system
The integrated system addresses network, equipment, and security issues in store operations by automating monitoring, scheduling, and notification, enhancing efficiency and reducing response times.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-09-04
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-16
AI Technical Summary
Conventional store operations face complications due to network failures, network device failures, security risks, and display failures, requiring separate systems and manual responses, which complicates staff work and prolongs response times.
A system that integrates network status monitoring, technician scheduling, bandwidth adjustment, security system monitoring, equipment replacement, and store condition management, providing automated notifications and responses to efficiently manage these issues.
The system enables efficient and timely resolution of various store operation problems by integrating network, equipment, security, and store condition management, reducing user workload and response time.
Smart Images

Figure 2026047942000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The technology of the present disclosure relates to a system.
Background Art
[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a method for controlling a persona chatbot, which is performed by at least one processor, the method including steps of receiving a user utterance, adding the user utterance to a prompt including an instruction sentence related to an explanation of a character of the chatbot, encoding the prompt, and inputting the encoded prompt into a language model to generate a chatbot utterance as a response to the user utterance.
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0003]
Patent Document 1
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0004] In conventional store operations, various problems such as network failures, failures of network devices, security risks, display failures of advertisements, and deterioration of store conditions occur individually, and separate systems or manual responses are required for each of them. Therefore, there is a problem that the work of store staff becomes complicated and the response time becomes long. The present invention aims to integrally solve these problems with one system and support efficient operation of stores.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0005] The present invention solves the above problems with a system that includes the following means: means for monitoring the network status and scheduling technician visits based on the status; means for adjusting network bandwidth; and means for providing notifications to users according to the network status. It also includes means for monitoring the status of network equipment and sending replacement equipment based on the equipment status; and means for providing notifications to users according to the network equipment status. Furthermore, it includes means for monitoring the status of security systems and notifying the security team based on the status; means for escalating problems; and means for providing notifications to users according to the security status. By integrating and combining these means, the present invention provides a system that can efficiently manage various problems in store operations and reduce the workload of users.
[0006] A "network" is a system in which multiple computers and devices are interconnected in order to send and receive data.
[0007] "Network status" refers to indicators that show the performance and operating status of a network, such as the health and speed of internet connectivity and data communication.
[0008] A "technical visit" refers to a physical visit by a specialist technician dispatched to the site to resolve network or equipment issues.
[0009] "Bandwidth adjustment" refers to making configuration changes or reallocating resources to optimize the distribution of network communication speed and data capacity.
[0010] A "notification" is a message or alert that a system uses to convey specific information to a user.
[0011] "Network equipment" refers to physical devices such as routers, switches, and modems used to manage and control network connections.
[0012] "Replacement equipment" refers to new equipment provided as a replacement for network equipment that has failed or malfunctioned.
[0013] A "security system" is an integrated system of hardware and software for monitoring and defending against risks such as unauthorized access, intrusion, and data breaches.
[0014] A "security team" is an organization comprised of members with specialized knowledge to respond to security incidents.
[0015] "Escalation" refers to actions that encourage reporting and action by higher levels of management or professional authority, depending on the importance and urgency of the problem. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0016] [Figure 1] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the essential functions of the data processing device and smart device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the main functions of a data processing device and smart glasses according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the main functions of a data processing device and a headset-type terminal according to the third embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the main functions of a data processing device and a robot according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] This shows an emotion map where multiple emotions are mapped. [Figure 10] Displays an emotion map to which a plurality of emotions are mapped. [Figure 11] It is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow of the data processing system in Embodiment 1. [Figure 12] It is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow of the data processing system in Application Example 1. [Figure 13] It is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow of the data processing system in Embodiment 2 when an emotion engine is combined. [Figure 14] It is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow of the data processing system in Application Example 2 when an emotion engine is combined.
Mode for Carrying Out the Invention
[0017] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of a system according to the technology of the present disclosure will be described according to the attached drawings.
[0018] First, the terms used in the following description will be described.
[0019] In the following embodiments, a processor with a reference numeral (hereinafter simply referred to as "processor") may be a single arithmetic unit or a combination of a plurality of arithmetic units. Further, the processor may be a single type of arithmetic unit or a combination of a plurality of types of arithmetic units. Examples of arithmetic units include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a GPGPU (General-Purpose computing on Graphics Processing Units), an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), and the like. [[ID=3**********]]
[0020] In the following embodiments, a RAM (Random Access Memory) with a reference numeral is a memory in which information is temporarily stored and is used as a work memory by the processor.
[0021] In the following embodiments, the signed storage is one or more non-volatile storage devices that store various programs and various parameters. Examples of non-volatile storage devices include flash memory (SSD (Solid State Drive)), magnetic disks (e.g., hard disks), or magnetic tapes.
[0022] In the following embodiments, the signed communication interface (I / F) is an interface that includes a communication processor and an antenna, etc. The communication interface manages communication between multiple computers. Examples of communication standards applicable to the communication interface include wireless communication standards such as 5G (5th Generation Mobile Communication System), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), or Bluetooth (registered trademark).
[0023] In the following embodiments, "A and / or B" is synonymous with "at least one of A and B." That is, "A and / or B" means that it may be A alone, or B alone, or a combination of A and B. Furthermore, in this specification, the same concept as "A and / or B" applies when expressing three or more things linked by "and / or."
[0024] [First Embodiment]
[0025] Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of the data processing system 10 according to the first embodiment.
[0026] As shown in Figure 1, the data processing system 10 includes a data processing device 12 and a smart device 14. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.
[0027] The data processing device 12 comprises a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication interface 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" related to the technology of this disclosure. The computer 22 comprises a processor 28, RAM 30, and storage 32. The processor 28, RAM 30, and storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication interface 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication interface 26 is connected to a network 54. An example of the network 54 is a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).
[0028] The smart device 14 comprises a computer 36, a reception device 38, an output device 40, a camera 42, and a communication interface 44. The computer 36 comprises a processor 46, RAM 48, and storage 50. The processor 46, RAM 48, and storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The reception device 38, output device 40, and camera 42 are also connected to the bus 52.
[0029] The reception device 38 is equipped with a touch panel 38A and a microphone 38B, etc., and receives user input. The touch panel 38A receives user input by detecting contact with an object (e.g., a pen or finger). The microphone 38B receives user input by detecting the user's voice. The control unit 46A transmits data indicating the user input received by the touch panel 38A and microphone 38B to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the data indicating the user input.
[0030] The output device 40 includes a display 40A and a speaker 40B, and presents data to the user 20 by outputting the data in a form perceptible to the user 20 (e.g., audio and / or text). The display 40A displays visible information such as text and images according to instructions from the processor 46. The speaker 40B outputs audio according to instructions from the processor 46. The camera 42 is a small digital camera equipped with an optical system such as a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an image sensor such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor.
[0031] Communication interface 44 is connected to network 54. Communication interfaces 44 and 26 are responsible for the exchange of various types of information between processor 46 and processor 28 via network 54.
[0032] Figure 2 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart device 14.
[0033] As shown in Figure 2, in the data processing device 12, a specific processing is performed by the processor 28. A specific processing program 56 is stored in the storage 32. The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" related to the technology of this disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific processing is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 according to the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.
[0034] The storage 32 stores the data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.
[0035] In the smart device 14, the processor 46 performs the reception output processing. The storage 50 stores the reception output program 60. The reception output program 60 is used in conjunction with a specific processing program 56 by the data processing system 10. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output processing is realized by the processor 46 operating as a control unit 46A according to the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.
[0036] Next, the specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 will be described. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the smart device 14 as the "terminal".
[0037] System Overview
[0038] This invention relates to a system that integrates network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management in store operations. This system provides a means for responding to various problems efficiently and in a timely manner.
[0039] Network Management
[0040] Program processing explanation:
[0041] When the server receives a network-related inquiry from a user, it first monitors the network status. If the network is down, the server schedules a technician visit and notifies the user. If the network is slow, the server adjusts the bandwidth and reports to the user when the adjustment is complete.
[0042] Specific example:
[0043] If a user reports that they cannot connect to the network, the server checks the network status and, if it detects a downtime, arranges for a technician to visit. It then notifies the user that "the network is down and a technician has been scheduled to visit."
[0044] Network Device Management
[0045] Program processing explanation:
[0046] When the server receives an inquiry from a user regarding network equipment, it checks the status of the equipment in question. If there is a problem with the equipment, the server sends a replacement and notifies the user accordingly. If there is no problem, it notifies the user that the equipment is functioning normally.
[0047] Specific example:
[0048] If a user reports that their router is not working, the server checks the router's status. If a malfunction is detected, it ships a replacement router. The server then notifies the user that "there is a problem with your router. We are sending you a replacement."
[0049] Security Management
[0050] Program processing explanation:
[0051] When the server receives a security inquiry from a user, it checks the status of the security system. If a breach is detected, the server notifies the security team and informs the user accordingly. If a security alert is issued, the issue is escalated and reported to the user.
[0052] Specific example:
[0053] If a user reports that "there appears to be a suspicious person inside the store," the server checks the security system status, detects a breach, notifies the security team, and informs the user that "a security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team."
[0054] Ad management
[0055] Program processing explanation:
[0056] When the server receives an inquiry from a user regarding an advertisement, it checks the status of the advertisement. If the advertisement has expired, the server initiates the advertisement renewal process and notifies the user accordingly. If there is an error in the advertisement, the server corrects the error and notifies the user accordingly.
[0057] Specific example:
[0058] If a user reports that "the store's web ad is not showing," the server checks the ad's status, detects an error, performs corrective work, and notifies the user with "An error occurred with the ad. It has been fixed."
[0059] Store condition management
[0060] Program processing explanation:
[0061] When the server receives an inquiry from a user regarding the store's condition, it checks the store's status. If the status is determined to be poor, the server arranges maintenance and notifies the user accordingly. If the status is good, it notifies the user accordingly.
[0062] Specific example:
[0063] If a user inquires that "the store's interior is deteriorating," the server will check the store's condition. If it determines that the condition is poor, it will arrange maintenance and notify the user, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged."
[0064] The above describes the embodiments for carrying out the present invention. This makes it possible to respond quickly and efficiently to various problems in store operations.
[0065] The following describes the processing flow.
[0066] Specific processing flow for network management
[0067] Step 1:
[0068] The user sends a message to the server reporting issues such as "the network is slow" or "connection impossible."
[0069] Step 2:
[0070] The server calls the check_network_status(store_id) function to retrieve the store's network status.
[0071] Step 3:
[0072] The server checks the network status and determines whether it is "normal," "slow," or "down."
[0073] Step 4:
[0074] If the network is "down," the server calls the schedule_technician_visit(store_id) function to schedule a technician visit.
[0075] Step 5:
[0076] The server notifies the user that "the network is down. We have arranged for a technician to visit."
[0077] Step 6:
[0078] If the network is "slow," the server calls the adjust_bandwidth(store_id) function to adjust the bandwidth.
[0079] Step 7:
[0080] The server notifies the user, "The network is slow. We have adjusted the bandwidth."
[0081] Step 8:
[0082] If the network is "normal," the server will notify the user that "the network is working normally."
[0083] Specific processing flow for network device management
[0084] Step 1:
[0085] A user contacts the server to report network equipment problems, such as "the router is not working."
[0086] Step 2:
[0087] The server calls the check_device_status(store_id, device_name) function to retrieve the status of the device in question.
[0088] Step 3:
[0089] The server checks the status of the network equipment and determines whether it is "normal" or "failed."
[0090] Step 4:
[0091] If a device is "failed," the server calls the send_replacement_device(store_id, device_name) function to initiate the process of sending a replacement device.
[0092] Step 5:
[0093] The server notifies the user that "There is a problem with AA. We will send a replacement device."
[0094] Step 6:
[0095] If the device is "normal," the server will notify the user that "AA is working normally."
[0096] Specific process flow for security management
[0097] Step 1:
[0098] Users can contact the server with security-related inquiries, such as "There is a suspicious person present" or "An alarm has sounded."
[0099] Step 2:
[0100] The server calls the check_security_system(store_id) function to retrieve the status of the security system.
[0101] Step 3:
[0102] The server checks the security status and determines whether it is "normal," "warning," or "compromised."
[0103] Step 4:
[0104] If a security breach is detected, the server calls the notify_security_team(store_id) function to notify the security team.
[0105] Step 5:
[0106] The server reports to the user, "A security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team."
[0107] Step 6:
[0108] If a security "warning" occurs, the server calls the escalate_issue(store_id) function to escalate the issue and report it to the administrator.
[0109] Step 7:
[0110] The server notifies the user that "A security alert has been issued. The issue has been escalated."
[0111] Step 8:
[0112] If security is "normal," the server will notify the user that "the security system is working correctly."
[0113] Specific process flow for ad management
[0114] Step 1:
[0115] Users contact the server with inquiries about advertising issues, such as "Web ads for stores are not showing."
[0116] Step 2:
[0117] The server calls the check_ad_status(store_id) function to retrieve the status of the ad.
[0118] Step 3:
[0119] The server checks the status of the advertisement and determines whether it is "normal," "error," or "expired."
[0120] Step 4:
[0121] If an ad has expired, the server calls the `renew_advertisement(store_id)` function to renew the ad.
[0122] Step 5:
[0123] The server notifies the user that "Your ad has expired. We have initiated the renewal process."
[0124] Step 6:
[0125] If an "error" occurs in the advertisement, the server calls the fix_advertisement(store_id) function to correct the error.
[0126] Step 7:
[0127] The server notifies the user that "An error occurred with the advertisement. We have fixed it."
[0128] Step 8:
[0129] If the ad is "normal," the server notifies the user that "the ad is displaying correctly."
[0130] Specific processing steps for store condition management
[0131] Step 1:
[0132] Users contact the server with inquiries about issues such as "the store's interior is deteriorating" or "the exterior is dirty."
[0133] Step 2:
[0134] The server calls the check_store_condition(store_id) function to retrieve the store's status.
[0135] Step 3:
[0136] The server checks the store's status and determines whether it is "good" or "bad."
[0137] Step 4:
[0138] If the store's condition is determined to be "poor," the server calls the schedule_maintenance(store_id) function to arrange maintenance.
[0139] Step 5:
[0140] The server notifies the user that "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged."
[0141] Step 6:
[0142] If the store's status is "good," the server will notify the user that "the store's status is good."
[0143] The above explains each processing step and its specific operation, broken down step by step. This allows for a detailed understanding of how the system handles user inquiries.
[0144] (Example 1)
[0145] Next, we will describe Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the smart device 14 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[0146] In store operations, efficient management of numerous factors is required, including network stability, proper functioning of network equipment, security maintenance, appropriate display of advertisements, and management of the store's internal environment. Currently, managing these factors is time-consuming and labor-intensive, and it is often difficult to respond quickly when problems arise. Therefore, a system is needed that can manage these factors in an integrated and efficient manner and respond to problems quickly and appropriately.
[0147] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[0148] In this invention, the server includes means for monitoring the status of the network, means for scheduling visits by technicians based on the status of the network, means for adjusting the bandwidth of the network, means for providing notifications to users according to the status of the network, means for monitoring the status of network equipment, means for sending replacement equipment based on the status of the network equipment, means for providing notifications to users according to the status of the network equipment, means for monitoring the status of the security system, means for notifying the security team based on the status of the security system, means for escalating problems in the security system, means for providing notifications to users according to the status of the security system, means for monitoring the status of advertisements, means for updating advertisements based on the status of advertisements, means for correcting errors in advertisements, means for providing notifications to users according to the status of advertisements, means for monitoring the internal environment of a store, means for arranging maintenance based on the status of the store, and means for providing notifications to users according to the status of the store. This enables the integrated processing of various management elements in store operations and allows for quick and appropriate problem solving.
[0149] "Means for monitoring network status" refers to methods and devices for monitoring network connectivity and performance and detecting anomalies.
[0150] "Methods for scheduling technician visits" refer to methods or systems that automatically plan and manage technician visits when networks or equipment are experiencing problems.
[0151] "Means for adjusting network bandwidth" refers to methods or devices for dynamically controlling and adjusting the data transmission speed and available bandwidth of a network.
[0152] "Means of providing notifications to users" refers to methods or devices for sending notifications to users regarding the status of systems or equipment, or the occurrence of problems, and providing them with information.
[0153] "Means for monitoring the status of network devices" refers to methods or devices for monitoring the operating status of network devices such as routers and switches and detecting abnormalities.
[0154] "Means of sending replacement equipment" refers to methods or systems for sending replacement equipment to users when a faulty network device is detected.
[0155] "Means of monitoring the status of security systems" refers to methods and devices for monitoring the status of security systems in stores or networks and detecting anomalies or intrusions.
[0156] "Means of notifying the security team" refers to methods or systems for notifying the security team of information when the security system detects an anomaly.
[0157] "Methods for escalating problems" refer to methods or systems for transferring high-priority or difficult-to-solve problems to senior personnel or specific teams and requesting them to take action.
[0158] "Means of monitoring the status of advertisements" refers to methods or devices for monitoring the status of online and offline advertisements and detecting errors or expirations.
[0159] "Means of updating advertisements" refers to methods or systems for automatically updating advertisements that have expired or require content updates.
[0160] "Means of monitoring the internal environment of a store" refers to methods or devices for monitoring and checking the condition of the environment inside a store (e.g., temperature, humidity, illuminance, etc.).
[0161] "Means of arranging maintenance" refers to methods or systems for planning and arranging maintenance work when the condition of a store or equipment deteriorates.
[0162] The system of the present invention is designed to integrate and process multiple management elements in store operations, enabling rapid and appropriate problem resolution. This system can integrate network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management.
[0163] Network Management
[0164] Program processing explanation:
[0165] The server monitors the network status using "Nagios". If the network goes down, it uses the "Google Calendar" API to schedule a technician's visit and notifies the user. If the network is slow, the server adjusts the bandwidth using "QoS (Quality of Service)" and notifies the user when the adjustment is complete.
[0166] Specific example:
[0167] When a user reports that they cannot connect to the network, the server checks the network status using Nagios. If it determines that the network is down, it uses the Google Calendar API to arrange for a technician to visit and sends a notification to the user saying, "The network is down. A technician has been scheduled to visit."
[0168] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[0169] "Please generate example code that demonstrates appropriate responses when the network is unavailable."
[0170] Network Device Management
[0171] Program processing explanation:
[0172] The server monitors the status of network devices using SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol). If there is a problem with a device, the server orders a replacement and notifies the user.
[0173] Specific example:
[0174] If a user reports that "the router is not working," the server checks the router's status using SNMP. If a malfunction is detected, it orders a replacement router and sends a notification to the user stating, "There is a problem with your router. We are sending you a replacement device."
[0175] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[0176] "Please generate example code for checking the status of network devices using SNMP."
[0177] Security Management
[0178] Program processing explanation:
[0179] The server monitors the security system status using "Suricata." If a breach is detected, the server notifies the security team using the "Slack" API and reports to the user.
[0180] Specific example:
[0181] If a user reports that "there appears to be a suspicious person inside the store," the server checks the security system status using "Suricata," and if a breach is detected, it notifies the security team using the "Slack" API and sends a report to the user stating, "A security breach has been detected. The security team has been notified."
[0182] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[0183] "Generate example code for detecting security breaches using an intrusion detection system."
[0184] Ad management
[0185] Program processing explanation:
[0186] The server monitors the status of the ads using the Google Ad Manager API. If there are errors in the ads, the server corrects the errors and notifies the user.
[0187] Specific example:
[0188] If a user reports that a store's web ad is not displaying, the server uses the Google Ad Manager API to check the ad's status, detects any errors, makes corrections, and sends a notification to the user stating, "An error occurred with your ad. It has been fixed."
[0189] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[0190] "Use the Google Ad Manager API to check the status of your ads and generate example code to fix any errors."
[0191] Store condition management
[0192] Program processing explanation:
[0193] The server monitors the store's internal environment using IoT sensors. If the server determines that the store is in poor condition, it uses the Trello API to create a maintenance task and notifies the user.
[0194] Specific example:
[0195] If a user reports that "the store's interior is deteriorating," the server uses IoT sensors to check the store's condition. If it determines that the condition is poor, it uses the Trello API to create a maintenance task and sends a notification to the user saying, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged."
[0196] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[0197] "Generate example code for using IoT sensors to monitor the store's condition and arrange maintenance if problems arise."
[0198] The above describes the embodiments for carrying out the present invention. This makes it possible to integrate and process various management elements in store operations and solve problems quickly and appropriately.
[0199] The flow of the specific processing in Example 1 will be explained using Figure 11.
[0200] Network Management
[0201] Program processing flow
[0202] Step 1:
[0203] A user reports a network problem. The input is information about the problem the user is reporting, such as "the network is not connecting." The output is a trigger step that checks the network status.
[0204] Step 2:
[0205] The server uses Nagios to monitor the network status. The input is network problem reports from users, and the output is information about the current state of the network. At this stage, the server checks the ping response time and packet loss rate to determine if the network is down.
[0206] Step 3:
[0207] The server evaluates the network status. The input is data from "Nagios," and the output is the result of determining whether the network is down or delayed. If the network is down, the server proceeds to the next step.
[0208] Step 4:
[0209] If the server detects a network outage, it will use the Google Calendar API to schedule a technician visit. The input is the result of the downtime detection, and the output is the scheduled technician visit information.
[0210] Step 5:
[0211] The server notifies the user of a technician visit. The input is the technician visit schedule information, and the output is the notification content sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user stating, "The network is down. A technician visit has been arranged."
[0212] Step 6:
[0213] When the server detects network latency, it adjusts the QoS (Quality of Service) settings. The input is the latency status determination result, and the output is the adjusted bandwidth information. At this stage, the server enables QoS and reallocates bandwidth to higher-priority traffic.
[0214] Step 7:
[0215] The server notifies the user that bandwidth adjustment is complete. The input is the network status information after adjustment, and the output is the notification sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user stating, "Network bandwidth has been adjusted."
[0216] Network Device Management
[0217] Program processing flow
[0218] Step 1:
[0219] A user reports a problem with a network device. The input is information reported by the user, such as "the router is not working." The output is a trigger step that checks the router's status.
[0220] Step 2:
[0221] The server uses SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) to check the router's status. The input is a device problem report from the user, and the output is the current router status information. At this stage, the server checks SNMP traps and OIDs to confirm the router's operational status and error status.
[0222] Step 3:
[0223] The server detects a router failure. The input is data from SNMP, and the output is the result of the failure status determination. The server analyzes the error message and status code to determine whether the device is malfunctioning.
[0224] Step 4:
[0225] If the server detects a failure, it orders a replacement router. The input is the failure status determination result, and the output is the order information for the replacement equipment. Specifically, the server automatically arranges for the order of a new router.
[0226] Step 5:
[0227] The server notifies the user that replacement equipment has been shipped. The input is information indicating that the shipping arrangements have been completed, and the output is the notification sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user stating, "There is a problem with the router. We are sending replacement equipment."
[0228] Security Management
[0229] Program processing flow
[0230] Step 1:
[0231] A user reports a security issue. The input is information reported by the user, such as "It appears there is a suspicious person inside the store." The output is a trigger step that checks the status of the security system.
[0232] Step 2:
[0233] The server uses "Suricata" to monitor the status of the security system. The input is security issue reports from users, and the output is information about the current status of the security system. At this stage, the server analyzes the alert logs to detect intrusions and abnormal behavior.
[0234] Step 3:
[0235] The server detects the breach. The input is data from Suricata, and the output is the result of the breach status determination. The server determines whether or not a breach has occurred based on log data and alert messages.
[0236] Step 4:
[0237] If the server detects a breach, it will notify the security team using the Slack API. The input is the result of the breach determination, and the output is the notification information for the security team. Specifically, the server will automatically send a Slack message.
[0238] Step 5:
[0239] The server notifies the user of the detected breach. The input is the notification completion information to the security team, and the output is the content of the notification to the user. Specifically, the server sends a report to the user stating, "A security breach has been detected. The security team has been notified."
[0240] Ad management
[0241] Program processing flow
[0242] Step 1:
[0243] A user reports an ad problem. The input is information the user reports, such as "The store's web ad is not showing." The output is a trigger step that checks the status of the ad.
[0244] Step 2:
[0245] The server uses the Google Ad Manager API to check the status of the ads. The input is ad problem reports from users, and the output is current ad status information. At this stage, the server checks the ad delivery status and error logs.
[0246] Step 3:
[0247] The server detects ad errors. The input is data from Google Ad Manager, and the output is the result of the error status determination. The server analyzes the error message and status code to determine if there is an error in the ad.
[0248] Step 4:
[0249] If the server detects an error, it will perform ad correction work. The input is the result of the error status determination, and the output is the ad status information after correction. The server will automatically correct the error and resume ad delivery.
[0250] Step 5:
[0251] The server notifies the user that the fix is complete. The input is information about the completion of the fix, and the output is the notification sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user saying, "An error occurred in the advertisement. Fixes have been made."
[0252] Store condition management
[0253] Program processing flow
[0254] Step 1:
[0255] A user reports a problem with the store's condition. The input is information reported by the user, such as "The store's interior is deteriorating." The output is a trigger step that checks the store's condition.
[0256] Step 2:
[0257] The server uses IoT sensors to monitor the internal environment of the store. The input is user reports of store condition problems, and the output is information on the current store status. At this stage, the server collects sensor data (temperature, humidity, illuminance, etc.) and evaluates the store's condition.
[0258] Step 3:
[0259] The server evaluates the condition of the store. The input is data from IoT sensors, and the output is the result of the store's deterioration status. The server analyzes the condition based on the collected sensor data and determines whether the condition is poor.
[0260] Step 4:
[0261] If the server determines that it is in poor condition, it will use the Trello API to create a maintenance task. The input is the result of the deterioration status determination, and the output is the information for creating the maintenance task. Specifically, the server will automatically generate a task in Trello and set a maintenance schedule.
[0262] Step 5:
[0263] The server notifies the user that maintenance arrangements have been completed. The input is information indicating that the maintenance task has been created, and the output is the notification sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user stating, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged."
[0264] (Application Example 1)
[0265] Next, we will explain Application Example 1. In the following explanation, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the smart device 14 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[0266] Modern retail operations face a wide range of challenges, including network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management. These challenges are often managed individually, making efficient and rapid problem-solving difficult. Furthermore, delays in addressing these issues can disrupt store operations. Therefore, a system is needed that integrates these diverse management tasks and detects and responds to problems in real time.
[0267] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[0268] In this invention, the server includes means for monitoring the status of the network, means for scheduling expert visits based on the status of the network, means for adjusting the bandwidth of the network, means for providing notifications to users in accordance with the status of the network, means for monitoring the conditions inside the store with sensors, means for arranging maintenance work based on the sensor data, and means for notifying users of the status of maintenance arrangements. This makes it possible to integrate and efficiently manage the network, manage network equipment, manage security, manage advertising, and manage the condition of the store.
[0269] "Network status" refers to the overall operational status of the network, including internet connectivity, internal network connectivity, bandwidth utilization, and latency.
[0270] "A means of scheduling expert visits" refers to a process that automatically sets the date and time for technicians or experts to visit and resolve problems that occur with the network or equipment.
[0271] "Means of adjusting network bandwidth" refers to functions that adjust the amount of data transmitted or received in order to optimize network performance.
[0272] "Means of providing notifications to users" refers to means of informing users about various decisions and processing results made by the system, as well as the status of responses in the event of a problem.
[0273] "Means of monitoring the conditions inside the store using sensors" refers to a function that continuously monitors environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, and vibration, as well as the condition of equipment inside the store, using sensors.
[0274] "Means of arranging maintenance work" refers to the process of dispatching workers and creating work plans to carry out necessary repairs and inspections when problems occur with the equipment or environment within a store.
[0275] "Network device status" refers to the state of whether network devices such as routers, switches, modems, and wireless access points are functioning correctly.
[0276] "Means of sending replacement equipment" refers to the function of arranging for the delivery of new equipment to the user in the event of a network equipment failure.
[0277] "Security system status" refers to the state of security equipment such as surveillance cameras, door sensors, and alarm systems, indicating whether they are functioning properly.
[0278] "Means of notifying the security management team" refers to a means of informing specialized security staff of the situation when a problem occurs with the security system.
[0279] "Methods for escalating a problem" refers to the process of promptly reporting a specific problem to a senior person or manager and requesting action.
[0280] This invention provides a system that integrates network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management related to the operation of physical stores. This system is equipped with means for responding to various problems efficiently and in a timely manner.
[0281] Network Management
[0282] The server monitors the network status. Specifically, it continuously monitors the network status using Amazon Web Services (AWS®) Lambda and CloudWatch. If the network is down, the server automatically schedules a technician visit and notifies the user. If network bandwidth needs to be adjusted, the server also automatically handles the process and notifies the user.
[0283] Specific example:
[0284] When the user inquires that "the network cannot be connected", the server checks the network status. If a problem occurs, it sets up a visit by a technician and notifies the user that "the network is down. A technician visit has been arranged."
[0285] Network device management
[0286] The server also monitors the status of network devices. It constantly monitors the status of network devices using AWS IoT services and DynamoDB. If a problem occurs, it automatically initiates the procedure to deliver a new device.
[0287] Specific example:
[0288] When the user inquires that "the router is not working", the server checks the status of the router. If a failure is detected, it sends a replacement device. Then it notifies the user that "there is a problem with the router. A replacement device is being sent."
[0289] Security management
[0290] The server monitors the status of the security system. Specifically, it analyzes the video of the surveillance camera using AWS Rekognition. If a suspicious person is detected, it notifies the security team and the user using Amazon Simple Notification Service (SNS).
[0291] Specific example:
[0292] When the user inquires that "there seems to be a suspicious person in the store", the server checks the security system. If an intrusion is detected, it notifies the security team and reports to the user that "a security breach has been detected. The security team has been notified."
[0293] Advertising management
[0294] The server checks the status of the ads and, if necessary, uses the Google Ads API to correct errors or update the ads. If applicable, it also notifies the user using AWS Simple Email Service (SES).
[0295] Specific example:
[0296] If a user reports that "the store's web ad is not showing," the server checks the ad's status, corrects the error, and notifies the user that "an error occurred with the ad. It has been fixed."
[0297] Store condition management
[0298] The server monitors the store's status using sensors. It utilizes AWS Greengrass and IoT sensor data to arrange maintenance work and notify users if a problem occurs.
[0299] Specific example:
[0300] If a user inquires that "the store's interior is deteriorating," the server will check the store's condition and arrange for maintenance. It will then notify the user that "the store is in poor condition and maintenance has been arranged."
[0301] Examples of specific cases and prompt statements
[0302] Various actions can be taken with the generated AI model by using prompt statements like the following.
[0303] Question: What should I do if I can't connect to the network?
[0304] Answer: Check the network status, and if it's down, arrange for a technician to visit and notify the user with "The network is down. A technician has been scheduled to visit."
[0305]
[0306] Question: Please teach me the coping method when the interior decoration of the store is deteriorated.
[0307] Answer: Monitor the store's situation with sensors. When a problem occurs, the server automatically arranges maintenance and notifies the user that "the store's condition is bad. Maintenance has been arranged."
[0308] The flow of the specific process in Application Example 1 will be described using FIG. 12.
[0309] Step 1:
[0310] The server monitors the network status. The hardware and software used are Lambda and CloudWatch of Amazon Web Services (AWS). CloudWatch monitors the network connectivity and bandwidth utilization, and Lambda receives that data. The input volume is the metric data of the network status, and the output volume is the network health information.
[0311] Step 2:
[0312] The user makes an inquiry from the smartphone app that there is a problem with the network. Thereby, the server receives the user's request and the network health information as inputs. The server checks whether the network is down and determines the action for the next step based on the result. The output volume is the presence or absence of network abnormalities.
[0313] Step 3:
[0314] If the server network is down, an AWS Lambda function automatically sets up a specialist visit schedule using AWS Step Functions. This scheduling information is then notified to the user. The input is the network anomaly detection result, and the output is the visit schedule setting information.
[0315] Step 4:
[0316] If network bandwidth is insufficient, the server will reallocate bandwidth through an AWS Lambda function. The input is bandwidth usage data, and the output is the adjusted bandwidth configuration information.
[0317] Step 5:
[0318] The server monitors the status of network devices. The hardware and software used are AWS IoT and DynamoDB. AWS IoT continuously monitors the operational status of network devices and records the status information in DynamoDB. The input is network device status data, and the output is device health information.
[0319] Step 6:
[0320] When a user reports a problem with network equipment, the server checks for the equipment's health information and, if a failure is detected, automatically arranges for replacement equipment to be sent via AWS SNS. The input is the equipment's health status information, and the output is the information regarding the arrangement for sending replacement equipment.
[0321] Step 7:
[0322] The server monitors the status of the security system. The hardware and software used are AWS Rekognition and Amazon SNS. Rekognition analyzes surveillance camera footage and notifies SNS of any detected suspicious individuals. The input is surveillance camera footage data, and the output is notification information about detected suspicious individuals.
[0323] Step 8:
[0324] When a user reports a security issue, the server checks the status of the security system, notifies the security team if a problem exists, and also informs the user. The input is the detection information of the problem, and the output is the notification information to the security team and the user.
[0325] Step 9:
[0326] The server checks the operational status of the ads and corrects ad errors using the Google Ads API. The input is the ad error log data, and the output is the corrected ad information.
[0327] Step 10:
[0328] If a user reports a problem with the status of an ad, the server checks the progress of error correction and notifies the user via AWS SES. The input is the progress of error correction, and the output is the notification information for the user.
[0329] Step 11:
[0330] A server monitors the conditions within the store. The hardware and software used are AWS Greengrass and IoT sensors. Greengrass aggregates the data collected by the sensors to determine the store's health. The input is environmental sensor data, and the output is store health information.
[0331] Step 12:
[0332] When a user reports a problem within a store, the server checks the store's status based on sensor data, arranges necessary maintenance work using AWS Step Functions, and notifies the user of its progress. The input is store health information, and the output is maintenance work arrangements and user notifications.
[0333] Furthermore, an emotion engine that estimates the user's emotions may be incorporated. That is, the identification processing unit 290 may use the emotion identification model 59 to estimate the user's emotions and perform identification processing using the user's emotions.
[0334] System Overview
[0335] This invention relates to a system that integrates network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management in store operations. In particular, by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the emotional state of users and takes appropriate action based on the analysis results, it achieves a more effective and rapid response.
[0336] Network Management
[0337] Program processing explanation:
[0338] The server receives network-related inquiries from users. First, it monitors the network status and schedules technician visits based on that status. It also adjusts network bandwidth appropriately. Finally, it analyzes the user's emotional state using a user emotion engine and provides the user with appropriate notifications.
[0339] Specific example:
[0340] When a user reports that their network is slow, the server checks the network status and adjusts the bandwidth. Then, the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotional state (e.g., frustration or anxiety) and notifies them with a message such as, "Your network is slow. We have adjusted the bandwidth. Please rest assured."
[0341] Network Device Management
[0342] Program processing explanation:
[0343] The server receives inquiries from users regarding network equipment. It checks the status of the equipment in question and, if a malfunction occurs, sends a replacement. Furthermore, it uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state and adjusts the notification content based on the results.
[0344] Specific example:
[0345] If a user reports that their router is not working, the server will check for a router malfunction and send a replacement. An emotion engine will analyze the user's anxiety and frustration and notify them with a message such as, "There is a problem with your router. We have sent a replacement. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[0346] Security Management
[0347] Program processing explanation:
[0348] The server receives security-related inquiries from users. It checks the status of the security system and notifies the security team if a breach is detected. It also uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state and optimize notifications and responses.
[0349] Specific example:
[0350] If a user reports a "suspicious person," the server checks the security system and notifies the security team if a breach is detected. The emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions (e.g., fear) and reports, "A security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team. Please rest assured."
[0351] Ad management
[0352] Program processing explanation:
[0353] The server receives inquiries from users regarding advertisements. It checks the status of the advertisements and takes appropriate action if errors or expirations occur. It also uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state and adjusts the notification content based on the results.
[0354] Specific example:
[0355] If a user reports that "the store's web ad isn't showing," the server checks for ad errors and performs corrective work. The emotion engine analyzes the user's frustration and notifies them with a message such as, "There was an error with the ad. We have fixed it. We apologize for the delay."
[0356] Store condition management
[0357] Program processing explanation:
[0358] The server receives inquiries from users regarding store conditions. It checks the store status and arranges maintenance as needed. It also uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state and adjusts the notification content based on the results.
[0359] Specific example:
[0360] If a user inquires that "the store's interior is deteriorating," the server checks the store's condition and arranges maintenance. The emotion engine analyzes the user's dissatisfaction and notifies them with a message such as, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[0361] The above describes an embodiment of the present invention that combines an emotion engine. This enables quick and effective responses to various problems in store operations, and allows for responses that take into consideration the user's emotions.
[0362] The following describes the processing flow.
[0363] Specific processing flow for network management
[0364] Step 1:
[0365] The user sends a message to the server reporting issues such as "the network is slow" or "connection impossible."
[0366] Step 2:
[0367] The server calls the `check_network_status(store_id)` function to monitor the network status and retrieve the store's network status.
[0368] Step 3:
[0369] The server checks the network status and determines whether it is "normal," "slow," or "down."
[0370] Step 4:
[0371] If the network is "down," the server calls the schedule_technician_visit(store_id) function to schedule a technician visit.
[0372] Step 5:
[0373] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[0374] Step 6:
[0375] Based on the user's emotional state, the server notifies them with the message, "The network is down. We have arranged for a technician to visit. Please rest assured."
[0376] Step 7:
[0377] If the network is "slow," the server calls the adjust_bandwidth(store_id) function to adjust the bandwidth.
[0378] Step 8:
[0379] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[0380] Step 9:
[0381] Based on the user's emotional state, the server will notify them with a message such as, "The network is slow. We have adjusted the bandwidth. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[0382] Step 10:
[0383] If the network is "normal," the server will notify the user that "the network is working normally."
[0384] Specific processing flow for network device management
[0385] Step 1:
[0386] A user contacts the server to report network equipment problems, such as "the router is not working."
[0387] Step 2:
[0388] The server calls the check_device_status(store_id, device_name) function to retrieve the status of the device in question.
[0389] Step 3:
[0390] The server checks the status of the network equipment and determines whether it is "normal" or "failed."
[0391] Step 4:
[0392] If a device is "failed," the server calls the send_replacement_device(store_id, device_name) function to initiate the process of sending a replacement device.
[0393] Step 5:
[0394] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[0395] Step 6:
[0396] Based on the user's emotional state, the server notifies them with the message, "There is a problem with your router. We will send you a replacement. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[0397] Step 7:
[0398] If the device is "normal," the server will notify the user that "the router is working normally."
[0399] Specific process flow for security management
[0400] Step 1:
[0401] Users can contact the server with security-related inquiries, such as "There is a suspicious person present" or "An alarm has sounded."
[0402] Step 2:
[0403] The server calls the check_security_system(store_id) function to retrieve the status of the security system.
[0404] Step 3:
[0405] The server checks the security status and determines whether it is "normal," "warning," or "compromised."
[0406] Step 4:
[0407] If a security breach is detected, the server calls the notify_security_team(store_id) function to notify the security team.
[0408] Step 5:
[0409] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[0410] Step 6:
[0411] Based on the user's emotional state, the server reports, "A security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team. Please rest assured."
[0412] Step 7:
[0413] If a security "warning" occurs, the server calls the escalate_issue(store_id) function to escalate the issue and report it to the administrator.
[0414] Step 8:
[0415] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[0416] Step 9:
[0417] Based on the user's emotional state, the server notifies them with a message such as, "A security alert has been issued. The issue has escalated. Please rest assured."
[0418] Step 10:
[0419] If security is "normal," the server will notify the user that "the security system is working correctly."
[0420] Specific process flow for ad management
[0421] Step 1:
[0422] Users contact the server with inquiries about advertising issues, such as "Web ads for stores are not showing."
[0423] Step 2:
[0424] The server calls the check_ad_status(store_id) function to retrieve the status of the ad.
[0425] Step 3:
[0426] The server checks the status of the advertisement and determines whether it is "normal," "error," or "expired."
[0427] Step 4:
[0428] If an ad has expired, the server calls the `renew_advertisement(store_id)` function to renew the ad.
[0429] Step 5:
[0430] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[0431] Step 6:
[0432] Based on the user's emotional state, the server will notify them with the message, "Your ad has expired. We have renewed it. We apologize for any inconvenience."
[0433] Step 7:
[0434] If an "error" occurs in the advertisement, the server calls the fix_advertisement(store_id) function to correct the error.
[0435] Step 8:
[0436] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[0437] Step 9:
[0438] Based on the user's emotional state, the server notifies them with the message, "An error occurred with the advertisement. We have fixed it. We apologize for the delay."
[0439] Step 10:
[0440] If the ad is "normal," the server notifies the user that "the ad is displaying correctly."
[0441] Specific processing steps for store condition management
[0442] Step 1:
[0443] Users contact the server with inquiries about issues such as "the store's interior is deteriorating" or "the exterior is dirty."
[0444] Step 2:
[0445] The server calls the check_store_condition(store_id) function to retrieve the store's status.
[0446] Step 3:
[0447] The server checks the store's status and determines whether it is "good" or "bad."
[0448] Step 4:
[0449] If the store's condition is determined to be "poor," the server calls the schedule_maintenance(store_id) function to arrange maintenance.
[0450] Step 5:
[0451] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[0452] Step 6:
[0453] Based on the user's emotional state, the server will notify them with the message, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[0454] Step 7:
[0455] If the store's status is "good," the server will notify the user that "the store's status is good."
[0456] The above describes an embodiment of the present invention that combines an emotion engine. This enables quick and effective responses to various problems in store operations, and allows for responses that take into consideration the user's emotions.
[0457] (Example 2)
[0458] Next, we will describe Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the smart device 14 as the "terminal".
[0459] Traditional store operations have made it difficult to respond quickly and appropriately to user complaints and inquiries regarding network management, equipment management, and security. Furthermore, responses tailored to the user's emotional state were not considered, making it challenging to improve customer satisfaction.
[0460] The identification processing performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for monitoring the network status, means for scheduling technician visits based on the network status, means for adjusting the network bandwidth, means for analyzing the user's emotional state using an emotion analysis engine, and means for providing notifications to the user in accordance with the network status and the user's emotional state. This makes it possible to take a quick and appropriate action while taking the user's emotional state into consideration.
[0461] "Means of monitoring network status" refers to a system or function for checking the status of devices and traffic on a network in real time and detecting anomalies.
[0462] "Means for scheduling technician visits" refers to a system or function that automatically plans and adjusts the schedule of technician visits necessary to address network problems or anomalies when they are detected.
[0463] "Means of adjusting network bandwidth" refers to a system or function that controls bandwidth to optimally distribute network traffic load and improve network speed and quality.
[0464] "Means of analyzing a user's emotional state using an emotion analysis engine" refers to a system or function that analyzes the content of user inquiries and feedback and evaluates the user's emotions (joy, frustration, anxiety, etc.) from that context.
[0465] "Means of providing users with notifications tailored to the network status and user emotional state" refers to a system or function that notifies users of the most appropriate information and countermeasures, taking into account the actual network status and user emotional state.
[0466] "Means of monitoring the status of network devices" refers to a system or function that checks the operating status of network devices such as routers and switches in real time and detects abnormalities or failures.
[0467] "Means of sending replacement equipment" refers to a system or function that accurately identifies a faulty network device and promptly sends a replacement device to the user.
[0468] "Means of monitoring the status of security systems" refers to a system or function that monitors security-related logs and events within a network in real time to detect anomalies or breaches.
[0469] "Means of notifying the security team" refers to a system or function that quickly notifies security personnel or teams of information when a network security issue is detected.
[0470] "Means of escalating security system issues" refers to a system or function that, depending on the severity of the detected security issue, hands it over to senior administrators or a specialized team.
[0471] System Overview
[0472] This invention relates to a system that integrates network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management in store operations. In particular, by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the emotional state of users and takes appropriate action based on the analysis results, it achieves a more effective and rapid response.
[0473] Network Management
[0474] Program processing explanation:
[0475] The server receives network-related inquiries from users. The required hardware is a server device, and the software includes a network monitoring system (e.g., Nagios, Zabbix) and an automated bandwidth management system (e.g., NtopNG). The server uses these tools to monitor the network status and schedule technician visits. It also adjusts network bandwidth and analyzes the user's emotional state using a user sentiment analysis engine (e.g., IBM Watson® Tone Analyzer). This allows the server to provide appropriate notifications to the user.
[0476] Specific example:
[0477] When a user reports that their network is slow, the server uses Nagios to check the network status and adjusts the bandwidth using NtopNG if necessary. Then, IBM Watson Tone Analyzer analyzes the user's emotional state (e.g., frustration or anxiety) and notifies them with a message saying, "Your network is slow. We have adjusted the bandwidth. Please rest assured."
[0478] Examples of prompts to input into a generative AI model:
[0479] "A user has reported a network problem. Please check the current network status and create a response that reflects the user's feelings."
[0480] Network Device Management
[0481] Program processing explanation:
[0482] The server receives inquiries from users regarding network equipment. The hardware required is also server equipment, and the software used is a network management tool (e.g., SolarWinds, PRTG). The server checks the status of the equipment and sends a replacement if a malfunction occurs. An emotion engine is used to analyze the user's emotional state, and the notification content is adjusted based on the results.
[0483] Specific example:
[0484] If a user reports that their router is not working, the server will use SolarWinds to check for router failure and automatically arrange for a replacement. An emotion engine will analyze the user's anxiety and frustration and notify them with a message such as, "There is a problem with your router. A replacement has been sent. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[0485] Examples of prompts to input into a generative AI model:
[0486] "A user has reported a problem with a network device. Please check the status of the device and create a response that reflects the user's feelings."
[0487] Security Management
[0488] Program processing explanation:
[0489] The server receives security inquiries from users. The hardware required is similar to that of a server, and the software used is a security system (e.g., Splunk, Snort). The server monitors the security system's status and notifies the security team if a breach is detected. An emotion engine is used to analyze the user's emotional state and optimize notifications and responses.
[0490] Specific example:
[0491] If a user reports a "suspicious person," the server uses Splunk to check the security system and notifies the security team if a breach is detected. An emotion engine analyzes the user's fears and reports, "A security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team. Please rest assured."
[0492] Examples of prompts to input into a generative AI model:
[0493] "A user has reported a security issue. Please review the current security status and create a response that reflects the user's sentiment."
[0494] Ad management
[0495] Program processing explanation:
[0496] The server receives inquiries from users regarding advertisements. The hardware required is also server equipment, and the software used is an advertising management system (e.g., an online advertising management system). It checks the status of advertisements and takes appropriate action if errors or expirations occur. It analyzes the user's emotional state using an emotion engine and adjusts notification content based on the results.
[0497] Specific example:
[0498] If a user reports that "the store's web ad is not showing," the server checks the ad management system for errors and performs corrective work. The sentiment engine analyzes the user's frustration and notifies them with a message such as, "There was an error with the ad. We have fixed it. We apologize for the delay."
[0499] Examples of prompts to input into a generative AI model:
[0500] "A user has reported an issue with an ad. Please review the current ad status and create a response that reflects the user's sentiment."
[0501] Store condition management
[0502] Program processing explanation:
[0503] The server receives inquiries from users regarding the store's condition. The hardware required is similarly server equipment, and the software used is a store monitoring system (e.g., a building management system). It checks the store's status and arranges maintenance as needed. It analyzes the user's emotional state using an emotion engine and adjusts notifications based on the results.
[0504] Specific example:
[0505] If a user inquires that "the store's interior is deteriorating," the server uses the store monitoring system to check the store's condition and arrange maintenance as needed. The emotion engine analyzes the user's dissatisfaction and notifies them with a message such as, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[0506] Examples of prompts to input into a generative AI model:
[0507] "A user has reported a problem with the store's condition. Please check the current store status and create a response that reflects the user's feelings."
[0508] Emotion engine and generative AI model
[0509] This system utilizes an emotion engine and a generative AI model to respond to user inquiries in real time. The emotion engine uses emotion analysis tools provided by a specific platform, while the generative AI model, for example, utilizes a large-scale language model to generate the most appropriate response to the user's inquiry.
[0510] This enables responses that take into account the user's emotional state, resulting in the delivery of prompt and appropriate services.
[0511] The flow of the specific processing in Example 2 will be explained using Figure 13.
[0512] Network Management
[0513] Step 1:
[0514] The server receives network-related inquiries from users. The user enters information from their terminal (e.g., "The network is slow"), which is then sent to the server. This input data includes the inquiry and the user's basic information. The server receives this information and initiates the query.
[0515] Input: User reports network problems
[0516] Output: Logging of query details and data transfer to the next step.
[0517] Step 2:
[0518] The server uses a network monitoring system (e.g., Nagios) to check the current network status. During this process, the server collects monitoring data from network devices and determines whether the network is functioning normally.
[0519] Input: Real-time data from a network monitoring system
[0520] Output: Network status diagnostic results
[0521] Step 3:
[0522] If a network anomaly is detected, the server automatically creates a technician visit schedule using the system's scheduling function. The information used includes the technician's availability and the user's location.
[0523] Input: Technician's schedule data and user's location information
[0524] Output: Schedule of engineer visits
[0525] Step 4:
[0526] The server uses an automated bandwidth management system (e.g., NtopNG) to adjust network bandwidth. This adjustment involves analyzing traffic data and reallocating bandwidth.
[0527] Input: Traffic data
[0528] Output: Improved network bandwidth settings
[0529] Step 5:
[0530] The server uses a sentiment analysis engine (e.g., IBM Watson Tone Analyzer) to analyze the user's inquiry text and evaluate the user's emotional state. In this step, the inquiry text is sent to the sentiment analysis engine and the returned sentiment data is received.
[0531] Input: User inquiry text
[0532] Output: User emotional state data
[0533] Step 6:
[0534] Based on the aforementioned analysis results, the server sends notifications to the user that are tailored to their emotional state and the current network conditions. The notification content is automatically generated, providing the user with an appropriate message.
[0535] Input: Network status data and user sentiment status data
[0536] Output: Notification message to the user
[0537] Network Device Management
[0538] Step 1:
[0539] The server receives inquiries from users regarding network equipment. The server receives information entered by the user from their terminal (e.g., "The router is not working").
[0540] Input: User reports of device problems
[0541] Output: Logging of query details and data transfer to the next step.
[0542] Step 2:
[0543] The server uses a network device management tool (e.g., SolarWinds) to check the status of the relevant device. It collects real-time device data from the management tool and determines whether it is functioning correctly.
[0544] Input: Data from network device management tool
[0545] Output: Device diagnostic results
[0546] Step 3:
[0547] If a failure is detected, the server will automatically arrange for the delivery of replacement equipment. The information used includes inventory status and the user's location.
[0548] Input: Inventory data and user location information
[0549] Output: Data confirming completion of arrangements for sending replacement equipment.
[0550] Step 4:
[0551] The server uses an emotion analysis engine to analyze the user's inquiry text and evaluate the user's emotions. The inquiry text is sent to the engine, and the server receives the returned emotion data.
[0552] Input: User inquiry text
[0553] Output: User emotional state data
[0554] Step 5:
[0555] The server creates and sends notifications to the user based on the device status and the user's emotional state. It uses automatically generated notification messages to provide users with appropriate notifications.
[0556] Input: Device diagnostic results and user emotional state data
[0557] Output: Notification message to the user
[0558] Security Management
[0559] Step 1:
[0560] The server receives security-related inquiries from users. The user's input from their device (e.g., "There is a suspicious person") is sent to the server.
[0561] Input: User report of a security issue
[0562] Output: Logging of query details and data transfer to the next step.
[0563] Step 2:
[0564] The server uses a security monitoring system (e.g., Splunk) to check the system's status. Log data from the monitoring system is analyzed to detect abnormal activity.
[0565] Input: Log data from security monitoring system
[0566] Output: Security status diagnostic results
[0567] Step 3:
[0568] If a breach is detected, the server will automatically send a notification to the security team. This notification will include detailed information about the anomaly and how to respond.
[0569] Input: Security status diagnostic results
[0570] Output: Notification to the security team
[0571] Step 4:
[0572] The server uses a sentiment analysis engine to analyze the user's inquiry text and evaluate its sentiment. It sends sentiment data to the engine and receives the returned sentiment data.
[0573] Input: User inquiry text
[0574] Output: User emotional state data
[0575] Step 5:
[0576] The server sends appropriate notifications to the user based on the security status and the user's emotional state. The generated notification message is used to inform the user of the appropriate course of action.
[0577] Input: Security status diagnostic results and user sentiment data
[0578] Output: Notification message to the user
[0579] (Application Example 2)
[0580] Next, we will explain application example 2. In the following explanation, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server" and the smart device 14 as a "terminal".
[0581] In conventional store management systems, network management, equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management are handled separately, requiring quick and effective responses to each issue. Furthermore, responses that do not take into account the emotional state of the user may lead to decreased customer satisfaction and misunderstandings. In addition, the lack of an integrated system for analyzing the emotional state of the user results in inefficient management of multiple tasks.
[0582] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for monitoring the network status, means for scheduling visits by technicians based on the network status, means for adjusting the network bandwidth, means for providing notifications to the user according to the network status, means for recognizing and analyzing the user's emotional state, and means for adjusting the notification content based on the emotional state. This enables the integration of various management systems and allows for a quick and effective response that takes into account the user's emotional state.
[0583] "Network status" refers to information that indicates the overall quality and performance of the network, including connectivity, speed, and data bandwidth.
[0584] "A means of scheduling visits by technicians" refers to a system for determining the date and time when a technician with specialized knowledge will visit the site in the event of a network anomaly being detected.
[0585] "Means of adjusting bandwidth" refer to mechanisms for optimizing network traffic volume in real time and adjusting the amount of data sent and received to maintain overall communication speed.
[0586] "Means of providing information to users" refers to a system for notifying users of information regarding the current network status and the status of problem resolution.
[0587] "Means for recognizing and analyzing emotional states" refers to technologies that automatically read and analyze emotions from a user's context, facial expressions, and statements.
[0588] "Means for adjusting notification content" refers to a system that generates and sends the most appropriate notification content or message to the user based on the analyzed emotional state of the user.
[0589] "Network device status" refers to information indicating the operating status and malfunction status of hardware such as routers, switches, and access points.
[0590] A "means for sending replacement equipment" refers to a system for sending replacement equipment to users when a failure or abnormality in network equipment is detected.
[0591] "Security system status" refers to information regarding the operational status of security equipment and systems in stores and facilities, as well as attempts at unauthorized access.
[0592] "Means of notifying the security team" refers to a mechanism for immediately notifying the security team of information in the event of an anomaly in the security system.
[0593] "Methods for escalating problems" refers to a system for reporting security issues requiring attention to higher-level administrators or specialized departments in stages, thereby enabling a swift response.
[0594] This invention relates to a system for supporting operations in physical stores, and aims to analyze user emotions and provide appropriate responses in network management, equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management.
[0595] System Overview
[0596] Hardware and software configuration
[0597] Smartphone: A device used to receive user inquiries.
[0598] Server: A central control unit for executing various management functions.
[0599] Emotion Recognition Library: A software library for analyzing a user's emotional state.
[0600] Network Management Library: A software library for monitoring network status and adjusting bandwidth.
[0601] Security Management Library: A software library for monitoring the status of security systems and notifying of problems when they occur.
[0602] Advertising Management Library: This is a software library for managing the display status of advertisements.
[0603] Maintenance Management Library: This is a software library for managing the condition of a store and performing necessary maintenance.
[0604] Notification Service: This service is used to notify users of information.
[0605] Processing Overview
[0606] User inquiry processing
[0607] 1. The server receives various inquiries from users.
[0608] 2. Use the Emotion Recognition Library to analyze the user's emotions from the content of the inquiry.
[0609] 3. Use the Network Management Library to check the network status and adjust bandwidth as needed.
[0610] 4. Check the security system status in the Security Management Library and notify if any abnormalities are found.
[0611] 5. Check for and correct any errors in the advertisements in the Advertising Management Library.
[0612] 6. Check the store's status in the Maintenance Management Library and arrange maintenance as needed.
[0613] 7. Adjust notification content based on the user's emotional state and send the most appropriate message to the user through the Notification Service.
[0614] Specific example
[0615] 1. Addressing network issues:
[0616] If a user reports a decrease in Wi-Fi speed, the server uses the Network Management Library to adjust the network bandwidth.
[0617] If the Emotion Recognition Library analyzes the user's emotion as "frustration," it will notify them with the message, "The network is slow. We have adjusted the bandwidth. Please rest assured."
[0618] 2. Addressing security issues:
[0619] If a user reports the presence of a suspicious person, the server uses the Security Management Library to check the status of the security system.
[0620] If a breach is detected, the security team will be notified with the message, "A security breach has been detected. The security team has been notified. Please rest assured."
[0621] Example of a prompt
[0622] "A user reported slow Wi-Fi. Their emotion is frustration. Please customize your response and message accordingly."
[0623] This will enable the system to integrate various management systems and respond quickly and effectively, taking into account the user's emotional state.
[0624] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 2 will be explained using Figure 14.
[0625] Step 1:
[0626] The server receives inquiries from users. Users use a dedicated application on their smartphones to send inquiries about network problems, security issues, etc. This inquiry data is entered into the server.
[0627] Step 2:
[0628] The server uses the Emotion Recognition Library to analyze the user's emotional state based on their inquiry. The user's text data serves as input, and the emotional analysis results are output.
[0629] Step 3:
[0630] Based on the analyzed emotional state, the server determines an initial response appropriate to the user's emotions. For example, if the user is irritated, a quick response is required.
[0631] Step 4:
[0632] The server calls the Network Management Library to monitor the network status. Its input is current network connection data, and its output includes network bandwidth and connection status.
[0633] Step 5:
[0634] The server analyzes network traffic and adjusts bandwidth as needed. It takes network status data as input and outputs the adjusted bandwidth settings. Specifically, it performs dynamic traffic control and reallocates bandwidth.
[0635] Step 6:
[0636] The server uses the Security Management Library to check the status of the security system. Data from security devices is used as input, and the overall security status of the system is output.
[0637] Step 7:
[0638] If a security anomaly is detected, the server immediately notifies the security team. Security anomaly data is entered, and a warning message is output. Specifically, automatic notification and escalation to the security team are initiated.
[0639] Step 8:
[0640] The server uses the Advertising Management Library to check for ad errors and correct any problems. Ad data is used as input, and the corrected state is output. Specifically, ad re-posting or corrections are performed.
[0641] Step 9:
[0642] The server uses the Maintenance Management Library to monitor the overall condition of the store. Store environment data is used as input, and necessary maintenance actions are output.
[0643] Step 10:
[0644] The server adjusts notification content based on the analyzed emotional state and sends the most appropriate message to the user through the Notification Service. User emotional data and various system status data are input, and a customized notification message is output.
[0645] This system enables prompt and emotionally sensitive responses to user inquiries, improving the efficiency of store operations.
[0646] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the smart device 14. In the smart device 14, the control unit 46A causes the output device 40 to output the result of the specific processing. The microphone 38B acquires audio indicating user input for the result of the specific processing. The control unit 46A transmits the audio data indicating user input acquired by the microphone 38B to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the audio data.
[0647] Data generation model 58 is a so-called generative AI (Artificial Intelligence). An example of data generation model 58 is ChatGPT (registered trademark) (Internet search).<URL: https: / / openai.com / blog / chatgpt> ), Gemini (registered trademark) (Internet search) <url: https: gemini.google.com ?hl="ja">Examples of generative AI include the following. The data generation model 58 is obtained by performing deep learning on a neural network. The data generation model 58 is input with prompts containing instructions, and with inference data such as audio data representing speech, text data representing text, and image data representing images. The data generation model 58 infers from the input inference data according to the instructions indicated by the prompts, and outputs the inference results in data formats such as audio data and text data. Here, inference refers to, for example, analysis, classification, prediction, and / or summarization.
[0648] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which specific processing is performed by the data processing device 12, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the specific processing may also be performed by the smart device 14.
[0649] [Second Embodiment]
[0650] Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of the data processing system 210 according to the second embodiment.
[0651] As shown in Figure 3, the data processing system 210 includes a data processing device 12 and smart glasses 214. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.
[0652] The data processing device 12 comprises a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication interface 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" related to the technology of this disclosure. The computer 22 comprises a processor 28, RAM 30, and storage 32. The processor 28, RAM 30, and storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication interface 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication interface 26 is connected to a network 54. An example of the network 54 is a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).
[0653] The smart glasses 214 include a computer 36, a microphone 238, a speaker 240, a camera 42, and a communication interface 44. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, RAM 48, and storage 50. The processor 46, RAM 48, and storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The microphone 238, speaker 240, and camera 42 are also connected to the bus 52.
[0654] The microphone 238 receives voice signals from the user 20 and receives instructions from the user 20. The microphone 238 captures the voice signals from the user 20, converts the captured voice into audio data, and outputs it to the processor 46. The speaker 240 outputs audio according to the instructions from the processor 46.
[0655] Camera 42 is a small digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an image sensor such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, and captures images of the area around the user 20 (for example, an imaging range defined by a field of view equivalent to the width of a typical healthy person's field of vision).
[0656] Communication interface 44 is connected to network 54. Communication interfaces 44 and 26 are responsible for the exchange of various information between processor 46 and processor 28 via network 54. The exchange of various information between processor 46 and processor 28 using communication interfaces 44 and 26 is performed in a secure manner.
[0657] Figure 4 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart glasses 214. As shown in Figure 4, the data processing device 12 performs specific processing using the processor 28. The storage 32 stores the specific processing program 56.
[0658] The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" relating to the technology of this disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific processing is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.
[0659] The storage 32 stores the data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.
[0660] In the smart glasses 214, the processor 46 performs the reception output processing. The storage 50 stores the reception output program 60. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output processing is realized by the processor 46 operating as a control unit 46A according to the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.
[0661] Next, the identification processing performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 will be described. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as the "terminal".
[0662] System Overview
[0663] This invention relates to a system that integrates network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management in store operations. This system provides a means for responding to various problems efficiently and in a timely manner.
[0664] Network Management
[0665] Program processing explanation:
[0666] When the server receives a network-related inquiry from a user, it first monitors the network status. If the network is down, the server schedules a technician visit and notifies the user. If the network is slow, the server adjusts the bandwidth and reports to the user when the adjustment is complete.
[0667] Specific example:
[0668] If a user reports that they cannot connect to the network, the server checks the network status and, if it detects a downtime, arranges for a technician to visit. It then notifies the user that "the network is down and a technician has been scheduled to visit."
[0669] Network Device Management
[0670] Program processing explanation:
[0671] When the server receives an inquiry from a user regarding network equipment, it checks the status of the equipment in question. If there is a problem with the equipment, the server sends a replacement and notifies the user accordingly. If there is no problem, it notifies the user that the equipment is functioning normally.
[0672] Specific example:
[0673] If a user reports that their router is not working, the server checks the router's status. If a malfunction is detected, it ships a replacement router. The server then notifies the user that "there is a problem with your router. We are sending you a replacement."
[0674] Security Management
[0675] Program processing explanation:
[0676] When the server receives a security inquiry from a user, it checks the status of the security system. If a breach is detected, the server notifies the security team and informs the user accordingly. If a security alert is issued, the issue is escalated and reported to the user.
[0677] Specific example:
[0678] If a user reports that "there appears to be a suspicious person inside the store," the server checks the security system status, detects a breach, notifies the security team, and informs the user that "a security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team."
[0679] Ad management
[0680] Program processing explanation:
[0681] When the server receives an inquiry from a user regarding an advertisement, it checks the status of the advertisement. If the advertisement has expired, the server initiates the advertisement renewal process and notifies the user accordingly. If there is an error in the advertisement, the server corrects the error and notifies the user accordingly.
[0682] Specific example:
[0683] If a user reports that "the store's web ad is not showing," the server checks the ad's status, detects an error, performs corrective work, and notifies the user with "An error occurred with the ad. It has been fixed."
[0684] Store condition management
[0685] Program processing explanation:
[0686] When the server receives an inquiry from a user regarding the store's condition, it checks the store's status. If the status is determined to be poor, the server arranges maintenance and notifies the user accordingly. If the status is good, it notifies the user accordingly.
[0687] Specific example:
[0688] If a user inquires that "the store's interior is deteriorating," the server will check the store's condition. If it determines that the condition is poor, it will arrange maintenance and notify the user, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged."
[0689] The above describes the embodiments for carrying out the present invention. This makes it possible to respond quickly and efficiently to various problems in store operations.
[0690] The following describes the processing flow.
[0691] Specific processing flow for network management
[0692] Step 1:
[0693] The user sends a message to the server reporting issues such as "the network is slow" or "connection impossible."
[0694] Step 2:
[0695] The server calls the check_network_status(store_id) function to retrieve the store's network status.
[0696] Step 3:
[0697] The server checks the network status and determines whether it is "normal," "slow," or "down."
[0698] Step 4:
[0699] If the network is "down," the server calls the schedule_technician_visit(store_id) function to schedule a technician visit.
[0700] Step 5:
[0701] The server notifies the user that "the network is down. We have arranged for a technician to visit."
[0702] Step 6:
[0703] If the network is "slow," the server calls the adjust_bandwidth(store_id) function to adjust the bandwidth.
[0704] Step 7:
[0705] The server notifies the user, "The network is slow. We have adjusted the bandwidth."
[0706] Step 8:
[0707] If the network is "normal," the server will notify the user that "the network is working normally."
[0708] Specific processing flow for network device management
[0709] Step 1:
[0710] A user contacts the server to report network equipment problems, such as "the router is not working."
[0711] Step 2:
[0712] The server calls the check_device_status(store_id, device_name) function to retrieve the status of the device in question.
[0713] Step 3:
[0714] The server checks the status of the network equipment and determines whether it is "normal" or "failed."
[0715] Step 4:
[0716] If a device is "failed," the server calls the send_replacement_device(store_id, device_name) function to initiate the process of sending a replacement device.
[0717] Step 5:
[0718] The server notifies the user that "There is a problem with AA. We will send a replacement device."
[0719] Step 6:
[0720] If the device is "normal," the server will notify the user that "AA is working normally."
[0721] Specific process flow for security management
[0722] Step 1:
[0723] Users can contact the server with security-related inquiries, such as "There is a suspicious person present" or "An alarm has sounded."
[0724] Step 2:
[0725] The server calls the check_security_system(store_id) function to retrieve the status of the security system.
[0726] Step 3:
[0727] The server checks the security status and determines whether it is "normal," "warning," or "compromised."
[0728] Step 4:
[0729] If a security breach is detected, the server calls the notify_security_team(store_id) function to notify the security team.
[0730] Step 5:
[0731] The server reports to the user, "A security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team."
[0732] Step 6:
[0733] If a security "warning" occurs, the server calls the escalate_issue(store_id) function to escalate the issue and report it to the administrator.
[0734] Step 7:
[0735] The server notifies the user that "A security alert has been issued. The issue has been escalated."
[0736] Step 8:
[0737] If security is "normal," the server will notify the user that "the security system is working correctly."
[0738] Specific process flow for ad management
[0739] Step 1:
[0740] Users contact the server with inquiries about advertising issues, such as "Web ads for stores are not showing."
[0741] Step 2:
[0742] The server calls the check_ad_status(store_id) function to retrieve the status of the ad.
[0743] Step 3:
[0744] The server checks the status of the advertisement and determines whether it is "normal," "error," or "expired."
[0745] Step 4:
[0746] If an ad has expired, the server calls the `renew_advertisement(store_id)` function to renew the ad.
[0747] Step 5:
[0748] The server notifies the user that "Your ad has expired. We have initiated the renewal process."
[0749] Step 6:
[0750] If an "error" occurs in the advertisement, the server calls the fix_advertisement(store_id) function to correct the error.
[0751] Step 7:
[0752] The server notifies the user that "An error occurred with the advertisement. We have fixed it."
[0753] Step 8:
[0754] If the ad is "normal," the server notifies the user that "the ad is displaying correctly."
[0755] Specific processing steps for store condition management
[0756] Step 1:
[0757] Users contact the server with inquiries about issues such as "the store's interior is deteriorating" or "the exterior is dirty."
[0758] Step 2:
[0759] The server calls the check_store_condition(store_id) function to retrieve the store's status.
[0760] Step 3:
[0761] The server checks the store's status and determines whether it is "good" or "bad."
[0762] Step 4:
[0763] If the store's condition is determined to be "poor," the server calls the schedule_maintenance(store_id) function to arrange maintenance.
[0764] Step 5:
[0765] The server notifies the user that "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged."
[0766] Step 6:
[0767] If the store's status is "good," the server will notify the user that "the store's status is good."
[0768] The above explains each processing step and its specific operation, broken down step by step. This allows for a detailed understanding of how the system handles user inquiries.
[0769] (Example 1)
[0770] Next, we will describe Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as the "terminal".
[0771] In store operations, efficient management of numerous factors is required, including network stability, proper functioning of network equipment, security maintenance, appropriate display of advertisements, and management of the store's internal environment. Currently, managing these factors is time-consuming and labor-intensive, and it is often difficult to respond quickly when problems arise. Therefore, a system is needed that can manage these factors in an integrated and efficient manner and respond to problems quickly and appropriately.
[0772] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[0773] In this invention, the server includes means for monitoring the status of the network, means for scheduling visits by technicians based on the status of the network, means for adjusting the bandwidth of the network, means for providing notifications to users according to the status of the network, means for monitoring the status of network equipment, means for sending replacement equipment based on the status of the network equipment, means for providing notifications to users according to the status of the network equipment, means for monitoring the status of the security system, means for notifying the security team based on the status of the security system, means for escalating problems in the security system, means for providing notifications to users according to the status of the security system, means for monitoring the status of advertisements, means for updating advertisements based on the status of advertisements, means for correcting errors in advertisements, means for providing notifications to users according to the status of advertisements, means for monitoring the internal environment of a store, means for arranging maintenance based on the status of the store, and means for providing notifications to users according to the status of the store. This enables the integrated processing of various management elements in store operations and allows for quick and appropriate problem solving.
[0774] "Means for monitoring network status" refers to methods and devices for monitoring network connectivity and performance and detecting anomalies.
[0775] "Methods for scheduling technician visits" refer to methods or systems that automatically plan and manage technician visits when networks or equipment are experiencing problems.
[0776] "Means for adjusting network bandwidth" refers to methods or devices for dynamically controlling and adjusting the data transmission speed and available bandwidth of a network.
[0777] "Means of providing notifications to users" refers to methods or devices for sending notifications to users regarding the status of systems or equipment, or the occurrence of problems, and providing them with information.
[0778] "Means for monitoring the status of network devices" refers to methods or devices for monitoring the operating status of network devices such as routers and switches and detecting abnormalities.
[0779] "Means of sending replacement equipment" refers to methods or systems for sending replacement equipment to users when a faulty network device is detected.
[0780] "Means of monitoring the status of security systems" refers to methods and devices for monitoring the status of security systems in stores or networks and detecting anomalies or intrusions.
[0781] "Means of notifying the security team" refers to methods or systems for notifying the security team of information when the security system detects an anomaly.
[0782] "Methods for escalating problems" refer to methods or systems for transferring high-priority or difficult-to-solve problems to senior personnel or specific teams and requesting them to take action.
[0783] "Means of monitoring the status of advertisements" refers to methods or devices for monitoring the status of online and offline advertisements and detecting errors or expirations.
[0784] "Means of updating advertisements" refers to methods or systems for automatically updating advertisements that have expired or require content updates.
[0785] "Means of monitoring the internal environment of a store" refers to methods or devices for monitoring and checking the condition of the environment inside a store (e.g., temperature, humidity, illuminance, etc.).
[0786] "Means of arranging maintenance" refers to methods or systems for planning and arranging maintenance work when the condition of a store or equipment deteriorates.
[0787] The system of the present invention is designed to integrate and process multiple management elements in store operations, enabling rapid and appropriate problem resolution. This system can integrate network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management.
[0788] Network Management
[0789] Program processing explanation:
[0790] The server monitors the network status using Nagios. If the network goes down, it uses the Google Calendar API to schedule a technician's visit and notifies the user. If the network is slow, the server adjusts the bandwidth using QoS (Quality of Service) and notifies the user when the adjustment is complete.
[0791] Specific example:
[0792] When a user reports that they cannot connect to the network, the server checks the network status using Nagios. If it determines that the network is down, it uses the Google Calendar API to arrange for a technician to visit and sends a notification to the user saying, "The network is down. A technician has been scheduled to visit."
[0793] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[0794] "Please generate example code that demonstrates appropriate responses when the network is unavailable."
[0795] Network Device Management
[0796] Program processing explanation:
[0797] The server monitors the status of network devices using SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol). If there is a problem with a device, the server orders a replacement and notifies the user.
[0798] Specific example:
[0799] If a user reports that "the router is not working," the server checks the router's status using SNMP. If a malfunction is detected, it orders a replacement router and sends a notification to the user stating, "There is a problem with your router. We are sending you a replacement device."
[0800] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[0801] "Please generate example code for checking the status of network devices using SNMP."
[0802] Security Management
[0803] Program processing explanation:
[0804] The server monitors the security system status using "Suricata." If a breach is detected, the server notifies the security team using the "Slack" API and reports to the user.
[0805] Specific example:
[0806] If a user reports that "there appears to be a suspicious person inside the store," the server checks the security system status using "Suricata," and if a breach is detected, it notifies the security team using the "Slack" API and sends a report to the user stating, "A security breach has been detected. The security team has been notified."
[0807] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[0808] "Generate example code for detecting security breaches using an intrusion detection system."
[0809] Ad management
[0810] Program processing explanation:
[0811] The server monitors the status of the ads using the Google Ad Manager API. If there are errors in the ads, the server corrects the errors and notifies the user.
[0812] Specific example:
[0813] If a user reports that a store's web ad is not displaying, the server uses the Google Ad Manager API to check the ad's status, detects any errors, makes corrections, and sends a notification to the user stating, "An error occurred with your ad. It has been fixed."
[0814] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[0815] "Use the Google Ad Manager API to check the status of your ads and generate example code to fix any errors."
[0816] Store condition management
[0817] Program processing explanation:
[0818] The server monitors the store's internal environment using IoT sensors. If the server determines that the store is in poor condition, it uses the Trello API to create a maintenance task and notifies the user.
[0819] Specific example:
[0820] If a user reports that "the store's interior is deteriorating," the server uses IoT sensors to check the store's condition. If it determines that the condition is poor, it uses the Trello API to create a maintenance task and sends a notification to the user saying, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged."
[0821] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[0822] "Generate example code for using IoT sensors to monitor the store's condition and arrange maintenance if problems arise."
[0823] The above describes the embodiments for carrying out the present invention. This makes it possible to integrate and process various management elements in store operations and solve problems quickly and appropriately.
[0824] The flow of the specific processing in Example 1 will be explained using Figure 11.
[0825] Network Management
[0826] Program processing flow
[0827] Step 1:
[0828] A user reports a network problem. The input is information about the problem the user is reporting, such as "the network is not connecting." The output is a trigger step that checks the network status.
[0829] Step 2:
[0830] The server uses Nagios to monitor the network status. The input is network problem reports from users, and the output is information about the current state of the network. At this stage, the server checks the ping response time and packet loss rate to determine if the network is down.
[0831] Step 3:
[0832] The server evaluates the network status. The input is data from "Nagios," and the output is the result of determining whether the network is down or delayed. If the network is down, the server proceeds to the next step.
[0833] Step 4:
[0834] If the server detects a network outage, it will use the Google Calendar API to schedule a technician visit. The input is the result of the downtime detection, and the output is the scheduled technician visit information.
[0835] Step 5:
[0836] The server notifies the user of a technician visit. The input is the technician visit schedule information, and the output is the notification content sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user stating, "The network is down. A technician visit has been arranged."
[0837] Step 6:
[0838] When the server detects network latency, it adjusts the QoS (Quality of Service) settings. The input is the latency status determination result, and the output is the adjusted bandwidth information. At this stage, the server enables QoS and reallocates bandwidth to higher-priority traffic.
[0839] Step 7:
[0840] The server notifies the user that bandwidth adjustment is complete. The input is the network status information after adjustment, and the output is the notification sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user stating, "Network bandwidth has been adjusted."
[0841] Network Device Management
[0842] Program processing flow
[0843] Step 1:
[0844] A user reports a problem with a network device. The input is information reported by the user, such as "the router is not working." The output is a trigger step that checks the router's status.
[0845] Step 2:
[0846] The server uses SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) to check the router's status. The input is a device problem report from the user, and the output is the current router status information. At this stage, the server checks SNMP traps and OIDs to confirm the router's operational status and error status.
[0847] Step 3:
[0848] The server detects a router failure. The input is data from SNMP, and the output is the result of the failure status determination. The server analyzes the error message and status code to determine whether the device is malfunctioning.
[0849] Step 4:
[0850] If the server detects a failure, it orders a replacement router. The input is the failure status determination result, and the output is the order information for the replacement equipment. Specifically, the server automatically arranges for the order of a new router.
[0851] Step 5:
[0852] The server notifies the user that replacement equipment has been shipped. The input is information indicating that the shipping arrangements have been completed, and the output is the notification sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user stating, "There is a problem with the router. We are sending replacement equipment."
[0853] Security Management
[0854] Program processing flow
[0855] Step 1:
[0856] A user reports a security issue. The input is information reported by the user, such as "It appears there is a suspicious person inside the store." The output is a trigger step that checks the status of the security system.
[0857] Step 2:
[0858] The server uses "Suricata" to monitor the status of the security system. The input is security issue reports from users, and the output is information about the current status of the security system. At this stage, the server analyzes the alert logs to detect intrusions and abnormal behavior.
[0859] Step 3:
[0860] The server detects the breach. The input is data from Suricata, and the output is the result of the breach status determination. The server determines whether or not a breach has occurred based on log data and alert messages.
[0861] Step 4:
[0862] If the server detects a breach, it will notify the security team using the Slack API. The input is the result of the breach determination, and the output is the notification information for the security team. Specifically, the server will automatically send a Slack message.
[0863] Step 5:
[0864] The server notifies the user of the detected breach. The input is the notification completion information to the security team, and the output is the content of the notification to the user. Specifically, the server sends a report to the user stating, "A security breach has been detected. The security team has been notified."
[0865] Ad management
[0866] Program processing flow
[0867] Step 1:
[0868] A user reports an ad problem. The input is information the user reports, such as "The store's web ad is not showing." The output is a trigger step that checks the status of the ad.
[0869] Step 2:
[0870] The server uses the Google Ad Manager API to check the status of the ads. The input is ad problem reports from users, and the output is current ad status information. At this stage, the server checks the ad delivery status and error logs.
[0871] Step 3:
[0872] The server detects ad errors. The input is data from Google Ad Manager, and the output is the result of the error status determination. The server analyzes the error message and status code to determine if there is an error in the ad.
[0873] Step 4:
[0874] If the server detects an error, it will perform ad correction work. The input is the result of the error status determination, and the output is the ad status information after correction. The server will automatically correct the error and resume ad delivery.
[0875] Step 5:
[0876] The server notifies the user that the fix is complete. The input is information about the completion of the fix, and the output is the notification sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user saying, "An error occurred in the advertisement. Fixes have been made."
[0877] Store condition management
[0878] Program processing flow
[0879] Step 1:
[0880] A user reports a problem with the store's condition. The input is information reported by the user, such as "The store's interior is deteriorating." The output is a trigger step that checks the store's condition.
[0881] Step 2:
[0882] The server uses IoT sensors to monitor the internal environment of the store. The input is user reports of store condition problems, and the output is information on the current store status. At this stage, the server collects sensor data (temperature, humidity, illuminance, etc.) and evaluates the store's condition.
[0883] Step 3:
[0884] The server evaluates the condition of the store. The input is data from IoT sensors, and the output is the result of the store's deterioration status. The server analyzes the condition based on the collected sensor data and determines whether the condition is poor.
[0885] Step 4:
[0886] If the server determines that it is in poor condition, it will use the Trello API to create a maintenance task. The input is the result of the deterioration status determination, and the output is the information for creating the maintenance task. Specifically, the server will automatically generate a task in Trello and set a maintenance schedule.
[0887] Step 5:
[0888] The server notifies the user that maintenance arrangements have been completed. The input is information indicating that the maintenance task has been created, and the output is the notification sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user stating, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged."
[0889] (Application Example 1)
[0890] Next, we will explain Application Example 1. In the following explanation, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[0891] Modern retail operations face a wide range of challenges, including network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management. These challenges are often managed individually, making efficient and rapid problem-solving difficult. Furthermore, delays in addressing these issues can disrupt store operations. Therefore, a system is needed that integrates these diverse management tasks and detects and responds to problems in real time.
[0892] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[0893] In this invention, the server includes means for monitoring the status of the network, means for scheduling expert visits based on the status of the network, means for adjusting the bandwidth of the network, means for providing notifications to users in accordance with the status of the network, means for monitoring the conditions inside the store with sensors, means for arranging maintenance work based on the sensor data, and means for notifying users of the status of maintenance arrangements. This makes it possible to integrate and efficiently manage the network, manage network equipment, manage security, manage advertising, and manage the condition of the store.
[0894] "Network status" refers to the overall operational status of the network, including internet connectivity, internal network connectivity, bandwidth utilization, and latency.
[0895] "A means of scheduling expert visits" refers to a process that automatically sets the date and time for technicians or experts to visit and resolve problems that occur with the network or equipment.
[0896] "Means of adjusting network bandwidth" refers to functions that adjust the amount of data transmitted or received in order to optimize network performance.
[0897] "Means of providing notifications to users" refers to means of informing users about various decisions and processing results made by the system, as well as the status of responses in the event of a problem.
[0898] "Means of monitoring the conditions inside the store using sensors" refers to a function that continuously monitors environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, and vibration, as well as the condition of equipment inside the store, using sensors.
[0899] "Means of arranging maintenance work" refers to the process of dispatching workers and creating work plans to carry out necessary repairs and inspections when problems occur with the equipment or environment within a store.
[0900] "Network device status" refers to the state of whether network devices such as routers, switches, modems, and wireless access points are functioning correctly.
[0901] "Means of sending replacement equipment" refers to the function of arranging for the delivery of new equipment to the user in the event of a network equipment failure.
[0902] "Security system status" refers to the state of security equipment such as surveillance cameras, door sensors, and alarm systems, indicating whether they are functioning properly.
[0903] "Means of notifying the security management team" refers to a means of informing specialized security staff of the situation when a problem occurs with the security system.
[0904] "Methods for escalating a problem" refers to the process of promptly reporting a specific problem to a senior person or manager and requesting action.
[0905] This invention provides a system that integrates network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management related to the operation of physical stores. This system is equipped with means for responding to various problems efficiently and in a timely manner.
[0906] Network Management
[0907] The server monitors the network status. Specifically, it continuously monitors the network status using Amazon Web Services (AWS) Lambda and CloudWatch. If the network is down, the server automatically schedules a visit from a technician and notifies the user. If network bandwidth needs to be adjusted, the server also automatically handles the process and notifies the user.
[0908] Specific example:
[0909] If a user reports that they cannot connect to the network, the server checks the network status and, if a problem is found, arranges for a technician to visit and notifies the user with the message, "The network is down. A technician has been scheduled to visit."
[0910] Network Device Management
[0911] The server also monitors the status of network devices. Using AWS IoT services and DynamoDB, it continuously monitors the status of network devices and automatically initiates the process of delivering new equipment if a problem occurs.
[0912] Specific example:
[0913] If a user reports that their router is not working, the server checks the router's status and, if a malfunction is detected, sends a replacement device. The server then notifies the user that "there is a problem with your router. A replacement device will be sent."
[0914] Security Management
[0915] The server monitors the security system's status. Specifically, it uses AWS Rekognition to analyze surveillance camera footage and, if it detects an intruder, uses Amazon Simple Notification Service (SNS) to notify the security team and users.
[0916] Specific example:
[0917] If a user reports that "there appears to be an intruder inside the store," the server checks the security system, detects an intrusion, notifies the security team, and informs the user that "a security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team."
[0918] Ad management
[0919] The server checks the status of the ads and, if necessary, uses the Google Ads API to correct errors or update the ads. If applicable, it also notifies the user using AWS Simple Email Service (SES).
[0920] Specific example:
[0921] If a user reports that "the store's web ad is not showing," the server checks the ad's status, corrects the error, and notifies the user that "an error occurred with the ad. It has been fixed."
[0922] Store condition management
[0923] The server monitors the store's status using sensors. It utilizes AWS Greengrass and IoT sensor data to arrange maintenance work and notify users if a problem occurs.
[0924] Specific example:
[0925] If a user inquires that "the store's interior is deteriorating," the server will check the store's condition and arrange for maintenance. It will then notify the user that "the store is in poor condition and maintenance has been arranged."
[0926] Examples of specific cases and prompt statements
[0927] Various actions can be taken with the generated AI model by using prompt statements like the following.
[0928] Question: What should I do if I can't connect to the network?
[0929] Answer: Check the network status, and if it's down, arrange for a technician to visit and notify the user with "The network is down. A technician has been scheduled to visit."
[0930]
[0931] Question: What should I do if the interior of a store is deteriorating?
[0932] Answer: Sensors monitor the store's status, and if a problem occurs, the server automatically arranges maintenance and notifies the user with the message, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged."
[0933] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 1 will be explained using Figure 12.
[0934] Step 1:
[0935] The server monitors the network status. The hardware and software used are Amazon Web Services (AWS) Lambda and CloudWatch. CloudWatch monitors network connectivity and bandwidth utilization, and Lambda receives this data. The input is network status metrics data, and the output is network health information.
[0936] Step 2:
[0937] A user inquires about a network problem through a smartphone app. The server receives the user's request and network health information as input. The server checks whether the network is down and determines the next action based on the result. The output indicates whether or not there is a network anomaly.
[0938] Step 3:
[0939] If the server network is down, an AWS Lambda function automatically sets up a specialist visit schedule using AWS Step Functions. This scheduling information is then notified to the user. The input is the network anomaly detection result, and the output is the visit schedule setting information.
[0940] Step 4:
[0941] If network bandwidth is insufficient, the server will reallocate bandwidth through an AWS Lambda function. The input is bandwidth usage data, and the output is the adjusted bandwidth configuration information.
[0942] Step 5:
[0943] The server monitors the status of network devices. The hardware and software used are AWS IoT and DynamoDB. AWS IoT continuously monitors the operational status of network devices and records the status information in DynamoDB. The input is network device status data, and the output is device health information.
[0944] Step 6:
[0945] When a user reports a problem with network equipment, the server checks for the equipment's health information and, if a failure is detected, automatically arranges for replacement equipment to be sent via AWS SNS. The input is the equipment's health status information, and the output is the information regarding the arrangement for sending replacement equipment.
[0946] Step 7:
[0947] The server monitors the status of the security system. The hardware and software used are AWS Rekognition and Amazon SNS. Rekognition analyzes surveillance camera footage and notifies SNS of any detected suspicious individuals. The input is surveillance camera footage data, and the output is notification information about detected suspicious individuals.
[0948] Step 8:
[0949] When a user reports a security issue, the server checks the status of the security system, notifies the security team if a problem exists, and also informs the user. The input is the detection information of the problem, and the output is the notification information to the security team and the user.
[0950] Step 9:
[0951] The server checks the operational status of the ads and corrects ad errors using the Google Ads API. The input is the ad error log data, and the output is the corrected ad information.
[0952] Step 10:
[0953] If a user reports a problem with the status of an ad, the server checks the progress of error correction and notifies the user via AWS SES. The input is the progress of error correction, and the output is the notification information for the user.
[0954] Step 11:
[0955] A server monitors the conditions within the store. The hardware and software used are AWS Greengrass and IoT sensors. Greengrass aggregates the data collected by the sensors to determine the store's health. The input is environmental sensor data, and the output is store health information.
[0956] Step 12:
[0957] When a user reports a problem within a store, the server checks the store's status based on sensor data, arranges necessary maintenance work using AWS Step Functions, and notifies the user of its progress. The input is store health information, and the output is maintenance work arrangements and user notifications.
[0958] Furthermore, an emotion engine that estimates the user's emotions may be incorporated. That is, the identification processing unit 290 may use the emotion identification model 59 to estimate the user's emotions and perform identification processing using the user's emotions.
[0959] System Overview
[0960] This invention relates to a system that integrates network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management in store operations. In particular, by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the emotional state of users and takes appropriate action based on the analysis results, it achieves a more effective and rapid response.
[0961] Network Management
[0962] Program processing explanation:
[0963] The server receives network-related inquiries from users. First, it monitors the network status and schedules technician visits based on that status. It also adjusts network bandwidth appropriately. Finally, it analyzes the user's emotional state using a user emotion engine and provides the user with appropriate notifications.
[0964] Specific example:
[0965] When a user reports that their network is slow, the server checks the network status and adjusts the bandwidth. Then, the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotional state (e.g., frustration or anxiety) and notifies them with a message such as, "Your network is slow. We have adjusted the bandwidth. Please rest assured."
[0966] Network Device Management
[0967] Program processing explanation:
[0968] The server receives inquiries from users regarding network equipment. It checks the status of the equipment in question and, if a malfunction occurs, sends a replacement. Furthermore, it uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state and adjusts the notification content based on the results.
[0969] Specific example:
[0970] If a user reports that their router is not working, the server will check for a router malfunction and send a replacement. An emotion engine will analyze the user's anxiety and frustration and notify them with a message such as, "There is a problem with your router. We have sent a replacement. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[0971] Security Management
[0972] Program processing explanation:
[0973] The server receives security-related inquiries from users. It checks the status of the security system and notifies the security team if a breach is detected. It also uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state and optimize notifications and responses.
[0974] Specific example:
[0975] If a user reports a "suspicious person," the server checks the security system and notifies the security team if a breach is detected. The emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions (e.g., fear) and reports, "A security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team. Please rest assured."
[0976] Ad management
[0977] Program processing explanation:
[0978] The server receives inquiries from users regarding advertisements. It checks the status of the advertisements and takes appropriate action if errors or expirations occur. It also uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state and adjusts the notification content based on the results.
[0979] Specific example:
[0980] If a user reports that "the store's web ad isn't showing," the server checks for ad errors and performs corrective work. The emotion engine analyzes the user's frustration and notifies them with a message such as, "There was an error with the ad. We have fixed it. We apologize for the delay."
[0981] Store condition management
[0982] Program processing explanation:
[0983] The server receives inquiries from users regarding store conditions. It checks the store status and arranges maintenance as needed. It also uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state and adjusts the notification content based on the results.
[0984] Specific example:
[0985] If a user inquires that "the store's interior is deteriorating," the server checks the store's condition and arranges maintenance. The emotion engine analyzes the user's dissatisfaction and notifies them with a message such as, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[0986] The above describes an embodiment of the present invention that combines an emotion engine. This enables quick and effective responses to various problems in store operations, and allows for responses that take into consideration the user's emotions.
[0987] The following describes the processing flow.
[0988] Specific processing flow for network management
[0989] Step 1:
[0990] The user sends a message to the server reporting issues such as "the network is slow" or "connection impossible."
[0991] Step 2:
[0992] The server calls the `check_network_status(store_id)` function to monitor the network status and retrieve the store's network status.
[0993] Step 3:
[0994] The server checks the network status and determines whether it is "normal," "slow," or "down."
[0995] Step 4:
[0996] If the network is "down," the server calls the schedule_technician_visit(store_id) function to schedule a technician visit.
[0997] Step 5:
[0998] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[0999] Step 6:
[1000] Based on the user's emotional state, the server notifies them with the message, "The network is down. We have arranged for a technician to visit. Please rest assured."
[1001] Step 7:
[1002] If the network is "slow," the server calls the adjust_bandwidth(store_id) function to adjust the bandwidth.
[1003] Step 8:
[1004] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[1005] Step 9:
[1006] Based on the user's emotional state, the server will notify them with a message such as, "The network is slow. We have adjusted the bandwidth. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[1007] Step 10:
[1008] If the network is "normal," the server will notify the user that "the network is working normally."
[1009] Specific processing flow for network device management
[1010] Step 1:
[1011] A user contacts the server to report network equipment problems, such as "the router is not working."
[1012] Step 2:
[1013] The server calls the check_device_status(store_id, device_name) function to retrieve the status of the device in question.
[1014] Step 3:
[1015] The server checks the status of the network equipment and determines whether it is "normal" or "failed."
[1016] Step 4:
[1017] If a device is "failed," the server calls the send_replacement_device(store_id, device_name) function to initiate the process of sending a replacement device.
[1018] Step 5:
[1019] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[1020] Step 6:
[1021] Based on the user's emotional state, the server notifies them with the message, "There is a problem with your router. We will send you a replacement. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[1022] Step 7:
[1023] If the device is "normal," the server will notify the user that "the router is working normally."
[1024] Specific process flow for security management
[1025] Step 1:
[1026] Users can contact the server with security-related inquiries, such as "There is a suspicious person present" or "An alarm has sounded."
[1027] Step 2:
[1028] The server calls the check_security_system(store_id) function to retrieve the status of the security system.
[1029] Step 3:
[1030] The server checks the security status and determines whether it is "normal," "warning," or "compromised."
[1031] Step 4:
[1032] If a security breach is detected, the server calls the notify_security_team(store_id) function to notify the security team.
[1033] Step 5:
[1034] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[1035] Step 6:
[1036] Based on the user's emotional state, the server reports, "A security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team. Please rest assured."
[1037] Step 7:
[1038] If a security "warning" occurs, the server calls the escalate_issue(store_id) function to escalate the issue and report it to the administrator.
[1039] Step 8:
[1040] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[1041] Step 9:
[1042] Based on the user's emotional state, the server notifies them with a message such as, "A security alert has been issued. The issue has escalated. Please rest assured."
[1043] Step 10:
[1044] If security is "normal," the server will notify the user that "the security system is working correctly."
[1045] Specific process flow for ad management
[1046] Step 1:
[1047] Users contact the server with inquiries about advertising issues, such as "Web ads for stores are not showing."
[1048] Step 2:
[1049] The server calls the check_ad_status(store_id) function to retrieve the status of the ad.
[1050] Step 3:
[1051] The server checks the status of the advertisement and determines whether it is "normal," "error," or "expired."
[1052] Step 4:
[1053] If an ad has expired, the server calls the `renew_advertisement(store_id)` function to renew the ad.
[1054] Step 5:
[1055] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[1056] Step 6:
[1057] Based on the user's emotional state, the server will notify them with the message, "Your ad has expired. We have renewed it. We apologize for any inconvenience."
[1058] Step 7:
[1059] If an "error" occurs in the advertisement, the server calls the fix_advertisement(store_id) function to correct the error.
[1060] Step 8:
[1061] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[1062] Step 9:
[1063] Based on the user's emotional state, the server notifies them with the message, "An error occurred with the advertisement. We have fixed it. We apologize for the delay."
[1064] Step 10:
[1065] If the ad is "normal," the server notifies the user that "the ad is displaying correctly."
[1066] Specific processing steps for store condition management
[1067] Step 1:
[1068] Users contact the server with inquiries about issues such as "the store's interior is deteriorating" or "the exterior is dirty."
[1069] Step 2:
[1070] The server calls the check_store_condition(store_id) function to retrieve the store's status.
[1071] Step 3:
[1072] The server checks the store's status and determines whether it is "good" or "bad."
[1073] Step 4:
[1074] If the store's condition is determined to be "poor," the server calls the schedule_maintenance(store_id) function to arrange maintenance.
[1075] Step 5:
[1076] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[1077] Step 6:
[1078] Based on the user's emotional state, the server will notify them with the message, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[1079] Step 7:
[1080] If the store's status is "good," the server will notify the user that "the store's status is good."
[1081] The above describes an embodiment of the present invention that combines an emotion engine. This enables quick and effective responses to various problems in store operations, and allows for responses that take into consideration the user's emotions.
[1082] (Example 2)
[1083] Next, we will describe Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as the "terminal".
[1084] Traditional store operations have made it difficult to respond quickly and appropriately to user complaints and inquiries regarding network management, equipment management, and security. Furthermore, responses tailored to the user's emotional state were not considered, making it challenging to improve customer satisfaction.
[1085] The identification processing performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for monitoring the network status, means for scheduling technician visits based on the network status, means for adjusting the network bandwidth, means for analyzing the user's emotional state using an emotion analysis engine, and means for providing notifications to the user in accordance with the network status and the user's emotional state. This makes it possible to take a quick and appropriate action while taking the user's emotional state into consideration.
[1086] "Means of monitoring network status" refers to a system or function for checking the status of devices and traffic on a network in real time and detecting anomalies.
[1087] "Means for scheduling technician visits" refers to a system or function that automatically plans and adjusts the schedule of technician visits necessary to address network problems or anomalies when they are detected.
[1088] "Means of adjusting network bandwidth" refers to a system or function that controls bandwidth to optimally distribute network traffic load and improve network speed and quality.
[1089] "Means of analyzing a user's emotional state using an emotion analysis engine" refers to a system or function that analyzes the content of user inquiries and feedback and evaluates the user's emotions (joy, frustration, anxiety, etc.) from that context.
[1090] "Means of providing users with notifications tailored to the network status and user emotional state" refers to a system or function that notifies users of the most appropriate information and countermeasures, taking into account the actual network status and user emotional state.
[1091] "Means of monitoring the status of network devices" refers to a system or function that checks the operating status of network devices such as routers and switches in real time and detects abnormalities or failures.
[1092] "Means of sending replacement equipment" refers to a system or function that accurately identifies a faulty network device and promptly sends a replacement device to the user.
[1093] "Means of monitoring the status of security systems" refers to a system or function that monitors security-related logs and events within a network in real time to detect anomalies or breaches.
[1094] "Means of notifying the security team" refers to a system or function that quickly notifies security personnel or teams of information when a network security issue is detected.
[1095] "Means of escalating security system issues" refers to a system or function that, depending on the severity of the detected security issue, hands it over to senior administrators or a specialized team.
[1096] System Overview
[1097] This invention relates to a system that integrates network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management in store operations. In particular, by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the emotional state of users and takes appropriate action based on the analysis results, it achieves a more effective and rapid response.
[1098] Network Management
[1099] Program processing explanation:
[1100] The server receives network-related inquiries from users. The required hardware is a server device, and the software includes a network monitoring system (e.g., Nagios, Zabbix) and an automated bandwidth management system (e.g., NtopNG). The server uses these tools to monitor network conditions and schedule technician visits. It also adjusts network bandwidth and analyzes user sentiment using a user sentiment analysis engine (e.g., IBM Watson Tone Analyzer), thereby providing appropriate notifications to the user.
[1101] Specific example:
[1102] When a user reports that their network is slow, the server uses Nagios to check the network status and adjusts the bandwidth using NtopNG if necessary. Then, IBM Watson Tone Analyzer analyzes the user's emotional state (e.g., frustration or anxiety) and notifies them with a message saying, "Your network is slow. We have adjusted the bandwidth. Please rest assured."
[1103] Examples of prompts to input into a generative AI model:
[1104] "A user has reported a network problem. Please check the current network status and create a response that reflects the user's feelings."
[1105] Network Device Management
[1106] Program processing explanation:
[1107] The server receives inquiries from users regarding network equipment. The hardware required is also server equipment, and the software used is a network management tool (e.g., SolarWinds, PRTG). The server checks the status of the equipment and sends a replacement if a malfunction occurs. An emotion engine is used to analyze the user's emotional state, and the notification content is adjusted based on the results.
[1108] Specific example:
[1109] If a user reports that their router is not working, the server will use SolarWinds to check for router failure and automatically arrange for a replacement. An emotion engine will analyze the user's anxiety and frustration and notify them with a message such as, "There is a problem with your router. A replacement has been sent. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[1110] Examples of prompts to input into a generative AI model:
[1111] "A user has reported a problem with a network device. Please check the status of the device and create a response that reflects the user's feelings."
[1112] Security Management
[1113] Program processing explanation:
[1114] The server receives security inquiries from users. The hardware required is similar to that of a server, and the software used is a security system (e.g., Splunk, Snort). The server monitors the security system's status and notifies the security team if a breach is detected. An emotion engine is used to analyze the user's emotional state and optimize notifications and responses.
[1115] Specific example:
[1116] If a user reports a "suspicious person," the server uses Splunk to check the security system and notifies the security team if a breach is detected. An emotion engine analyzes the user's fears and reports, "A security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team. Please rest assured."
[1117] Examples of prompts to input into a generative AI model:
[1118] "A user has reported a security issue. Please review the current security status and create a response that reflects the user's sentiment."
[1119] Ad management
[1120] Program processing explanation:
[1121] The server receives inquiries from users regarding advertisements. The hardware required is also server equipment, and the software used is an advertising management system (e.g., an online advertising management system). It checks the status of advertisements and takes appropriate action if errors or expirations occur. It analyzes the user's emotional state using an emotion engine and adjusts notification content based on the results.
[1122] Specific example:
[1123] If a user reports that "the store's web ad is not showing," the server checks the ad management system for errors and performs corrective work. The sentiment engine analyzes the user's frustration and notifies them with a message such as, "There was an error with the ad. We have fixed it. We apologize for the delay."
[1124] Examples of prompts to input into a generative AI model:
[1125] "A user has reported an issue with an ad. Please review the current ad status and create a response that reflects the user's sentiment."
[1126] Store condition management
[1127] Program processing explanation:
[1128] The server receives inquiries from users regarding the store's condition. The hardware required is similarly server equipment, and the software used is a store monitoring system (e.g., a building management system). It checks the store's status and arranges maintenance as needed. It analyzes the user's emotional state using an emotion engine and adjusts notifications based on the results.
[1129] Specific example:
[1130] If a user inquires that "the store's interior is deteriorating," the server uses the store monitoring system to check the store's condition and arrange maintenance as needed. The emotion engine analyzes the user's dissatisfaction and notifies them with a message such as, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[1131] Examples of prompts to input into a generative AI model:
[1132] "A user has reported a problem with the store's condition. Please check the current store status and create a response that reflects the user's feelings."
[1133] Emotion engine and generative AI model
[1134] This system utilizes an emotion engine and a generative AI model to respond to user inquiries in real time. The emotion engine uses emotion analysis tools provided by a specific platform, while the generative AI model, for example, utilizes a large-scale language model to generate the most appropriate response to the user's inquiry.
[1135] This enables responses that take into account the user's emotional state, resulting in the delivery of prompt and appropriate services.
[1136] The flow of the specific processing in Example 2 will be explained using Figure 13.
[1137] Network Management
[1138] Step 1:
[1139] The server receives network-related inquiries from users. The user enters information from their terminal (e.g., "The network is slow"), which is then sent to the server. This input data includes the inquiry and the user's basic information. The server receives this information and initiates the query.
[1140] Input: User reports network problems
[1141] Output: Logging of query details and data transfer to the next step.
[1142] Step 2:
[1143] The server uses a network monitoring system (e.g., Nagios) to check the current network status. During this process, the server collects monitoring data from network devices and determines whether the network is functioning normally.
[1144] Input: Real-time data from a network monitoring system
[1145] Output: Network status diagnostic results
[1146] Step 3:
[1147] If a network anomaly is detected, the server automatically creates a technician visit schedule using the system's scheduling function. The information used includes the technician's availability and the user's location.
[1148] Input: Technician's schedule data and user's location information
[1149] Output: Schedule of engineer visits
[1150] Step 4:
[1151] The server uses an automated bandwidth management system (e.g., NtopNG) to adjust network bandwidth. This adjustment involves analyzing traffic data and reallocating bandwidth.
[1152] Input: Traffic data
[1153] Output: Improved network bandwidth settings
[1154] Step 5:
[1155] The server uses a sentiment analysis engine (e.g., IBM Watson Tone Analyzer) to analyze the user's inquiry text and evaluate the user's emotional state. In this step, the inquiry text is sent to the sentiment analysis engine and the returned sentiment data is received.
[1156] Input: User inquiry text
[1157] Output: User emotional state data
[1158] Step 6:
[1159] Based on the aforementioned analysis results, the server sends notifications to the user that are tailored to their emotional state and the current network conditions. The notification content is automatically generated, providing the user with an appropriate message.
[1160] Input: Network status data and user sentiment status data
[1161] Output: Notification message to the user
[1162] Network Device Management
[1163] Step 1:
[1164] The server receives inquiries from users regarding network equipment. The server receives information entered by the user from their terminal (e.g., "The router is not working").
[1165] Input: User reports of device problems
[1166] Output: Logging of query details and data transfer to the next step.
[1167] Step 2:
[1168] The server uses a network device management tool (e.g., SolarWinds) to check the status of the relevant device. It collects real-time device data from the management tool and determines whether it is functioning correctly.
[1169] Input: Data from network device management tool
[1170] Output: Device diagnostic results
[1171] Step 3:
[1172] If a failure is detected, the server will automatically arrange for the delivery of replacement equipment. The information used includes inventory status and the user's location.
[1173] Input: Inventory data and user location information
[1174] Output: Data confirming completion of arrangements for sending replacement equipment.
[1175] Step 4:
[1176] The server uses an emotion analysis engine to analyze the user's inquiry text and evaluate the user's emotions. The inquiry text is sent to the engine, and the server receives the returned emotion data.
[1177] Input: User inquiry text
[1178] Output: User emotional state data
[1179] Step 5:
[1180] The server creates and sends notifications to the user based on the device status and the user's emotional state. It uses automatically generated notification messages to provide users with appropriate notifications.
[1181] Input: Device diagnostic results and user emotional state data
[1182] Output: Notification message to the user
[1183] Security Management
[1184] Step 1:
[1185] The server receives security-related inquiries from users. The user's input from their device (e.g., "There is a suspicious person") is sent to the server.
[1186] Input: User report of a security issue
[1187] Output: Logging of query details and data transfer to the next step.
[1188] Step 2:
[1189] The server uses a security monitoring system (e.g., Splunk) to check the system's status. Log data from the monitoring system is analyzed to detect abnormal activity.
[1190] Input: Log data from security monitoring system
[1191] Output: Security status diagnostic results
[1192] Step 3:
[1193] If a breach is detected, the server will automatically send a notification to the security team. This notification will include detailed information about the anomaly and how to respond.
[1194] Input: Security status diagnostic results
[1195] Output: Notification to the security team
[1196] Step 4:
[1197] The server uses a sentiment analysis engine to analyze the user's inquiry text and evaluate its sentiment. It sends sentiment data to the engine and receives the returned sentiment data.
[1198] Input: User inquiry text
[1199] Output: User emotional state data
[1200] Step 5:
[1201] The server sends appropriate notifications to the user based on the security status and the user's emotional state. The generated notification message is used to inform the user of the appropriate course of action.
[1202] Input: Security status diagnostic results and user sentiment data
[1203] Output: Notification message to the user
[1204] (Application Example 2)
[1205] Next, we will explain application example 2. In the following explanation, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[1206] In conventional store management systems, network management, equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management are handled separately, requiring quick and effective responses to each issue. Furthermore, responses that do not take into account the emotional state of the user may lead to decreased customer satisfaction and misunderstandings. In addition, the lack of an integrated system for analyzing the emotional state of the user results in inefficient management of multiple tasks.
[1207] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for monitoring the network status, means for scheduling visits by technicians based on the network status, means for adjusting the network bandwidth, means for providing notifications to the user according to the network status, means for recognizing and analyzing the user's emotional state, and means for adjusting the notification content based on the emotional state. This enables the integration of various management systems and allows for a quick and effective response that takes into account the user's emotional state.
[1208] "Network status" refers to information that indicates the overall quality and performance of the network, including connectivity, speed, and data bandwidth.
[1209] "A means of scheduling visits by technicians" refers to a system for determining the date and time when a technician with specialized knowledge will visit the site in the event of a network anomaly being detected.
[1210] "Means of adjusting bandwidth" refer to mechanisms for optimizing network traffic volume in real time and adjusting the amount of data sent and received to maintain overall communication speed.
[1211] "Means of providing information to users" refers to a system for notifying users of information regarding the current network status and the status of problem resolution.
[1212] "Means for recognizing and analyzing emotional states" refers to technologies that automatically read and analyze emotions from a user's context, facial expressions, and statements.
[1213] "Means for adjusting notification content" refers to a system that generates and sends the most appropriate notification content or message to the user based on the analyzed emotional state of the user.
[1214] "Network device status" refers to information indicating the operating status and malfunction status of hardware such as routers, switches, and access points.
[1215] A "means for sending replacement equipment" refers to a system for sending replacement equipment to users when a failure or abnormality in network equipment is detected.
[1216] "Security system status" refers to information regarding the operational status of security equipment and systems in stores and facilities, as well as attempts at unauthorized access.
[1217] "Means of notifying the security team" refers to a mechanism for immediately notifying the security team of information in the event of an anomaly in the security system.
[1218] "Methods for escalating problems" refers to a system for reporting security issues requiring attention to higher-level administrators or specialized departments in stages, thereby enabling a swift response.
[1219] This invention relates to a system for supporting operations in physical stores, and aims to analyze user emotions and provide appropriate responses in network management, equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management.
[1220] System Overview
[1221] Hardware and software configuration
[1222] Smartphone: A device used to receive user inquiries.
[1223] Server: A central control unit for executing various management functions.
[1224] Emotion Recognition Library: A software library for analyzing a user's emotional state.
[1225] Network Management Library: A software library for monitoring network status and adjusting bandwidth.
[1226] Security Management Library: A software library for monitoring the status of security systems and notifying of problems when they occur.
[1227] Advertising Management Library: This is a software library for managing the display status of advertisements.
[1228] Maintenance Management Library: This is a software library for managing the condition of a store and performing necessary maintenance.
[1229] Notification Service: This service is used to notify users of information.
[1230] Processing Overview
[1231] User inquiry processing
[1232] 1. The server receives various inquiries from users.
[1233] 2. Use the Emotion Recognition Library to analyze the user's emotions from the content of the inquiry.
[1234] 3. Use the Network Management Library to check the network status and adjust bandwidth as needed.
[1235] 4. Check the security system status in the Security Management Library and notify if any abnormalities are found.
[1236] 5. Check for and correct any errors in the advertisements in the Advertising Management Library.
[1237] 6. Check the store's status in the Maintenance Management Library and arrange maintenance as needed.
[1238] 7. Adjust notification content based on the user's emotional state and send the most appropriate message to the user through the Notification Service.
[1239] Specific example
[1240] 1. Addressing network issues:
[1241] If a user reports a decrease in Wi-Fi speed, the server uses the Network Management Library to adjust the network bandwidth.
[1242] If the Emotion Recognition Library analyzes the user's emotion as "frustration," it will notify them with the message, "The network is slow. We have adjusted the bandwidth. Please rest assured."
[1243] 2. Addressing security issues:
[1244] If a user reports the presence of a suspicious person, the server uses the Security Management Library to check the status of the security system.
[1245] If a breach is detected, the security team will be notified with the message, "A security breach has been detected. The security team has been notified. Please rest assured."
[1246] Example of a prompt
[1247] "A user reported slow Wi-Fi. Their emotion is frustration. Please customize your response and message accordingly."
[1248] This will enable the system to integrate various management systems and respond quickly and effectively, taking into account the user's emotional state.
[1249] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 2 will be explained using Figure 14.
[1250] Step 1:
[1251] The server receives inquiries from users. Users use a dedicated application on their smartphones to send inquiries about network problems, security issues, etc. This inquiry data is entered into the server.
[1252] Step 2:
[1253] The server uses the Emotion Recognition Library to analyze the user's emotional state based on their inquiry. The user's text data serves as input, and the emotional analysis results are output.
[1254] Step 3:
[1255] Based on the analyzed emotional state, the server determines an initial response appropriate to the user's emotions. For example, if the user is irritated, a quick response is required.
[1256] Step 4:
[1257] The server calls the Network Management Library to monitor the network status. Its input is current network connection data, and its output includes network bandwidth and connection status.
[1258] Step 5:
[1259] The server analyzes network traffic and adjusts bandwidth as needed. It takes network status data as input and outputs the adjusted bandwidth settings. Specifically, it performs dynamic traffic control and reallocates bandwidth.
[1260] Step 6:
[1261] The server uses the Security Management Library to check the status of the security system. Data from security devices is used as input, and the overall security status of the system is output.
[1262] Step 7:
[1263] If a security anomaly is detected, the server immediately notifies the security team. Security anomaly data is entered, and a warning message is output. Specifically, automatic notification and escalation to the security team are initiated.
[1264] Step 8:
[1265] The server uses the Advertising Management Library to check for ad errors and correct any problems. Ad data is used as input, and the corrected state is output. Specifically, ad re-posting or corrections are performed.
[1266] Step 9:
[1267] The server uses the Maintenance Management Library to monitor the overall condition of the store. Store environment data is used as input, and necessary maintenance actions are output.
[1268] Step 10:
[1269] The server adjusts notification content based on the analyzed emotional state and sends the most appropriate message to the user through the Notification Service. User emotional data and various system status data are input, and a customized notification message is output.
[1270] This system enables prompt and emotionally sensitive responses to user inquiries, improving the efficiency of store operations.
[1271] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the smart glasses 214. In the smart glasses 214, the control unit 46A causes the speaker 240 to output the result of the specific processing. The microphone 238 acquires audio indicating user input for the result of the specific processing. The control unit 46A transmits the audio data indicating user input acquired by the microphone 238 to the data processing unit 12. In the data processing unit 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the audio data.
[1272] Data generation model 58 is a type of so-called generative AI (Artificial Intelligence). One example of data generation model 58 is ChatGPT (Internet search<URL: https: / / openai.com / blog / chatgpt> ), Gemini (Internet search) <url: https: gemini.google.com ?hl="ja">Examples of generative AI include the following. The data generation model 58 is obtained by performing deep learning on a neural network. The data generation model 58 is input with prompts containing instructions, and with inference data such as audio data representing speech, text data representing text, and image data representing images. The data generation model 58 infers from the input inference data according to the instructions indicated by the prompts, and outputs the inference results in data formats such as audio data and text data. Here, inference refers to, for example, analysis, classification, prediction, and / or summarization.
[1273] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which specific processing is performed by the data processing device 12, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the specific processing may also be performed by the smart glasses 214.
[1274] [Third Embodiment]
[1275] Figure 5 shows an example of the configuration of the data processing system 310 according to the third embodiment.
[1276] As shown in Figure 5, the data processing system 310 includes a data processing device 12 and a headset terminal 314. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.
[1277] The data processing device 12 comprises a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication interface 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" related to the technology of this disclosure. The computer 22 comprises a processor 28, RAM 30, and storage 32. The processor 28, RAM 30, and storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication interface 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication interface 26 is connected to a network 54. An example of the network 54 is a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).
[1278] The headset terminal 314 includes a computer 36, a microphone 238, a speaker 240, a camera 42, a communication interface 44, and a display 343. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, RAM 48, and storage 50. The processor 46, RAM 48, and storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The microphone 238, speaker 240, camera 42, and display 343 are also connected to the bus 52.
[1279] The microphone 238 receives voice signals from the user 20 and receives instructions from the user 20. The microphone 238 captures the voice signals from the user 20, converts the captured voice into audio data, and outputs it to the processor 46. The speaker 240 outputs audio according to the instructions from the processor 46.
[1280] Camera 42 is a small digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an image sensor such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, and captures images of the area around the user 20 (for example, an imaging range defined by a field of view equivalent to the width of a typical healthy person's field of vision).
[1281] Communication interface 44 is connected to network 54. Communication interfaces 44 and 26 are responsible for the exchange of various information between processor 46 and processor 28 via network 54. The exchange of various information between processor 46 and processor 28 using communication interfaces 44 and 26 is performed in a secure manner.
[1282] Figure 6 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the headset terminal 314. As shown in Figure 6, the data processing device 12 performs specific processing using the processor 28. The storage 32 stores the specific processing program 56.
[1283] The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" relating to the technology of this disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific processing is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.
[1284] The storage 32 stores the data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.
[1285] In the headset terminal 314, the processor 46 performs the reception output processing. The storage 50 stores the reception output program 60. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output processing is realized by the processor 46 operating as a control unit 46A according to the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.
[1286] Next, the specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 will be described. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the headset terminal 314 will be referred to as the "terminal".
[1287] System Overview
[1288] This invention relates to a system that integrates network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management in store operations. This system provides a means for responding to various problems efficiently and in a timely manner.
[1289] Network Management
[1290] Program processing explanation:
[1291] When the server receives a network-related inquiry from a user, it first monitors the network status. If the network is down, the server schedules a technician visit and notifies the user. If the network is slow, the server adjusts the bandwidth and reports to the user when the adjustment is complete.
[1292] Specific example:
[1293] If a user reports that they cannot connect to the network, the server checks the network status and, if it detects a downtime, arranges for a technician to visit. It then notifies the user that "the network is down and a technician has been scheduled to visit."
[1294] Network Device Management
[1295] Program processing explanation:
[1296] When the server receives an inquiry from a user regarding network equipment, it checks the status of the equipment in question. If there is a problem with the equipment, the server sends a replacement and notifies the user accordingly. If there is no problem, it notifies the user that the equipment is functioning normally.
[1297] Specific example:
[1298] If a user reports that their router is not working, the server checks the router's status. If a malfunction is detected, it ships a replacement router. The server then notifies the user that "there is a problem with your router. We are sending you a replacement."
[1299] Security Management
[1300] Program processing explanation:
[1301] When the server receives a security inquiry from a user, it checks the status of the security system. If a breach is detected, the server notifies the security team and informs the user accordingly. If a security alert is issued, the issue is escalated and reported to the user.
[1302] Specific example:
[1303] If a user reports that "there appears to be a suspicious person inside the store," the server checks the security system status, detects a breach, notifies the security team, and informs the user that "a security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team."
[1304] Ad management
[1305] Program processing explanation:
[1306] When the server receives an inquiry from a user regarding an advertisement, it checks the status of the advertisement. If the advertisement has expired, the server initiates the advertisement renewal process and notifies the user accordingly. If there is an error in the advertisement, the server corrects the error and notifies the user accordingly.
[1307] Specific example:
[1308] If a user reports that "the store's web ad is not showing," the server checks the ad's status, detects an error, performs corrective work, and notifies the user with "An error occurred with the ad. It has been fixed."
[1309] Store condition management
[1310] Program processing explanation:
[1311] When the server receives an inquiry from a user regarding the store's condition, it checks the store's status. If the status is determined to be poor, the server arranges maintenance and notifies the user accordingly. If the status is good, it notifies the user accordingly.
[1312] Specific example:
[1313] If a user inquires that "the store's interior is deteriorating," the server will check the store's condition. If it determines that the condition is poor, it will arrange maintenance and notify the user, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged."
[1314] The above describes the embodiments for carrying out the present invention. This makes it possible to respond quickly and efficiently to various problems in store operations.
[1315] The following describes the processing flow.
[1316] Specific processing flow for network management
[1317] Step 1:
[1318] The user sends a message to the server reporting issues such as "the network is slow" or "connection impossible."
[1319] Step 2:
[1320] The server calls the check_network_status(store_id) function to retrieve the store's network status.
[1321] Step 3:
[1322] The server checks the network status and determines whether it is "normal," "slow," or "down."
[1323] Step 4:
[1324] If the network is "down," the server calls the schedule_technician_visit(store_id) function to schedule a technician visit.
[1325] Step 5:
[1326] The server notifies the user that "the network is down. We have arranged for a technician to visit."
[1327] Step 6:
[1328] If the network is "slow," the server calls the adjust_bandwidth(store_id) function to adjust the bandwidth.
[1329] Step 7:
[1330] The server notifies the user, "The network is slow. We have adjusted the bandwidth."
[1331] Step 8:
[1332] If the network is "normal," the server will notify the user that "the network is working normally."
[1333] Specific processing flow for network device management
[1334] Step 1:
[1335] A user contacts the server to report network equipment problems, such as "the router is not working."
[1336] Step 2:
[1337] The server calls the check_device_status(store_id, device_name) function to retrieve the status of the device in question.
[1338] Step 3:
[1339] The server checks the status of the network equipment and determines whether it is "normal" or "failed."
[1340] Step 4:
[1341] If a device is "failed," the server calls the send_replacement_device(store_id, device_name) function to initiate the process of sending a replacement device.
[1342] Step 5:
[1343] The server notifies the user that "There is a problem with AA. We will send a replacement device."
[1344] Step 6:
[1345] If the device is "normal," the server will notify the user that "AA is working normally."
[1346] Specific process flow for security management
[1347] Step 1:
[1348] Users can contact the server with security-related inquiries, such as "There is a suspicious person present" or "An alarm has sounded."
[1349] Step 2:
[1350] The server calls the check_security_system(store_id) function to retrieve the status of the security system.
[1351] Step 3:
[1352] The server checks the security status and determines whether it is "normal," "warning," or "compromised."
[1353] Step 4:
[1354] If a security breach is detected, the server calls the notify_security_team(store_id) function to notify the security team.
[1355] Step 5:
[1356] The server reports to the user, "A security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team."
[1357] Step 6:
[1358] If a security "warning" occurs, the server calls the escalate_issue(store_id) function to escalate the issue and report it to the administrator.
[1359] Step 7:
[1360] The server notifies the user that "A security alert has been issued. The issue has been escalated."
[1361] Step 8:
[1362] If security is "normal," the server will notify the user that "the security system is working correctly."
[1363] Specific process flow for ad management
[1364] Step 1:
[1365] Users contact the server with inquiries about advertising issues, such as "Web ads for stores are not showing."
[1366] Step 2:
[1367] The server calls the check_ad_status(store_id) function to retrieve the status of the ad.
[1368] Step 3:
[1369] The server checks the status of the advertisement and determines whether it is "normal," "error," or "expired."
[1370] Step 4:
[1371] If an ad has expired, the server calls the `renew_advertisement(store_id)` function to renew the ad.
[1372] Step 5:
[1373] The server notifies the user that "Your ad has expired. We have initiated the renewal process."
[1374] Step 6:
[1375] If an "error" occurs in the advertisement, the server calls the fix_advertisement(store_id) function to correct the error.
[1376] Step 7:
[1377] The server notifies the user that "An error occurred with the advertisement. We have fixed it."
[1378] Step 8:
[1379] If the ad is "normal," the server notifies the user that "the ad is displaying correctly."
[1380] Specific processing steps for store condition management
[1381] Step 1:
[1382] Users contact the server with inquiries about issues such as "the store's interior is deteriorating" or "the exterior is dirty."
[1383] Step 2:
[1384] The server calls the check_store_condition(store_id) function to retrieve the store's status.
[1385] Step 3:
[1386] The server checks the store's status and determines whether it is "good" or "bad."
[1387] Step 4:
[1388] If the store's condition is determined to be "poor," the server calls the schedule_maintenance(store_id) function to arrange maintenance.
[1389] Step 5:
[1390] The server notifies the user that "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged."
[1391] Step 6:
[1392] If the store's status is "good," the server will notify the user that "the store's status is good."
[1393] The above explains each processing step and its specific operation, broken down step by step. This allows for a detailed understanding of how the system handles user inquiries.
[1394] (Example 1)
[1395] Next, we will describe Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the headset-type terminal 314 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[1396] In store operations, efficient management of numerous factors is required, including network stability, proper functioning of network equipment, security maintenance, appropriate display of advertisements, and management of the store's internal environment. Currently, managing these factors is time-consuming and labor-intensive, and it is often difficult to respond quickly when problems arise. Therefore, a system is needed that can manage these factors in an integrated and efficient manner and respond to problems quickly and appropriately.
[1397] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[1398] In this invention, the server includes means for monitoring the status of the network, means for scheduling visits by technicians based on the status of the network, means for adjusting the bandwidth of the network, means for providing notifications to users according to the status of the network, means for monitoring the status of network equipment, means for sending replacement equipment based on the status of the network equipment, means for providing notifications to users according to the status of the network equipment, means for monitoring the status of the security system, means for notifying the security team based on the status of the security system, means for escalating problems in the security system, means for providing notifications to users according to the status of the security system, means for monitoring the status of advertisements, means for updating advertisements based on the status of advertisements, means for correcting errors in advertisements, means for providing notifications to users according to the status of advertisements, means for monitoring the internal environment of a store, means for arranging maintenance based on the status of the store, and means for providing notifications to users according to the status of the store. This enables the integrated processing of various management elements in store operations and allows for quick and appropriate problem solving.
[1399] "Means for monitoring network status" refers to methods and devices for monitoring network connectivity and performance and detecting anomalies.
[1400] "Methods for scheduling technician visits" refer to methods or systems that automatically plan and manage technician visits when networks or equipment are experiencing problems.
[1401] "Means for adjusting network bandwidth" refers to methods or devices for dynamically controlling and adjusting the data transmission speed and available bandwidth of a network.
[1402] "Means of providing notifications to users" refers to methods or devices for sending notifications to users regarding the status of systems or equipment, or the occurrence of problems, and providing them with information.
[1403] "Means for monitoring the status of network devices" refers to methods or devices for monitoring the operating status of network devices such as routers and switches and detecting abnormalities.
[1404] "Means of sending replacement equipment" refers to methods or systems for sending replacement equipment to users when a faulty network device is detected.
[1405] "Means of monitoring the status of security systems" refers to methods and devices for monitoring the status of security systems in stores or networks and detecting anomalies or intrusions.
[1406] "Means of notifying the security team" refers to methods or systems for notifying the security team of information when the security system detects an anomaly.
[1407] "Methods for escalating problems" refer to methods or systems for transferring high-priority or difficult-to-solve problems to senior personnel or specific teams and requesting them to take action.
[1408] "Means of monitoring the status of advertisements" refers to methods or devices for monitoring the status of online and offline advertisements and detecting errors or expirations.
[1409] "Means of updating advertisements" refers to methods or systems for automatically updating advertisements that have expired or require content updates.
[1410] "Means of monitoring the internal environment of a store" refers to methods or devices for monitoring and checking the condition of the environment inside a store (e.g., temperature, humidity, illuminance, etc.).
[1411] "Means of arranging maintenance" refers to methods or systems for planning and arranging maintenance work when the condition of a store or equipment deteriorates.
[1412] The system of the present invention is designed to integrate and process multiple management elements in store operations, enabling rapid and appropriate problem resolution. This system can integrate network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management.
[1413] Network Management
[1414] Program processing explanation:
[1415] The server monitors the network status using Nagios. If the network goes down, it uses the Google Calendar API to schedule a technician's visit and notifies the user. If the network is slow, the server adjusts the bandwidth using QoS (Quality of Service) and notifies the user when the adjustment is complete.
[1416] Specific example:
[1417] When a user reports that they cannot connect to the network, the server checks the network status using Nagios. If it determines that the network is down, it uses the Google Calendar API to arrange for a technician to visit and sends a notification to the user saying, "The network is down. A technician has been scheduled to visit."
[1418] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[1419] "Please generate example code that demonstrates appropriate responses when the network is unavailable."
[1420] Network Device Management
[1421] Program processing explanation:
[1422] The server monitors the status of network devices using SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol). If there is a problem with a device, the server orders a replacement and notifies the user.
[1423] Specific example:
[1424] If a user reports that "the router is not working," the server checks the router's status using SNMP. If a malfunction is detected, it orders a replacement router and sends a notification to the user stating, "There is a problem with your router. We are sending you a replacement device."
[1425] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[1426] "Please generate example code for checking the status of network devices using SNMP."
[1427] Security Management
[1428] Program processing explanation:
[1429] The server monitors the security system status using "Suricata." If a breach is detected, the server notifies the security team using the "Slack" API and reports to the user.
[1430] Specific example:
[1431] If a user reports that "there appears to be a suspicious person inside the store," the server checks the security system status using "Suricata," and if a breach is detected, it notifies the security team using the "Slack" API and sends a report to the user stating, "A security breach has been detected. The security team has been notified."
[1432] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[1433] "Generate example code for detecting security breaches using an intrusion detection system."
[1434] Ad management
[1435] Program processing explanation:
[1436] The server monitors the status of the ads using the Google Ad Manager API. If there are errors in the ads, the server corrects the errors and notifies the user.
[1437] Specific example:
[1438] If a user reports that a store's web ad is not displaying, the server uses the Google Ad Manager API to check the ad's status, detects any errors, makes corrections, and sends a notification to the user stating, "An error occurred with your ad. It has been fixed."
[1439] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[1440] "Use the Google Ad Manager API to check the status of your ads and generate example code to fix any errors."
[1441] Store condition management
[1442] Program processing explanation:
[1443] The server monitors the store's internal environment using IoT sensors. If the server determines that the store is in poor condition, it uses the Trello API to create a maintenance task and notifies the user.
[1444] Specific example:
[1445] If a user reports that "the store's interior is deteriorating," the server uses IoT sensors to check the store's condition. If it determines that the condition is poor, it uses the Trello API to create a maintenance task and sends a notification to the user saying, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged."
[1446] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[1447] "Generate example code for using IoT sensors to monitor the store's condition and arrange maintenance if problems arise."
[1448] The above describes the embodiments for carrying out the present invention. This makes it possible to integrate and process various management elements in store operations and solve problems quickly and appropriately.
[1449] The flow of the specific processing in Example 1 will be explained using Figure 11.
[1450] Network Management
[1451] Program processing flow
[1452] Step 1:
[1453] A user reports a network problem. The input is information about the problem the user is reporting, such as "the network is not connecting." The output is a trigger step that checks the network status.
[1454] Step 2:
[1455] The server uses Nagios to monitor the network status. The input is network problem reports from users, and the output is information about the current state of the network. At this stage, the server checks the ping response time and packet loss rate to determine if the network is down.
[1456] Step 3:
[1457] The server evaluates the network status. The input is data from "Nagios," and the output is the result of determining whether the network is down or delayed. If the network is down, the server proceeds to the next step.
[1458] Step 4:
[1459] If the server detects a network outage, it will use the Google Calendar API to schedule a technician visit. The input is the result of the downtime detection, and the output is the scheduled technician visit information.
[1460] Step 5:
[1461] The server notifies the user of a technician visit. The input is the technician visit schedule information, and the output is the notification content sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user stating, "The network is down. A technician visit has been arranged."
[1462] Step 6:
[1463] When the server detects network latency, it adjusts the QoS (Quality of Service) settings. The input is the latency status determination result, and the output is the adjusted bandwidth information. At this stage, the server enables QoS and reallocates bandwidth to higher-priority traffic.
[1464] Step 7:
[1465] The server notifies the user that bandwidth adjustment is complete. The input is the network status information after adjustment, and the output is the notification sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user stating, "Network bandwidth has been adjusted."
[1466] Network Device Management
[1467] Program processing flow
[1468] Step 1:
[1469] A user reports a problem with a network device. The input is information reported by the user, such as "the router is not working." The output is a trigger step that checks the router's status.
[1470] Step 2:
[1471] The server uses SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) to check the router's status. The input is a device problem report from the user, and the output is the current router status information. At this stage, the server checks SNMP traps and OIDs to confirm the router's operational status and error status.
[1472] Step 3:
[1473] The server detects a router failure. The input is data from SNMP, and the output is the result of the failure status determination. The server analyzes the error message and status code to determine whether the device is malfunctioning.
[1474] Step 4:
[1475] If the server detects a failure, it orders a replacement router. The input is the failure status determination result, and the output is the order information for the replacement equipment. Specifically, the server automatically arranges for the order of a new router.
[1476] Step 5:
[1477] The server notifies the user that replacement equipment has been shipped. The input is information indicating that the shipping arrangements have been completed, and the output is the notification sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user stating, "There is a problem with the router. We are sending replacement equipment."
[1478] Security Management
[1479] Program processing flow
[1480] Step 1:
[1481] A user reports a security issue. The input is information reported by the user, such as "It appears there is a suspicious person inside the store." The output is a trigger step that checks the status of the security system.
[1482] Step 2:
[1483] The server uses "Suricata" to monitor the status of the security system. The input is security issue reports from users, and the output is information about the current status of the security system. At this stage, the server analyzes the alert logs to detect intrusions and abnormal behavior.
[1484] Step 3:
[1485] The server detects the breach. The input is data from Suricata, and the output is the result of the breach status determination. The server determines whether or not a breach has occurred based on log data and alert messages.
[1486] Step 4:
[1487] If the server detects a breach, it will notify the security team using the Slack API. The input is the result of the breach determination, and the output is the notification information for the security team. Specifically, the server will automatically send a Slack message.
[1488] Step 5:
[1489] The server notifies the user of the detected breach. The input is the notification completion information to the security team, and the output is the content of the notification to the user. Specifically, the server sends a report to the user stating, "A security breach has been detected. The security team has been notified."
[1490] Ad management
[1491] Program processing flow
[1492] Step 1:
[1493] A user reports an ad problem. The input is information the user reports, such as "The store's web ad is not showing." The output is a trigger step that checks the status of the ad.
[1494] Step 2:
[1495] The server uses the Google Ad Manager API to check the status of the ads. The input is ad problem reports from users, and the output is current ad status information. At this stage, the server checks the ad delivery status and error logs.
[1496] Step 3:
[1497] The server detects ad errors. The input is data from Google Ad Manager, and the output is the result of the error status determination. The server analyzes the error message and status code to determine if there is an error in the ad.
[1498] Step 4:
[1499] If the server detects an error, it will perform ad correction work. The input is the result of the error status determination, and the output is the ad status information after correction. The server will automatically correct the error and resume ad delivery.
[1500] Step 5:
[1501] The server notifies the user that the fix is complete. The input is information about the completion of the fix, and the output is the notification sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user saying, "An error occurred in the advertisement. Fixes have been made."
[1502] Store condition management
[1503] Program processing flow
[1504] Step 1:
[1505] A user reports a problem with the store's condition. The input is information reported by the user, such as "The store's interior is deteriorating." The output is a trigger step that checks the store's condition.
[1506] Step 2:
[1507] The server uses IoT sensors to monitor the internal environment of the store. The input is user reports of store condition problems, and the output is information on the current store status. At this stage, the server collects sensor data (temperature, humidity, illuminance, etc.) and evaluates the store's condition.
[1508] Step 3:
[1509] The server evaluates the condition of the store. The input is data from IoT sensors, and the output is the result of the store's deterioration status. The server analyzes the condition based on the collected sensor data and determines whether the condition is poor.
[1510] Step 4:
[1511] If the server determines that it is in poor condition, it will use the Trello API to create a maintenance task. The input is the result of the deterioration status determination, and the output is the information for creating the maintenance task. Specifically, the server will automatically generate a task in Trello and set a maintenance schedule.
[1512] Step 5:
[1513] The server notifies the user that maintenance arrangements have been completed. The input is information indicating that the maintenance task has been created, and the output is the notification sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user stating, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged."
[1514] (Application Example 1)
[1515] Next, we will explain Application Example 1. In the following explanation, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the headset-type terminal 314 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[1516] Modern retail operations face a wide range of challenges, including network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management. These challenges are often managed individually, making efficient and rapid problem-solving difficult. Furthermore, delays in addressing these issues can disrupt store operations. Therefore, a system is needed that integrates these diverse management tasks and detects and responds to problems in real time.
[1517] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[1518] In this invention, the server includes means for monitoring the status of the network, means for scheduling expert visits based on the status of the network, means for adjusting the bandwidth of the network, means for providing notifications to users in accordance with the status of the network, means for monitoring the conditions inside the store with sensors, means for arranging maintenance work based on the sensor data, and means for notifying users of the status of maintenance arrangements. This makes it possible to integrate and efficiently manage the network, manage network equipment, manage security, manage advertising, and manage the condition of the store.
[1519] "Network status" refers to the overall operational status of the network, including internet connectivity, internal network connectivity, bandwidth utilization, and latency.
[1520] "A means of scheduling expert visits" refers to a process that automatically sets the date and time for technicians or experts to visit and resolve problems that occur with the network or equipment.
[1521] "Means of adjusting network bandwidth" refers to functions that adjust the amount of data transmitted or received in order to optimize network performance.
[1522] "Means of providing notifications to users" refers to means of informing users about various decisions and processing results made by the system, as well as the status of responses in the event of a problem.
[1523] "Means of monitoring the conditions inside the store using sensors" refers to a function that continuously monitors environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, and vibration, as well as the condition of equipment inside the store, using sensors.
[1524] "Means of arranging maintenance work" refers to the process of dispatching workers and creating work plans to carry out necessary repairs and inspections when problems occur with the equipment or environment within a store.
[1525] "Network device status" refers to the state of whether network devices such as routers, switches, modems, and wireless access points are functioning correctly.
[1526] "Means of sending replacement equipment" refers to the function of arranging for the delivery of new equipment to the user in the event of a network equipment failure.
[1527] "Security system status" refers to the state of security equipment such as surveillance cameras, door sensors, and alarm systems, indicating whether they are functioning properly.
[1528] "Means of notifying the security management team" refers to a means of informing specialized security staff of the situation when a problem occurs with the security system.
[1529] "Methods for escalating a problem" refers to the process of promptly reporting a specific problem to a senior person or manager and requesting action.
[1530] This invention provides a system that integrates network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management related to the operation of physical stores. This system is equipped with means for responding to various problems efficiently and in a timely manner.
[1531] Network Management
[1532] The server monitors the network status. Specifically, it continuously monitors the network status using Amazon Web Services (AWS) Lambda and CloudWatch. If the network is down, the server automatically schedules a visit from a technician and notifies the user. If network bandwidth needs to be adjusted, the server also automatically handles the process and notifies the user.
[1533] Specific example:
[1534] If a user reports that they cannot connect to the network, the server checks the network status and, if a problem is found, arranges for a technician to visit and notifies the user with the message, "The network is down. A technician has been scheduled to visit."
[1535] Network Device Management
[1536] The server also monitors the status of network devices. Using AWS IoT services and DynamoDB, it continuously monitors the status of network devices and automatically initiates the process of delivering new equipment if a problem occurs.
[1537] Specific example:
[1538] If a user reports that their router is not working, the server checks the router's status and, if a malfunction is detected, sends a replacement device. The server then notifies the user that "there is a problem with your router. A replacement device will be sent."
[1539] Security Management
[1540] The server monitors the security system's status. Specifically, it uses AWS Rekognition to analyze surveillance camera footage and, if it detects an intruder, uses Amazon Simple Notification Service (SNS) to notify the security team and users.
[1541] Specific example:
[1542] If a user reports that "there appears to be an intruder inside the store," the server checks the security system, detects an intrusion, notifies the security team, and informs the user that "a security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team."
[1543] Ad management
[1544] The server checks the status of the ads and, if necessary, uses the Google Ads API to correct errors or update the ads. If applicable, it also notifies the user using AWS Simple Email Service (SES).
[1545] Specific example:
[1546] If a user reports that "the store's web ad is not showing," the server checks the ad's status, corrects the error, and notifies the user that "an error occurred with the ad. It has been fixed."
[1547] Store condition management
[1548] The server monitors the store's status using sensors. It utilizes AWS Greengrass and IoT sensor data to arrange maintenance work and notify users if a problem occurs.
[1549] Specific example:
[1550] If a user inquires that "the store's interior is deteriorating," the server will check the store's condition and arrange for maintenance. It will then notify the user that "the store is in poor condition and maintenance has been arranged."
[1551] Examples of specific cases and prompt statements
[1552] Various actions can be taken with the generated AI model by using prompt statements like the following.
[1553] Question: What should I do if I can't connect to the network?
[1554] Answer: Check the network status, and if it's down, arrange for a technician to visit and notify the user with "The network is down. A technician has been scheduled to visit."
[1555]
[1556] Question: What should I do if the interior of a store is deteriorating?
[1557] Answer: Sensors monitor the store's status, and if a problem occurs, the server automatically arranges maintenance and notifies the user with the message, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged."
[1558] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 1 will be explained using Figure 12.
[1559] Step 1:
[1560] The server monitors the network status. The hardware and software used are Amazon Web Services (AWS) Lambda and CloudWatch. CloudWatch monitors network connectivity and bandwidth utilization, and Lambda receives this data. The input is network status metrics data, and the output is network health information.
[1561] Step 2:
[1562] A user inquires about a network problem through a smartphone app. The server receives the user's request and network health information as input. The server checks whether the network is down and determines the next action based on the result. The output indicates whether or not there is a network anomaly.
[1563] Step 3:
[1564] If the server network is down, an AWS Lambda function automatically sets up a specialist visit schedule using AWS Step Functions. This scheduling information is then notified to the user. The input is the network anomaly detection result, and the output is the visit schedule setting information.
[1565] Step 4:
[1566] If network bandwidth is insufficient, the server will reallocate bandwidth through an AWS Lambda function. The input is bandwidth usage data, and the output is the adjusted bandwidth configuration information.
[1567] Step 5:
[1568] The server monitors the status of network devices. The hardware and software used are AWS IoT and DynamoDB. AWS IoT continuously monitors the operational status of network devices and records the status information in DynamoDB. The input is network device status data, and the output is device health information.
[1569] Step 6:
[1570] When a user reports a problem with network equipment, the server checks for the equipment's health information and, if a failure is detected, automatically arranges for replacement equipment to be sent via AWS SNS. The input is the equipment's health status information, and the output is the information regarding the arrangement for sending replacement equipment.
[1571] Step 7:
[1572] The server monitors the status of the security system. The hardware and software used are AWS Rekognition and Amazon SNS. Rekognition analyzes surveillance camera footage and notifies SNS of any detected suspicious individuals. The input is surveillance camera footage data, and the output is notification information about detected suspicious individuals.
[1573] Step 8:
[1574] When a user reports a security issue, the server checks the status of the security system, notifies the security team if a problem exists, and also informs the user. The input is the detection information of the problem, and the output is the notification information to the security team and the user.
[1575] Step 9:
[1576] The server checks the operational status of the ads and corrects ad errors using the Google Ads API. The input is the ad error log data, and the output is the corrected ad information.
[1577] Step 10:
[1578] If a user reports a problem with the status of an ad, the server checks the progress of error correction and notifies the user via AWS SES. The input is the progress of error correction, and the output is the notification information for the user.
[1579] Step 11:
[1580] A server monitors the conditions within the store. The hardware and software used are AWS Greengrass and IoT sensors. Greengrass aggregates the data collected by the sensors to determine the store's health. The input is environmental sensor data, and the output is store health information.
[1581] Step 12:
[1582] When a user reports a problem within a store, the server checks the store's status based on sensor data, arranges necessary maintenance work using AWS Step Functions, and notifies the user of its progress. The input is store health information, and the output is maintenance work arrangements and user notifications.
[1583] Furthermore, an emotion engine that estimates the user's emotions may be incorporated. That is, the identification processing unit 290 may use the emotion identification model 59 to estimate the user's emotions and perform identification processing using the user's emotions.
[1584] System Overview
[1585] This invention relates to a system that integrates network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management in store operations. In particular, by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the emotional state of users and takes appropriate action based on the analysis results, it achieves a more effective and rapid response.
[1586] Network Management
[1587] Program processing explanation:
[1588] The server receives network-related inquiries from users. First, it monitors the network status and schedules technician visits based on that status. It also adjusts network bandwidth appropriately. Finally, it analyzes the user's emotional state using a user emotion engine and provides the user with appropriate notifications.
[1589] Specific example:
[1590] When a user reports that their network is slow, the server checks the network status and adjusts the bandwidth. Then, the emotion engine analyzes the user's emotional state (e.g., frustration or anxiety) and notifies them with a message such as, "Your network is slow. We have adjusted the bandwidth. Please rest assured."
[1591] Network Device Management
[1592] Program processing explanation:
[1593] The server receives inquiries from users regarding network equipment. It checks the status of the equipment in question and, if a malfunction occurs, sends a replacement. Furthermore, it uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state and adjusts the notification content based on the results.
[1594] Specific example:
[1595] If a user reports that their router is not working, the server will check for a router malfunction and send a replacement. An emotion engine will analyze the user's anxiety and frustration and notify them with a message such as, "There is a problem with your router. We have sent a replacement. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[1596] Security Management
[1597] Program processing explanation:
[1598] The server receives security-related inquiries from users. It checks the status of the security system and notifies the security team if a breach is detected. It also uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state and optimize notifications and responses.
[1599] Specific example:
[1600] If a user reports a "suspicious person," the server checks the security system and notifies the security team if a breach is detected. The emotion engine analyzes the user's emotions (e.g., fear) and reports, "A security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team. Please rest assured."
[1601] Ad management
[1602] Program processing explanation:
[1603] The server receives inquiries from users regarding advertisements. It checks the status of the advertisements and takes appropriate action if errors or expirations occur. It also uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state and adjusts the notification content based on the results.
[1604] Specific example:
[1605] If a user reports that "the store's web ad isn't showing," the server checks for ad errors and performs corrective work. The emotion engine analyzes the user's frustration and notifies them with a message such as, "There was an error with the ad. We have fixed it. We apologize for the delay."
[1606] Store condition management
[1607] Program processing explanation:
[1608] The server receives inquiries from users regarding store conditions. It checks the store status and arranges maintenance as needed. It also uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state and adjusts the notification content based on the results.
[1609] Specific example:
[1610] If a user inquires that "the store's interior is deteriorating," the server checks the store's condition and arranges maintenance. The emotion engine analyzes the user's dissatisfaction and notifies them with a message such as, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[1611] The above describes an embodiment of the present invention that combines an emotion engine. This enables quick and effective responses to various problems in store operations, and allows for responses that take into consideration the user's emotions.
[1612] The following describes the processing flow.
[1613] Specific processing flow for network management
[1614] Step 1:
[1615] The user sends a message to the server reporting issues such as "the network is slow" or "connection impossible."
[1616] Step 2:
[1617] The server calls the `check_network_status(store_id)` function to monitor the network status and retrieve the store's network status.
[1618] Step 3:
[1619] The server checks the network status and determines whether it is "normal," "slow," or "down."
[1620] Step 4:
[1621] If the network is "down," the server calls the schedule_technician_visit(store_id) function to schedule a technician visit.
[1622] Step 5:
[1623] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[1624] Step 6:
[1625] Based on the user's emotional state, the server notifies them with the message, "The network is down. We have arranged for a technician to visit. Please rest assured."
[1626] Step 7:
[1627] If the network is "slow," the server calls the adjust_bandwidth(store_id) function to adjust the bandwidth.
[1628] Step 8:
[1629] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[1630] Step 9:
[1631] Based on the user's emotional state, the server will notify them with a message such as, "The network is slow. We have adjusted the bandwidth. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[1632] Step 10:
[1633] If the network is "normal," the server will notify the user that "the network is working normally."
[1634] Specific processing flow for network device management
[1635] Step 1:
[1636] A user contacts the server to report network equipment problems, such as "the router is not working."
[1637] Step 2:
[1638] The server calls the check_device_status(store_id, device_name) function to retrieve the status of the device in question.
[1639] Step 3:
[1640] The server checks the status of the network equipment and determines whether it is "normal" or "failed."
[1641] Step 4:
[1642] If a device is "failed," the server calls the send_replacement_device(store_id, device_name) function to initiate the process of sending a replacement device.
[1643] Step 5:
[1644] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[1645] Step 6:
[1646] Based on the user's emotional state, the server notifies them with the message, "There is a problem with your router. We will send you a replacement. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[1647] Step 7:
[1648] If the device is "normal," the server will notify the user that "the router is working normally."
[1649] Specific process flow for security management
[1650] Step 1:
[1651] Users can contact the server with security-related inquiries, such as "There is a suspicious person present" or "An alarm has sounded."
[1652] Step 2:
[1653] The server calls the check_security_system(store_id) function to retrieve the status of the security system.
[1654] Step 3:
[1655] The server checks the security status and determines whether it is "normal," "warning," or "compromised."
[1656] Step 4:
[1657] If a security breach is detected, the server calls the notify_security_team(store_id) function to notify the security team.
[1658] Step 5:
[1659] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[1660] Step 6:
[1661] Based on the user's emotional state, the server reports, "A security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team. Please rest assured."
[1662] Step 7:
[1663] If a security "warning" occurs, the server calls the escalate_issue(store_id) function to escalate the issue and report it to the administrator.
[1664] Step 8:
[1665] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[1666] Step 9:
[1667] Based on the user's emotional state, the server notifies them with a message such as, "A security alert has been issued. The issue has escalated. Please rest assured."
[1668] Step 10:
[1669] If security is "normal," the server will notify the user that "the security system is working correctly."
[1670] Specific process flow for ad management
[1671] Step 1:
[1672] Users contact the server with inquiries about advertising issues, such as "Web ads for stores are not showing."
[1673] Step 2:
[1674] The server calls the check_ad_status(store_id) function to retrieve the status of the ad.
[1675] Step 3:
[1676] The server checks the status of the advertisement and determines whether it is "normal," "error," or "expired."
[1677] Step 4:
[1678] If an ad has expired, the server calls the `renew_advertisement(store_id)` function to renew the ad.
[1679] Step 5:
[1680] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[1681] Step 6:
[1682] Based on the user's emotional state, the server will notify them with the message, "Your ad has expired. We have renewed it. We apologize for any inconvenience."
[1683] Step 7:
[1684] If an "error" occurs in the advertisement, the server calls the fix_advertisement(store_id) function to correct the error.
[1685] Step 8:
[1686] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[1687] Step 9:
[1688] Based on the user's emotional state, the server notifies them with the message, "An error occurred with the advertisement. We have fixed it. We apologize for the delay."
[1689] Step 10:
[1690] If the ad is "normal," the server notifies the user that "the ad is displaying correctly."
[1691] Specific processing steps for store condition management
[1692] Step 1:
[1693] Users contact the server with inquiries about issues such as "the store's interior is deteriorating" or "the exterior is dirty."
[1694] Step 2:
[1695] The server calls the check_store_condition(store_id) function to retrieve the store's status.
[1696] Step 3:
[1697] The server checks the store's status and determines whether it is "good" or "bad."
[1698] Step 4:
[1699] If the store's condition is determined to be "poor," the server calls the schedule_maintenance(store_id) function to arrange maintenance.
[1700] Step 5:
[1701] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional state.
[1702] Step 6:
[1703] Based on the user's emotional state, the server will notify them with the message, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[1704] Step 7:
[1705] If the store's status is "good," the server will notify the user that "the store's status is good."
[1706] The above describes an embodiment of the present invention that combines an emotion engine. This enables quick and effective responses to various problems in store operations, and allows for responses that take into consideration the user's emotions.
[1707] (Example 2)
[1708] Next, we will describe Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the headset-type terminal 314 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[1709] Traditional store operations have made it difficult to respond quickly and appropriately to user complaints and inquiries regarding network management, equipment management, and security. Furthermore, responses tailored to the user's emotional state were not considered, making it challenging to improve customer satisfaction.
[1710] The identification processing performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for monitoring the network status, means for scheduling technician visits based on the network status, means for adjusting the network bandwidth, means for analyzing the user's emotional state using an emotion analysis engine, and means for providing notifications to the user in accordance with the network status and the user's emotional state. This makes it possible to take a quick and appropriate action while taking the user's emotional state into consideration.
[1711] "Means of monitoring network status" refers to a system or function for checking the status of devices and traffic on a network in real time and detecting anomalies.
[1712] "Means for scheduling technician visits" refers to a system or function that automatically plans and adjusts the schedule of technician visits necessary to address network problems or anomalies when they are detected.
[1713] "Means of adjusting network bandwidth" refers to a system or function that controls bandwidth to optimally distribute network traffic load and improve network speed and quality.
[1714] "Means of analyzing a user's emotional state using an emotion analysis engine" refers to a system or function that analyzes the content of user inquiries and feedback and evaluates the user's emotions (joy, frustration, anxiety, etc.) from that context.
[1715] "Means of providing users with notifications tailored to the network status and user emotional state" refers to a system or function that notifies users of the most appropriate information and countermeasures, taking into account the actual network status and user emotional state.
[1716] "Means of monitoring the status of network devices" refers to a system or function that checks the operating status of network devices such as routers and switches in real time and detects abnormalities or failures.
[1717] "Means of sending replacement equipment" refers to a system or function that accurately identifies a faulty network device and promptly sends a replacement device to the user.
[1718] "Means of monitoring the status of security systems" refers to a system or function that monitors security-related logs and events within a network in real time to detect anomalies or breaches.
[1719] "Means of notifying the security team" refers to a system or function that quickly notifies security personnel or teams of information when a network security issue is detected.
[1720] "Means of escalating security system issues" refers to a system or function that, depending on the severity of the detected security issue, hands it over to senior administrators or a specialized team.
[1721] System Overview
[1722] This invention relates to a system that integrates network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management in store operations. In particular, by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the emotional state of users and takes appropriate action based on the analysis results, it achieves a more effective and rapid response.
[1723] Network Management
[1724] Program processing explanation:
[1725] The server receives network-related inquiries from users. The required hardware is a server device, and the software includes a network monitoring system (e.g., Nagios, Zabbix) and an automated bandwidth management system (e.g., NtopNG). The server uses these tools to monitor network conditions and schedule technician visits. It also adjusts network bandwidth and analyzes user sentiment using a user sentiment analysis engine (e.g., IBM Watson Tone Analyzer), thereby providing appropriate notifications to the user.
[1726] Specific example:
[1727] When a user reports that their network is slow, the server uses Nagios to check the network status and adjusts the bandwidth using NtopNG if necessary. Then, IBM Watson Tone Analyzer analyzes the user's emotional state (e.g., frustration or anxiety) and notifies them with a message saying, "Your network is slow. We have adjusted the bandwidth. Please rest assured."
[1728] Examples of prompts to input into a generative AI model:
[1729] "A user has reported a network problem. Please check the current network status and create a response that reflects the user's feelings."
[1730] Network Device Management
[1731] Program processing explanation:
[1732] The server receives inquiries from users regarding network equipment. The hardware required is also server equipment, and the software used is a network management tool (e.g., SolarWinds, PRTG). The server checks the status of the equipment and sends a replacement if a malfunction occurs. An emotion engine is used to analyze the user's emotional state, and the notification content is adjusted based on the results.
[1733] Specific example:
[1734] If a user reports that their router is not working, the server will use SolarWinds to check for router failure and automatically arrange for a replacement. An emotion engine will analyze the user's anxiety and frustration and notify them with a message such as, "There is a problem with your router. A replacement has been sent. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[1735] Examples of prompts to input into a generative AI model:
[1736] "A user has reported a problem with a network device. Please check the status of the device and create a response that reflects the user's feelings."
[1737] Security Management
[1738] Program processing explanation:
[1739] The server receives security inquiries from users. The hardware required is similar to that of a server, and the software used is a security system (e.g., Splunk, Snort). The server monitors the security system's status and notifies the security team if a breach is detected. An emotion engine is used to analyze the user's emotional state and optimize notifications and responses.
[1740] Specific example:
[1741] If a user reports a "suspicious person," the server uses Splunk to check the security system and notifies the security team if a breach is detected. An emotion engine analyzes the user's fears and reports, "A security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team. Please rest assured."
[1742] Examples of prompts to input into a generative AI model:
[1743] "A user has reported a security issue. Please review the current security status and create a response that reflects the user's sentiment."
[1744] Ad management
[1745] Program processing explanation:
[1746] The server receives inquiries from users regarding advertisements. The hardware required is also server equipment, and the software used is an advertising management system (e.g., an online advertising management system). It checks the status of advertisements and takes appropriate action if errors or expirations occur. It analyzes the user's emotional state using an emotion engine and adjusts notification content based on the results.
[1747] Specific example:
[1748] If a user reports that "the store's web ad is not showing," the server checks the ad management system for errors and performs corrective work. The sentiment engine analyzes the user's frustration and notifies them with a message such as, "There was an error with the ad. We have fixed it. We apologize for the delay."
[1749] Examples of prompts to input into a generative AI model:
[1750] "A user has reported an issue with an ad. Please review the current ad status and create a response that reflects the user's sentiment."
[1751] Store condition management
[1752] Program processing explanation:
[1753] The server receives inquiries from users regarding the store's condition. The hardware required is similarly server equipment, and the software used is a store monitoring system (e.g., a building management system). It checks the store's status and arranges maintenance as needed. It analyzes the user's emotional state using an emotion engine and adjusts notifications based on the results.
[1754] Specific example:
[1755] If a user inquires that "the store's interior is deteriorating," the server uses the store monitoring system to check the store's condition and arrange maintenance as needed. The emotion engine analyzes the user's dissatisfaction and notifies them with a message such as, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged. We apologize for the inconvenience."
[1756] Examples of prompts to input into a generative AI model:
[1757] "A user has reported a problem with the store's condition. Please check the current store status and create a response that reflects the user's feelings."
[1758] Emotion engine and generative AI model
[1759] This system utilizes an emotion engine and a generative AI model to respond to user inquiries in real time. The emotion engine uses emotion analysis tools provided by a specific platform, while the generative AI model, for example, utilizes a large-scale language model to generate the most appropriate response to the user's inquiry.
[1760] This enables responses that take into account the user's emotional state, resulting in the delivery of prompt and appropriate services.
[1761] The flow of the specific processing in Example 2 will be explained using Figure 13.
[1762] Network Management
[1763] Step 1:
[1764] The server receives network-related inquiries from users. The user enters information from their terminal (e.g., "The network is slow"), which is then sent to the server. This input data includes the inquiry and the user's basic information. The server receives this information and initiates the query.
[1765] Input: User reports network problems
[1766] Output: Logging of query details and data transfer to the next step.
[1767] Step 2:
[1768] The server uses a network monitoring system (e.g., Nagios) to check the current network status. During this process, the server collects monitoring data from network devices and determines whether the network is functioning normally.
[1769] Input: Real-time data from a network monitoring system
[1770] Output: Network status diagnostic results
[1771] Step 3:
[1772] If a network anomaly is detected, the server automatically creates a technician visit schedule using the system's scheduling function. The information used includes the technician's availability and the user's location.
[1773] Input: Technician's schedule data and user's location information
[1774] Output: Schedule of engineer visits
[1775] Step 4:
[1776] The server uses an automated bandwidth management system (e.g., NtopNG) to adjust network bandwidth. This adjustment involves analyzing traffic data and reallocating bandwidth.
[1777] Input: Traffic data
[1778] Output: Improved network bandwidth settings
[1779] Step 5:
[1780] The server uses a sentiment analysis engine (e.g., IBM Watson Tone Analyzer) to analyze the user's inquiry text and evaluate the user's emotional state. In this step, the inquiry text is sent to the sentiment analysis engine and the returned sentiment data is received.
[1781] Input: User inquiry text
[1782] Output: User emotional state data
[1783] Step 6:
[1784] Based on the aforementioned analysis results, the server sends notifications to the user that are tailored to their emotional state and the current network conditions. The notification content is automatically generated, providing the user with an appropriate message.
[1785] Input: Network status data and user sentiment status data
[1786] Output: Notification message to the user
[1787] Network Device Management
[1788] Step 1:
[1789] The server receives inquiries from users regarding network equipment. The server receives information entered by the user from their terminal (e.g., "The router is not working").
[1790] Input: User reports of device problems
[1791] Output: Logging of query details and data transfer to the next step.
[1792] Step 2:
[1793] The server uses a network device management tool (e.g., SolarWinds) to check the status of the relevant device. It collects real-time device data from the management tool and determines whether it is functioning correctly.
[1794] Input: Data from network device management tool
[1795] Output: Device diagnostic results
[1796] Step 3:
[1797] If a failure is detected, the server will automatically arrange for the delivery of replacement equipment. The information used includes inventory status and the user's location.
[1798] Input: Inventory data and user location information
[1799] Output: Data confirming completion of arrangements for sending replacement equipment.
[1800] Step 4:
[1801] The server uses an emotion analysis engine to analyze the user's inquiry text and evaluate the user's emotions. The inquiry text is sent to the engine, and the server receives the returned emotion data.
[1802] Input: User inquiry text
[1803] Output: User emotional state data
[1804] Step 5:
[1805] The server creates and sends notifications to the user based on the device status and the user's emotional state. It uses automatically generated notification messages to provide users with appropriate notifications.
[1806] Input: Device diagnostic results and user emotional state data
[1807] Output: Notification message to the user
[1808] Security Management
[1809] Step 1:
[1810] The server receives security-related inquiries from users. The user's input from their device (e.g., "There is a suspicious person") is sent to the server.
[1811] Input: User report of a security issue
[1812] Output: Logging of query details and data transfer to the next step.
[1813] Step 2:
[1814] The server uses a security monitoring system (e.g., Splunk) to check the system's status. Log data from the monitoring system is analyzed to detect abnormal activity.
[1815] Input: Log data from security monitoring system
[1816] Output: Security status diagnostic results
[1817] Step 3:
[1818] If a breach is detected, the server will automatically send a notification to the security team. This notification will include detailed information about the anomaly and how to respond.
[1819] Input: Security status diagnostic results
[1820] Output: Notification to the security team
[1821] Step 4:
[1822] The server uses a sentiment analysis engine to analyze the user's inquiry text and evaluate its sentiment. It sends sentiment data to the engine and receives the returned sentiment data.
[1823] Input: User inquiry text
[1824] Output: User emotional state data
[1825] Step 5:
[1826] The server sends appropriate notifications to the user based on the security status and the user's emotional state. The generated notification message is used to inform the user of the appropriate course of action.
[1827] Input: Security status diagnostic results and user sentiment data
[1828] Output: Notification message to the user
[1829] (Application Example 2)
[1830] Next, we will explain application example 2. In the following explanation, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the headset-type terminal 314 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[1831] In conventional store management systems, network management, equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management are handled separately, requiring quick and effective responses to each issue. Furthermore, responses that do not take into account the emotional state of the user may lead to decreased customer satisfaction and misunderstandings. In addition, the lack of an integrated system for analyzing the emotional state of the user results in inefficient management of multiple tasks.
[1832] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means. In this invention, the server includes means for monitoring the network status, means for scheduling visits by technicians based on the network status, means for adjusting the network bandwidth, means for providing notifications to the user according to the network status, means for recognizing and analyzing the user's emotional state, and means for adjusting the notification content based on the emotional state. This enables the integration of various management systems and allows for a quick and effective response that takes into account the user's emotional state.
[1833] "Network status" refers to information that indicates the overall quality and performance of the network, including connectivity, speed, and data bandwidth.
[1834] "A means of scheduling visits by technicians" refers to a system for determining the date and time when a technician with specialized knowledge will visit the site in the event of a network anomaly being detected.
[1835] "Means of adjusting bandwidth" refer to mechanisms for optimizing network traffic volume in real time and adjusting the amount of data sent and received to maintain overall communication speed.
[1836] "Means of providing information to users" refers to a system for notifying users of information regarding the current network status and the status of problem resolution.
[1837] "Means for recognizing and analyzing emotional states" refers to technologies that automatically read and analyze emotions from a user's context, facial expressions, and statements.
[1838] "Means for adjusting notification content" refers to a system that generates and sends the most appropriate notification content or message to the user based on the analyzed emotional state of the user.
[1839] "Network device status" refers to information indicating the operating status and malfunction status of hardware such as routers, switches, and access points.
[1840] A "means for sending replacement equipment" refers to a system for sending replacement equipment to users when a failure or abnormality in network equipment is detected.
[1841] "Security system status" refers to information regarding the operational status of security equipment and systems in stores and facilities, as well as attempts at unauthorized access.
[1842] "Means of notifying the security team" refers to a mechanism for immediately notifying the security team of information in the event of an anomaly in the security system.
[1843] "Methods for escalating problems" refers to a system for reporting security issues requiring attention to higher-level administrators or specialized departments in stages, thereby enabling a swift response.
[1844] This invention relates to a system for supporting operations in physical stores, and aims to analyze user emotions and provide appropriate responses in network management, equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management.
[1845] System Overview
[1846] Hardware and software configuration
[1847] Smartphone: A device used to receive user inquiries.
[1848] Server: A central control unit for executing various management functions.
[1849] Emotion Recognition Library: A software library for analyzing a user's emotional state.
[1850] Network Management Library: A software library for monitoring network status and adjusting bandwidth.
[1851] Security Management Library: A software library for monitoring the status of security systems and notifying of problems when they occur.
[1852] Advertising Management Library: This is a software library for managing the display status of advertisements.
[1853] Maintenance Management Library: This is a software library for managing the condition of a store and performing necessary maintenance.
[1854] Notification Service: This service is used to notify users of information.
[1855] Processing Overview
[1856] User inquiry processing
[1857] 1. The server receives various inquiries from users.
[1858] 2. Use the Emotion Recognition Library to analyze the user's emotions from the content of the inquiry.
[1859] 3. Use the Network Management Library to check the network status and adjust bandwidth as needed.
[1860] 4. Check the security system status in the Security Management Library and notify if any abnormalities are found.
[1861] 5. Check for and correct any errors in the advertisements in the Advertising Management Library.
[1862] 6. Check the store's status in the Maintenance Management Library and arrange maintenance as needed.
[1863] 7. Adjust notification content based on the user's emotional state and send the most appropriate message to the user through the Notification Service.
[1864] Specific example
[1865] 1. Addressing network issues:
[1866] If a user reports a decrease in Wi-Fi speed, the server uses the Network Management Library to adjust the network bandwidth.
[1867] If the Emotion Recognition Library analyzes the user's emotion as "frustration," it will notify them with the message, "The network is slow. We have adjusted the bandwidth. Please rest assured."
[1868] 2. Addressing security issues:
[1869] If a user reports the presence of a suspicious person, the server uses the Security Management Library to check the status of the security system.
[1870] If a breach is detected, the security team will be notified with the message, "A security breach has been detected. The security team has been notified. Please rest assured."
[1871] Example of a prompt
[1872] "A user reported slow Wi-Fi. Their emotion is frustration. Please customize your response and message accordingly."
[1873] This will enable the system to integrate various management systems and respond quickly and effectively, taking into account the user's emotional state.
[1874] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 2 will be explained using Figure 14.
[1875] Step 1:
[1876] The server receives inquiries from users. Users use a dedicated application on their smartphones to send inquiries about network problems, security issues, etc. This inquiry data is entered into the server.
[1877] Step 2:
[1878] The server uses the Emotion Recognition Library to analyze the user's emotional state based on their inquiry. The user's text data serves as input, and the emotional analysis results are output.
[1879] Step 3:
[1880] Based on the analyzed emotional state, the server determines an initial response appropriate to the user's emotions. For example, if the user is irritated, a quick response is required.
[1881] Step 4:
[1882] The server calls the Network Management Library to monitor the network status. Its input is current network connection data, and its output includes network bandwidth and connection status.
[1883] Step 5:
[1884] The server analyzes network traffic and adjusts bandwidth as needed. It takes network status data as input and outputs the adjusted bandwidth settings. Specifically, it performs dynamic traffic control and reallocates bandwidth.
[1885] Step 6:
[1886] The server uses the Security Management Library to check the status of the security system. Data from security devices is used as input, and the overall security status of the system is output.
[1887] Step 7:
[1888] If a security anomaly is detected, the server immediately notifies the security team. Security anomaly data is entered, and a warning message is output. Specifically, automatic notification and escalation to the security team are initiated.
[1889] Step 8:
[1890] The server uses the Advertising Management Library to check for ad errors and correct any problems. Ad data is used as input, and the corrected state is output. Specifically, ad re-posting or corrections are performed.
[1891] Step 9:
[1892] The server uses the Maintenance Management Library to monitor the overall condition of the store. Store environment data is used as input, and necessary maintenance actions are output.
[1893] Step 10:
[1894] The server adjusts notification content based on the analyzed emotional state and sends the most appropriate message to the user through the Notification Service. User emotional data and various system status data are input, and a customized notification message is output.
[1895] This system enables prompt and emotionally sensitive responses to user inquiries, improving the efficiency of store operations.
[1896] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the headset terminal 314. In the headset terminal 314, the control unit 46A causes the speaker 240 and display 343 to output the result of the specific processing. The microphone 238 acquires audio indicating user input for the result of the specific processing. The control unit 46A transmits the audio data indicating user input acquired by the microphone 238 to the data processing unit 12. In the data processing unit 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the audio data.
[1897] Data generation model 58 is a type of so-called generative AI (Artificial Intelligence). One example of data generation model 58 is ChatGPT (Internet search<URL: https: / / openai.com / blog / chatgpt> ), Gemini (Internet search) <url: https: gemini.google.com ?hl="ja">Examples of generative AI include the following. The data generation model 58 is obtained by performing deep learning on a neural network. The data generation model 58 is input with prompts containing instructions, and with inference data such as audio data representing speech, text data representing text, and image data representing images. The data generation model 58 infers from the input inference data according to the instructions indicated by the prompts, and outputs the inference results in data formats such as audio data and text data. Here, inference refers to, for example, analysis, classification, prediction, and / or summarization.
[1898] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which specific processing is performed by the data processing device 12, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto, and specific processing may also be performed by the headset terminal 314.
[1899] [Fourth Embodiment]
[1900] Figure 7 shows an example of the configuration of the data processing system 410 according to the fourth embodiment.
[1901] As shown in Figure 7, the data processing system 410 includes a data processing device 12 and a robot 414. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.
[1902] The data processing device 12 comprises a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication interface 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" related to the technology of this disclosure. The computer 22 comprises a processor 28, RAM 30, and storage 32. The processor 28, RAM 30, and storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication interface 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication interface 26 is connected to a network 54. An example of the network 54 is a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).
[1903] The robot 414 includes a computer 36, a microphone 238, a speaker 240, a camera 42, a communication interface 44, and a controlled object 443. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, RAM 48, and storage 50. The processor 46, RAM 48, and storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The microphone 238, speaker 240, camera 42, and controlled object 443 are also connected to the bus 52.
[1904] The microphone 238 receives voice signals from the user 20 and receives instructions from the user 20. The microphone 238 captures the voice signals from the user 20, converts the captured voice into audio data, and outputs it to the processor 46. The speaker 240 outputs audio according to the instructions from the processor 46.
[1905] Camera 42 is a small digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an image sensor such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, and captures images of the area around the user 20 (for example, an imaging range defined by a field of view equivalent to the width of a typical healthy person's field of vision).
[1906] Communication interface 44 is connected to network 54. Communication interfaces 44 and 26 are responsible for the exchange of various information between processor 46 and processor 28 via network 54. The exchange of various information between processor 46 and processor 28 using communication interfaces 44 and 26 is performed in a secure manner.
[1907] The controlled object 443 includes a display device, LEDs in the eyes, and motors that drive the arms, hands, and feet. The posture and gestures of the robot 414 are controlled by controlling the motors of the arms, hands, and feet. Some of the robot 414's emotions can be expressed by controlling these motors. Furthermore, the robot 414's facial expressions can also be expressed by controlling the illumination state of the LEDs in its eyes.
[1908] Figure 8 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the robot 414. As shown in Figure 8, the data processing device 12 performs specific processing using the processor 28. The storage 32 stores the specific processing program 56.
[1909] The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" relating to the technology of this disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific processing is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.
[1910] The storage 32 stores the data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.
[1911] In robot 414, the processor 46 performs the reception output processing. The storage 50 stores the reception output program 60. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output processing is realized by the processor 46 operating as a control unit 46A according to the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.
[1912] Next, the specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 will be described. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the robot 414 as the "terminal".
[1913] System Overview
[1914] This invention relates to a system that integrates network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management in store operations. This system provides a means for responding to various problems efficiently and in a timely manner.
[1915] Network Management
[1916] Program processing explanation:
[1917] When the server receives a network-related inquiry from a user, it first monitors the network status. If the network is down, the server schedules a technician visit and notifies the user. If the network is slow, the server adjusts the bandwidth and reports to the user when the adjustment is complete.
[1918] Specific example:
[1919] If a user reports that they cannot connect to the network, the server checks the network status and, if it detects a downtime, arranges for a technician to visit. It then notifies the user that "the network is down and a technician has been scheduled to visit."
[1920] Network Device Management
[1921] Program processing explanation:
[1922] When the server receives an inquiry from a user regarding network equipment, it checks the status of the equipment in question. If there is a problem with the equipment, the server sends a replacement and notifies the user accordingly. If there is no problem, it notifies the user that the equipment is functioning normally.
[1923] Specific example:
[1924] If a user reports that their router is not working, the server checks the router's status. If a malfunction is detected, it ships a replacement router. The server then notifies the user that "there is a problem with your router. We are sending you a replacement."
[1925] Security Management
[1926] Program processing explanation:
[1927] When the server receives a security inquiry from a user, it checks the status of the security system. If a breach is detected, the server notifies the security team and informs the user accordingly. If a security alert is issued, the issue is escalated and reported to the user.
[1928] Specific example:
[1929] If a user reports that "there appears to be a suspicious person inside the store," the server checks the security system status, detects a breach, notifies the security team, and informs the user that "a security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team."
[1930] Ad management
[1931] Program processing explanation:
[1932] When the server receives an inquiry from a user regarding an advertisement, it checks the status of the advertisement. If the advertisement has expired, the server initiates the advertisement renewal process and notifies the user accordingly. If there is an error in the advertisement, the server corrects the error and notifies the user accordingly.
[1933] Specific example:
[1934] If a user reports that "the store's web ad is not showing," the server checks the ad's status, detects an error, performs corrective work, and notifies the user with "An error occurred with the ad. It has been fixed."
[1935] Store condition management
[1936] Program processing explanation:
[1937] When the server receives an inquiry from a user regarding the store's condition, it checks the store's status. If the status is determined to be poor, the server arranges maintenance and notifies the user accordingly. If the status is good, it notifies the user accordingly.
[1938] Specific example:
[1939] If a user inquires that "the store's interior is deteriorating," the server will check the store's condition. If it determines that the condition is poor, it will arrange maintenance and notify the user, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged."
[1940] The above describes the embodiments for carrying out the present invention. This makes it possible to respond quickly and efficiently to various problems in store operations.
[1941] The following describes the processing flow.
[1942] Specific processing flow for network management
[1943] Step 1:
[1944] The user sends a message to the server reporting issues such as "the network is slow" or "connection impossible."
[1945] Step 2:
[1946] The server calls the check_network_status(store_id) function to retrieve the store's network status.
[1947] Step 3:
[1948] The server checks the network status and determines whether it is "normal," "slow," or "down."
[1949] Step 4:
[1950] If the network is "down," the server calls the schedule_technician_visit(store_id) function to schedule a technician visit.
[1951] Step 5:
[1952] The server notifies the user that "the network is down. We have arranged for a technician to visit."
[1953] Step 6:
[1954] If the network is "slow," the server calls the adjust_bandwidth(store_id) function to adjust the bandwidth.
[1955] Step 7:
[1956] The server notifies the user, "The network is slow. We have adjusted the bandwidth."
[1957] Step 8:
[1958] If the network is "normal," the server will notify the user that "the network is working normally."
[1959] Specific processing flow for network device management
[1960] Step 1:
[1961] A user contacts the server to report network equipment problems, such as "the router is not working."
[1962] Step 2:
[1963] The server calls the check_device_status(store_id, device_name) function to retrieve the status of the device in question.
[1964] Step 3:
[1965] The server checks the status of the network equipment and determines whether it is "normal" or "failed."
[1966] Step 4:
[1967] If a device is "failed," the server calls the send_replacement_device(store_id, device_name) function to initiate the process of sending a replacement device.
[1968] Step 5:
[1969] The server notifies the user that "There is a problem with AA. We will send a replacement device."
[1970] Step 6:
[1971] If the device is "normal," the server will notify the user that "AA is working normally."
[1972] Specific process flow for security management
[1973] Step 1:
[1974] Users can contact the server with security-related inquiries, such as "There is a suspicious person present" or "An alarm has sounded."
[1975] Step 2:
[1976] The server calls the check_security_system(store_id) function to retrieve the status of the security system.
[1977] Step 3:
[1978] The server checks the security status and determines whether it is "normal," "warning," or "compromised."
[1979] Step 4:
[1980] If a security breach is detected, the server calls the notify_security_team(store_id) function to notify the security team.
[1981] Step 5:
[1982] The server reports to the user, "A security breach has been detected. We have notified the security team."
[1983] Step 6:
[1984] If a security "warning" occurs, the server calls the escalate_issue(store_id) function to escalate the issue and report it to the administrator.
[1985] Step 7:
[1986] The server notifies the user that "A security alert has been issued. The issue has been escalated."
[1987] Step 8:
[1988] If security is "normal," the server will notify the user that "the security system is working correctly."
[1989] Specific process flow for ad management
[1990] Step 1:
[1991] Users contact the server with inquiries about advertising issues, such as "Web ads for stores are not showing."
[1992] Step 2:
[1993] The server calls the check_ad_status(store_id) function to retrieve the status of the ad.
[1994] Step 3:
[1995] The server checks the status of the advertisement and determines whether it is "normal," "error," or "expired."
[1996] Step 4:
[1997] If an ad has expired, the server calls the `renew_advertisement(store_id)` function to renew the ad.
[1998] Step 5:
[1999] The server notifies the user that "Your ad has expired. We have initiated the renewal process."
[2000] Step 6:
[2001] If an "error" occurs in the advertisement, the server calls the fix_advertisement(store_id) function to correct the error.
[2002] Step 7:
[2003] The server notifies the user that "An error occurred with the advertisement. We have fixed it."
[2004] Step 8:
[2005] If the ad is "normal," the server notifies the user that "the ad is displaying correctly."
[2006] Specific processing steps for store condition management
[2007] Step 1:
[2008] Users contact the server with inquiries about issues such as "the store's interior is deteriorating" or "the exterior is dirty."
[2009] Step 2:
[2010] The server calls the check_store_condition(store_id) function to retrieve the store's status.
[2011] Step 3:
[2012] The server checks the store's status and determines whether it is "good" or "bad."
[2013] Step 4:
[2014] If the store's condition is determined to be "poor," the server calls the schedule_maintenance(store_id) function to arrange maintenance.
[2015] Step 5:
[2016] The server notifies the user that "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged."
[2017] Step 6:
[2018] If the store's status is "good," the server will notify the user that "the store's status is good."
[2019] The above explains each processing step and its specific operation, broken down step by step. This allows for a detailed understanding of how the system handles user inquiries.
[2020] (Example 1)
[2021] Next, we will describe Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the robot 414 as the "terminal".
[2022] In store operations, efficient management of numerous factors is required, including network stability, proper functioning of network equipment, security maintenance, appropriate display of advertisements, and management of the store's internal environment. Currently, managing these factors is time-consuming and labor-intensive, and it is often difficult to respond quickly when problems arise. Therefore, a system is needed that can manage these factors in an integrated and efficient manner and respond to problems quickly and appropriately.
[2023] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[2024] In this invention, the server includes means for monitoring the status of the network, means for scheduling visits by technicians based on the status of the network, means for adjusting the bandwidth of the network, means for providing notifications to users according to the status of the network, means for monitoring the status of network equipment, means for sending replacement equipment based on the status of the network equipment, means for providing notifications to users according to the status of the network equipment, means for monitoring the status of the security system, means for notifying the security team based on the status of the security system, means for escalating problems in the security system, means for providing notifications to users according to the status of the security system, means for monitoring the status of advertisements, means for updating advertisements based on the status of advertisements, means for correcting errors in advertisements, means for providing notifications to users according to the status of advertisements, means for monitoring the internal environment of a store, means for arranging maintenance based on the status of the store, and means for providing notifications to users according to the status of the store. This enables the integrated processing of various management elements in store operations and allows for quick and appropriate problem solving.
[2025] "Means for monitoring network status" refers to methods and devices for monitoring network connectivity and performance and detecting anomalies.
[2026] "Methods for scheduling technician visits" refer to methods or systems that automatically plan and manage technician visits when networks or equipment are experiencing problems.
[2027] "Means for adjusting network bandwidth" refers to methods or devices for dynamically controlling and adjusting the data transmission speed and available bandwidth of a network.
[2028] "Means of providing notifications to users" refers to methods or devices for sending notifications to users regarding the status of systems or equipment, or the occurrence of problems, and providing them with information.
[2029] "Means for monitoring the status of network devices" refers to methods or devices for monitoring the operating status of network devices such as routers and switches and detecting abnormalities.
[2030] "Means of sending replacement equipment" refers to methods or systems for sending replacement equipment to users when a faulty network device is detected.
[2031] "Means of monitoring the status of security systems" refers to methods and devices for monitoring the status of security systems in stores or networks and detecting anomalies or intrusions.
[2032] "Means of notifying the security team" refers to methods or systems for notifying the security team of information when the security system detects an anomaly.
[2033] "Methods for escalating problems" refer to methods or systems for transferring high-priority or difficult-to-solve problems to senior personnel or specific teams and requesting them to take action.
[2034] "Means of monitoring the status of advertisements" refers to methods or devices for monitoring the status of online and offline advertisements and detecting errors or expirations.
[2035] "Means of updating advertisements" refers to methods or systems for automatically updating advertisements that have expired or require content updates.
[2036] "Means of monitoring the internal environment of a store" refers to methods or devices for monitoring and checking the condition of the environment inside a store (e.g., temperature, humidity, illuminance, etc.).
[2037] "Means of arranging maintenance" refers to methods or systems for planning and arranging maintenance work when the condition of a store or equipment deteriorates.
[2038] The system of the present invention is designed to integrate and process multiple management elements in store operations, enabling rapid and appropriate problem resolution. This system can integrate network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management.
[2039] Network Management
[2040] Program processing explanation:
[2041] The server monitors the network status using Nagios. If the network goes down, it uses the Google Calendar API to schedule a technician's visit and notifies the user. If the network is slow, the server adjusts the bandwidth using QoS (Quality of Service) and notifies the user when the adjustment is complete.
[2042] Specific example:
[2043] When a user reports that they cannot connect to the network, the server checks the network status using Nagios. If it determines that the network is down, it uses the Google Calendar API to arrange for a technician to visit and sends a notification to the user saying, "The network is down. A technician has been scheduled to visit."
[2044] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[2045] "Please generate example code that demonstrates appropriate responses when the network is unavailable."
[2046] Network Device Management
[2047] Program processing explanation:
[2048] The server monitors the status of network devices using SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol). If there is a problem with a device, the server orders a replacement and notifies the user.
[2049] Specific example:
[2050] If a user reports that "the router is not working," the server checks the router's status using SNMP. If a malfunction is detected, it orders a replacement router and sends a notification to the user stating, "There is a problem with your router. We are sending you a replacement device."
[2051] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[2052] "Please generate example code for checking the status of network devices using SNMP."
[2053] Security Management
[2054] Program processing explanation:
[2055] The server monitors the security system status using "Suricata." If a breach is detected, the server notifies the security team using the "Slack" API and reports to the user.
[2056] Specific example:
[2057] If a user reports that "there appears to be a suspicious person inside the store," the server checks the security system status using "Suricata," and if a breach is detected, it notifies the security team using the "Slack" API and sends a report to the user stating, "A security breach has been detected. The security team has been notified."
[2058] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[2059] "Generate example code for detecting security breaches using an intrusion detection system."
[2060] Ad management
[2061] Program processing explanation:
[2062] The server monitors the status of the ads using the Google Ad Manager API. If there are errors in the ads, the server corrects the errors and notifies the user.
[2063] Specific example:
[2064] If a user reports that a store's web ad is not displaying, the server uses the Google Ad Manager API to check the ad's status, detects any errors, makes corrections, and sends a notification to the user stating, "An error occurred with your ad. It has been fixed."
[2065] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[2066] "Use the Google Ad Manager API to check the status of your ads and generate example code to fix any errors."
[2067] Store condition management
[2068] Program processing explanation:
[2069] The server monitors the store's internal environment using IoT sensors. If the server determines that the store is in poor condition, it uses the Trello API to create a maintenance task and notifies the user.
[2070] Specific example:
[2071] If a user reports that "the store's interior is deteriorating," the server uses IoT sensors to check the store's condition. If it determines that the condition is poor, it uses the Trello API to create a maintenance task and sends a notification to the user saying, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged."
[2072] Examples of prompts for a generative AI model:
[2073] "Generate example code for using IoT sensors to monitor the store's condition and arrange maintenance if problems arise."
[2074] The above describes the embodiments for carrying out the present invention. This makes it possible to integrate and process various management elements in store operations and solve problems quickly and appropriately.
[2075] The flow of the specific processing in Example 1 will be explained using Figure 11.
[2076] Network Management
[2077] Program processing flow
[2078] Step 1:
[2079] A user reports a network problem. The input is information about the problem the user is reporting, such as "the network is not connecting." The output is a trigger step that checks the network status.
[2080] Step 2:
[2081] The server uses Nagios to monitor the network status. The input is network problem reports from users, and the output is information about the current state of the network. At this stage, the server checks the ping response time and packet loss rate to determine if the network is down.
[2082] Step 3:
[2083] The server evaluates the network status. The input is data from "Nagios," and the output is the result of determining whether the network is down or delayed. If the network is down, the server proceeds to the next step.
[2084] Step 4:
[2085] If the server detects a network outage, it will use the Google Calendar API to schedule a technician visit. The input is the result of the downtime detection, and the output is the scheduled technician visit information.
[2086] Step 5:
[2087] The server notifies the user of a technician visit. The input is the technician visit schedule information, and the output is the notification content sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user stating, "The network is down. A technician visit has been arranged."
[2088] Step 6:
[2089] When the server detects network latency, it adjusts the QoS (Quality of Service) settings. The input is the latency status determination result, and the output is the adjusted bandwidth information. At this stage, the server enables QoS and reallocates bandwidth to higher-priority traffic.
[2090] Step 7:
[2091] The server notifies the user that bandwidth adjustment is complete. The input is the network status information after adjustment, and the output is the notification sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user stating, "Network bandwidth has been adjusted."
[2092] Network Device Management
[2093] Program processing flow
[2094] Step 1:
[2095] A user reports a problem with a network device. The input is information reported by the user, such as "the router is not working." The output is a trigger step that checks the router's status.
[2096] Step 2:
[2097] The server uses SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) to check the router's status. The input is a device problem report from the user, and the output is the current router status information. At this stage, the server checks SNMP traps and OIDs to confirm the router's operational status and error status.
[2098] Step 3:
[2099] The server detects a router failure. The input is data from SNMP, and the output is the result of the failure status determination. The server analyzes the error message and status code to determine whether the device is malfunctioning.
[2100] Step 4:
[2101] If the server detects a failure, it orders a replacement router. The input is the failure status determination result, and the output is the order information for the replacement equipment. Specifically, the server automatically arranges for the order of a new router.
[2102] Step 5:
[2103] The server notifies the user that replacement equipment has been shipped. The input is information indicating that the shipping arrangements have been completed, and the output is the notification sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user stating, "There is a problem with the router. We are sending replacement equipment."
[2104] Security Management
[2105] Program processing flow
[2106] Step 1:
[2107] A user reports a security issue. The input is information reported by the user, such as "It appears there is a suspicious person inside the store." The output is a trigger step that checks the status of the security system.
[2108] Step 2:
[2109] The server uses "Suricata" to monitor the status of the security system. The input is security issue reports from users, and the output is information about the current status of the security system. At this stage, the server analyzes the alert logs to detect intrusions and abnormal behavior.
[2110] Step 3:
[2111] The server detects the breach. The input is data from Suricata, and the output is the result of the breach status determination. The server determines whether or not a breach has occurred based on log data and alert messages.
[2112] Step 4:
[2113] If the server detects a breach, it will notify the security team using the Slack API. The input is the result of the breach determination, and the output is the notification information for the security team. Specifically, the server will automatically send a Slack message.
[2114] Step 5:
[2115] The server notifies the user of the detected breach. The input is the notification completion information to the security team, and the output is the content of the notification to the user. Specifically, the server sends a report to the user stating, "A security breach has been detected. The security team has been notified."
[2116] Ad management
[2117] Program processing flow
[2118] Step 1:
[2119] A user reports an ad problem. The input is information the user reports, such as "The store's web ad is not showing." The output is a trigger step that checks the status of the ad.
[2120] Step 2:
[2121] The server uses the Google Ad Manager API to check the status of the ads. The input is ad problem reports from users, and the output is current ad status information. At this stage, the server checks the ad delivery status and error logs.
[2122] Step 3:
[2123] The server detects ad errors. The input is data from Google Ad Manager, and the output is the result of the error status determination. The server analyzes the error message and status code to determine if there is an error in the ad.
[2124] Step 4:
[2125] If the server detects an error, it will perform ad correction work. The input is the result of the error status determination, and the output is the ad status information after correction. The server will automatically correct the error and resume ad delivery.
[2126] Step 5:
[2127] The server notifies the user that the fix is complete. The input is information about the completion of the fix, and the output is the notification sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user saying, "An error occurred in the advertisement. Fixes have been made."
[2128] Store condition management
[2129] Program processing flow
[2130] Step 1:
[2131] A user reports a problem with the store's condition. The input is information reported by the user, such as "The store's interior is deteriorating." The output is a trigger step that checks the store's condition.
[2132] Step 2:
[2133] The server uses IoT sensors to monitor the internal environment of the store. The input is user reports of store condition problems, and the output is information on the current store status. At this stage, the server collects sensor data (temperature, humidity, illuminance, etc.) and evaluates the store's condition.
[2134] Step 3:
[2135] The server evaluates the condition of the store. The input is data from IoT sensors, and the output is the result of the store's deterioration status. The server analyzes the condition based on the collected sensor data and determines whether the condition is poor.
[2136] Step 4:
[2137] If the server determines that it is in poor condition, it will use the Trello API to create a maintenance task. The input is the result of the deterioration status determination, and the output is the information for creating the maintenance task. Specifically, the server will automatically generate a task in Trello and set a maintenance schedule.
[2138] Step 5:
[2139] The server notifies the user that maintenance arrangements have been completed. The input is information indicating that the maintenance task has been created, and the output is the notification sent to the user. Specifically, the server sends a notification to the user stating, "The store is in poor condition. Maintenance has been arranged."
[2140] (Application Example 1)
[2141] Next, we will explain Application Example 1. In the following explanation, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the robot 414 as the "terminal".
[2142] Modern retail operations face a wide range of challenges, including network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management. These challenges are often managed individually, making efficient and rapid problem-solving difficult. Furthermore, delays in addressing these issues can disrupt store operations. Therefore, a system is needed that integrates these diverse management tasks and detects and responds to problems in real time.
[2143] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[2144] In this invention, the server includes means for monitoring the status of the network, means for scheduling expert visits based on the status of the network, means for adjusting the bandwidth of the network, means for providing notifications to users in accordance with the status of the network, means for monitoring the conditions inside the store with sensors, means for arranging maintenance work based on the sensor data, and means for notifying users of the status of maintenance arrangements. This makes it possible to integrate and efficiently manage the network, manage network equipment, manage security, manage advertising, and manage the condition of the store.
[2145] "Network status" refers to the overall operational status of the network, including internet connectivity, internal network connectivity, bandwidth utilization, and latency.
[2146] "A means of scheduling expert visits" refers to a process that automatically sets the date and time for technicians or experts to visit and resolve problems that occur with the network or equipment.
[2147] "Means of adjusting network bandwidth" refers to functions that adjust the amount of data transmitted or received in order to optimize network performance.
[2148] "Means of providing notifications to users" refers to means of informing users about various decisions and processing results made by the system, as well as the status of responses in the event of a problem.
[2149] "Means of monitoring the conditions inside the store using sensors" refers to a function that continuously monitors environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, and vibration, as well as the condition of equipment inside the store, using sensors.
[2150] "Means of arranging maintenance work" refers to the process of dispatching workers and creating work plans to carry out necessary repairs and inspections when problems occur with the equipment or environment within a store.
[2151] "Network device status" refers to the state of whether network devices such as routers, switches, modems, and wireless access points are functioning correctly.
[2152] "Means of sending replacement equipment" refers to the function of arranging for the delivery of new equipment to the user in the event of a network equipment failure.
[2153] "Security system status" refers to the state of security equipment such as surveillance cameras, door sensors, and alarm systems, indicating whether they are functioning properly.
[2154] "Means of notifying the security management team" refers to a means of informing specialized security staff of the situation when a problem occurs with the security system.
[2155] "Methods for escalating a problem" refers to the process of promptly reporting a specific problem to a senior person or manager and requesting action.
[2156] This invention provides a system that integrates network management, network equipment management, security management, advertising management, and store condition management related to the operation of physical stores. This system is equipped with means for responding to various problems efficiently and in a timely manner.
[2157] Network Management
[2158] The server monitors the network status. Specifically, it continuously monitors the network status using Amazon Web Services (AWS) Lambda and CloudWatch. If the network is down, the server automatically schedules a visit from a technician and notifies the user. If network bandwidth needs to be adjusted, the server also automatically handles the process and notifies the user.
[2159] Specific example:
[2160] If a user reports that they cannot connect to the network, the server checks the network status and, if a problem is found, arranges for a technician to visit and notifies the user with the message, "The network is down. A technician has been scheduled to visit."
[2161] Network Device Management
[2162] The server also monitors the status of network devices. Using AWS IoT services and DynamoDB, it continuously monitors the status of network devices and automatically initiates the process of delivering new equipment if a problem occurs.
[2163] Specific example:
[2164] If a user reports that their router is not working, the server checks the router's status and, if a malfunction is detected, sends a replacement device. The server then notifies the user that "there is a problem with your router. A replacement device will be sent."
[2165] Security Management
[2166] The server monitors the security system's status. Specifically, it uses AWS Rekognition to analyze surveillance camera footage and, if it detects an intruder, uses Amazon Simple Notification Service (SNS) to notify the security team and users.
[2167] Specific example:
[2168] If a user reports that "there appears...
Claims
1. Means for monitoring the network status, A means for scheduling a technician's visit based on the network status, Means for adjusting the bandwidth of the network, A system including means for providing users with notifications according to the status of the network.
2. A means of monitoring the status of network devices, A means for sending replacement equipment based on the status of the network equipment, The system according to claim 1, further comprising means for providing a user with a notification corresponding to the status of the network device.
3. Means for monitoring the status of the security system, A means of notifying the security team based on the status of the security system, Means of escalating problems in the security system, The system according to claim 1, further comprising means for providing a user with a notification corresponding to the status of the security system.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Persona chatbot control method and system
JP2022180282A