Patent specification drafting support system, patent specification drafting support method, patent specification drafting support program, and recording medium

Abstract

The objective is to obtain a patent specification drafting support system, a patent specification drafting support method, a patent specification drafting support program, and a recording medium that can efficiently support the creation of patent specifications that include descriptions of structure. [Solution] The data acquisition unit 11 acquires target image data from the input device 31. The target image data consists of data from multiple images, each showing the shape of the object. The target image data also includes data from multiple images of objects at different manufacturing stages. The text creation control unit 12 inputs the target image data acquired by the data acquisition unit 11 into the artificial intelligence unit 20 to create an explanatory text describing the object.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present disclosure relates to a patent specification creation support system, a patent specification creation support method, a patent specification creation support program, and a recording medium. <000**********5>

Background Art

[0002] In a conventional drawing description generation device, a description of a drawing is generated based on pattern information and drawing information. The pattern information consists of a pattern of drawing information representing elements of the drawing and a pattern of a description corresponding to this pattern. The drawing information is information of the drawing that serves as the basis for generating the description (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the conventional drawing description generation device as described above, in order to generate a description, it is necessary to input a lot of complex information, which is time-consuming for creating and inputting the information. Further, since it is necessary to input pattern information, the drawings to be described are limited to flowcharts.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above problems, and an object is to obtain a patent specification creation support system, a patent specification creation support method, a patent specification creation support program, and a recording medium that can efficiently support the creation of a patent specification including a description related to a structure.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The patent specification creation support system relating to this disclosure comprises a data acquisition unit that acquires target image data, which is data of multiple images showing the shape of each object, and a text creation control unit that inputs the target image data acquired by the data acquisition unit into an artificial intelligence unit to create an explanatory text describing the object, wherein the target image data includes data of multiple images of objects at different manufacturing stages. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] This disclosure can efficiently assist in the preparation of patent specifications that include descriptions of the structure. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a configuration diagram showing a patent specification drafting support system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of multiple images of an object at different stages of its manufacturing process. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a flowchart showing the process of generating explanatory text using the information processing device. [Figure 4] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the target image data acquired by the data acquisition unit in Figure 1. [Figure 5] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of target image data acquired by the data acquisition unit of Embodiment 2. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart showing the process of generating explanatory text using the information processing device of Embodiment 5. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart showing the process of generating explanatory text using the information processing device of Embodiment 6. [Figure 8] An example of modified image data acquired by the data acquisition unit of Embodiment 9 is shown. [Figure 9] This is a block diagram showing a patent specification drafting support system according to Embodiment 10. [Figure 10] This is a block diagram showing a patent specification drafting support system according to Embodiment 11. [Figure 11]It is a block diagram showing a patent specification creation support system according to Embodiment 12. [Figure 12] It is a block diagram showing a patent specification creation support system according to Embodiment 13. [Figure 13] It is a block diagram showing a patent specification creation support system according to Embodiment 14. [Figure 14] It is a configuration diagram showing a first example of a processing circuit that realizes each function of the information processing apparatus and the artificial intelligence unit according to Embodiments 1 to 14. [Figure 15] It is a configuration diagram showing a second example of a processing circuit that realizes each function of the information processing apparatus and the artificial intelligence unit according to Embodiments 1 to 14.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. Embodiment 1. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a patent specification creation support system according to Embodiment 1. The patent specification creation support system uses an artificial intelligence unit having a function of artificial intelligence (AI: Artificial Intelligence) to create a sentence and support the creation of a patent specification.

[0010] In the figure, the patent specification creation support system includes an information processing apparatus 10. The information processing apparatus 10 exchanges information with the artificial intelligence unit 20. Further, an input device 31 and a display device 32 are connected to the information processing apparatus 10.

[0011] The information processing apparatus 10 has, as functional blocks, a data acquisition unit 11 and a sentence creation control unit 12.

[0012] The data acquisition unit 11 acquires target image data from the input device 31. The target image data is data of a plurality of images each showing the shape of a target object. Further, the target image data includes data of a plurality of images of target objects with different manufacturing stages.

[0013] Examples of the object include an indoor unit of an air conditioner, an outdoor unit of an air conditioner, a refrigerator, a rice cooker, a vacuum cleaner, an elevator device, etc.

[0014] Also, the object may be the entire product or a part of the product. Examples of a part of the product include one of a plurality of units constituting the product, one of a plurality of components constituting the product, etc. For example, when the product is an indoor unit or an outdoor unit of an air conditioner, examples of the units constituting the product include a blower fan, a compressor, a circuit board, etc. Also, examples of the components constituting the product include an air duct forming member, blades of a blower fan, etc.

[0015] Examples of the shape of the object include, for example, an outer shape, a cross-sectional shape, or a combination thereof. Examples of the target image data include, for example, drawing data, photographic data, drawing data, or a combination thereof.

[0016] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a plurality of images of objects at different manufacturing stages. In FIG. 2, three images of objects at different manufacturing stages are schematically shown. The image labeled "Stage 1" is an image showing the base member of the object.

[0017] The image labeled "Stage 2" is an image showing a state in which an intervening part is attached to the side of the base member. The image labeled "Stage 3" is an image showing a state in which an exterior part is attached to the base member via the intervening part.

[0018] The data acquisition unit 11 acquires name information from the input device 31. The name information is information about the name of the object.

[0019] Also, the data acquisition unit 11 can inquire the input device 31 about the presence or absence of additional target image data and the presence or absence of additional information.

[0020] Also, the data acquisition unit 11 inputs the acquired target image data and name information to the text creation control unit 12.

[0021] The document creation control unit 12 is an interface that can exchange information with an external system. The document creation control unit 12 receives target image data and name information from the data acquisition unit 11.

[0022] The document creation control unit 12 inputs the acquired target image data and name information into the artificial intelligence unit 20 to create an explanatory document describing the object. Specifically, the document creation control unit 12 inputs the target image data and name information into the artificial intelligence unit 20 to obtain an explanatory document corresponding to the target image data and name information from the artificial intelligence unit 20. In other words, the document creation control unit 12 inputs the target image data and name information acquired from the data acquisition unit 11 into the artificial intelligence unit 20 in order to obtain an explanatory document corresponding to the target image data and name information from the artificial intelligence unit 20.

[0023] The explanatory text includes descriptions of the object's structure, shape, etc. The text creation control unit 12 outputs the created explanatory text to the display device 32 for display.

[0024] The information processing device 10 can be a personal computer, a mobile terminal, or the like.

[0025] The input device 31 is a device that inputs target image data and other information into the information processing device 10. The input device 31 can be a personal computer, an image scanner, or the like, which may be shared with or independent of the information processing device 10. The user inputs the target image data and name information using the input device 31.

[0026] The artificial intelligence unit 20 is, for example, located on a server independent of the information processing device 10. The information processing device 10 is capable of communicating with the artificial intelligence unit 20.

[0027] Furthermore, the artificial intelligence unit 20 refers to artificial intelligence equipped with intelligent functions such as reasoning and judgment, and its operating environment. In other words, the artificial intelligence unit 20 is a model and its operating environment configured to output explanatory text corresponding to target image data when target image data and information are input.

[0028] The artificial intelligence unit 20 has a trained model storage unit 21 and a model control unit 22 as functional blocks. The trained model storage unit 21 stores a trained model that takes target image data and name information sent from the information processing device 10 as input and outputs an explanatory text.

[0029] When the model control unit 22 acquires target image data and information, it outputs a descriptive text corresponding to the target image data and name information based on the target image data, name information, and the trained model. In other words, when the model control unit 22 acquires target image data and information, it generates and outputs a descriptive text corresponding to the target image data and name information using the model indicated by the trained model.

[0030] Furthermore, the model control unit 22 sends the data of the explanatory text output from the trained model to the information processing device 10.

[0031] The trained model may be, for example, a model that has been machine-learned using supervised learning, reinforcement learning, or unsupervised learning.

[0032] Furthermore, the trained model may be a model obtained by performing training according to, for example, deep learning, genetic programming, functional logic programming, or other known algorithms or methods.

[0033] Furthermore, a trained model may include model parameters. Model parameters are information that defines the behavior of the model, such as constraints, weighting variables, and evaluation functions.

[0034] Specifically, the trained model may be a model known as an NN (Neural Network) model, a CNN (Convolutional Neural Network) model, an RNN (Recurrent Neural Network), a VAE (Variational Autoencoder), a GAN (Generative Adversarial Networks), a Diffusion Model, a Transformer model, an LLM (Large Language Model), a VLM (Visual Language Model), a BERT (Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers), a GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer), or a CLIP (Contrastive Language Image Pre-training).

[0035] It should be noted that the models mentioned above are not mutually exclusive; for example, LLM, VLM, BERT, and GPT are all included in the Transformer model. Also, for example, the Transformer model is included in the NN model.

[0036] Furthermore, multiple types of learning algorithms and models may be combined. The trained models also include models called multimodal models, which are trained by combining multiple different types of data.

[0037] The trained model and other information used by the artificial intelligence unit 20 may be prepared in advance or acquired via the network as needed.

[0038] Figure 3 is a flowchart of the explanatory text creation process performed by the information processing device 10 in Figure 1. When the explanatory text creation process is started, the information processing device 10 acquires the target image data in step S101. At this time, the information processing device 10 also acquires name information.

[0039] Next, in step S102, the information processing device 10 inputs the target image data and name information to the artificial intelligence unit 20. Then, in step S103, the information processing device 10 acquires and saves the output from the artificial intelligence unit 20.

[0040] After this, in step S104, the information processing device 10 displays the explanatory text on the display device 32 and terminates the process.

[0041] The user can create a patent specification using the explanatory text stored in the information processing device 10.

[0042] The following describes specific examples of information input to the artificial intelligence unit 20 and output from the artificial intelligence unit 20.

[0043] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of target image data acquired by the data acquisition unit 11 in Figure 1. In this example, the target image data is image data showing the shape of the target object, an elevator hoisting machine. In this example, the name of the target object, "elevator hoisting machine," is input to the artificial intelligence unit 20 as name information.

[0044] In this case, the artificial intelligence unit 20 outputs an explanatory text, for example, like the following.

[0045] "An elevator hoisting machine comprises a base, a motor, a rotating shaft, a shaft support, a drive sheave, and a brake. The motor and shaft support are supported on the base. The rotating shaft is supported by the motor and the shaft support. The drive sheave is fixed to the rotating shaft. The motor rotates the rotating shaft and the drive sheave. The brake slows the rotation of the drive sheave. Multiple ropes are wound around the drive sheave."

[0046] Furthermore, the data acquisition unit 11 receives data from multiple images of objects at different stages of manufacturing as target image data. Images of objects at different stages of manufacturing include, for example, at least one image showing the object in the process of being manufactured. Images of objects at different stages of manufacturing do not necessarily have to include an image showing the completed state of the object.

[0047] In this example, the data acquisition unit 11 receives data from multiple images of elevator hoisting machines at different stages of manufacturing as target image data. Examples of multiple images of elevator hoisting machines at different stages of manufacturing include images showing elevator hoisting machines in the process of being manufactured and images showing elevator hoisting machines as finished products. Examples of images showing elevator hoisting machines in the process of being manufactured include images showing motors in the process of assembly and images showing elevator hoisting machines before the drive sheaves are installed.

[0048] The patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 1 includes a basic data acquisition step, a basic data input step, a document creation step, and a display step.

[0049] The basic data acquisition step involves acquiring target image data, which consists of multiple images representing the shape of each object. In this case, the target image data includes multiple images of objects at different manufacturing stages. Furthermore, in the basic data acquisition step of Embodiment 1, name information is also acquired.

[0050] The basic data input step is the step of inputting the target image data and name information acquired in the basic data acquisition step into the artificial intelligence unit 20.

[0051] The document creation step involves the artificial intelligence unit 20 creating an explanatory document describing the object, using the target image data and name information as input. The display step involves the display device 32 displaying the explanatory document.

[0052] In such patent specification creation support systems and methods, target image data, which consists of multiple images representing the shape of the object, is input to the artificial intelligence unit 20, and descriptive text is output. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently support the creation of patent specifications that include descriptions of the structure.

[0053] Furthermore, if only image data showing the completed state of the object is input to the data acquisition unit 11, the constituent elements of the object may be overlooked. However, since the target image data in Embodiment 1 includes data from multiple images of objects at different manufacturing stages, the oversight of constituent elements is suppressed, and a more accurate explanatory text can be output.

[0054] For example, if only the image data from stage 3 of Figure 2 is used, there is a risk that intervening components shown only in the image from stage 2 may be overlooked. In contrast, by using the image data from stage 2 in addition to the image data from stage 3, intervening components will not be overlooked, and a more accurate explanatory text will be output.

[0055] Furthermore, by using the artificial intelligence unit 20, the system can automatically recognize the order of the manufacturing stages and output more accurate explanatory text without requiring user specification.

[0056] Furthermore, it can create and output explanatory documents describing the state of the object during its manufacturing process, as well as explanatory documents regarding the manufacturing process of the object.

[0057] Furthermore, the text creation control unit 12 inputs name information in addition to the target image data into the artificial intelligence unit 20 to create an explanatory text. This allows for the smooth creation of more accurate explanatory texts.

[0058] The patent specification creation support program of Embodiment 1 is a program that causes a computer to execute the above-described patent specification creation support method.

[0059] Furthermore, the recording medium of Embodiment 1 is a computer-readable recording medium that stores a patent specification creation support program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 1.

[0060] In Embodiment 1, the target image data and name information are input to the artificial intelligence unit 20, but in this embodiment and the following embodiments, the acquisition and input of name information may be omitted.

[0061] Alternatively, the text creation control unit 12 may input the target image data to the artificial intelligence unit 20 to create image data with at least one code assigned to the target object, and then create an explanatory text using at least one code.

[0062] Embodiment 2. Next, the patent specification drafting support system of Embodiment 2 will be described. The configuration of the patent specification drafting support system of Embodiment 2 is the same as in Figure 1. Also, the basic flow of the explanatory document creation process of Embodiment 2 is the same as in Figure 3.

[0063] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of target image data acquired by the data acquisition unit 11 of Embodiment 2. The data acquisition unit 11 of Embodiment 2 acquires drawing data as target image data, in which at least one reference numeral is assigned to the shape of the object.

[0064] In this case, the artificial intelligence unit 20 outputs an explanatory text, for example, like the following.

[0065] "The elevator hoisting machine comprises a base 11, a motor 12, a rotating shaft 13, a shaft support base 14, a drive sheave 15, a brake 16, a blower 17, and a rod 18. The motor 12 and the shaft support base 14 are supported on the base 11. The rotating shaft 13 is supported by the motor 12 and the shaft support base 14. The drive sheave 15 is fixed to the rotating shaft 13. The motor 12 rotates the rotating shaft 13 and the drive sheave 15. The brake 16 brakes the rotation of the drive sheave 15. The rod 18 protrudes from the motor 12 toward the brake 16. Multiple ropes 19 are wound around the drive sheave 15."

[0066] The basic data acquisition step of Embodiment 2 is the step of acquiring drawing data in which the shape of the object is assigned at least one reference numeral.

[0067] Other configurations and methods in Embodiment 2 are the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0068] Such patent specification drafting support systems and methods can support the creation of patent specifications more efficiently. Furthermore, they enable the smooth creation of more accurate explanatory texts.

[0069] The patent specification creation support program of Embodiment 2 is a program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 2.

[0070] Furthermore, the recording medium of Embodiment 2 is a computer-readable recording medium that records a patent specification creation support program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 2.

[0071] Embodiment 3. Next, the patent specification creation support system of Embodiment 3 will be described. The configuration of the patent specification creation support system of Embodiment 3 is the same as in Figure 1. Also, the basic flow of the explanatory document creation process of Embodiment 3 is the same as in Figure 3.

[0072] In the third embodiment, the data acquisition unit 11 acquires code explanation information from the input device 31 in addition to the target image data and name information. The code explanation information is explanatory information corresponding to at least one code contained in the target image data. The user inputs the code explanation information using the input device 31.

[0073] The document creation control unit 12 inputs the target image data, name information, and code explanation information acquired by the data acquisition unit 11 into the artificial intelligence unit 20 to create an explanatory document.

[0074] The code explanation information includes, for example, the following:

[0075] "11: Base, 12: Motor, 13: Rotating shaft, 14: Shaft support base, 15: Drive sheave, 16: Brake, 17: Exhaust fan, 18: Rope detour stopper, 19: Main rope"

[0076] In this case, the artificial intelligence unit 20 outputs an explanatory text, for example, like the following.

[0077] The elevator hoisting machine comprises a base 11, a motor 12, a rotating shaft 13, a shaft support base 14, a drive sheave 15, a brake 16, an exhaust fan 17, and a rope derailment prevention device 18. The motor 12 and the shaft support base 14 are supported on the base 11. The rotating shaft 13 is supported by the motor 12 and the shaft support base 14. The drive sheave 15 is fixed to the rotating shaft 13. The motor 12 rotates the rotating shaft 13 and the drive sheave 15. The brake 16 brakes the rotation of the drive sheave 15. Multiple main ropes 19 are wound around the drive sheave 15. The rope derailment prevention device 18 protrudes from the motor 12 toward the brake 16 and prevents the main ropes 19 from coming off the drive sheave 15.

[0078] In the basic data acquisition step of Embodiment 3, in addition to the target image data and name information, the code explanation information is acquired. In the basic data input step, in addition to the target image data and name information, the code explanation information is input to the artificial intelligence unit 20. In the document creation step, the target image data, name information, and code explanation information are used as input to create an explanatory document.

[0079] Other configurations and methods in Embodiment 3 are the same as in Embodiment 2.

[0080] Such patent specification drafting support systems and methods can support the creation of patent specifications more efficiently. Furthermore, they enable the smooth creation of more accurate explanatory texts.

[0081] The patent specification creation support program of Embodiment 3 is a program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 3.

[0082] Furthermore, the recording medium of Embodiment 3 is a computer-readable recording medium that records a patent specification creation support program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 3.

[0083] Embodiment 4. Next, the patent specification drafting support system of Embodiment 4 will be described. The configuration of the patent specification drafting support system of Embodiment 4 is the same as in Figure 1. Also, the basic flow of the explanatory document creation process of Embodiment 4 is the same as in Figure 3.

[0084] In the fourth embodiment, the data acquisition unit 11 acquires related document information from the input device 31, in addition to target image data and name information. The related document information is information about at least one document related to the object. Examples of documents include patent documents relating to the same article as the object, and reference documents selected by the user. The user inputs the related document information using the input device 31.

[0085] The document creation control unit 12 inputs the target image data, name information, and related literature information acquired by the data acquisition unit 11 into the artificial intelligence unit 20 to create an explanatory document.

[0086] If the document is a patent document, the relevant document information is, for example, the publication number. The artificial intelligence unit 20 refers to the contents of the patent document based on the entered publication number.

[0087] Information on literature related to the object is stored either internally within the artificial intelligence unit 20 or on an external server. In the latter case, the artificial intelligence unit 20 obtains the necessary literature data from the external server by communicating with it via a communication network.

[0088] In the basic data acquisition step of Embodiment 4, in addition to the target image data and name information, related literature information is acquired. In the basic data input step, in addition to the target image data and name information, related literature information is input to the artificial intelligence unit 20. In the document creation step, an explanatory document is created using the target image data, name information, and related literature information as input.

[0089] Other configurations and methods in Embodiment 4 are the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0090] Such patent specification drafting support systems and methods can support the creation of patent specifications more efficiently. Furthermore, they enable the smooth creation of more accurate explanatory texts.

[0091] The patent specification creation support program of Embodiment 4 is a program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 4.

[0092] Furthermore, the recording medium of Embodiment 4 is a computer-readable recording medium that stores a patent specification creation support program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 4.

[0093] Embodiment 5. Next, the patent specification preparation support system of Embodiment 5 will be described. The configuration of the patent specification preparation support system of Embodiment 5 is the same as that shown in Figure 1.

[0094] In Embodiment 5, the document creation control unit 12 inputs the target image data acquired by the data acquisition unit 11 to the artificial intelligence unit 20, outputting images of multiple drawings included in multiple documents related to the object, and displaying them on the display device 32. Documents related to the object are documents that contain drawings similar to images of the object.

[0095] The user selects at least one drawing from among several drawings that they wish to refer to when creating an explanatory document, and inputs the selected drawing information into the information processing device 10. That is, the information processing device 10 acquires the selected drawing information. The selected drawing information is information about which drawing was selected from among several drawings. The selected drawing information may be information that identifies the drawing itself, or information that identifies a document containing an image of the drawing.

[0096] The document creation control unit 12 creates an explanatory document by inputting the target image data and name information acquired by the data acquisition unit 11, along with the selected drawing information, into the artificial intelligence unit 20.

[0097] Figure 6 is a flowchart of the explanatory text creation process by the information processing device 10 of Embodiment 5. When the explanatory text creation process is started, the information processing device 10 acquires the target image data in step S201. At this time, the information processing device 10 also acquires name information.

[0098] Next, in step S202, the information processing device 10 inputs the target image data and name information to the artificial intelligence unit 20. As a result, the artificial intelligence unit 20 outputs image data of multiple drawings to the information processing device 10.

[0099] In step S203, the information processing device 10 acquires image data of multiple drawings and displays them on the display device 32. After this, in step S204, the information processing device 10 acquires selected drawing information. Then, in step S205, the information processing device 10 inputs the selected drawing information into the artificial intelligence unit 20.

[0100] Next, in step S206, the information processing device 10 acquires and stores the output from the artificial intelligence unit 20.

[0101] After this, in step S207, the information processing device 10 displays the explanatory text on the display device 32 and terminates the process.

[0102] The patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 5 includes a basic data acquisition step, a basic data input step, a drawing image display step, a selected drawing information acquisition step, a selected drawing information input step, a document creation step, and a display step.

[0103] The basic data acquisition step and the basic data input step are the same as in Embodiment 1. The drawing image display step is a step of displaying images of multiple drawings included in multiple documents related to the object.

[0104] The selected drawing information acquisition step is the step of acquiring selected drawing information entered by the user. The selected drawing information input step is the step of inputting the selected drawing information into the artificial intelligence unit 20.

[0105] The document creation step involves inputting the target image data and name information acquired in the basic data acquisition step, along with selected drawing information, into the artificial intelligence unit 20 to create an explanatory document. The display step is the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0106] Other configurations and methods in Embodiment 5 are the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0107] Such patent specification drafting support systems and methods can support the drafting of patent specifications more efficiently.

[0108] Furthermore, by simply selecting the desired drawing from among the multiple drawings presented, explanatory text can be created without having to input detailed information such as part names and component names. Therefore, explanatory text can be easily created even when the object contains a large number of parts and components, or when the target image data contains many images.

[0109] The patent specification creation support program of Embodiment 5 is a program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 5.

[0110] Furthermore, the recording medium of Embodiment 5 is a computer-readable recording medium that records a patent specification creation support program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 5.

[0111] In Embodiment 5, the same target image data as in Embodiment 2 may be used. In that case, as in Embodiment 3, additional symbol explanation information may be used.

[0112] Furthermore, in Embodiment 5, as in Embodiment 4, related literature information may be additionally used.

[0113] Embodiment 6. Next, the patent specification preparation support system of Embodiment 6 will be described. The configuration of the patent specification preparation support system of Embodiment 6 is the same as that shown in Figure 1.

[0114] In Embodiment 6, the document creation control unit 12 inputs the target image data acquired by the data acquisition unit 11 to the artificial intelligence unit 20, outputs information on multiple documents related to the target object, and displays it on the display device 32.

[0115] The user selects at least one document from among the drawings in multiple documents that they wish to refer to when creating the explanatory text, and inputs the selected document information into the information processing device 10. In other words, the information processing device 10 obtains the selected document information. The selected document information is information about which document was selected from among the multiple documents.

[0116] The document creation control unit 12 inputs the target image data and name information acquired by the data acquisition unit 11, along with the selected literature information, into the artificial intelligence unit 20 to create an explanatory document.

[0117] Figure 7 is a flowchart of the explanatory text creation process by the information processing device 10 of Embodiment 6. When the explanatory text creation process is started, the information processing device 10 acquires the target image data in step S301. At this time, the information processing device 10 also acquires name information.

[0118] Next, in step S302, the information processing device 10 inputs the target image data and name information to the artificial intelligence unit 20. As a result, the artificial intelligence unit 20 outputs information from multiple documents to the information processing device 10.

[0119] In step S303, the information processing device 10 acquires information from multiple documents and displays it on the display device 32. After this, in step S304, the information processing device 10 acquires selected document information. Then, in step S305, the information processing device 10 inputs the selected document information into the artificial intelligence unit 20.

[0120] Next, in step S306, the information processing device 10 acquires and saves the output from the artificial intelligence unit 20.

[0121] After this, in step S307, the information processing device 10 displays the explanatory text on the display device 32 and terminates the process.

[0122] The patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 6 includes a basic data acquisition step, a basic data input step, a document display step, a selected document information acquisition step, a selected document information input step, a document creation step, and a display step.

[0123] The basic data acquisition step and the basic data input step are the same as in Embodiment 1. The literature display step is a step of displaying information from multiple literatures related to the object.

[0124] The selected bibliography information acquisition step is the step of acquiring selected bibliography information entered by the user. The selected bibliography information input step is the step of inputting the selected bibliography information into the artificial intelligence unit 20.

[0125] The document creation step involves inputting the target image data and name information acquired in the basic data acquisition step, along with selected literature information, into the artificial intelligence unit 20 to create an explanatory document. The display step is the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0126] Other configurations and methods in Embodiment 6 are the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0127] Such patent specification drafting support systems and methods can support the drafting of patent specifications more efficiently.

[0128] Furthermore, by simply selecting the desired document from the multiple documents presented, it is possible to create an explanatory text without having to input detailed information such as part names and component names. Therefore, even when the object contains a large number of parts or components, or when the target image data contains many images, explanatory text can be easily created.

[0129] Furthermore, in Embodiment 4, the user prepares relevant literature information in advance, but in Embodiment 6, multiple documents are automatically presented, thus reducing the effort required to select documents.

[0130] The patent specification creation support program of Embodiment 6 is a program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 6.

[0131] Furthermore, the recording medium of Embodiment 6 is a computer-readable recording medium that stores a patent specification creation support program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 6.

[0132] In Embodiment 6, the same target image data as in Embodiment 2 may be used. In that case, as in Embodiment 3, additional symbol explanation information may be used.

[0133] Furthermore, in Embodiment 6, as in Embodiment 4, related literature information may be additionally used.

[0134] Embodiment 7. Next, the patent specification drafting support system of Embodiment 7 will be described. The configuration of the patent specification drafting support system of Embodiment 7 is the same as in Figure 1. Also, the basic flow of the explanatory document creation process of Embodiment 7 is the same as in Figure 3.

[0135] In the 7th embodiment, the data acquisition unit 11 acquires target image data and name information, as well as brief descriptive information, from the input device 31. The brief descriptive information is descriptive information about the object, and is simpler than the descriptive text that the document creation control unit 12 ultimately creates. The user inputs the brief descriptive information using the input device 31.

[0136] The brief description information includes, for example, a description of the features of the invention. For example, in an elevator hoisting machine as shown in Figure 5, if the installation of an exhaust fan 17 is a distinctive feature, the brief description information would include a description of how the exhaust fan 17 is a novel feature, how the exhaust fan 17 expels air from inside the motor 12 and cools the motor 12, etc.

[0137] The text creation control unit 12 creates an explanatory text by inputting the target image data, name information, and brief explanatory information acquired by the data acquisition unit 11 into the artificial intelligence unit 20.

[0138] In the basic data acquisition step of Embodiment 7, in addition to the target image data and name information, brief explanatory information is acquired. In the basic data input step, in addition to the target image data and name information, the brief explanatory information is input to the artificial intelligence unit 20. In the document creation step, an explanatory document is created using the target image data, name information, and brief explanatory information as input.

[0139] Other configurations and methods in Embodiment 7 are the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0140] Such patent specification drafting support systems and methods can support the creation of patent specifications more efficiently. Furthermore, they enable the smooth creation of more accurate explanatory texts.

[0141] The patent specification creation support program of Embodiment 7 is a program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 7.

[0142] Furthermore, the recording medium of Embodiment 7 is a computer-readable recording medium that stores a patent specification creation support program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 7.

[0143] In addition, in embodiments 2 to 6, simplified explanatory information may be used, similar to embodiment 7.

[0144] Embodiment 8. Next, the patent specification creation support system of Embodiment 8 will be described. The configuration of the patent specification creation support system of Embodiment 8 is the same as in Figure 1. Also, the basic flow of the explanatory document creation process of Embodiment 8 is the same as in Figure 3.

[0145] The data acquisition unit 11 of Embodiment 8 acquires image data of an object in which the shape of the object is distinguished between feature parts and other parts. Methods for distinguishing feature parts include, for example, making the color of the feature parts different from the other colors, or enclosing the feature parts with a border line to indicate the feature parts.

[0146] Information regarding the method for distinguishing feature parts is either stored in the artificial intelligence unit 20 in advance, or input into the artificial intelligence unit 20 along with the target image data.

[0147] Other configurations and methods in Embodiment 8 are the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0148] Such patent specification drafting support systems and methods can support the creation of patent specifications more efficiently. Furthermore, they enable the smooth creation of more accurate explanatory texts.

[0149] Furthermore, the description of the distinctive features can be made in particular detail within the explanatory text. Additionally, a draft claim that clearly defines the distinctive features can be created.

[0150] The patent specification creation support program of Embodiment 8 is a program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 8.

[0151] Furthermore, the recording medium of Embodiment 8 is a computer-readable recording medium that records a patent specification creation support program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 8.

[0152] In addition, the same target image data as in Embodiment 8 may be used in Embodiments 2 to 7.

[0153] Embodiment 9. Next, the patent specification creation support system of Embodiment 9 will be described. The configuration of the patent specification creation support system of Embodiment 9 is the same as in Figure 1. Also, the basic flow of the explanatory document creation process of Embodiment 9 is the same as in Figure 3.

[0154] In the 9th embodiment, the data acquisition unit 11 acquires modified image data from the input device 31, in addition to target image data, name information, and code explanation information. The modified image data is image data showing the shape of a modified object. The code explanation information also includes explanatory information corresponding to at least one code included in the modified image data. The user inputs the modified image data using the input device 31.

[0155] The document creation control unit 12 creates an explanatory document by inputting the target image data, modified image data, name information, and code explanation information acquired by the data acquisition unit 11 into the artificial intelligence unit 20.

[0156] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of modified image data acquired by the data acquisition unit 11 of Embodiment 9.

[0157] In this case, the following information may be added to the symbol explanation information:

[0158] "21: Rope stopper, 21a: Intake port"

[0159] As a result, the artificial intelligence unit 20 outputs additional explanatory text regarding the modification, such as the following:

[0160] "In the modified version, an intake port 21a is provided at the tip of the rope stopper 21. As a result, air near the brake 16 is drawn into the rope stopper 21 through the intake port 21a, passes through the rope stopper 21 and the motor 12, and is discharged outside the motor 12 by the exhaust fan 17."

[0161] In the basic data acquisition step of Embodiment 9, target image data, modified image data, name information, and symbol explanation information are acquired. In the basic data input step, the target image data, modified image data, name information, and symbol explanation information are input to the artificial intelligence unit 20. In the document creation step, an explanatory document is created using the target image data, modified image data, name information, and symbol explanation information as input.

[0162] Other configurations and methods in Embodiment 9 are the same as in Embodiment 3.

[0163] Such patent specification drafting support systems and methods can support the creation of patent specifications more efficiently. Furthermore, they enable the smooth creation of more accurate explanatory texts.

[0164] Furthermore, it is possible to create explanatory text that notes elements common to both the target image data and the modified image data as characteristic features.

[0165] Furthermore, it is possible to create dependent claim drafts that correspond to variations in the original claim.

[0166] The patent specification creation support program of Embodiment 9 is a program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 9.

[0167] Furthermore, the recording medium of Embodiment 9 is a computer-readable recording medium that records a patent specification creation support program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 9.

[0168] In Embodiment 9, the modified image data may also include data from multiple images at different manufacturing stages.

[0169] Furthermore, in embodiments 1, 2, 4-8, modified image data may also be used, similar to embodiment 9.

[0170] Embodiment 10. Next, Figure 9 is a block diagram showing a patent specification creation support system according to Embodiment 10. The artificial intelligence unit 20 includes a trained model storage unit 21 and a model control unit 22 as functional blocks, as well as a company literature data storage unit 23.

[0171] The company's internal documentation data storage unit 23 stores multiple sets of internal documentation data. Each of these sets of internal documentation data is a set of technical documents belonging to the company. Examples of internal technical documents include the company's patent documents, product catalogs, product manuals, specification templates created by the company, documents showing the correspondence between product model numbers and object names, and documents showing the correspondence between development project names and object names.

[0172] In Embodiment 10, the data acquisition unit 11 acquires field identification information from the input device 31 in addition to the target image data. Field identification information is information that identifies the technical field of the target object within the company. Examples of field identification information include the same name information, product model number information, and development project name information as in Embodiment 1. The user inputs the field identification information using the input device 31.

[0173] The document creation control unit 12 inputs the target image data and field identification information acquired by the data acquisition unit 11 to the artificial intelligence unit 20, causing the artificial intelligence unit 20 to acquire company literature data corresponding to the technical field from among multiple company literature data, and then creates an explanatory document.

[0174] The basic data acquisition step in Embodiment 10 involves acquiring field-specific information in addition to the target image data. Furthermore, in the basic data input step, the field-specific information is input to the artificial intelligence unit 20 in addition to the target image data. Finally, in the document creation step, the artificial intelligence unit 20 generates an explanatory document using the target image data and company literature data as input.

[0175] Other configurations and methods in Embodiment 10 are the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0176] Such patent specification drafting support systems and methods can support the creation of patent specifications more efficiently. Furthermore, they enable the smooth creation of more accurate explanatory texts.

[0177] The patent specification creation support program of Embodiment 10 is a program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 10.

[0178] Furthermore, the recording medium of Embodiment 10 is a computer-readable recording medium that records a patent specification creation support program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 10.

[0179] In Embodiments 2 to 9, the company's own literature data storage unit 23 and field-specific information may be used, similar to Embodiment 10.

[0180] Furthermore, the company's own literature data storage unit 23 may be located outside the artificial intelligence unit 20, for example, on the information processing device 10. Alternatively, the company's own literature data storage unit 23 may be located on a device independent of the artificial intelligence unit 20 and the information processing device 10.

[0181] Embodiment 11. Next, Figure 10 is a block diagram showing a patent specification creation support system according to Embodiment 11. The artificial intelligence unit 20 includes a learning unit 24 as a functional block, in addition to a trained model storage unit 21 and a model control unit 22.

[0182] In Embodiment 10, the data acquisition unit 11 acquires user document data after the document creation control unit 12 displays the explanatory text on the display device 32. The user document data is the data of a patent specification created by the user using the explanatory text. The user inputs the user document data into the information processing device 10.

[0183] The text creation control unit 12 inputs user text data into the artificial intelligence unit 20, causing the artificial intelligence unit 20 to perform additional learning. The learning unit 24 takes the user text data as input to perform additional learning and reflects the results of the additional learning in the trained model.

[0184] The patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 10 includes, in addition to the basic data acquisition step, basic data input step, document creation step, and display step, a user document data acquisition step and an additional learning step.

[0185] The user text data acquisition step is the step of acquiring user-generated text data. The additional learning step is the step of using the user text data acquired in the user text data acquisition step as training data to have the artificial intelligence unit 20 perform additional learning.

[0186] Other configurations and methods in Embodiment 11 are the same as in Embodiment 1. The basic flow of the descriptive text creation process for Embodiment 11 is the same as in Figure 3.

[0187] Such patent specification drafting support systems and methods can support the drafting of patent specifications more efficiently.

[0188] Furthermore, by using user text data as input to further train the artificial intelligence unit 20, it becomes possible to smoothly generate more accurate explanatory texts the next time it is used.

[0189] The patent specification creation support program of Embodiment 11 is a program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 11.

[0190] Furthermore, the recording medium of Embodiment 11 is a computer-readable recording medium that records a patent specification creation support program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 11.

[0191] The learning unit 24 may be located outside the artificial intelligence unit 20, for example, on the information processing device 10. Alternatively, the learning unit 24 may be located on a learning device independent of the artificial intelligence unit 20 and the information processing device 10.

[0192] Furthermore, in embodiments 2 to 10, the artificial intelligence unit 20 may be made to perform additional learning in the same manner as in embodiment 11.

[0193] Embodiment 12. Next, Figure 11 is a block diagram showing a patent specification creation support system according to Embodiment 12. In Embodiment 12, the artificial intelligence unit 20 is provided in the information processing device 10. The document creation control unit 12 also performs the function of the model control unit 22 in Embodiments 1 to 11.

[0194] Other configurations and methods in Embodiment 12 are the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0195] Thus, the artificial intelligence unit 20 may be provided in the information processing device 10, and the same effects as in Embodiment 1 can be obtained.

[0196] In addition, in embodiments 2 to 11, the information processing device 10 may also be provided with an artificial intelligence unit 20.

[0197] Embodiment 13. Next, Figure 12 is a block diagram showing a patent specification creation support system according to Embodiment 13. The patent specification creation support system of Embodiment 13 further includes a drawing monitoring unit 13.

[0198] The drawing monitoring unit 13 monitors the process by which the user creates multiple drawings showing the shape of the object. The drawing monitoring unit 13 also acquires data from multiple drawings at different stages of the drawing process. Furthermore, the drawing monitoring unit 13 inputs the acquired data from the multiple drawings as target image data into the data acquisition unit 11.

[0199] The user uses the drawing device 33 to create multiple drawings showing the shape of an object. The drawing device 33 may be, for example, a personal computer containing drawing software. Examples of such software include CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software, spreadsheet software capable of drawing, and word processing software capable of drawing.

[0200] The drawing monitoring unit 13 acquires drawing data either through user operation or periodically while the drawing device 33 is drawing.

[0201] Other configurations and methods in Embodiment 13 are the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0202] Such a patent specification drafting support system and method can more reliably suppress input errors to the artificial intelligence unit 20, and can more efficiently support the drafting of patent specifications. Furthermore, it enables the smooth creation of more accurate explanatory texts.

[0203] The patent specification creation support program of Embodiment 13 is a program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 13.

[0204] Furthermore, the recording medium of Embodiment 13 is a computer-readable recording medium that records a patent specification creation support program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 13.

[0205] Furthermore, the input of target image data to the data acquisition unit 11 may be performed from both the input device 31 and the drawing monitoring unit 13.

[0206] In embodiments 2 to 12, the input of target image data to the data acquisition unit 11 may be performed by the drawing monitoring unit 13.

[0207] Embodiment 14. Next, Figure 13 is a block diagram showing a patent specification creation support system according to Embodiment 14. The patent specification creation support system of Embodiment 14 further comprises a drawing monitoring unit 13 and a data selection unit 14.

[0208] The drawing monitoring unit 13 monitors the process by which the user creates multiple drawings that show the shape of the object. The drawing monitoring unit 13 also acquires data from multiple drawings that are at different stages of creation.

[0209] The data selection unit 14 selects some data from the data of multiple drawings acquired by the drawing monitoring unit 13 and inputs the selected data as target image data to the data acquisition unit 11.

[0210] Furthermore, the data selection unit 14 selects, for example, at least one data set from each of several drawings that are determined to have different viewpoints from among all the drawing data acquired by the drawing monitoring unit 13. Also, the data selection unit 14 selects, for example, at least one data set from each of several drawings that are determined to have different component configurations from among all the drawing data acquired by the drawing monitoring unit 13.

[0211] Furthermore, the data selection unit 14 may be capable of accepting data selection operations by the user.

[0212] Other configurations and methods in Embodiment 14 are the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0213] Such a patent specification drafting support system and method can more reliably suppress input errors to the artificial intelligence unit 20, and can more efficiently support the drafting of patent specifications. Furthermore, it enables the smooth creation of more accurate explanatory texts.

[0214] Furthermore, by suppressing the increase in the amount of data of the target image data input to the data acquisition unit 11, the configuration of the information processing device 10 can be simplified, and more accurate explanatory texts can be created smoothly.

[0215] The patent specification creation support program of Embodiment 14 is a program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 14.

[0216] Furthermore, the recording medium of Embodiment 14 is a computer-readable recording medium that records a patent specification creation support program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification creation support method of Embodiment 14.

[0217] In the embodiment 14, the data selection unit 14 may be provided within the drawing monitoring unit 13.

[0218] Furthermore, in Embodiment 14, the data selection unit 14 may be provided before or after the data acquisition unit 11 within the information processing device 10.

[0219] Furthermore, in embodiments 13 and 14, the user may draw by hand without using the drawing device 33. In this case, the drawing monitoring unit 13 may acquire data for multiple drawings, for example, via a camera.

[0220] Furthermore, in embodiments 1 to 14, the document creation control unit 12 may create a document as an explanatory document that conforms to the format of a patent application specification. In this case, the explanatory document will have multiple headings and multiple paragraph numbers.

[0221] Furthermore, in embodiments 1 to 14, the document creation control unit 12 may create a document as an explanatory document that conforms to the format of the claims in a patent application.

[0222] Furthermore, the functions of the information processing device 10, artificial intelligence unit 20, drawing monitoring unit 13, and data selection unit 14 in Embodiments 1 to 14 are realized by processing circuits. Figure 14 is a configuration diagram showing a first example of a processing circuit that realizes the functions of the information processing device 10, artificial intelligence unit 20, drawing monitoring unit 13, and data selection unit 14 in Embodiments 1 to 14. The processing circuit 100 in the first example is dedicated hardware.

[0223] Furthermore, the processing circuit 100 may be, for example, a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel programmed processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a combination thereof. In addition, each function of the information processing device 10, the artificial intelligence unit 20, the drawing monitoring unit 13, and the data selection unit 14 may be implemented by a separate processing circuit 100, or each function may be implemented together by the processing circuit 100.

[0224] Figure 15 is a configuration diagram showing a second example of a processing circuit that implements the functions of the information processing device 10, artificial intelligence unit 20, drawing monitoring unit 13, and data selection unit 14 of Embodiments 1 to 14. The processing circuit 200 of the second example includes a processor 201 and a memory 202.

[0225] Processor 201 can include, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a microprocessor, a microcontroller, or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor).

[0226] In the processing circuit 200, the functions of the information processing device 10, the artificial intelligence unit 20, the drawing monitoring unit 13, and the data selection unit 14 are realized by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. The software and firmware are written as programs and stored in memory 202. The processor 201 realizes each function by reading and executing the programs stored in memory 202.

[0227] The program stored in memory 202 can be said to cause the computer to execute the procedures or methods of each of the parts described above. Here, memory 202 refers to non-volatile or volatile semiconductor memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), flash memory, EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), and EEPROM (Electrically Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory). Magnetic disks, flexible disks, optical disks, compact disks, minidiscs, DVDs, etc., also fall under the category of memory 202.

[0228] Furthermore, some of the functions of the above-mentioned parts may be implemented using dedicated hardware, while others may be implemented using software or firmware.

[0229] Thus, the processing circuit can realize the functions of each of the above-mentioned parts through hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof.

[0230] Although preferred embodiments have been described in detail above, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and substitutions can be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0231] The various aspects of this disclosure are summarized below as an appendix.

[0232] (Note 1) A data acquisition unit acquires target image data, which consists of multiple images representing the shape of each object. The text creation control unit inputs the target image data acquired by the data acquisition unit into the artificial intelligence unit to create an explanatory text describing the target object, Equipped with, The aforementioned target image data includes data of multiple images of the subject object at different manufacturing stages, which is part of a patent specification creation support system. (Note 2) The data acquisition unit further acquires name information, which is information about the name of the object, The patent specification creation support system described in Appendix 1, wherein the document creation control unit inputs the target image data and the name information acquired by the data acquisition unit into the artificial intelligence unit to create the explanatory document. (Note 3) The patent specification creation support system according to Appendix 1 or Appendix 2, wherein the data acquisition unit acquires drawing data in which at least one reference numeral is assigned to the shape of the object as the target image data. (Note 4) The data acquisition unit further acquires code explanation information, which is explanatory information corresponding to the at least one code. The patent specification creation support system described in Appendix 3, wherein the document creation control unit inputs the target image data and the code explanation information acquired by the data acquisition unit into the artificial intelligence unit to create the explanatory document. (Note 5) The data acquisition unit further acquires related literature information, which is information about literature related to the object, The patent specification creation support system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 4, wherein the document creation control unit inputs the target image data and related document information acquired by the data acquisition unit into the artificial intelligence unit to create the explanatory document. (Note 6) The document creation control unit, By inputting the target image data acquired by the data acquisition unit into the artificial intelligence unit, images of multiple drawings included in multiple documents related to the object are output. A patent specification creation support system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 5, which creates the explanatory text by inputting the target image data acquired by the data acquisition unit and selected drawing information, which is information of a drawing selected from among the multiple drawings, into the artificial intelligence unit. (Note 7) The document creation control unit, By inputting the target image data acquired by the data acquisition unit into the artificial intelligence unit, information on multiple documents related to the target object is output. A patent specification creation support system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 5, which creates the explanatory text by inputting the target image data acquired by the data acquisition unit and selected document information, which is information about a document selected from among the multiple documents, into the artificial intelligence unit. (Note 8) The data acquisition unit further acquires simplified explanatory information, which is information that is simpler than the explanatory text concerning the object. The patent specification creation support system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 7, wherein the document creation control unit inputs the target image data and the simplified explanatory information acquired by the data acquisition unit into the artificial intelligence unit to create the explanatory document. (Note 9) The patent specification creation support system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 8, wherein the data acquisition unit acquires image data of the object in which the shape of the object is distinguished between characteristic parts and other parts. (Note 10) The data acquisition unit further acquires modified image data, which is image data showing the shape of the modified object. The patent specification creation support system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 9, wherein the document creation control unit inputs the target image data and the modified image data acquired by the data acquisition unit into the artificial intelligence unit to create the explanatory document. (Note 11) The data acquisition unit further acquires field-specific information that identifies the technical field of the object within the company, The patent specification creation support system described in any one of the appendices 1 to 10, wherein the document creation control unit inputs the target image data and field identification information acquired by the data acquisition unit to the artificial intelligence unit, causing the artificial intelligence unit to acquire the company's own document data corresponding to the field from among a plurality of company document data, each of which is data of the company's own technical documents, and creates the explanatory document. (Note 12) The data acquisition unit acquires user document data, which is data of a patent specification created by the user using the explanatory text. The patent specification creation support system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 11, wherein the document creation control unit inputs the user document data into the artificial intelligence unit, thereby causing the artificial intelligence unit to perform additional learning. (Note 13) A drawing monitoring unit that monitors the process of creating multiple drawings showing the shape of the object and acquires data from multiple drawings at different stages of the drawing process. Furthermore, The patent specification creation support system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 12, wherein the drawing monitoring unit inputs the acquired data of the plurality of drawings as the target image data to the data acquisition unit. (Note 14) A drawing monitoring unit that monitors the process of creating multiple drawings showing the shape of the object, and acquires data for multiple drawings at different stages of drawing, and A data selection unit selects some data from the data of the multiple drawings acquired by the drawing monitoring unit and inputs the selected data as the target image data to the data acquisition unit. A patent specification drafting support system described in any one of the appendices 1 to 12, further comprising the features described herein. (Note 15) The data selection unit is a patent specification creation support system as described in Appendix 14, which can accept data selection operations by the user. (Note 16) The document creation control unit is a patent specification creation support system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 15, which creates a document in accordance with the format of a specification in a patent application as the explanatory document. (Note 17) The document creation control unit is a patent specification creation support system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 16, which creates a document in accordance with the format of the claims in a patent application as the explanatory document. (Note 18) The basic data acquisition step involves acquiring target image data, which consists of multiple images representing the shape of each object, A basic data input step in which the target image data acquired in the basic data acquisition step is input to the artificial intelligence unit, The artificial intelligence unit takes the target image data as input and performs a text creation step to create an explanatory text describing the target object, Includes, A method for supporting the creation of a patent specification, wherein the aforementioned target image data includes data of multiple images of the subject object at different manufacturing stages. (Note 19) A user document data acquisition step, which acquires user document data, which is data of a patent specification created by the user using the aforementioned explanatory text, An additional learning step in which the user text data acquired in the user text data acquisition step is used as training data to cause the artificial intelligence unit to perform additional learning, A method for assisting in the preparation of a patent specification as described in Appendix 18, further including the above. (Note 20) A patent specification preparation support program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification preparation support method described in Appendix 18 or Appendix 19. (Note 21) A computer-readable recording medium containing a patent specification preparation support program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification preparation support method described in Appendix 18 or Appendix 19. [Explanation of symbols]

[0233] 11 Data acquisition unit, 12 Document creation control unit, 13 Drawing monitoring unit, 14 Data selection unit, 20 Artificial intelligence unit, 23 Company literature data storage unit.

Claims

1. A data acquisition unit acquires target image data, which consists of multiple images representing the shape of each object. The text creation control unit inputs the target image data acquired by the data acquisition unit into the artificial intelligence unit to create an explanatory text describing the target object, Equipped with, The aforementioned target image data includes data of multiple images of the subject object at different manufacturing stages, which is part of a patent specification creation support system.

2. The data acquisition unit further acquires name information, which is information about the name of the object, The patent specification creation support system according to claim 1, wherein the document creation control unit inputs the target image data and the name information acquired by the data acquisition unit into the artificial intelligence unit to create the explanatory document.

3. The patent specification creation support system according to claim 1, wherein the data acquisition unit acquires drawing data in which at least one reference numeral is assigned to the shape of the object as the target image data.

4. The data acquisition unit further acquires code explanation information, which is explanatory information corresponding to at least one code. The patent specification creation support system according to claim 3, wherein the document creation control unit inputs the target image data and the code explanation information acquired by the data acquisition unit into the artificial intelligence unit to create the explanatory document.

5. The data acquisition unit further acquires related literature information, which is information about literature related to the object, The patent specification creation support system according to claim 1, wherein the document creation control unit inputs the target image data and related document information acquired by the data acquisition unit into the artificial intelligence unit to create the explanatory document.

6. The document creation control unit, By inputting the target image data acquired by the data acquisition unit into the artificial intelligence unit, images of multiple drawings included in multiple documents related to the object are output. The patent specification creation support system according to claim 1, which creates the explanatory text by inputting the target image data acquired by the data acquisition unit and selected drawing information, which is information of a drawing selected from the plurality of drawings, into the artificial intelligence unit.

7. The document creation control unit, By inputting the target image data acquired by the data acquisition unit into the artificial intelligence unit, information on multiple documents related to the target object is output. A patent specification creation support system according to claim 1, which creates the explanatory text by inputting the target image data acquired by the data acquisition unit and selected document information, which is information about a document selected from among the multiple documents, into the artificial intelligence unit.

8. The data acquisition unit further acquires simplified explanatory information, which is information that is simpler than the explanatory text concerning the object. The patent specification creation support system according to claim 1, wherein the document creation control unit inputs the target image data and the simplified explanatory information acquired by the data acquisition unit into the artificial intelligence unit to create the explanatory document.

9. The patent specification creation support system according to claim 1, wherein the data acquisition unit acquires image data of the object in which the shape of the object is distinguished between characteristic parts and other parts as the target image data.

10. The data acquisition unit further acquires modified image data, which is image data showing the shape of the modified object. The patent specification creation support system according to claim 1, wherein the document creation control unit inputs the target image data and the modified image data acquired by the data acquisition unit into the artificial intelligence unit to create the explanatory document.

11. The data acquisition unit further acquires field-specific information that identifies the technical field of the object within the company, The patent specification creation support system according to claim 1, wherein the document creation control unit inputs the target image data and field identification information acquired by the data acquisition unit to the artificial intelligence unit, thereby causing the artificial intelligence unit to acquire the company's own document data corresponding to the field from among a plurality of company document data, each of which is data of the company's own technical documents, and creates the explanatory document.

12. The data acquisition unit acquires user document data, which is data of a patent specification created by the user using the explanatory text. The patent specification creation support system according to claim 1, wherein the document creation control unit inputs the user document data into the artificial intelligence unit, thereby causing the artificial intelligence unit to perform additional learning.

13. A drawing monitoring unit that monitors the process of creating multiple drawings showing the shape of the object and acquires data from multiple drawings at different stages of the drawing process. Furthermore, The patent specification creation support system according to claim 1, wherein the drawing monitoring unit inputs the acquired data of the plurality of drawings as target image data to the data acquisition unit.

14. A drawing monitoring unit that monitors the process of creating multiple drawings showing the shape of the object, and acquires data for multiple drawings at different stages of drawing, and A data selection unit selects some data from the data of the multiple drawings acquired by the drawing monitoring unit and inputs the selected data as the target image data to the data acquisition unit. The patent specification drafting support system according to claim 1, further comprising:

15. The patent specification creation support system according to claim 14, wherein the data selection unit is capable of receiving data selection operations by the user.

16. The patent specification creation support system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the document creation control unit creates a document that conforms to the format of a specification in a patent application as the explanatory document.

17. The patent specification creation support system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the document creation control unit creates a document that conforms to the format of the claims in a patent application as the explanatory document.

18. The basic data acquisition step involves acquiring target image data, which consists of multiple images representing the shape of each object, A basic data input step in which the target image data acquired in the basic data acquisition step is input to the artificial intelligence unit, The artificial intelligence unit takes the target image data as input and performs a text creation step to create an explanatory text describing the target object, Includes, A method for supporting the creation of a patent specification, wherein the aforementioned target image data includes data of multiple images of the subject object at different manufacturing stages.

19. A user document data acquisition step, which acquires user document data, which is data of a patent specification created by the user using the aforementioned explanatory text, An additional learning step in which the user text data acquired in the user text data acquisition step is used as training data to cause the artificial intelligence unit to perform additional learning, A method for assisting the creation of a patent specification according to claim 18, further comprising:

20. A patent specification preparation support program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification preparation support method described in claim 18 or claim 19.

21. A computer-readable recording medium that stores a patent specification preparation support program that causes a computer to execute the patent specification preparation support method described in claim 18 or claim 19.

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