

[1583] Step 3: Generating a search query

[1584] The device generates appropriate search queries from the text data. This process uses natural language processing technology. Specifically, the device uses a generative AI model (e.g., GPT-4) to automatically generate search queries in the format "Product Name: iPhone 14 Pro." The input is "text data" and the output is "search queries."

[1585] Step 4: Submitting a query and searching the database

[1586] The device sends the generated search query to the server. The server searches the database based on the received query to retrieve product information. Specifically, the server searches the MySQL database and retrieves the result "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, Stock: 3 units." The input is the "search query" and the output is "product information."

[1587] Step 5: Return and display search results

[1588] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. Specifically, the device uses Amazon Polly to display or output the following message: "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock." The input is "product information," and the output is "display or audio output."

[1589] Step 6: What to do if there is no stock

[1590] If the server finds that the product is out of stock as a result of a database search, it generates replacement information and information about the next expected arrival date. Specifically, the server generates replacement information such as "out of stock, next arrival scheduled for next week." The server returns this information to the terminal, which then presents it to the user. The input is "out of stock information," and the output is "replacement information and information about the next expected arrival date."

[1591] (Application example 1)

[1592] 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."

[1593] The challenge is that users cannot quickly and accurately obtain information about the products they want in physical stores. Another problem is that alternative information cannot be provided appropriately when an item is out of stock. Furthermore, the lack of a system that provides real-time information in response to user voice input means that the user's shopping experience is not improved.

[1594] 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.

[1595] In this invention, the server includes: means for a user to input product information by voice or text; means for converting the voice input into text; means for generating a search query from the text; means for the server to search a database to obtain product information; means for displaying or providing the obtained product information to the user by voice; means for providing information on what to do if the product is out of stock; and means for obtaining product information in real time in response to the user's voice input and displaying or providing voice guidance on the smart device. This enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information on products they want in a physical store and provides information on alternative products in real time if the product is out of stock, thereby improving their shopping experience.

[1596] A "user" is a consumer who uses the system to search for product information.

[1597] "Means for inputting product information by voice or text" refers to a device or application that allows a user to input product information in voice or text format.

[1598] A "means for converting voice input into text" is software or a device that has the function of analyzing a user's voice and converting it into text data.

[1599] The "means for generating a search query from text" is a software module that generates a query for searching for product information based on input text data.

[1600] The "means for transmitting a search query to a server" refers to a device or application that has the function of transmitting the generated search query to a server via a network.

[1601] "Means for the server to search the database and obtain product information" refers to the function of searching and obtaining the relevant product information from the database using the search query received by the server.

[1602] The "means for displaying or providing audio information to the user about the acquired product information" refers to a device or application that visually displays or audio-guides the product information returned from the server to the user.

[1603] The "means for providing countermeasure information in case of out of stock" is a function that provides the user with information on substitute products and the next expected arrival date when the searched product is out of stock.

[1604] "Means for acquiring product information in real time in response to the user's voice input and displaying or providing voice guidance on a smart device" refers to a function that processes the user's voice input in real time and instantly displays or provides guidance on the product information on a device such as a smartphone or smart glasses.

[1605] This invention relates to a system that allows users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in physical stores. This system searches for product information in real time based on the user's voice or text input, and displays the results on a smart device or provides voice guidance. The specific system configuration and operation are described below.

[1606] System configuration

[1607] The system mainly consists of the following components:

[1608] 1. How users can enter product information by voice or text:

[1609] This is achieved through devices such as smartphones and smart glasses.

[1610] 2. Means of converting voice input to text:

[1611] Use the speech_recognition library to convert speech into highly accurate text data.

[1612] 3. How to generate a search query from text:

[1613] A software module that analyzes text and generates queries for product searches.

[1614] 4. Means for sending search queries to the server:

[1615] Send the query to the server over the network using the HTTP client library requests.

[1616] 5. How the server searches the database to get product information:

[1617] The server-side program searches the product database based on the received query and obtains the relevant product information.

[1618] 6. Means for displaying or providing audio of the acquired product information to the user:

[1619] The acquired information is displayed on the smart device, or a voice synthesis tool (pyttsx3) is used to provide audio guidance to the user.

[1620] 7. Means of providing information on what to do if there is no stock:

[1621] When the server obtains out-of-stock information, it generates substitute products and the next expected arrival date and notifies the user.

[1622] 8. Means for obtaining product information in real time in response to user voice input and displaying or providing voice guidance on a smart device:

[1623] This provides users with real-time information and improves their shopping experience.

[1624] Program processing

[1625] 1. User Input

[1626] A user speaks, "Where can I find the latest smartphone?"

[1627] 2. Speech Recognition and Text Analysis

[1628] The smart device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: latest smartphone."

[1629] 3. Submitting a query and searching the database

[1630] A query is sent to the server, and the server searches the database based on the query to obtain product information.

[1631] 4. Returning and Displaying Search Results

[1632] For example, it might return a result like, "This smartphone is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $800 and there are five in stock."

[1633] 5. What to do if there is no stock

[1634] If "Product name: Latest smartphone" is out of stock, the server generates information saying "Currently out of stock. The next shipment is expected to arrive next week" and notifies the user.

[1635] Specific examples

[1636] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1637] If a user utters the voice command "Where is the latest smartphone?", the following sequence of events occurs:

[1638] 1. Convert the user's voice input into highly accurate text data.

[1639] 2. Analyze the text data to generate a search query and send it to the server.

[1640] 3. The server searches the database to retrieve the product information.

[1641] 4. The acquired information is displayed on the smart device and guidance is given to the user via voice.

[1642] This allows users to quickly and accurately obtain product information in physical stores, improving their shopping experience.

[1643] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1644] Step 1:

[1645] User Input

[1646] A user uses a smart device (e.g., a smartphone or smart glasses) to input information about a desired product using voice or text. For example, a voice input may be, "Where can I find the latest smartphone?" Based on this input, the smart device obtains voice or text data. As a result of this step, user input data (voice or text) is generated.

[1647] Step 2:

[1648] Speech recognition and text conversion

[1649] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using the speech_recognition library. It uses a specific noise reduction algorithm to clean the input data, and then performs speech recognition. For example, the voice input "Where is the latest smartphone?" is converted into text data "Where is the latest smartphone?". The result of this step is text data.

[1650] Step 3:

[1651] Generating a search query

[1652] The device analyzes the text data obtained in step 2 and generates a query for a product search. For example, from the text data "Where can I find the latest smartphone?", the device creates a search query "Product name: latest smartphone." As a result of this step, a search query is generated.

[1653] Step 4:

[1654] Submitting a query

[1655] The device sends the generated search query to the server. It uses the HTTP client library, requests, to send the query data to the server over the network. As a result of this step, the query data is sent to the server.

[1656] Step 5:

[1657] Database search

[1658] The server searches the database based on the received search query. Using a specific algorithm, it retrieves the relevant product information from the database. For example, it retrieves the location, price, and availability of the product corresponding to "Product name: latest smartphone." As a result of this step, the product information is extracted.

[1659] Step 6:

[1660] Returning and displaying search results

[1661] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal. The smart device displays the returned information to the user and provides voice guidance using a speech synthesis tool (pyttsx3). For example, the smart device may display and guide the user, saying, "The latest smartphone is in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $800 and there are five in stock." As a result of this step, the product information is provided to the user.

[1662] Step 7:

[1663] What to do if there is no stock

[1664] If the database search results in a product being out of stock, the server finds information about alternative products and the next expected arrival date. For example, it generates information such as "The latest smartphone is out of stock. The next arrival date is next week." The server returns this alternative information to the terminal, which notifies the user. As a result of this step, the alternative information is provided to the user.

[1665] 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.

[1666] This invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in large-scale shopping centers. In particular, it aims to provide a more personalized user experience by combining an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and provides information and follow-ups according to those emotions.

[1667] System configuration

[1668] The system consists of the following main components:

[1669] 1. A device where users can input product information by voice or text

[1670] 2. A speech recognition module that converts voice input into text

[1671] 3. Search query generation module that generates search queries from text data

[1672] 4. A server that receives search queries and searches the database for product information

[1673] 5. A terminal that displays or provides audio search results from the server to the user

[1674] 6. Server that provides information on replacements and arrival schedules when items are out of stock

[1675] 7. Emotion engine that recognizes user emotions

[1676] Program processing

[1677] The operation of this system is as follows.

[1678] User Input

[1679] Users input information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, for example, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1680] Speech Recognition and Text Analytics

[1681] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using a speech recognition module. For example, the voice input "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text data. The text input information then proceeds to the next step.

[1682] emotion recognition

[1683] The device then sends the converted text data to an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotions. For example, emotions such as "excitement" or "disappointment" can be analyzed from the user's voice and text.

[1684] Generating a search query

[1685] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data, for example, "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1686] Submitting queries and searching the database

[1687] The terminal sends the generated search query to the server, which searches a database based on the received query to obtain information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status).

[1688] Returning and displaying search results

[1689] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. For example, it might display or output something like, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[1690] Emotion-based information customization

[1691] The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and customizes the information provided. For example, if the user is in a hurry, the device will provide concise and quick instructions, such as "The iPhone 14 Pro is on the second floor, the first shelf on the right."

[1692] What to do if there is no stock

[1693] If the server determines from the database that the product is out of stock, it generates additional information, including replacement information and the next expected arrival date. This information is returned to the terminal and provided to the user, for example, "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[1694] Emotion-Based Follow-Up

[1695] If the user is expressing negative emotions such as disappointment or anger, the emotion engine will detect that emotion and trigger a specific action (such as providing contact information for customer support), such as "This item is currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. Please contact customer support for more information."

[1696] Specific examples

[1697] Example 1: Product Search and Emotion Recognition

[1698] A user speaks, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1699] The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1700] The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is excited.

[1701] The device sends a query to the server, and the server retrieves the information and sends it back.

[1702] The device will display, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It is priced at $999 and there are three in stock," and a voice will provide further details, "It's on the second floor, first shelf on the right."

[1703] Example 2: Emotion recognition and follow-up when out of stock

[1704] A user texts in "Where is my Samsung Galaxy S20?"

[1705] The device generates the search query "Product name: Samsung Galaxy S20."

[1706] The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is anxious.

[1707] The device sends a query to the server, and the server retrieves the information and sends it back.

[1708] The server confirms that there is no stock and generates alternative information such as "out of stock, next arrival expected next week."

[1709] The device will display the message "Currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. If you need more information, please contact customer support" and provide a voice guide.

[1710] In this way, the present invention can efficiently obtain product information that users desire, and by using an emotion engine, it is possible to provide personalized information, thereby dramatically improving the user experience.

[1711] The processing flow will be explained below.

[1712] Step 1:

[1713] Users can enter information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, such as "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1714] Step 2:

[1715] The device detects voice input, and the voice recognition module converts the voice into text. In the case of text input, the device receives the text data as is.

[1716] Step 3:

[1717] The system filters out unnecessary noise and irrelevant information from the text data acquired by the device and generates appropriate search queries, such as "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1718] Step 4:

[1719] The device sends the converted text data to an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotions, such as "excitement" or "disappointment" from the user's voice and text.

[1720] Step 5:

[1721] The device generates a search query and sends it to the server. For example, a query in the format "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro" is sent to the server.

[1722] Step 6:

[1723] The server parses the query and performs a search against a database that contains information such as product location, price, and availability.

[1724] Step 7:

[1725] The server retrieves search results from the database and aggregates product information that corresponds to the query, such as "Location: Electronics section on the second floor, Price: $999, In ​​stock: 3."

[1726] Step 8:

[1727] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal. For example, the aggregated information above is sent to the terminal.

[1728] Step 9:

[1729] The device analyzes the returned product information and displays it visually to the user. It also uses a speech synthesis function to provide the information to the user aloud. For example, it might say, "The iPhone 14 Pro is in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock."

[1730] Step 10:

[1731] The device will customize the information it provides based on the user's emotions. For example, if the user is excited, it will provide more concise and specific instructions, such as "The iPhone 14 Pro is on the second floor, the first shelf on the right."

[1732] Step 11:

[1733] If the server determines that the item is out of stock, it generates replacement information or information about the expected arrival date. For example, it generates information such as "out of stock, next arrival is next week."

[1734] Step 12:

[1735] The server then returns the generated replacement information to the device, for example in the form "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[1736] Step 13:

[1737] The device can analyze the alternative information and display it visually to the user, or it can use speech synthesis to provide the information to the user aloud, for example, "This item is currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. Please contact customer support for more information."

[1738] Step 14:

[1739] If the device recognizes that the user's sentiment is negative, it can trigger a specific action, such as providing contact information for customer support, such as saying, "This item is currently out of stock. Please contact customer support."

[1740] Example 2

[1741] 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."

[1742] The present invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want, and that also provides personalized information by recognizing the user's emotions. Conventional shopping systems have had problems with the cumbersome process of obtaining product information, which reduces user satisfaction. Furthermore, there are also problems with insufficient measures to deal with out-of-stock items, which increases user dissatisfaction.

[1743] 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.

[1744] In this invention, the server includes a means for recognizing a user's emotion, a means for customizing information to be provided based on the recognized emotion, and a means for providing follow-up information to a user who has expressed a negative emotion. This not only enables efficient acquisition of product information desired by the user, but also enables provision of personalized information according to the emotion. This dramatically improves user satisfaction and reduces dissatisfaction.

[1745] "User" refers to a consumer or user who uses the system to search for or inquire about product information.

[1746] "Voice input" refers to spoken instructions or questions given by a user using a microphone or voice recognition device.

[1747] "Text" refers to character information that a user inputs using a keyboard or touch screen.

[1748] "Product Information" refers to data including detailed information such as product price, availability, and location.

[1749] "Voice-to-text conversion means" refers to technology that uses speech recognition software or hardware to convert a voice signal into corresponding text data.

[1750] A "search query" refers to a specific query statement for searching a database, generated from text entered by a user.

[1751] "Server" refers to a computer system that receives a search query and searches a database for relevant product information.

[1752] A "database" refers to a collection of data for storing detailed product information, stock status, pricing information, etc.

[1753] "Inventory" refers to the quantity of a particular product currently available for sale.

[1754] "Countermeasure information" refers to information such as alternative products and the next expected arrival date that is provided when a product is out of stock.

[1755] "Means for recognizing user emotions" refers to technology that analyzes the user's emotional state from their voice or text.

[1756] "Means for customizing information provided based on recognized emotions" refers to technology that adjusts the product information and guidance methods provided depending on the user's emotional state.

[1757] "Means for providing follow-up information to users who express negative emotions" refers to technology that provides additional support or alternatives when a user expresses negative emotions such as disappointment or anger.

[1758] This invention relates to a system that enables users to quickly and accurately obtain information about products they want in large-scale shopping centers. In particular, it aims to provide a more personalized user experience by combining an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions and provides information and follow-ups according to those emotions.

[1759] System configuration

[1760] The system consists of the following main components:

[1761] 1. A device where users can input product information by voice or text

[1762] 2. A speech recognition module that converts voice input into text

[1763] 3. Search query generation module that generates search queries from text data

[1764] 4. A server that receives search queries and searches the database for product information

[1765] 5. A terminal that displays or provides audio search results from the server to the user

[1766] 6. Server that provides information on replacements and arrival schedules when items are out of stock

[1767] 7. Emotion engine that recognizes user emotions

[1768] Program processing

[1769] The operation of this system is as follows.

[1770] Users input information about the product they want into the device using voice or text, for example, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1771] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using a speech recognition module. Specifically, the Google Cloud Speech-to-Text API is used for speech recognition. This converts the speech "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" into text data. The text input information then proceeds to the next step.

[1772] The converted text data is then sent from the device to an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions. The emotion engine uses IBM Watson Tone Analyzer, which analyzes emotions such as "excitement" or "disappointment" from the user's voice and text.

[1773] The device then generates an appropriate search query from the text data, for example, "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1774] The terminal sends the generated search query to the server. The server searches the database based on the received query and obtains information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status). The database uses PostgreSQL, MySQL, or similar.

[1775] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. Speech synthesis uses Amazon Polly or Google Text-to-Speech. For example, the device might display or output a message saying, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock."

[1776] The emotion engine recognizes the user's emotions and customizes the information accordingly. For example, if the user is in a hurry, the device will provide concise and quick instructions, providing detailed information such as "The iPhone 14 Pro is on the second floor, the first shelf on the right."

[1777] Furthermore, if the server finds that the product is out of stock after a database search, it generates additional information including replacement information and the next expected arrival date. This information is returned to the terminal and provided to the user in the form of "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[1778] If the user expresses negative emotions such as disappointment or anger, the emotion engine detects this emotion and triggers a specific action (such as providing contact information for customer support), such as "This item is currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. Please contact customer support for more information."

[1779] Specific examples

[1780] Example 1: Product Search and Emotion Recognition

[1781] 1. The user speaks, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1782] 2. The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1783] 3. The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is excited.

[1784] 4. The device sends a query to the server, which retrieves the information and sends it back.

[1785] 5. The device will display, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It is priced at $999 and there are three in stock," and a voice will provide further guidance, "It's on the second floor, on the first shelf on the right."

[1786] Example 2: Emotion recognition and follow-up when out of stock

[1787] 1. The user texts in "Where is my Samsung Galaxy S20?"

[1788] 2. The device generates the search query "Product Name: Samsung Galaxy S20."

[1789] 3. The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is anxious.

[1790] 4. The device sends a query to the server, which retrieves the information and sends it back.

[1791] 5. The server confirms that the item is out of stock and generates alternative information such as "Out of stock, next shipment due next week."

[1792] 6. The device will display and provide a voice prompt saying, "This item is currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. If you require further details, please contact customer support."

[1793] Prompt Sentence Examples

[1794] Product search and emotion recognition prompts

[1795] "Say 'Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?' and use voice recognition, emotion recognition, and database lookup to provide the information to the user."

[1796] Out of stock prompt

[1797] "Text 'Where is the Samsung Galaxy S20?' to check emotion recognition and stock information. If it's out of stock, provide follow-up information."

[1798] The flow of the identification process in the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[1799] Step 1:

[1800] The user inputs information about the product they want into the device in voice or text format. For example, they might say, "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?" The input data is voice data or text data.

[1801] Step 2:

[1802] The device converts voice input into text data using a speech recognition module. Specifically, the Google Cloud Speech-to-Text API is used for speech recognition. This converts voice data into text data. For example, the speech "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text data "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1803] Step 3:

[1804] The device sends the converted text data to an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotion. The emotion engine uses IBM Watson Tone Analyzer. The input data is text data, and the output is the user's emotional information (e.g., "excitement," "disappointment," etc.). For example, the emotion "excitement" is recognized from the text "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1805] Step 4:

[1806] The terminal generates an appropriate search query from the text data. A search query generation module is used to analyze the text data and generate a search query. The input data is text data, and the output is a search query (e.g., "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro"). For example, the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro" is generated from the text data "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1807] Step 5:

[1808] The device sends the generated search query to the server. The input data is the search query, and the output is a data request with the search results. For example, the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro" is sent to the server.

[1809] Step 6:

[1810] The server searches a database based on the received search query and retrieves information about the relevant product. For example, it uses a database such as PostgreSQL or MySQL. The input data is the search query, and the output is detailed product information (e.g., price, location, stock status, etc.). For example, in response to the query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro," the server retrieves the information "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[1811] Step 7:

[1812] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal. The input data is detailed product information, and the output is data sent to the user. For example, the server might return detailed information such as, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. The price is $999, and there are three in stock."

[1813] Step 8:

[1814] The device displays the returned product information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis. Speech synthesis uses Amazon Polly or Google Text-to-Speech. The input data is detailed product information, and the output is display information or voice output. For example, the device might display information such as "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock," and then provide a voice prompt saying, "It's on the second floor, on the first shelf on the right."

[1815] Step 9:

[1816] The information provided is customized according to the user's emotions recognized by the emotion engine. The input data is emotional information, and the output is customized guidance information. For example, if the user is in a hurry, the system will provide concise and quick guidance, providing detailed information such as, "The iPhone 14 Pro is on the second floor, the first shelf on the right."

[1817] Step 10:

[1818] If the server finds that the product is out of stock as a result of a database search, it generates replacement information and information on the next expected arrival date. The input data is the inventory status, and the output is the replacement information and the expected arrival date. For example, it may return to the terminal and provide to the user a message such as "Currently out of stock. The next expected arrival date is next week."

[1819] Step 11:

[1820] The emotion engine triggers a specific action (such as providing contact information for customer support) for users who express negative emotions such as disappointment or anger. The input data is emotion information, and the output is follow-up information. For example, it might say, "We are currently out of stock, but the next shipment is expected next week. If you need more information, please contact customer support."

[1821] (Application example 2)

[1822] 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."

[1823] In today's large-scale shopping centers, it is often difficult for users to quickly and accurately find the products they want. This is particularly true when an item is out of stock or when product information is complex, significantly impairing the user experience. Furthermore, the current system lacks information provision that takes user emotions into consideration, and optimal support is not provided to individual users. This often leads to frustration and reduced satisfaction, creating a problem. There is a need for a system that can solve these issues and provide personalized information based on user emotions.

[1824] The specific processing by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in the application example 2 is realized by the following means.

[1825] In this invention, the server includes means for analyzing the user's emotions and personalizing information based on the emotions, means for providing simple and quick guidance when the user is impatient, and means for activating a specific action when the user shows disappointment or anger, thereby enabling personalized information provision that takes the user's emotions into consideration.

[1826] A "user" is an individual or organization that uses the system to search for product information and has the intention to purchase.

[1827] "Voice input" refers to voice instructions or questions given by the user through a microphone.

[1828] "Text input" refers to character information that a user inputs using an input device such as a keyboard.

[1829] "Means for converting to text" refers to a module that analyzes voice input and converts it into corresponding text information.

[1830] A "search query" is a specific search expression that is generated by the system to query the server for product information.

[1831] "Server" refers to a computing resource that processes search queries received from users and retrieves or provides information from a database.

[1832] A "database" is an electronic collection of information that systematically stores and manages product information and inventory information.

[1833] The "display means" refers to a function for visually displaying the acquired product information on the user's terminal screen.

[1834] "Means for providing information by voice" refers to a function that uses voice synthesis technology to convey acquired information to the user by voice.

[1835] "Countermeasure information" refers to additional information such as alternatives and expected arrival dates that are provided to users when a particular product is out of stock.

[1836] "Emotion engine" refers to a system component that analyzes user input and determines their emotional state.

[1837] "Personalization" is the act of customizing information according to a user's specific needs or emotional state.

[1838] "Concise and prompt guidance" refers to the act of quickly providing the minimum necessary information when the user is in a hurry.

[1839] "Specific actions" include additional remedial measures that are initiated when a user expresses disappointment or anger, such as providing contact information for customer support.

[1840] System Overview

[1841] The system for implementing this invention allows users to easily search for product information using voice or text, and provides personalized information based on the emotions expressed during the search. The main components include a voice recognition module, an emotion engine, a search query generation module, a server, a database, information display means, and voice output means.

[1842] Hardware and software used

[1843] Hardware:

[1844] User terminal devices such as smartphones and tablets

[1845] A server with internet access

[1846] software:

[1847] Voice recognition software (e.g., Google Speech-to-Text API)

[1848] Sentiment analysis software (e.g. TextBlob)

[1849] Database management software (e.g., MySQL)

[1850] Text-to-speech software (e.g., Google Text-to-Speech API)

[1851] System Operation

[1852] The user inputs information about the product they want into the device using voice or text. For example, consider the voice input of "Where is the iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1853] Speech to text:

[1854] The device converts the user's voice input into text data using a speech recognition module (Google Speech-to-Text API), and the text input information proceeds to the next step as is.

[1855] Emotion recognition:

[1856] The device sends the converted text data to emotion analysis software (TextBlob) to recognize the user's emotions. For example, emotions such as "excitement" or "disappointment" can be detected from the user's voice and text.

[1857] Generating a search query:

[1858] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data, for example, "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1859] Query the server and search the database:

[1860] The terminal sends the generated search query to the server, which searches a database (MySQL) based on the received query and obtains information about the product (e.g., location, price, and stock status).

[1861] Display or speak information:

[1862] The server returns the retrieved product information to the device. The device then displays the returned information to the user or reads it aloud using speech synthesis software (Google Text-to-Speech API). For example, the device might say, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock."

[1863] Specific examples

[1864] As a specific example, consider the following scenario.

[1865] 1. The user speaks, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1866] 2. The device converts the speech to text and generates the search query "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1867] 3. The device sends text data to the emotion engine and recognizes that the user is excited.

[1868] 4. The device sends a query to the server, which retrieves the information and sends it back.

[1869] 5. The device will display, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It costs $999 and there are three in stock," and a voice will provide further details, "It's on the second floor, on the first shelf on the right."

[1870] Example prompt sentence:

[1871] When a user starts speaking, say, "I want a Samsung Galaxy S21," the app converts that speech to text, analyzes sentiment with an emotion engine, sends a search query to get product location and availability information, and displays or speaks personalized instructions to the user.

[1872] The flow of the specific processing in the application example 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[1873] Step 1:

[1874] The user inputs product information by voice or text.

[1875] Input: User voice or text

[1876] Output: Audio data or text data

[1877] Specific action: A user uses a smartphone or tablet to speak or type something, for example, "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?"

[1878] Step 2:

[1879] The device converts the voice input into text using a speech recognition module.

[1880] Input: Audio data

[1881] Output: Text data

[1882] Specific operation: The device's voice recognition software (e.g., Google Speech-to-Text API) analyzes the user's voice and converts it into text. For example, the spoken phrase "Where is my iPhone 14 Pro?" is converted into text.

[1883] Step 3:

[1884] The terminal transmits the converted text data to an emotion engine, which analyzes the user's emotions.

[1885] Input: Text data

[1886] Output: Emotional information

[1887] How it works: The device's emotion analysis software (e.g., TextBlob) analyzes the text data and determines whether the emotion is positive, neutral, or negative. For example, it generates emotion information such as "excited" or "disappointed."

[1888] Step 4:

[1889] The device generates an appropriate search query from the text data.

[1890] Input: Text data

[1891] Output: Search query

[1892] Specific operation: The device analyzes the text data and generates a search query such as "Product name: iPhone 14 Pro."

[1893] Step 5:

[1894] The terminal transmits the generated search query to the server.

[1895] Input: Search query

[1896] Output: Search query submission results

[1897] Specific operation: The search query generated by the device is sent to a server via the Internet.

[1898] Step 6:

[1899] The server searches the database based on the received query and obtains information about the product.

[1900] Input: Search query

[1901] Output: Product information

[1902] Specific operation: The server's database management software (e.g., MySQL) processes the received query and obtains information such as the location, price, and stock status of the relevant product.

[1903] Step 7:

[1904] The server returns the acquired product information to the terminal.

[1905] Input: Product information

[1906] Output: Product information returned

[1907] Specific operation: The server collects the product information and sends it to the terminal.

[1908] Step 8:

[1909] The terminal displays or provides audio information about the returned product to the user.

[1910] Input: Product information

[1911] Output: Display or audio information

[1912] Specific operation: The device displays the product information it has acquired as text on the screen or provides a voice guide using speech synthesis software (e.g., Google Text-to-Speech API). For example, it might display or output a message saying, "The iPhone 14 Pro is located in the electronics section on the second floor. It is priced at $999 and there are three in stock."

[1913] Step 9:

[1914] The device personalizes information based on the user's emotions.

[1915] Input: Emotion information, product information

[1916] Output: personalized display or audio information

[1917] Specific actions: Based on the information from the emotion engine, if the user is impatient, provide concise and quick instructions, or if the user shows disappointment or anger, trigger a specific action (e.g., provide customer support contact information). For example, add specific instructions such as, "If you are in a hurry, please use the escalator on the left."

[1918] Step 10:

[1919] The server provides alternatives and arrival schedules when the item is out of stock.

[1920] Input: Search query

[1921] Output: Alternatives or availability information

[1922] Specific operation: The server checks product information, and if it is out of stock, generates alternative information including the stock status of other stores and the next expected arrival date, and sends it to the terminal. For example, it displays or outputs a message such as, "Currently out of stock, but the next arrival date is next week."

[1923] 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.

[1924] 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.

[1925] 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.

[1926] 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.

[1927] 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.

[1928] 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.

[1929] 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).

[1930] 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.

[1931] 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."

[1932] 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.

[1933] 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).

[1934] 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.

[1935] 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.

[1936] 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.

[1937] 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.

[1938] 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.

[1939] 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.

[1940] 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.

[1941] 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.

[1942] 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.

[1943] 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.

[1944] The following is further disclosed regarding the above embodiment.

[1945] (Claim 1)

[1946] A means for a user to input product information by voice or text;

[1947] means for converting the speech input into text;

[1948] means for generating a search query from the text;

[1949] means for transmitting the search query to a server;

[1950] A means for the server to search a database and acquire information about the product;

[1951] means for providing the acquired product information to the user by display or audio;

[1952] A means of providing information on countermeasures in case of out-of-stock;

[1953] A system including:

[1954] (Claim 2)

[1955] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for detecting voice input and filtering out noise to generate highly accurate text data.

[1956] (Claim 3)

[1957] 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the server further comprises means for providing alternative information including inventory status and upcoming arrivals at other stores.

[1958] "Example 1"

[1959] (Claim 1)

[1960] A means for a user to input product information by voice or text;

[1961] means for converting the speech input into text;

[1962] means for generating a search query from the text;

[1963] means for transmitting the search query to a server;

[1964] A means for the server to search a database and acquire information about the product;

[1965] means for providing the acquired product information to the user by display or audio;

[1966] A means of providing information on countermeasures in case of out-of-stock;

[1967] A means of automatically generating appropriate search queries using a generative AI model;

[1968] A means for providing the product information acquired by using voice synthesis technology by voice;

[1969] A system including:

[1970] (Claim 2)

[1971] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for detecting voice input and filtering out noise to generate highly accurate text data.

[1972] (Claim 3)

[1973] 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the server further comprises means for providing alternative information including inventory status and upcoming arrivals at other stores.

[1974] "Application Example 1"

[1975] (Claim 1)

[1976] A means for a user to input product information by voice or text;

[1977] means for converting the speech input into text;

[1978] means for generating a search query from the text;

[1979] means for transmitting the search query to a server;

[1980] A means for the server to search a database and acquire information about the product;

[1981] means for providing the acquired product information to the user by display or audio;

[1982] A means of providing information on countermeasures in case of out-of-stock;

[1983] A means for acquiring product information in real time in response to a user's voice input and displaying or providing voice guidance on the smart device;

[1984] A system including:

[1985] (Claim 2)

[1986] 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for detecting voice input and filtering out noise to generate highly accurate text data.

[1987] (Claim 3)

[1988] 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the server further comprises means ...

Claims

1. A means for a user to input product information by voice or text; means for converting the speech input into text; means for generating a search query from the text; means for transmitting the search query to a server; A means for the server to search a database and acquire information about the product; means for providing the acquired product information to the user by display or audio; A means of providing countermeasure information in case of out of stock; A system including:

2. 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising means for detecting voice input and filtering out noise to generate highly accurate text data.

3. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein said server further comprises means for providing alternative information including inventory status and upcoming arrivals at other stores.

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