Information processing device, information processing method, computer program, and non-temporary computer-readable medium

Abstract

The present invention provides an information processing device, an information processing method, a computer program, and a non-temporary computer-readable medium that can assist clients in appropriately selecting an agent in the field of intellectual property. [Solution] An information processing device 40 relating to intellectual property, comprising a processor 432 and a memory 431 that stores at least one instruction that the processor can execute, obtains information related to the request that the first user, who is a client, is requesting from a first terminal device 10 of the first user, who is a client, to a second user, who is a candidate agent, obtains task content information indicating the task content based on the information related to the request, transmits the task content information to each of the second terminal devices 20 of a plurality of second users, obtains at least response information indicating the second user's response to the task content indicated by the task content information from each of the plurality of second terminal devices, generates display data including the response information, and transmits the display data to the first terminal device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, a computer program, and a non-temporary computer-readable medium.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a creation device that generates application documents including a claim scope generated based on the result of syntactic analysis of the claim scope related to a past application, and a specification or drawing generated based on all or part of the information received by a reception means.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Incidentally, because procedures related to intellectual property are specialized, for example, those who wish to acquire intellectual property rights (hereinafter also referred to as "clients") often request patent attorneys to prepare documents and act as agents for procedures related to intellectual property. However, since information related to intellectual property is often confidential, it is not advisable to easily disclose such information to third parties, especially before filing an application. Therefore, it is discouraged to, for example, provide information about the case to be entrusted to multiple patent attorneys and then select one based on their responses. For this reason, clients have traditionally selected patent attorneys based on limited information such as their educational background and work experience. However, while clients can consider the general suitability (appropriateness) of a patent attorney, such as their area of ​​expertise, from information such as their educational background and work experience, they cannot consider the specific suitability (appropriateness) of that patent attorney for the case they are entrusting to. Therefore, the selection of patent attorneys may not always be appropriate.

[0005] This disclosure aims to provide an information processing device, an information processing method, a computer program, and a non-temporary computer-readable medium that can assist clients in appropriately selecting agents in the field of intellectual property. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An information processing device relating to one aspect for achieving the above objective is: Processor and An information processing device for intellectual property, comprising: a memory that stores at least one instruction that the processor can execute; When at least one of the instructions is executed by the processor, the information processing device, From the first terminal device of the first user, who is the client, information related to the request that the first user is attempting to make to the second user, who is a candidate for agent, is obtained. Based on the information related to the aforementioned request, we obtain task content information that indicates the content of the task, The aforementioned problem content information is transmitted to each of the second terminal devices of multiple second users. From each of the multiple second terminal devices, at least response information indicating the second user's response to the task content indicated by the task content information is obtained, The display data including the aforementioned response information is generated, The display data is transmitted to the first terminal device.

[0007] Furthermore, an information processing method relating to one aspect for achieving the above objective is: A method for processing information about intellectual property, which is performed by an information processing device, The steps include obtaining information related to the request that the first user, who is the client, is attempting to make to the second user, who is a candidate for agent, from the first terminal device of the first user, who is the client, and A step of obtaining problem content information that indicates the problem content based on the information related to the aforementioned request, The steps include transmitting the aforementioned problem content information to each of the second terminal devices of multiple second users, The steps include obtaining, from each of the multiple second terminal devices, at least, response information indicating the second user's response to the task content indicated by the task content information, The steps include generating display data that includes the aforementioned response information, The step includes transmitting the display data to the first terminal device.

[0008] Furthermore, a computer program relating to one aspect for achieving the above objective is: A computer program relating to intellectual property, comprising at least one instruction executed by the processor of an information processing device, When at least one of the instructions is executed by the processor, the information processing device shall: From the first terminal device of the first user, who is the client, information related to the request that the first user is attempting to make to the second user, who is a candidate for agent, is obtained. Based on the information related to the aforementioned request, obtain the task content information that indicates the task content, The aforementioned task content information is transmitted to each of the second terminal devices of multiple second users. From each of the multiple second terminal devices, at least response information indicating the second user's response to the task content indicated by the task content information is obtained, The system generates display data that includes the aforementioned response information. The display data is transmitted to the first terminal device.

[0009] Furthermore, a non-temporary computer-readable medium relating to one aspect for achieving the above objective includes: The above computer program is stored.

[0010] According to the information processing device with the above configuration, the device obtains task content information based on information acquired from the first terminal device of the first user, which relates to the request that the first user intends to make to the second user, who is a candidate for agent, and transmits this task content information to each of the second terminal devices of multiple second users. The information processing device then generates display data containing response information acquired from each of the multiple second terminal devices and transmits this display data to the first terminal device of the first user. In other words, the information processing device with the above configuration transmits to the first terminal device of the first user display data containing response information showing the responses of multiple second users to the task content based on information related to the request that the first user intends to make to the second user. Therefore, by using such display data, the first user can select an agent after understanding the responses of multiple second users to the task content based on information related to the request that the first user intends to make to the second user. Thus, the information processing device with the above configuration can support the client (first user) in appropriately selecting an agent in the field of intellectual property. The information processing method, computer program, and non-temporary computer-readable medium with the above configuration will have the same effect. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, a computer program, and a non-temporary computer-readable medium that can assist an applicant in appropriately selecting an agent in the field of intellectual property.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure (hereinafter referred to as this embodiment). [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a candidate agent database. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a patent / utility model problem content database. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a design problem content database. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a trademark problem content database. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart diagram of the information processing method according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen for a first user displayed on the display unit of the first terminal device in the first example of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen for a second user displayed on the display unit of the second terminal device in the first example of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen for a third user displayed on the display unit of the third terminal device in the first example of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a diagram illustrating an image based on display data according to the first example of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen for a first user displayed on the display unit of the first terminal device in the second example of the first embodiment. [Figure 12]Figure 12 shows an example of an input screen for the first user displayed on the display unit of the first terminal device in the third embodiment of the first embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows an example of an input screen for the second user displayed on the display unit of the second terminal device in the third embodiment of the first embodiment. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows an example of an input screen for a third user displayed on the display unit of a third terminal device in the third embodiment of the first embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image based on display data according to the third embodiment of the first embodiment. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows an example of an input screen for the first user displayed on the display unit of the first terminal device in the fourth embodiment of the first embodiment. [Figure 17] Figure 17 shows an example of an input screen for the second user displayed on the display unit of the second terminal device in the fourth embodiment of the first embodiment. [Figure 18] Figure 18 shows an example of an input screen for a third user displayed on the display unit of the third terminal device in the fourth embodiment of the first embodiment. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image based on display data according to the fourth embodiment of the first embodiment. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a diagram illustrating an information processing system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is a flowchart of the information processing method according to the second embodiment. [Figure 22] Figure 22 illustrates a prompt generated by the information processing device in the second embodiment. [Figure 23] Figure 23 is an example of a prompt database for patents and utility models. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is an example of a design prompt database. [Figure 25] Figure 25 is an example of a trademark prompt database. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is a diagram illustrating an information processing system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 27] Figure 27 is a flowchart of the information processing method according to the third embodiment. [Figure 28] Figure 28 shows an example of an input screen for the first user displayed on the display unit of the first terminal device in the third embodiment. [Figure 29] Figure 29 illustrates a prompt generated by the information processing device in the third embodiment. [Figure 30] Figure 30 is a flowchart of an information processing method according to a modified example of the third embodiment. [Figure 31] Figure 31 shows an example of an input screen for the first user displayed on the display unit of the first terminal device in a modified example of the third embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] An example of this embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0014] (First Embodiment) The information processing system 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the information processing system 100 according to this embodiment. The information processing system 100 is used in the field of intellectual property. As illustrated in Figure 1, the information processing system 100 comprises a first terminal device 10, a plurality of second terminal devices 20, a third terminal device 30, and an information processing device 40. The first terminal device 10, the second terminal devices 20, and the third terminal devices 30 can communicate with the information processing device 40, for example, via a communication network such as the Internet.

[0015] The first terminal device 10 is a terminal device owned by the first user. The first user is, for example, a person who wants to acquire intellectual property rights and plans to request a patent attorney or similar professional to prepare documents and act as an agent for procedures related to intellectual property (the client). The first terminal device 10 is, for example, an electronic device such as a desktop PC, notebook PC, tablet terminal, or smartphone. The first terminal device 10 is equipped with an input unit 11 and a display unit 12.

[0016] The input unit 11 is configured to receive input operations from the first user to the first terminal device 10 and to generate instruction signals corresponding to those input operations. The input unit 11 is, for example, an input device such as a keyboard electrically connected to the first terminal device 10, or a touch panel placed on top of the display unit 12. The input unit 11 receives, for example, information related to the request that the first user is trying to make to the second user, response deadline information indicating the response deadline set by the first user for the task content, and selection information indicating multiple second users selected by the first user. The second user will be described later. The information related to the request that the first user is trying to make to the second user is, for example, task field information indicating the field of the task content, task content created by the first user, application identification information, application content information, etc. The task field information is, for example, at least one of the following: International Patent Classification (IPC), FI (File Index), F-term (File Forming Term), Locarno Classification, Japanese Design Classification, D-term, goods and services classification, similarity group code, goods and services, and keywords for identifying the field. The task content created by the first user is, for example, related to the request that the first user is making to the second user. For example, if the request that the first user is making to the second user concerns automobiles, then the task content created by the first user will be related to automobiles. Application identification information is information used to identify applications relating to intellectual property that have been filed to date. Examples of application identification information include patent application number, published patent number, patent number, utility model registration application number, utility model registration number, design application number, design registration number, trademark registration application number, trademark registration number, etc. Application content information is information that indicates the content of applications relating to intellectual property that have been filed to date. The response deadline set by the first user for the task content can be rephrased as the deadline for responding to the task content. The input unit 11 transmits the input information relating to the request that the first user is making to the second user, the response deadline information, and the selection information to the information processing device 40. The display unit 12 is, for example, a liquid crystal display.The display unit 12 is configured to display an image based on display data, which will be described later.

[0017] The second terminal device 20 is a terminal device owned by the second user. The second user is a different person from the first user. The second user is, for example, a person with extensive knowledge of intellectual property, such as a patent attorney, and is a candidate for the first user's agent (hereinafter also referred to as the candidate agent). As can be seen from the fact that the information processing system 100 is equipped with multiple second terminal devices 20, there are multiple second users in this embodiment. The multiple second users may be persons selected by the first user. The second terminal device 20 is, for example, an electronic device such as a desktop PC, notebook PC, tablet terminal, or smartphone. The second terminal device 20 is equipped with an input unit 21 and a display unit 22.

[0018] The input unit 21 is configured to receive input operations from a second user to the second terminal device 20 and to generate instruction signals corresponding to those input operations. The input unit 21 is, for example, an input device such as a keyboard electrically connected to the second terminal device 20, or a touch panel placed on top of the display unit 22. The input unit 21 receives, for example, answer information showing the second user's response to the task content, supplementary comment information showing supplementary comments to the second user's response, appeal point information showing the second user's appeal points, profile information showing the second user's profile, and contact information showing the second user's contact information. The second user's response includes at least one of the following created by the second user in response to the task content: a draft claim, a draft specification, a draft drawing, a draft design registration application, a draft trademark, and a draft of designated goods and services. If the second user's response includes a draft claim, that draft claim includes at least one independent claim. In other words, if the second user's response includes a draft claim, that draft claim may include only one or more independent claim claims, or it may include not only one or more independent claim claims but also dependent claim claims. Supplementary comments on the second user's response include, for example, comments on points to be careful about or things to be creative in when creating the response to the assignment. Appeal points information includes, for example, information on the second user's educational background, work history, awards, qualifications, papers written by the second user, motto, cases handled by the second user, and fee structure. Second user profile information includes, for example, information on the second user's name, the name of the office they belong to, and their area of ​​expertise. Second user contact information includes information on the second user's email address and address. The input unit 21 transmits the entered response information, supplementary comment information, appeal points information, profile information, and contact information to the information processing device 40. The display unit 22 is, for example, a liquid crystal display.

[0019] The third terminal device 30 is a terminal device owned by a third user. The third user is a different person from the first user and the second user. The third user is, for example, a patent attorney, a lawyer, a patent attorney firm, a law firm, etc. The third terminal device 30 is an electronic device such as a desktop PC, a notebook PC, a tablet terminal, or a smartphone. The third terminal device 30 is equipped with an input unit 31 and a display unit 32.

[0020] The input unit 31 is configured to receive input operations from a third user to the third terminal device 30 and to generate instruction signals corresponding to those input operations. The input unit 31 is, for example, an input device such as a keyboard electrically connected to the third terminal device 30, or a touch panel placed on top of the display unit 32. The input unit 21 receives, for example, evaluation information showing the third user's evaluation of the second user's response, and comment information showing the third user's comments on the second user's response. The third user's evaluation is, for example, a ranking of the second user's response such as an A rating or a B rating, or a score given to the second user's response. The third user's comments on the second user's response are, for example, the third user's impressions of the second user's response expressed in words. The display unit 32 is, for example, a liquid crystal display.

[0021] The information processing device 40 is, for example, a server. The information processing device 40 includes an acquisition unit 41, a storage device 42, a control unit 43, and a transmission unit 44. These are connected to each other via a bus 45 so that they can communicate with one another.

[0022] The acquisition unit 41 is configured to acquire various types of information from the first terminal device 10, the second terminal device 20, and the third terminal device 30. For example, the acquisition unit 41 acquires information related to the request that the first user is trying to make to the second user, response deadline information, and selection information from the first terminal device 10. For example, the acquisition unit 41 acquires response information, supplementary comment information, appeal points information, profile information, and contact information from each of the multiple second terminal devices 20. For example, the acquisition unit 41 acquires evaluation information and comment information from the third terminal device 30. The acquisition unit 41 transmits the acquired information (information related to the request that the first user is trying to make to the second user, response deadline information, selection information, response information, supplementary comment information, appeal points information, profile information, contact information, evaluation information, comment information, etc.) to the storage device 42 or the control unit 43.

[0023] The storage device 42 is configured to store, for example, programs and various data. The storage device 42 is, for example, a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or flash memory. The storage device 42 stores, for example, a candidate agent database D1 as illustrated in Figure 2, a patent / utility model issue content database D2 (an example of an issue content database) as illustrated in Figure 3, a design issue content database D3 (an example of an issue content database), and a trademark issue content database D4 (an example of an issue content database).

[0024] The candidate agent database D1 is constructed, for example, when profile information and contact information entered by a second user, who is a candidate agent, into the input unit 21 of the second terminal device 20 are transmitted from the input unit 21 to the information processing device 40, and the information processing device 40 receives the profile information and contact information. In other words, when the profile information and contact information entered into the input unit 21 are transmitted from the input unit 21 to the information processing device 40, the profile information and contact information are stored in the storage device 42, and the candidate agent database D1 is constructed as a result. As illustrated in Figure 2, the candidate agent database D1 records, for example, the name of the second user, the name of the office to which the second user belongs, the second user's field of expertise, and the second user's contact information (in this embodiment, an email address).

[0025] The patent / utility model issue content database D2 illustrated in Figure 3, the design issue content database D3 illustrated in Figure 4, and the trademark issue content database D4 illustrated in Figure 5 are pre-configured, for example, by the creator of these databases. As illustrated in Figure 3, the patent / utility model issue content database D2 records, for example, International Patent Classification, FI, F-term, and keywords for identifying fields (for example, words such as "automobile"), linked to issue content. One or more issue content is linked to the International Patent Classification, FI, F-term, and keywords for identifying fields. In this embodiment, multiple issue content is linked to the International Patent Classification, FI, F-term, and keywords for identifying fields, but one issue content may be linked. Thus, the patent / utility model issue content database D2 is an issue content database in which one or more issue content is recorded linked to issue field information (International Patent Classification, FI, F-term, and keywords for identifying fields) for each issue field information (International Patent Classification, FI, F-term, and keywords for identifying fields).

[0026] The International Patent Classification is a patent classification system that divides patent documents into several categories based on their technical content, and is used internationally in a unified manner. The International Patent Classification consists, for example, of sections, classes, subclasses, main groups, and subgroups. However, in this embodiment, the International Patent Classification may consist of sections and classes, or of sections, classes, and subclasses.

[0027] FI is a patent classification system that is even more detailed than the International Patent Classification, and is a patent classification system used independently by the Japan Patent Office. FI can be constructed by adding predetermined additional symbols to the end of the International Patent Classification as needed. These predetermined additional symbols include expansion symbols, section identification symbols, and facet classification symbols. Therefore, FI may include sections, classes, subclasses, main groups, and subgroups. However, in this embodiment, FI may consist of sections and classes, or sections, classes, and subclasses.

[0028] F-terms are patent classifications based on the technical characteristics of inventions described in each patent document, and are patent classifications used independently by the Japan Patent Office.

[0029] As illustrated in Figure 4, the design issue content database D3 records, for example, Locarno classification, Japanese design classification, D-terms, and keywords for identifying fields (e.g., words like "automobile"), linked to issue content. One or more issue content is linked to Locarno classification, Japanese design classification, D-terms, and keywords for identifying fields. In this embodiment, multiple issue content is linked to Locarno classification, Japanese design classification, D-terms, and keywords for identifying fields, but only one issue content may be linked. Thus, the design issue content database D3 is an issue content database in which one or more issue content is recorded linked to issue field information (Locarno classification, Japanese design classification, D-terms, and keywords for identifying fields) for each issue field information.

[0030] The Locarno Classification is an international design classification established by the Locarno Agreement. The Locarno Classification can consist of, for example, classes and subclasses. However, in this embodiment, the Locarno Classification may consist of classes. In the Locarno Classification, there are 32 classes and 219 subclasses.

[0031] The Japanese Design Classification is a search code system constructed with a focus on the use of articles and other items, and incorporating concepts such as function as needed. The Japanese Design Classification can consist of groups, major classifications, and minor classifications. However, in this embodiment, the Japanese Design Classification may consist of groups and major classifications.

[0032] A D-term is a search symbol constructed using principles and perspectives other than those of the design classification system. A D-term may consist of a group, a major category, a minor category, and a D-term symbol. However, in this embodiment, a D-term may consist of a group and a major category.

[0033] As illustrated in Figure 5, the trademark issue content database D4 records, for example, goods and services classification, similarity group codes, and keywords for identifying goods, services, and fields (e.g., words like "automobile"), linked to issue content. One or more issue content is linked to goods and services classification, similarity group codes, and keywords for identifying goods, services, and fields. In this embodiment, multiple issue content is linked to goods and services classification, similarity group codes, and keywords for identifying goods, services, and fields, but only one issue content may be linked. Thus, the trademark issue content database D4 is an issue content database in which one or more issue content is recorded linked to issue field information (goods and services classification, similarity group codes, and keywords for identifying goods, services, and fields) for each issue field information.

[0034] A product and service classification is a categorization of products and services based on certain criteria such as material and intended use. Product and service classifications are divided into 45 categories, from Class 1 to Class 45.

[0035] A similarity group code is a five-digit common code used in the Japan Patent Office's Examination Guidelines for Similar Goods and Services to group goods and services that share common characteristics, indicating which group each designated good or service belongs to. Therefore, designated goods and services belonging to the same group are assigned the same similarity group code. Designated goods and services with the same similarity group code are presumed to be identical or similar in the examination of trademark registration applications.

[0036] In this embodiment, "goods and services" refers to goods and services that use the trademark for which an application is being filed.

[0037] Returning to Figure 1, the control unit 43 will be described. The control unit 43 includes a memory 431 and a processor 432 as its hardware configuration. The memory 431 consists of, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory) in which various computer programs are stored, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) having multiple work areas in which various computer programs executed by the processor 432 are stored. The ROM may also store artificial intelligence (AI) programs. Such AI programs are, for example, programs (trained models) constructed by supervised machine learning or unsupervised machine learning. The processor 432 includes, for example, at least one of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and a TPU (Tensor Processing Unit). The CPU may be constructed with multiple CPU cores. The GPU may be constructed with multiple GPU cores. The processor 432 is configured to load a specified computer program from the various computer programs embedded in the ROM onto the RAM and execute various processes in cooperation with the RAM.

[0038] In this embodiment, non-temporary computer-readable media may be used as memory. Non-temporary computer-readable media refers to any type of physical memory (RAM, ROM, etc.) that can store information and data that a processor can read. Non-temporary computer-readable media can store instructions related to execution processes by one or more processors. The term "non-temporary computer-readable media" includes tangible items but excludes carrier waves and temporary signals (i.e., it refers to non-temporary things). Examples of non-temporary computer-readable media include magnetic recording media (e.g., flexible disks, magnetic tapes, hard disk drives), magneto-optical recording media (e.g., magneto-optical disks), CD-ROMs (Read Only Memory), CD-Rs, CD-R / Ws, and semiconductor memory (e.g., mask ROMs, PROMs (Programmable ROMs), EPROMs (Erasable PROMs), flash ROMs).

[0039] The control unit 43 acquires task content information indicating the task content based on information related to the request that the first user is making to the second user. For example, if the information related to the request that the first user is making to the second user is the International Patent Classification (an example of task field information), the control unit 43 acquires task content information by determining one task content from multiple task content recorded in the patent / utility model task content database D2 based on the International Patent Classification. For example, if the task field information is the Locarno Classification (an example of task field information), the control unit 43 acquires task content information by determining one task content from multiple task content recorded in the design task content database D3 based on the Locarno Classification. For example, if the task field information is the Goods and Services Classification (an example of task field information), the control unit 43 acquires task content information by determining one task content from multiple task content recorded in the trademark task content database D4 based on the Goods and Services Classification. For example, if the information related to the request that the first user is making to the second user is a task content created by the first user, the control unit 43 acquires task content information based on the task content created by the first user. The control unit 43 transmits the acquired task content information to the transmission unit 44.

[0040] The control unit 43 generates display data that includes at least the response information received from the acquisition unit 41. The display data generated by the control unit 43 may include at least one of evaluation information and comment information. The display data generated by the control unit 43 may also include at least one of supplementary comment information and appeal point information. Furthermore, the control unit 43 may generate display data that includes the response information acquired from the second terminal device 20 by the response deadline set by the first user regarding the task content. However, the control unit 43 may generate display data that includes all the response information acquired from the second terminal device 20. The control unit 43 transmits the generated display data to the transmission unit 44.

[0041] The transmission unit 44 transmits the task content information received from the control unit 43 to each of the second terminal devices 20 of multiple second users. The transmission unit 44 transmits the task content information received from the control unit 43, along with various information obtained from each of the second terminal devices 20 (e.g., answer information, supplementary comment information, appeal point information, etc.), to the third terminal device 30. The transmission unit 44 transmits the display data received from the control unit 43 to the first terminal device 10.

[0042] (First embodiment of the first embodiment) Next, the information processing method implemented in the first embodiment of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 6 through 10. Figure 6 is a flowchart of the information processing method according to this embodiment. Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen for the first user displayed on the display unit 12 of the first terminal device 10 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen for the second user displayed on the display unit 22 of the second terminal device 20 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen for the third user displayed on the display unit 32 of the third terminal device 30 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating an image G1 based on display data according to the first embodiment of the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the first user is assumed to be a member of the intellectual property department working for an automobile company, the second user is assumed to be multiple patent attorneys (multiple candidate agents), and the third user is assumed to be a patent attorney firm. In this embodiment, the first user is assumed to be seeking a patent attorney to file a patent application for an invention related to automobiles. Unless otherwise specified, these preconditions will remain the same in the following description.

[0043] As illustrated in Figure 6, the first user inputs the subject area information (an example of information related to the request the first user is making to the second user), the response deadline information, and the selection information into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10, and then presses the send button B1 (STEP 01). At this time, the first user inputs the subject area information related to the invention for which they are making a request for a patent application (in this embodiment, an invention related to an automobile). In this embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 7, the first user inputs International Patent Classification B62D63 / 02 as the subject area information and the date October 25, 2024 as the response deadline information into the input unit 11. Also, as illustrated in Figure 7, in this embodiment, the first user selects several candidate agents, including Ichiro Patent and Jiro Patent, as multiple candidate agents to whom they wish to request a patent application. Thus, in this embodiment, the multiple second users are those selected by the first user. In this embodiment, the first user selecting multiple candidate agents corresponds to inputting the selection information into the input unit 11. Then, when the first user presses the send button B1, the first terminal device 10 sends the task area information, the response deadline information, and the selection information to the information processing device 40 (STEP 02).

[0044] As illustrated in Figure 6, the control unit 43 of the information processing device 40 acquires task content information by determining one task content from multiple task content recorded in the patent / utility model task content database D2 based on the task field information received from the first terminal device 10 (STEP 03). In this embodiment, the task field information is the International Patent Classification B62D63 / 02, so the control unit 43 acquires task content information indicating task content C1 by determining (selecting) task content C1 from, for example, multiple task content recorded in the patent / utility model task content database D2 based on the task field information (International Patent Classification B62D63 / 02) (see Figure 3). The control unit 43 transmits the acquired task content information, the response deadline information, and the selection information to the transmission unit 44.

[0045] As illustrated in Figure 6, the transmission unit 44 transmits the task content information and response deadline information received from the control unit 43 to each of the second terminal devices 20 of the multiple second users based on the selection information (STEP 04). In this embodiment, the first user has selected multiple candidate agents, including Ichiro Patent and Jiro Patent, so the task content information and response deadline information are transmitted to each of the second terminal devices 20 of the multiple candidate agents (second users) selected by the first user. In this embodiment, the task content information and response deadline information are transmitted to the email addresses of the multiple candidate agents.

[0046] When the task content information and response deadline information are transmitted to each of the second users' second terminal devices 20, an input screen for the second user to input their response to the task content C1 is displayed on the display unit 22 of each second terminal device 20 (STEP 05). For example, the display unit 22 of Ichiro Patent's second terminal device 20 displays an input screen as illustrated in Figure 8. As illustrated in Figure 8, the task content C1 is displayed in the task content field in this embodiment.

[0047] As illustrated in Figure 6, when an input screen for entering a response to the problem content C1 indicated by the problem content information is displayed on the display unit 22, the second user enters at least a response to the problem content C1 indicated by the problem content information and then presses the send button B2 (STEP 06). For example, as illustrated in Figure 8, Ichiro Patent enters a response to the problem content C1 indicated by the problem content information, supplementary comments for that response, and the second user's selling points. After completing the input, Ichiro Patent presses the send button B2. In this embodiment, Ichiro Patent's response to the problem content C1 includes a draft claim, and this draft claim includes an independent claim (Claim 1) and a dependent claim (Claim 2). As illustrated in Figure 6, when the second user presses the send button B2, the second terminal device 20 transmits the various information entered by the second user (response information, supplementary comment information, and selling points information) to the information processing device 40 (STEP 07).

[0048] The transmission unit 44 of the information processing device 40 transmits the task content information and various information (response information, supplementary comment information, and appeal point information) obtained from each of the second terminal devices 20 by the response deadline (October 25, 2024) to the third terminal device 30 (STEP 08). In this embodiment, it is assumed that the response information, supplementary comment information, and appeal point information have been transmitted to the information processing device 40 from the second terminal devices 20 of all second users (candidate agents) selected by the first user by the response deadline.

[0049] When the third terminal device 30 receives the task content information, answer information, supplementary comment information, and appeal points information from the information processing device 40, the display unit 32 of the third terminal device 30 displays an input screen for the third user to input evaluations and comments on the second user's answer (STEP 09). For example, the display unit 32 of the third terminal device 30 displays an input screen as illustrated in Figure 9.

[0050] As illustrated in Figure 6, the third user enters an evaluation and comments on the second user's response and then presses the send button B3 (STEP 10). In this embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 9, the third user enters the rank of the second user's response (for example, an A rating) and comments on the second user's proposed claim, and then presses the send button B3. As illustrated in Figure 6, when the third user presses the send button B3, the third terminal device 30 transmits the evaluation information and comment information entered by the third user to the information processing device 40 (STEP 11).

[0051] The control unit 43 of the information processing device 40 generates display data including response information, evaluation information, comment information, supplementary comment information, and appeal point information (STEP 12). The control unit 43 transmits the generated display data to the transmission unit 44.

[0052] The transmitting unit 44 transmits the display data received from the control unit 43 to the first terminal device 10 (STEP 13). When the first terminal device 10 receives the display data, the display unit 12 of the first terminal device 10 displays the image G1 illustrated in Figure 10.

[0053] Here, we will explain image G1 with reference to Figure 10. As illustrated in Figure 10, image G1 includes multiple second-user responses (draft claims), supplementary comments, and selling points, as well as evaluations and comments by a third-user on the second-user responses. The second-user responses are in response to issue content C1, which is identified by the field of study information (International Patent Classification B62D63 / 02) entered by the first-user into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10. Therefore, the first-user can decide which patent attorney to hire after reviewing the second-user responses to issue content C1, which is relevant to the invention they intend to commission a patent attorney for, as well as the third-user evaluations and comments on those responses. As a result, the first-user, who is the client in the field of intellectual property (in this embodiment, patents), can appropriately select an agent without disclosing the content of the invention they intend to commission.

[0054] Incidentally, because procedures related to intellectual property are specialized, for example, those who wish to acquire intellectual property rights (clients) often request patent attorneys to prepare documents and act as agents for procedures related to intellectual property. However, since information related to intellectual property is often confidential, it is not advisable to easily disclose such information to third parties, especially before filing an application. Therefore, it is discouraged to provide information about the case to multiple patent attorneys and then select one based on their responses. For this reason, clients have traditionally selected patent attorneys based on limited information such as their educational background and work experience. However, while clients can consider the general suitability (appropriateness) of a patent attorney, such as their area of ​​expertise, from such information, they cannot consider the specific suitability (appropriateness) of that patent attorney for the case they are seeking. Therefore, the selection of patent attorneys may not always be appropriate.

[0055] According to the information processing device 40 with the above configuration, it acquires issue content information based on issue field information (an example of information related to the request that the first user is making to the second user) acquired from the first terminal device 10 of the first user, and transmits the issue content information to each of the second terminal devices 20 of the multiple second users. It then generates display data including response information acquired from each of the multiple second terminal devices 20, and transmits the display data to the first terminal device 10 of the first user. In other words, the information processing device 40 transmits display data including response information showing the responses of multiple second users to the issue content C1 based on the issue field information to the first terminal device 10 of the first user. Therefore, by using such display data, the first user can select an agent after understanding the responses of multiple second users to the issue content C1 based on the issue field information. In this way, the information processing device can support the client (first user) in appropriately selecting an agent in the field of intellectual property.

[0056] Furthermore, according to the information processing device 40 with the above configuration, the problem field information is the International Patent Classification. Based on the problem field information, the information processing device 40 acquires problem content information by determining one problem content C1 from multiple problem content recorded in the patent / utility model problem content database D2. In other words, for example, the information processing device 40 can acquire problem content information simply by the first user inputting the International Patent Classification into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10. Therefore, the first user does not need to create the problem content themselves. In this way, the information processing device 40 can reduce the burden on the first user.

[0057] Furthermore, according to the information processing device 40 with the above configuration, the multiple second users are those selected by the first user. Therefore, the information processing device 40 transmits task content information only to the second terminal devices 20 of the multiple second users selected by the first user. In this way, the information processing device 40 prevents the transmission of task content information to an unnecessarily large number of second users' second terminal devices 20.

[0058] Furthermore, the information processing device 40 according to the above configuration acquires evaluation information and comment information from the third user's third terminal device 30 and generates display data including response information, evaluation information, and comment information. Therefore, by using this display data, the first user can select an agent after understanding not only the responses of multiple second users to the task content C1, but also the evaluations and comments of third users on those responses. In this way, the information processing device 40 can help a client (first user) to appropriately select an agent in the field of intellectual property, even if the client has little knowledge of intellectual property (in this embodiment, patents).

[0059] Furthermore, the information processing device 40 according to the above configuration generates display data including the response information obtained from the second terminal device 20 by the response deadline indicated by the response deadline information obtained from the first terminal device 10. Therefore, for example, even if there are second users who have not responded to task content C1 or second users whose responses to task content C1 are significantly delayed, the first user can use this display data to quickly grasp the response information obtained from the second terminal device 20 by the response deadline, even after the deadline has arrived.

[0060] Furthermore, according to the information processing device 40 with the above configuration, the second user's response to problem content C1 includes a draft claim created by the second user in response to problem content C1. Therefore, the first user can accurately assess the second user's claim creation skills, etc., by using the display data generated by the control unit 43 of the information processing device 40.

[0061] Furthermore, according to the information processing device 40 with the above configuration, the second user's response to problem content C1 includes a draft claim prepared by the second user in response to problem content C1, and this draft claim includes a draft independent claim. Although independent claims are often more important than dependent claims, the second user's response to problem content C1 includes a draft claim with a draft independent claim, so the first user can more reliably and appropriately select an agent.

[0062] Furthermore, the information processing device 40 with the above configuration acquires supplementary comment information and appeal point information from each of the multiple second terminal devices 20 and generates display data including response information, supplementary comment information, and appeal point information. Therefore, by using this display data, the first user can select an agent after understanding not only the responses of multiple second users to the task content C1, but also the supplementary comments and appeal points of the second users. In this way, the information processing device 40 allows the first user to understand not only the responses of second users to the task content C1, but also the meaning (intention) of those responses and the characteristics of the second users, so that an agent can be selected more appropriately.

[0063] Furthermore, the technical effects described above can also be achieved in the information processing method, computer program, and non-temporary computer-readable medium related to the above configuration.

[0064] (Second embodiment of the first embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 6 and 11. In this embodiment, parts similar to those in the first embodiment of the first embodiment will be described using the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment of the first embodiment, and explanations of overlapping parts will be omitted as appropriate. Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen for the first user displayed on the display unit 12 of the first terminal device 10 in the second embodiment of the first embodiment. The second embodiment of the first embodiment differs from the first embodiment of the first embodiment in that the first user inputs the problem content created by the first user into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10, rather than problem field information (International Patent Classification), as information related to the request that the first user is trying to make to the second user. In other words, the information related to the request that the first user is trying to make to the second user in this embodiment is the problem content created by the first user. In this embodiment, the problem content that the first user inputs into the input unit 11 is assumed to be the same as problem content C1.

[0065] In this embodiment as well, the information processing method illustrated in Figure 6 is executed. However, in STEP 01, the first user inputs the task content created by the first user into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10 as information related to the request that the first user intends to make to the second user, as illustrated in Figure 11. Furthermore, in STEP 03, the control unit 43 of the information processing device 40 acquires task content information based on the information related to the request that the first user intends to make to the second user (i.e., the task content created by the first user) received from the first terminal device 10. Note that in this embodiment, the other steps are basically the same as in the first embodiment of the first embodiment, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0066] In this embodiment as well, the information processing device 40 can achieve the same effects as in the first embodiment of the first embodiment.

[0067] Furthermore, with the information processing device 40 configured as described above, the information related to the request that the first user is making to the second user is the task content created by the first user, so the task content can be the task content that the first user wants the candidate agent to answer.The first user can then use the display data generated by the control unit 43 of the information processing device 40 to grasp the responses of multiple second users to the task content created by the first user.For this reason, the information processing device 40 allows the first user to select an agent more appropriately.

[0068] (Third embodiment of the first embodiment) Next, a third embodiment of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 4, 6, and 12 to 15. In this embodiment, parts similar to those in the first embodiment of the first embodiment will be described using the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment of the first embodiment, and explanations of overlapping parts will be omitted as appropriate. Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen for the first user displayed on the display unit 12 of the first terminal device 10 in the third embodiment of the first embodiment. Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen for the second user displayed on the display unit 22 of the second terminal device 20 in the third embodiment of the first embodiment. Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen for the third user displayed on the display unit 32 of the third terminal device 30 in the third embodiment of the first embodiment. Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating an image G2 based on display data related to the third embodiment of the first embodiment. The third embodiment of the first embodiment differs from the first embodiment of the first embodiment in that the first user inputs the Locarno classification, rather than the International Patent Classification, as problem field information into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10. In other words, in this embodiment, the first user is intended to request a design registration application from a patent attorney. In this embodiment, the first user is to request a patent attorney to file a design registration application for an automobile design.

[0069] In this embodiment as well, the information processing method illustrated in Figure 6 is executed. Details of the information processing method executed in this embodiment will be described below.

[0070] In STEP 01, the first user inputs the Locarno classification as problem field information into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10, as illustrated in Figure 12. At this time, the first user inputs problem field information (Locarno classification) related to the design (in this embodiment, a design related to automobiles) for which they are requesting design registration application. In this embodiment, the Locarno classification input into the input unit 11 is 12-08.

[0071] Step 02 in this embodiment is the same as Step 02 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment.

[0072] STEP 03 in this embodiment is the same as STEP 03 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment. However, in this embodiment, the control unit 43 of the information processing device 40 acquires task content information by determining one task content C2 from multiple task content recorded in the design task content database D3 based on the task field information received from the first terminal device 10 (STEP 03). In this embodiment, the task field information is Locarno classification 12-08, so the control unit 43 acquires task content information indicating task content C2 by determining (selecting) task content C2 from, for example, multiple task content recorded in the design task content database D3 based on the task field information (Locarno classification 12-08) (see Figure 4). The control unit 43 transmits the acquired task content information, the response deadline information, and the selection information to the transmission unit 44.

[0073] Step 04 in this embodiment is the same as Step 04 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment.

[0074] Step 05 in this embodiment is the same as Step 05 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment. However, as illustrated in Figure 13, the problem description column in this embodiment displays problem description C2.

[0075] Step 06 in this embodiment is the same as Step 06 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment. However, as illustrated in Figure 13, for example, Ichiro Patent (an example of a second user) enters the answer to problem content C2, supplementary comments for the answer, and the second user's selling points, and then presses the submit button B2. Note that the answer to problem content C2 in this embodiment includes a design registration application and a draft drawing.

[0076] Steps 07 and 08 in this embodiment are the same as steps 07 and 08 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment.

[0077] Step 09 in this embodiment is the same as Step 09 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment. However, as illustrated in Figure 14, in this embodiment, the problem content C2 is displayed in the problem content field. In this embodiment, the second user's response is displayed in the area where the second user's answer is displayed. In this embodiment, the second user's supplementary comments are displayed in the area where the second user's supplementary comments are displayed.

[0078] Step 10 in this embodiment is the same as Step 10 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment. However, in this embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 14, the third user enters the rank of the second user's response and comments on the second user's design registration application and drawing proposal, and then presses the submit button B3.

[0079] Steps 11 and 12 in this embodiment are the same as steps 11 and 12 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment.

[0080] Step 13 in this embodiment is the same as Step 13 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment. However, in this embodiment, when the first terminal device 10 receives display data, the display unit 12 of the first terminal device 10 displays image G2 as illustrated in Figure 15. As illustrated in Figure 15, image G2 includes the answers (design registration application and drawing drafts) of multiple second users, supplementary comments and selling points, and the evaluation and comments of the second users' answers by the third user. The answers of the second users are in response to the issue content C2 identified by the issue field information (Locarno classification 12-08) entered by the first user into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10. Therefore, the first user can decide which patent attorney to hire after checking the answers of the second users to the issue content C2 that is related to the content of the design they are about to request a patent attorney to handle, as well as the evaluation and comments of the third user to the second user's answers. As a result, the first user, who is the client in the field of intellectual property (design in this embodiment), can appropriately select an agent without disclosing the content of the design they are about to request a patent attorney to handle.

[0081] In this embodiment as well, the information processing device 40 can achieve the same effects as in the first embodiment of the first embodiment.

[0082] Furthermore, according to the information processing device 40 with the above configuration, the problem field information is in the Locarno classification. Based on the problem field information, the information processing device 40 acquires problem content information by determining one problem content C2 from multiple problem content recorded in the design problem content database D3. In other words, for example, the information processing device 40 can acquire problem content information simply by the first user inputting the Locarno classification into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10. Therefore, the first user does not need to create the problem content themselves. In this way, the information processing device 40 can reduce the burden on the first user.

[0083] Furthermore, the information processing device 40 according to the above configuration acquires evaluation information and comment information from the third user's third terminal device 30 and generates display data including response information, evaluation information, and comment information. Therefore, by using this display data, the first user can select an agent after understanding not only the responses of multiple second users to the task content C2, but also the evaluations and comments of third users on those responses. In this way, the information processing device 40 can help a client (first user) to appropriately select an agent in the field of intellectual property (in this embodiment, design) even if the client has little knowledge of intellectual property.

[0084] Furthermore, the information processing device 40 according to the above configuration generates display data including the response information obtained from the second terminal device 20 by the response deadline indicated by the response deadline information obtained from the first terminal device 10. Therefore, for example, even if there are second users who have not responded to task content C2 or second users whose responses to task content C2 are significantly delayed, the first user can use this display data to grasp the response information obtained from the second terminal device 20 by the response deadline as soon as the deadline arrives.

[0085] Furthermore, according to the information processing device 40 with the above configuration, the second user's response to problem content C2 includes the design registration application and drawing draft created by the second user in response to problem content C2. Therefore, the first user can accurately assess the second user's design registration application and drawing creation skills by using the display data generated by the control unit 43 of the information processing device 40.

[0086] Furthermore, the information processing device 40 with the above configuration acquires supplementary comment information and appeal point information from each of the multiple second terminal devices 20 and generates display data including response information, supplementary comment information, and appeal point information. Therefore, by using this display data, the first user can select an agent after understanding not only the responses of multiple second users to the task content C2, but also the supplementary comments and appeal points of the second users. In this way, the information processing device 40 allows the first user to understand not only the responses of second users to the task content C2, but also the meaning (intention) of those responses and the characteristics of the second users, so that an agent can be selected more appropriately.

[0087] (Fourth embodiment of the first embodiment) Next, the fourth embodiment of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 5, 6 and 16 to 19. In this embodiment, parts similar to those in the first embodiment of the first embodiment will be described using the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment of the first embodiment, and explanations of overlapping parts will be omitted as appropriate. Figure 16 is a diagram showing an example of the input screen for the first user displayed on the display unit 12 of the first terminal device 10 in the fourth embodiment of the first embodiment. Figure 17 is a diagram showing an example of the input screen for the second user displayed on the display unit 22 of the second terminal device 20 in the fourth embodiment of the first embodiment. Figure 18 is a diagram showing an example of the input screen for the third user displayed on the display unit 32 of the third terminal device 30 in the fourth embodiment of the first embodiment. Figure 19 is a diagram illustrating image G3 based on display data related to the fourth embodiment of the first embodiment. The fourth embodiment of the first embodiment differs from the first embodiment of the first embodiment in that the first user inputs a goods and services classification, rather than the International Patent Classification, as problem field information into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10. In other words, in this embodiment, the first user is assumed to be requesting a trademark registration application from a patent attorney. In this embodiment, the first user is expected to request a patent attorney to file a trademark registration application for a trademark related to automobiles.

[0088] In this embodiment as well, the information processing method illustrated in Figure 6 is executed. Details of the information processing method executed in this embodiment will be described below.

[0089] In STEP 01, the first user inputs the product / service classification as problem field information into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10, as illustrated in Figure 16. In this embodiment, the product / service classification input into the input unit 11 is Class 12.

[0090] Step 02 in this embodiment is the same as Step 02 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment.

[0091] STEP 03 in this embodiment is the same as STEP 03 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment. However, in this embodiment, the control unit 43 of the information processing device 40 acquires issue content information by determining one issue content C3 from multiple issue content recorded in the trademark issue content database D4 based on the issue field information received from the first terminal device 10 (STEP 03). In this embodiment, since the issue field information is goods and services classification 12, the control unit 43 acquires issue content information indicating issue content C3 by determining (selecting) issue content C3 from, for example, multiple issue content recorded in the trademark issue content database D4 based on the issue field information (goods and services classification 12) (see Figure 5). The control unit 43 transmits the acquired issue content information, the response deadline information, and the selection information to the transmission unit 44.

[0092] Step 04 in this embodiment is the same as Step 04 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment.

[0093] Step 05 in this embodiment is the same as Step 05 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment. However, as illustrated in Figure 17, the problem description column in this embodiment displays problem description C3.

[0094] Step 06 in this embodiment is the same as Step 06 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment. However, as illustrated in Figure 17, for example, Ichiro Toshi (an example of a second user) enters his answer to problem content C3, supplementary comments for that answer, and the second user's selling points, and then presses the submit button B2. In this embodiment, the answer to problem content C3 is a proposed trademark and a proposed list of designated goods and services.

[0095] Steps 07 and 08 in this embodiment are the same as steps 07 and 08 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment.

[0096] Step 09 in this embodiment is the same as Step 09 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment. However, as illustrated in Figure 18, in this embodiment, the problem content C3 is displayed in the problem content field. In this embodiment, the second user's response is displayed in the area where the second user's response is displayed. In this embodiment, the second user's supplementary comments are displayed in the area where the second user's supplementary comments are displayed.

[0097] Step 10 in this embodiment is the same as Step 10 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment. However, in this embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 18, the third user enters the rank of the second user's response and comments on the second user's design registration application and drawing proposal, and then presses the submit button B3.

[0098] Steps 11 and 12 in this embodiment are the same as steps 11 and 12 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment.

[0099] Step 13 in this embodiment is the same as Step 13 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment. However, in this embodiment, when the first terminal device 10 receives display data, the display unit 12 of the first terminal device 10 displays image G3 as illustrated in Figure 19. As illustrated in Figure 19, image G3 includes the responses (trademark proposals and designated goods and services proposals) of multiple second users, supplementary comments and selling points, and the evaluation and comments of the second users' responses by the third user. The second users' responses are in response to the issue content C3 identified by the issue field information (goods and services classification 12) entered by the first user into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10. Therefore, the first user can decide which patent attorney to hire after confirming the second user's response to the issue content C3 which is related to the content of the trademark they intend to request a patent attorney for, as well as the third user's evaluation and comments on the second user's response. As a result, the first user, who is the client in the field of intellectual property (trademark in this embodiment), can appropriately select an agent without disclosing the content of the trademark they intend to request a patent attorney for.

[0100] In this embodiment as well, the information processing device 40 can achieve the same effects as in the first embodiment of the first embodiment.

[0101] Furthermore, according to the information processing device 40 with the above configuration, the issue field information is the goods and services classification. Based on the issue field information, the information processing device 40 acquires issue content information by determining one issue content C3 from multiple issue content recorded in the trademark issue content database D4. In other words, for example, the information processing device 40 can acquire issue content information simply by the first user inputting the goods and services classification into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10. Therefore, the first user does not need to create the issue content themselves. In this way, the information processing device 40 can reduce the burden on the first user.

[0102] Furthermore, the information processing device 40 according to the above configuration acquires evaluation information and comment information from the third user's third terminal device 30 and generates display data including response information, evaluation information, and comment information. Therefore, by using this display data, the first user can select an agent after understanding not only the responses of multiple second users to the task content C3, but also the evaluations and comments of third users on those responses. In this way, the information processing device 40 can help a client (first user) to appropriately select an agent in the field of intellectual property (trademarks in this embodiment), even if the client has little knowledge of intellectual property.

[0103] Furthermore, the information processing device 40 according to the above configuration generates display data including the response information obtained from the second terminal device 20 by the response deadline indicated by the response deadline information obtained from the first terminal device 10. Therefore, for example, even if there are second users who have not responded to task content C3 or second users whose responses to task content C3 are significantly delayed, the first user can use this display data to grasp the response information obtained from the second terminal device 20 by the response deadline as soon as the deadline arrives.

[0104] Furthermore, according to the information processing device 40 with the above configuration, the second user's response to problem content C3 includes the trademark proposal and designated goods and services proposal created by the second user in response to problem content C3. Therefore, the first user can accurately assess the second user's ability to propose trademarks and designated goods and services by using the display data generated by the control unit 43 of the information processing device 40.

[0105] Furthermore, the information processing device 40 with the above configuration acquires supplementary comment information and appeal point information from each of the multiple second terminal devices 20 and generates display data including response information, supplementary comment information, and appeal point information. Therefore, by using this display data, the first user can select an agent after understanding not only the responses of multiple second users to the task content C3, but also the supplementary comments and appeal points of the second users. In this way, the information processing device 40 allows the first user to understand not only the responses of second users to the task content C3, but also the meaning (intention) of those responses and the characteristics of the second users, so that they can select an agent more appropriately.

[0106] (Second embodiment) Next, the information processing system 100A according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 20 to 22. In this embodiment, parts similar to those in the first embodiment will be described using the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and explanations of overlapping parts will be omitted as appropriate. In this embodiment as well, the first user is a member of the intellectual property department working for an automobile company, the second user is a group of patent attorneys (a group of potential agents), and the third user is a patent attorney firm. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first user is intended to request a patent application for an automobile invention from a patent attorney. In addition, in this embodiment, the problem field information (an example of information related to the request that the first user intends to make to the second user), response deadline information, and selection information that the first user inputs into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10 are the same as the information that the first user inputs into the input unit 11 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment. Figure 20 is a diagram illustrating the information processing system 100A according to the second embodiment. Figure 21 is a flowchart of the information processing method according to the second embodiment. Figure 22 is a diagram illustrating a prompt generated by the information processing device 40A in the second embodiment.

[0107] As illustrated in Figure 20, the information processing system 100A differs from the information processing system 100 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a language model 60. Furthermore, the information processing device 40A differs from the information processing device 40 according to the first embodiment in that it can communicate with the language model 60 and the storage device 42 does not store the utility model issue content database D2, the design issue content database D3, and the trademark issue content database D4. The information processing device 40A can communicate with the language model 60, for example, via a communication network such as the Internet. In this embodiment, the storage device 42 stores issue content information received by the information processing device 40A from the language model 60, which will be described later. In other words, the storage device 42 accumulates issue content information that has been received from the language model 60 in the past.

[0108] Language model 60 is a large-scale language model constructed from a large-scale network trained on a large amount of text data. Language model 60 is constructed using a neural network, for example. A neural network is a mathematical model that represents the characteristics of brain function through computer simulation. A neural network is a model in which artificial neurons (nodes) that form a network by synaptic connections change the strength of their synaptic connections through learning and acquire problem-solving abilities. A neural network includes, for example, an input layer, a hidden layer, and an output layer. A neural network acquires problem-solving abilities through deep learning, for example. Deep learning is constructed by performing deep learning using transformers such as GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer), BERT (Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers), BART (Bidirectional and Auto-regressive Transformer), and recurrent neural networks (RNNs).

[0109] Transformers are primarily used in the field of natural language processing. For example, they can perform accurate natural language processing when dealing with more than 100 billion parameters. A transformer is an encoder-decoder type model that uses only attention. Because transformers do not need to process time-series data sequentially, they can be parallelized to a greater extent than recurrent neural networks, thus reducing training time.

[0110] The language model 60 has been pre-trained on a large amount of text data and can solve various language processing tasks. Language processing tasks include, for example, text generation and answering questions. When the language model 60 performs text generation, for example, it tokenizes the input text and converts it into a continuous numerical representation (multidimensional vector). Next, the language model 60's encoder analyzes the converted numerical representation and converts it into an intermediate representation. Then, the language model 60's decoder converts the intermediate representation back into a numerical representation, converting it back from tokens to text and outputting it. In this way, the language model 60 generates text based on the input text and outputs the generated text. The text input to the language model 60 is called a prompt, and the text generated and output by the language model 60 is called a completion.

[0111] The control unit 43 generates a prompt for the language model 60 to generate task content information based on the task field information acquired from the first terminal device 10. The control unit 43 transmits the generated prompt to the transmission unit 44. The transmission unit 44 then transmits the prompt received from the control unit 43 to the language model 60.

[0112] The language model 60 generates task content information based on prompts received from the information processing device 40A. The language model 60 transmits the generated task content information to the information processing device 40A.

[0113] The control unit 43 can determine whether the task content indicated by the task content information received from the language model 60 is the same as the task content indicated by task content information previously received from the language model 60. If the control unit 43 determines that the task content indicated by the task content information received from the language model 60 is the same as the task content indicated by the task content information previously received from the language model 60, it generates an additional prompt to cause the language model to generate task content information again based on the task field information. The control unit 43 sends the additional prompt to the transmission unit 44. The transmission unit 44 transmits the additional prompt received from the control unit 43 to the language model 60. In this case, the language model 60 generates task content information again based on the received additional prompt. On the other hand, if the control unit 43 determines that the task content indicated by the task content information received from the language model 60 is different from the task content indicated by the task content information previously received from the language model 60, it transmits the task content information to the transmission unit 44.

[0114] Next, with reference to Figures 21 and 22, the information processing method performed by the information processing device 40A in the second embodiment will be described. As illustrated in Figure 21, STEP 21 and STEP 22 are the same as STEP 01 and STEP 02 in the first embodiment of the first embodiment.

[0115] The control unit 43 of the information processing device 40A generates a prompt (STEP 23) for the language model 60 to generate problem content information based on the problem field information (International Patent Classification B62D63 / 02) acquired from the first terminal device 10. The control unit 43 generates the prompt for the language model 60 to generate problem content information based on, for example, the problem field information and the artificial intelligence program stored in the memory 431 (ROM) of the control unit 43. However, for example, the storage device 42 stores a prompt template, and the control unit 43 may generate a prompt for the language model 60 to generate problem content information based on the prompt template stored in the storage device 42 and the problem field information acquired from the first terminal device 10. In this case, the control unit 43 generates a prompt for the language model 60 to generate problem content information by reflecting (adding) the problem field information (International Patent Classification B62D63 / 02) to the prompt template stored in the storage device 42. The prompts generated by the control unit 43 at this time are, for example, the so-called Fukatsu prompt, the ReAct prompt, and the goal seek prompt. As illustrated in Figure 22, the prompt generated by the control unit 43 in this embodiment is the so-called Fukatsu prompt. As illustrated in Figure 21, the prompt generated by the control unit 43 is sent to the transmission unit 44, and then sent from the transmission unit 44 to the language model 60 (STEP 24).

[0116] The language model 60 generates task content information based on the prompt received from the information processing device 40A (STEP 25). In this embodiment, the task content indicated by the task content information generated by the language model 60 in STEP 25 is assumed to be the same as task content C1 (see Figure 3).

[0117] The language model 60 transmits the generated task content information to the information processing device 40A (STEP 26). The information processing device 40A receives the task content information from the language model 60 and acquires the task content information.

[0118] The control unit 43 determines whether the task content indicated by the task content information received from the language model 60 is the same as the task content indicated by the task content information previously received from the language model 60 (STEP 27). Specifically, the control unit 43 makes this determination by comparing the task content information obtained from the language model 60 in STEP 26 with the task content information previously received from the language model 60 stored in the storage device 42.

[0119] If the control unit 43 determines that the task content indicated by the task content information received from the language model 60 is the same as the task content indicated by the task content information previously received from the language model 60 (YES in STEP 27), it generates an additional prompt to cause the language model to generate task content information again based on the task field information (International Patent Classification B62D63 / 02) (STEP 28). In this case, the generated additional prompt is sent from the control unit 43 to the transmission unit 44, and then from the transmission unit 44 to the language model 60 (STEP 29). The language model 60 generates task content information again based on the received additional prompt (STEP 30). After STEP 30 is executed, STEP 26 is executed again.

[0120] On the other hand, if the control unit 43 determines that the task content indicated by the task content information received from the language model 60 is different from the task content indicated by the task content information previously received from the language model 60 (NO in STEP 27), STEP 31 is executed.

[0121] Steps 31 to 40 are the same as steps 4 to 13 in the first embodiment of the first model.

[0122] In this embodiment as well, the information processing device 40A can achieve the same effects as in the first embodiment.

[0123] Furthermore, according to the information processing device 40A with the above configuration, a prompt is generated to cause the language model 60 to generate problem content information based on the problem field information, and the prompt is transmitted to the language model 60. The information processing device 40A then acquires the problem content information by receiving the problem content information generated by the language model 60 based on the prompt from the language model 60. For this reason, the information processing device 40A can acquire the problem content information even if the utility model problem content database D2, the design problem content database D3, and the trademark problem content database D4 are not stored in the storage device 42. Accordingly, the information processing device 40A allows for a simplification of the configuration of the storage device 42.

[0124] Furthermore, according to the information processing device 40A with the above configuration, if the task content indicated by the task content information received from the language model 60 is the same as the task content indicated by the task content information previously received from the language model 60, an additional prompt is generated to cause the language model 60 to generate task content information again based on the task field information, and this additional prompt is sent to the language model 60. The information processing device 40A then acquires the task content information by receiving the task content information generated by the language model 60 based on this additional prompt. As a result, the task content indicated by the task content information transmitted to the second user's second terminal device 20 can be made different each time.

[0125] (Modification of the second embodiment) Next, with reference to Figures 23 to 25, the information processing method implemented in the modified version of the second embodiment will be described. In this modified version, parts similar to those in the first and / or second embodiments will be described using the same reference numerals as in the first and / or second embodiments, and the description of overlapping parts will be omitted as appropriate. This modified version differs from the second embodiment in that the storage device 42 stores the patent / utility model prompt database D5 (an example of a prompt database) illustrated in Figure 23, the design prompt database D6 (an example of a prompt database) illustrated in Figure 24, and the trademark prompt database D7 (an example of a prompt database) illustrated in Figure 25. The patent / utility model prompt database D5, the design prompt database D6 illustrated in Figure 24, and the trademark prompt database D7 are pre-configured, for example, by the creators of these databases.

[0126] As illustrated in Figure 23, the patent / utility model prompt database D5 records patent / utility model prompts, linking them to, for example, international patent classifications, FIs, F-terms, and keywords for identifying fields (e.g., words like "automobile"). One or more patent / utility model prompts are linked to international patent classifications, FIs, F-terms, and keywords for identifying fields. In this modified example, multiple patent / utility model prompts are linked to international patent classifications, FIs, F-terms, and keywords for identifying fields, but only one patent / utility model prompt may be linked. Thus, the patent / utility model prompt database D5 is a database in which one or more patent / utility model prompts are linked to each field of study information (international patent classifications, FIs, F-terms, and keywords for identifying fields).

[0127] As illustrated in Figure 24, the design prompt database D6 records, for example, Locarno classification, Japanese design classification, D-terms, and keywords for identifying fields (e.g., words like "automobile"), linked to design prompts. One or more design prompts are linked to Locarno classification, Japanese design classification, D-terms, and keywords for identifying fields. In this embodiment, multiple design prompts are linked to Locarno classification, Japanese design classification, D-terms, and keywords for identifying fields, but only one design prompt may be linked. Thus, the design prompt database D6 is a database in which one or more design prompts are linked to problem field information (Locarno classification, Japanese design classification, D-terms, and keywords for identifying fields) for each problem field information.

[0128] As illustrated in Figure 25, the trademark prompt database D7 records trademark prompts associated with, for example, product / service classifications, similarity group codes, and keywords for identifying products / services and fields (e.g., words like "automobile"). One or more trademark prompts are associated with product / service classifications, similarity group codes, and keywords for identifying products / services and fields. In this embodiment, multiple trademark prompts are associated with product / service classifications, similarity group codes, and keywords for identifying products / services and fields, but only one trademark prompt may be associated. Thus, the trademark prompt database D7 is a database in which one or more trademark prompts are recorded and associated with each issue field information (product / service classifications, similarity group codes, and keywords for identifying products / services and fields).

[0129] Based on the problem field information acquired from the first terminal device 10, the control unit 43 generates a prompt for the language model 60 to generate problem content information by determining one prompt from a prompt database (i.e., patent / utility model prompt database D5, design prompt database D6, trademark prompt database D7) in which one or more prompts (i.e., patent / utility model prompts, design prompts, trademark prompts) are linked to the problem field information.

[0130] In this modified example, the information processing method illustrated in Figure 21 is also executed. Therefore, the information processing method executed in this modified example is basically the same as the information processing method executed in the second embodiment. However, in this modified example, in STEP 23, the control unit 43 of the information processing device 40A generates a prompt for the language model 60 to generate problem content information by determining one patent / utility model prompt from a plurality of patent / utility model prompts recorded in the patent / utility model prompt database D5 based on the problem field information (International Patent Classification B62D63 / 02) acquired from the first terminal device 10. Note that the other STEPs in this modified example are the same as in the second embodiment, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0131] In this modified example, the information processing device 40A can achieve the same effects as in the above embodiment.

[0132] Furthermore, according to the information processing device 40A with the above configuration, a prompt is generated by determining one patent / utility model prompt from a plurality of patent / utility model prompts recorded in the patent / utility model prompt database D5 based on the problem field information (International Patent Classification B62D63 / 02). Therefore, according to the information processing device 40A with the above configuration, a more appropriate prompt can be generated.

[0133] (Third embodiment) Next, the information processing system 100B according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 26 to 29. In this embodiment, parts similar to those in the first and / or second embodiments will be described using the same reference numerals as in the first and / or second embodiments, and the description of overlapping parts will be omitted as appropriate. In this embodiment as well, the first user is assumed to be a member of the intellectual property department working for an automobile company, the second user is assumed to be multiple patent attorneys (multiple candidate agents), and the third user is assumed to be a patent attorney firm. Also in this embodiment as well, the first user is assumed to be requesting a patent application for an automobile invention from a patent attorney. Figure 26 is a diagram illustrating the information processing system 100B according to the third embodiment. Figure 27 is a flowchart of the information processing method according to the third embodiment. Figure 28 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen for the first user displayed on the display unit 12 of the first terminal device 10 in the third embodiment. Figure 29 is a diagram illustrating a prompt generated by the information processing device 40B in the third embodiment.

[0134] As illustrated in Figure 26, the information processing system 100B differs from the information processing system 100A according to the second embodiment in that it includes an external database 70. Furthermore, the information processing device 40B differs from the information processing device 40A according to the second embodiment in that it can communicate with the external database 70. The hardware configuration of the information processing device 40B according to this embodiment may be the same as that of the information processing device 40A according to the second embodiment. In other words, the information processing device 40B is basically the same as the information processing device 40A except for its ability to communicate with the external database 70. The information processing device 40B can also communicate with the external database 70 via a communication network such as the Internet.

[0135] External database 70 is, for example, the database of the Japan Patent Office, the database of the United States Patent and Trademark Office, the database of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), or a commercial database provided by an intellectual property service provider. In this embodiment, external database 70 is the database of the Japan Patent Office. The Japan Patent Office database records, for example, application information for patent applications, utility model registration applications, design registration applications, and trademark registration applications that have been filed with the Japan Patent Office to date. In addition, databases other than the Japan Patent Office database (for example, the database of the United States Patent and Trademark Office) also record application information for patent applications, etc., in at least one country, similar to the Japan Patent Office database. In other words, external database 70 records application information related to intellectual property applications that have been filed to date. In this specification, the term "country" is used to include not only independent countries but also countries and regions that are not internationally recognized, unions such as the European Union, etc.

[0136] The control unit 43 generates an acquisition request signal to obtain application information corresponding to the application identification information from the external database 70, based on the application identification information obtained from the first terminal device 10. The control unit 43 transmits the application identification information and the generated acquisition request signal to the transmission unit 44. The transmission unit 44 then transmits the application identification information and acquisition request signal received from the control unit 43 to the database 70.

[0137] The external database 70 transmits application information corresponding to the application identification information to the information processing device 40B based on the application identification information and the acquisition request signal. In this way, the information processing device 40B acquires application information corresponding to the application identification information from the external database 70 based on the application identification information. When the information processing device 40B receives (acquires) application information corresponding to the application identification information from the external database 70, the control unit 43 generates a prompt for the language model 60 to generate problem content information based on the application information acquired from the external database 70.

[0138] In this embodiment, the information processing method illustrated in Figure 27 is executed. As illustrated in Figure 27, the first user inputs application identification information (an example of information related to the request), response deadline information, and selection information into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10, and then presses the send button B1 (STEP 51). For example, if the first user has previously filed a patent application related to the invention they are requesting a patent attorney to handle, as illustrated in Figure 28, the first user inputs the published patent number related to the previously filed patent application into the input unit 11 as application identification information. When the first user presses the send button B1, as illustrated in Figure 27, the first terminal device 10 transmits the application identification information, response deadline information, and selection information to the information processing device 40B (STEP 52).

[0139] The control unit 43 of the information processing device 40B generates an acquisition request signal to acquire application information corresponding to the application identification information from the external database 70 based on the application identification information received (acquired) from the first terminal device 10 (STEP 53). The control unit 43 transmits the application identification information and the acquisition request signal to the transmission unit 44, and the transmission unit 44 transmits the application identification information and the acquisition request signal to the external database 70 (STEP 54).

[0140] Based on the application identification information and acquisition request signal received from the information processing device 40B, the external database 70 transmits the application information corresponding to the application identification information to the information processing device 40B (STEP 55). At this time, the information processing device 40B receives (acquires) the application information corresponding to the application identification information from the external database 70.

[0141] Steps 56 to 73 are the same as steps 23 to 40 in the second embodiment. However, in step 56, the control unit 43 of the information processing device 40B generates a prompt for the language model 60 to generate problem content information based on the application information obtained from the external database 70. The control unit 43 generates a prompt for the language model 60 to generate problem content information based on, for example, the application information and the artificial intelligence program stored in the memory 431 (ROM) of the control unit 43. However, for example, the storage device 42 stores a prompt template, and the control unit 43 may generate a prompt for the language model 60 to generate problem content information based on the prompt template stored in the storage device 42 and the application information obtained from the external database 70. In this case, the control unit 43 generates a prompt for the language model 60 to generate problem content information by reflecting (adding) the application information to the prompt template stored in the storage device 42. Furthermore, the control unit 43 may use all the information contained in the application information obtained from the external database 70, or it may use only some of the information contained in the application information obtained from the external database 70. The prompt generated by the control unit 43 in this case is, for example, the prompt illustrated in Figure 29. As illustrated in Figure 29, the prompt generated by the control unit 43 in this embodiment includes application information corresponding to the application identification information (information corresponding to the "<Contents of past patent applications>" section in Figure 29).

[0142] In this embodiment as well, the information processing device 40B can achieve the same effects as in the first embodiment.

[0143] Furthermore, according to the information processing device 40B with the above configuration, application information corresponding to application identification information (published patent numbers related to past patent applications) is obtained from an external database 70. Then, the information processing device 40B generates a prompt based on the application information obtained from the external database 70 and transmits the prompt to the language model 60. Subsequently, the information processing device 40B obtains the task content information by receiving the task content information generated by the language model 60 based on the prompt from the language model 60.Therefore, the burden on the first user is reduced because the only thing it has to do is input the published patent numbers related to past patent applications into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10.

[0144] (Modified version of the third embodiment) Next, with reference to Figures 30 and 31, the information processing method implemented in the modified version of the third embodiment will be described. In this modified version, parts similar to those in the first to third embodiments will be described using the same reference numerals as in the first to third embodiments, and explanations of overlapping parts will be omitted as appropriate. Figure 30 is a flowchart of the information processing method according to the modified version of the third embodiment. Figure 31 is a diagram showing an example of the input screen for the first user displayed on the display unit 12 of the first terminal device 10 in the modified version of the third embodiment. In the third embodiment, the first user inputs application identification information into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10, but this modified version differs from the third embodiment in that application content information (an example of information related to the request content) is input into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10. In this modified version, the information processing system 100B does not need to have an external database 70. In other words, the information processing system 100B in this modified version can have the same configuration as the information processing system 100A in the second embodiment. Also, in this modified version, the control unit 43 generates a prompt based on the application content information.

[0145] In this modified example, the information processing method illustrated in Figure 30 is executed. As illustrated in Figure 30, the first user inputs the application details information, response deadline information, and selection information into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10, and then presses the send button B1 (STEP 81). For example, if the first user has previously filed a patent application related to the invention they are requesting a patent attorney to handle, as illustrated in Figure 31, the first user inputs the details of that previously filed patent application into the input unit 11 as the application details information. When the first user presses the send button B1, as illustrated in Figure 30, the first terminal device 10 transmits the application details information, response deadline information, and selection information to the information processing device 40B (STEP 82).

[0146] Steps 83 to 100 are the same as steps 56 to 73 in the third embodiment. However, in step 83, the control unit 43 of the information processing device 40B generates a prompt based on the application content information. The control unit 43 generates a prompt to cause the language model 60 to generate the problem content information based on, for example, the application content information and the artificial intelligence program stored in the memory 431 (ROM) of the control unit 43. However, for example, the storage device 42 stores a prompt template, and the control unit 43 may generate a prompt to cause the language model 60 to generate the problem content information based on the prompt template stored in the storage device 42 and the application content information. In this case, the control unit 43 generates a prompt to cause the language model 60 to generate the problem content information by reflecting (adding) the application content information to the prompt template stored in the storage device 42.

[0147] In this modified example, the information processing device 40B can achieve the same effects as in the above embodiment.

[0148] Furthermore, according to the information processing device 40B with the above configuration, a prompt is generated based on the application content information and transmitted to the language model 60. The information processing device 40B then receives the task content information generated by the language model 60 based on the prompt from the language model 60 and acquires the task content information. Therefore, for example, even if the first user has forgotten the published patent number, etc., of a patent application filed in the past, the information processing device 40B can acquire the task content information from the language model 60 by having the first user input application content information indicating the content of the past patent application into the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10.

[0149] The embodiments described above are provided to facilitate understanding of this disclosure and do not limit it. This disclosure may be modified or improved without departing from its intent.

[0150] In the above embodiment, the information processing system 100 includes a first terminal device 10, a plurality of second terminal devices 20, a third terminal device 30, and an information processing device 40. However, for example, the information processing device 40 may not be included. In this case, for example, the first terminal device 10 or the second terminal device 20 is configured to perform the functions of the information processing device 40. In other words, the information processing device 40 may be the same device as the first terminal device 10 or the second terminal device 20. If the information processing device 40 and the first terminal device 10 are the same device, the first terminal device 10 acquires the information related to the request that the first user is trying to make to the second user by inputting information related to the request that the first user is trying to make to the second user into the input unit 11 by the first user. Also, if the information processing device 40 and the second terminal device 20 are the same device, the second terminal device 20 acquires the response information, supplementary comment information, and appeal point information by inputting response information, supplementary comment information, and appeal point information into the input unit 21 by the second user.

[0151] In the above embodiments, the information processing devices 40, 40A, and 40B are equipped with a storage device 42, but they do not necessarily have to be equipped with a storage device 42. In this case, as shown by the dashed lines in Figures 1, 20, and 26, the information processing systems 100, 100A, and 100B are equipped with an external storage device 50. The configuration of the external storage device 50 may be the same as that of the storage device 42. Therefore, for example, in the first embodiment, if the information processing device 40 is not equipped with a storage device 42, the external storage device 50 stores the candidate agent database D1, the patent / utility model issue content database D2, the design issue content database D3, and the trademark issue content database D4. In this case, the information processing device 40 is configured to appropriately refer to the candidate agent database D1, the patent / utility model issue content database D2, the design issue content database D3, and the trademark issue content database D4 stored in the external storage device 50. Similarly, if the information processing device 40A according to the second embodiment or the information processing device 40B according to the third embodiment does not have a storage device 42, the external storage device 50 stores the task content information, patent / utility model prompt database D5, design prompt database D6, and trademark prompt database D7 that were previously received from the language model 60. In this case, the information processing devices 40A and 40B are configured to appropriately refer to the task content information, patent / utility model prompt database D5, design prompt database D6, and trademark prompt database D7 that are stored in the external storage device 50.

[0152] In the above embodiment, the task content information and response deadline information are transmitted to the second terminal device 20 of the second user (candidate agent) selected by the first user, but the task content information and response deadline information may also be transmitted to all candidate agents.

[0153] In the above embodiment, the task content information and response deadline information are transmitted to the second terminal device 20 of the second user (candidate agent) selected by the first user. However, for example, the response deadline information does not necessarily have to be transmitted to the second terminal device 20.

[0154] In the above embodiment, the display data includes supplementary comment information and appeal point information, but for example, it may not include supplementary comment information and appeal point information. Also, the display data may include only one of either supplementary comment information or appeal point information.

[0155] In the above embodiment, the display data includes evaluation information and comment information, but it does not necessarily have to include evaluation information and comment information. Furthermore, the display data may include, for example, only one of either evaluation information or comment information.

[0156] In the above embodiment, the third user's evaluation is a ranking of the second user's responses, such as an A rating or a B rating. However, it could also be, for example, a score assigned to the second user's responses.

[0157] In the first embodiment, the second embodiment, the second embodiment, and the third embodiment of the first embodiment described above, the answer to the problem may further include not only a draft claim, but also at least one of a draft specification and a draft drawing.

[0158] In the first embodiment, the second embodiment, the second embodiment, and the third embodiment of the first embodiment described above, the draft claims include independent and dependent claims, but for example, dependent claims may not be included.

[0159] In the first and second embodiments of the first embodiment described above, the patent / utility model issue database D2 records the International Patent Classification, FI, F-term, and keywords for identifying fields, linked to the issue content, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the patent / utility model issue database D2 may record some of this issue field information, linked to the issue content. In the third embodiment of the first embodiment, the design issue database D3 records the Locarno Classification, Japanese Design Classification, D-term, and keywords for identifying fields, linked to the issue content, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the design issue database D3 may record some of this issue field information, linked to the issue content. In the fourth embodiment of the first embodiment, the trademark issue database D4 records the goods / services classification, similarity group code, goods / services, and keywords for identifying fields, linked to the issue content, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the trademark issue database D4 may record some of this issue field information linked to the issue content.

[0160] In the modified version of the second embodiment described above, the patent / utility model prompt database D5 records keywords for identifying the International Patent Classification, FI, F-terms, and fields, linked to patent / utility model prompts, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the patent / utility model prompt database D5 may record some of this field of study information, linked to patent / utility model prompts. The design prompt database D6 records keywords for identifying the Locarno Classification, Japanese Design Classification, D-terms, and fields, linked to design prompts, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the design prompt database D6 may record some of this field of study information, linked to design prompts. The trademark prompt database D7 records keywords for identifying goods / services classification, similarity group codes, goods / services, and fields, linked to design prompts, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the trademark prompt database D7 may record some of this issue field information in association with trademark prompts.

[0161] In the third embodiment of the first embodiment described above, the answer to problem description C2 includes a design registration application and a draft drawing, but for example, it may include only one of the design registration application or the draft drawing.

[0162] In the fourth embodiment of the first embodiment described above, the answer to problem description C3 is a proposed trademark and a proposed list of designated goods and services, but for example, it may be just one of the two.

[0163] In the second embodiment, the modified version of the second embodiment, the third embodiment, and the modified version of the third embodiment described above using patent examples, this disclosure is also applicable to utility model, design, and trademark examples. In other words, the information processing device 40A and the information processing device 40B can achieve the effects described above not only in patent examples, but also in utility model, design, and trademark examples. Furthermore, in the first embodiment of the first embodiment and the second embodiment of the first embodiment described using patent examples, this disclosure is also applicable to utility model examples. In other words, the information processing device 40 can achieve the effects described above not only in patent examples, but also in utility model examples.

[0164] In the second embodiment, the modified version of the second embodiment, the third embodiment, and the modified version of the third embodiment described above, the language model 60 is located outside the information processing devices 40A and 40B, but it may also be located inside the information processing devices 40A and 40B. In other words, the information processing devices 40A and 40B may include the language model 60.

[0165] In the second embodiment described above, one field of issue information (International Patent Classification) is input to the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10, but multiple field of issue information may be input. In the third embodiment, application identification information is input to the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10, but for example, application identification information and field of issue information may be input. In a modified example of the third embodiment, application content information is input to the input unit 11 of the first terminal device 10, but for example, application content information and field of issue information may be input.

[0166] In the third embodiment described above, the external database 70 is the database of the Japan Patent Office, but it may also be the database of, for example, the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

[0167] As explained above, the following matters are disclosed in this specification: (1) Processor and An information processing device for intellectual property, comprising: a memory that stores at least one instruction that the processor can execute; When at least one of the instructions is executed by the processor, the information processing device, From the first terminal device of the first user, who is the client, information related to the request that the first user is attempting to make to the second user, who is a candidate for agent, is obtained. Based on the information related to the aforementioned request, we obtain task content information that indicates the content of the task, The aforementioned problem content information is transmitted to each of the second terminal devices of multiple second users. From each of the multiple second terminal devices, at least response information indicating the second user's response to the task content indicated by the task content information is obtained, The display data including the aforementioned response information is generated, An information processing device that transmits the aforementioned display data to the first terminal device. (2) The information related to the above request is subject matter information that includes at least one of the following: International Patent Classification, FI, F-term, Locarno Classification, Japanese Design Classification, D-term, product / service classification, similarity group code, product / service, or keyword for identifying the field. The information processing device according to (1), which, based on the aforementioned issue field information, retrieves one issue content from a plurality of issue content recorded in an issue content database in which one or more issue contents are linked to the aforementioned issue field information. (3) The information processing device described in (1) is such that the information related to the request is the task content created by the first user. (4) The information related to the above request is subject matter information that includes at least one of the following: International Patent Classification, FI, F-term, Locarno Classification, Japanese Design Classification, D-term, goods and services classification, similarity group code, goods and services, and keywords for identifying the field. Based on the aforementioned problem area information, a prompt is generated to cause the language model to generate the aforementioned problem content information. The prompt is sent to the language model, The information processing device according to (1), which acquires the task content information by receiving the task content information generated by the language model based on the prompt from the language model. (5) The information processing device according to (4), which generates a prompt by determining one of the prompts recorded in a prompt database in which one or more prompts are associated with the problem field information, based on the problem field information. (6) The information related to the above request is application identification information for identifying applications relating to intellectual property that have been filed to date, Based on the aforementioned application identification information, the application information corresponding to the aforementioned application identification information is obtained from an external database containing application information related to intellectual property applications filed to date. Based on the aforementioned application information, a prompt is generated to cause the language model to generate the aforementioned problem content information. The prompt is sent to the language model, The information processing device according to (1), which acquires the task content information by receiving the task content information generated by the language model based on the prompt from the language model. (7) The information related to the above request is application information that shows the contents of applications relating to intellectual property that have been filed to date. Based on the aforementioned application information, a prompt is generated to cause the language model to generate the aforementioned problem content information. The prompt is sent to the language model, The information processing device according to (1), which acquires the task content information by receiving the task content information generated by the language model based on the prompt from the language model. (8) If the task content information received from the language model is the same as the task content information previously received from the language model, an additional prompt is generated to cause the language model to generate the task content information again based on the task field information. The additional prompt is sent to the language model, An information processing device according to any one of (4) to (7), which acquires the task content information by receiving the task content information generated by the language model based on the additional prompt from the language model. (9) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein the multiple second users are those selected by the first user. (10) From the third user's third terminal device, obtain at least one of evaluation information indicating the third user's evaluation of the second user's response and comment information indicating the third user's comments on the second user's response. The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein the display data includes the response information and at least one of the evaluation information and the comment information. (11) Obtain response deadline information from the first terminal device, which indicates the response deadline set by the first user for the content of the task. An information processing device according to any one of (1) to (10), which generates the display data including the response information obtained from the second terminal device by the aforementioned response deadline. (12) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (11), wherein the response of the second user includes at least one of the following prepared by the second user in response to the task: a draft claim, a draft specification, a draft drawing, a draft design registration application, a draft trademark, and a draft of designated goods and services. (13) The second user’s response includes the proposed claim, The information processing apparatus according to (12), wherein the draft claim includes at least one independent claim. (14) From each of the multiple second terminal devices, obtain at least one of supplementary comment information indicating supplementary comments on the answer and appeal point information indicating the appeal points of the second user, The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (13), wherein the display data includes the response information and at least one of the supplementary comment information and the appeal point information. (15) The information processing device described in any one of (1) to (14), wherein the information processing device is the same device as the first terminal device or the second terminal device. (16) A method for processing information about intellectual property that is performed by an information processing device, The steps include obtaining information related to the request that the first user, who is the client, is attempting to make to the second user, who is a candidate for agent, from the first terminal device of the first user, who is the client, and A step of obtaining problem content information that indicates the problem content based on the information related to the aforementioned request, The steps include transmitting the aforementioned problem content information to each of the second terminal devices of multiple second users, The steps include obtaining, from each of the multiple second terminal devices, at least, response information indicating the second user's response to the task content indicated by the task content information, The steps include generating display data that includes the aforementioned response information, An information processing method comprising the step of transmitting the display data to the first terminal device. (17) A computer program relating to intellectual property, which includes at least one instruction executed by the processor of an information processing device, When at least one of the instructions is executed by the processor, the information processing device shall: From the first terminal device of the first user, who is the client, information related to the request that the first user is attempting to make to the second user, who is a candidate for agent, is obtained. Based on the information related to the aforementioned request, obtain the task content information that indicates the task content, The aforementioned task content information is transmitted to each of the second terminal devices of multiple second users. From each of the multiple second terminal devices, at least response information indicating the second user's response to the task content indicated by the task content information is obtained, The system generates display data that includes the aforementioned response information. A computer program that causes the display data to be transmitted to the first terminal device. (18) A non-temporary computer-readable medium on which the computer programs described in (17) are stored. [Explanation of symbols]

[0168] 10: First Terminal Device 11,21,31: Input section 12,22,32: Display section 20: Second terminal device 30: Third terminal device 40, 40A, 40B: Information Processing Devices 41: Acquisition Department 42:Storage device 43: Control Unit 44: Transmitter 45: Bus 50: External storage device 60: Language Models 70: External databases 100, 100A, 100B: Information Processing System 431: Memory 432: Processor

Claims

1. Processor and An information processing device for intellectual property, comprising: a memory that stores at least one instruction that the processor can execute; When at least one of the instructions is executed by the processor, the information processing device, From the first terminal device of the first user, who is the client, information related to the request that the first user is attempting to make to the second user, who is a candidate for agent, is obtained. Based on the information related to the aforementioned request, we obtain task content information that indicates the content of the task, The aforementioned problem content information is transmitted to each of the second terminal devices of multiple second users. From each of the multiple second terminal devices, at least response information indicating the second user's response to the task content indicated by the task content information is obtained, The display data including the aforementioned response information is generated, An information processing device that transmits the aforementioned display data to the first terminal device.

2. The information related to the aforementioned request is problem field information that includes at least one of the following: International Patent Classification, FI, F-term, Locarno Classification, Japanese Design Classification, D-term, goods and services classification, similarity group code, goods and services, and keywords for identifying the field. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, which, based on the aforementioned problem field information, retrieves one of the aforementioned problem contents from a plurality of aforementioned problem contents recorded in a problem contents database in which one or more aforementioned problem contents are associated with the aforementioned problem field information.

3. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the information related to the request is the task content created by the first user.

4. The information related to the aforementioned request is problem field information that includes at least one of the following: International Patent Classification, FI, F-term, Locarno Classification, Japanese Design Classification, D-term, goods and services classification, similarity group code, goods and services, and keywords for identifying the field. Based on the aforementioned problem area information, a prompt is generated to cause the language model to generate the aforementioned problem content information. The prompt is sent to the language model, The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, which acquires the task content information by receiving the task content information generated by the language model based on the prompt from the language model.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, which generates a prompt by determining one of the prompts from a plurality of prompts recorded in a prompt database in which one or more prompts are associated with the problem field information, based on the problem field information.

6. The information related to the aforementioned request is application identification information for identifying applications relating to intellectual property that have been filed to date. Based on the aforementioned application identification information, the application information corresponding to the aforementioned application identification information is obtained from an external database containing application information related to intellectual property applications filed to date. Based on the aforementioned application information, a prompt is generated to cause the language model to generate the aforementioned problem content information. The prompt is sent to the language model, The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, which acquires the task content information by receiving the task content information generated by the language model based on the prompt from the language model.

7. The information related to the aforementioned request is application information showing the contents of intellectual property applications filed to date. Based on the aforementioned application information, a prompt is generated to cause the language model to generate the aforementioned problem content information. The prompt is sent to the language model, The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, which acquires the task content information by receiving the task content information generated by the language model based on the prompt from the language model.

8. If the issue content indicated by the issue content information received from the language model is the same as the issue content indicated by the issue content information previously received from the language model, an additional prompt is generated to cause the language model to generate the issue content information again based on the issue field information. The additional prompt is sent to the language model, The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, which acquires the task content information by receiving the task content information generated by the language model based on the additional prompt from the language model.

9. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the multiple second users are those selected by the first user.

10. From the third user's third terminal device, obtain at least one of the following: evaluation information showing the third user's evaluation of the second user's response and comment information showing the third user's comments on the second user's response. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the display data includes the response information and at least one of the evaluation information and the comment information.

11. From the first terminal device, obtain response deadline information indicating the response deadline set by the first user for the content of the task. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, which generates the display data including the response information obtained from the second terminal device by the response deadline.

12. The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the response of the second user includes at least one of a draft claim, a draft specification, a draft drawing, a draft design registration application, a draft trademark, and a draft of designated goods and services prepared by the second user in response to the problem description.

13. The aforementioned response from the second user includes the proposed claim, The information processing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the draft claim includes at least one independent claim.

14. From each of the multiple second terminal devices, at least one of supplementary comment information indicating supplementary comments on the response and appeal point information indicating the appeal points of the second user is obtained. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the display data includes the response information, the supplementary comment information and at least one of the appeal point information.

15. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the information processing apparatus is the same apparatus as the first terminal device or the second terminal device.

16. A method for processing information about intellectual property, which is performed by an information processing device, The steps include obtaining information related to the request that the first user, who is the client, is attempting to make to the second user, who is a candidate agent, from the first terminal device of the first user, who is the client, and A step of obtaining problem content information that indicates the problem content based on the information related to the aforementioned request, The steps include transmitting the aforementioned problem content information to each of the second terminal devices of multiple second users, The steps include obtaining, from each of the multiple second terminal devices, at least, response information indicating the second user's response to the task content indicated by the task content information, The steps include generating display data that includes the aforementioned response information, An information processing method comprising the step of transmitting the display data to the first terminal device.

17. A computer program relating to intellectual property, comprising at least one instruction executed by the processor of an information processing device, When at least one of the instructions is executed by the processor, the information processing device shall: From the first terminal device of the first user, who is the client, information related to the request that the first user is attempting to make to the second user, who is a candidate for agent, is obtained. Based on the information related to the aforementioned request, obtain the task content information that indicates the task content, The aforementioned task content information is transmitted to each of the second terminal devices of multiple second users. From each of the multiple second terminal devices, at least response information indicating the second user's response to the task content indicated by the task content information is obtained, The system generates display data that includes the aforementioned response information. A computer program that causes the display data to be transmitted to the first terminal device.

18. A non-temporary computer-readable medium storing the computer program described in claim 17.

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