system

Abstract

We provide the system. [Solution] Means for generating digital avatars, Means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, A means for receiving input from a user and analyzing said input using a natural language processing engine, A means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user, A system that includes means for saving dialogue logs and analyzing them at a later date.

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, including steps of receiving a user utterance, adding the user utterance to a prompt including an instruction sentence related to an explanation of a chatbot character, encoding the prompt, and inputting the encoded prompt into a language model to generate a chatbot utterance in response to the user utterance.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In conventional companies, the presence of charismatic managers plays an important role in motivating employees and creating new ideas. However, it is difficult for managers to directly interact with each employee at all times. As a result, the knowledge and ideas of managers may not reach all employees, and there is a possibility that business improvement and the creation of new businesses may be delayed. In addition, when the manager is absent or no successor appears, the problem becomes even more serious. Therefore, there is a need for a system that virtually reproduces the presence of managers and allows employees to easily interact at any time.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The present invention solves the above problems with a system that includes means for generating a digital avatar, means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, means for receiving input from a user and analyzing the input using a natural language processing engine, means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user, and means for saving dialogue logs for later analysis. Furthermore, by providing means for performing user authentication and verifying access rights based on said authentication, and means for receiving feedback from the user and improving the system based on said feedback, the quality of the user experience is enhanced and continuous system improvement is achieved.

[0006] A "digital avatar" is a virtual character displayed digitally that mimics the appearance and behavior of a real person.

[0007] A "virtual space" is a digital environment created by a computer that users can participate in through an interface.

[0008] A "natural language processing engine" is a software component that understands and analyzes human language input from a user and generates an appropriate response.

[0009] "Analysis results" refer to information and data obtained after user input has been processed by a natural language processing engine.

[0010] A "response" is information generated based on the analysis results in response to user input.

[0011] User authentication is the process of verifying the authentication information required for a user to access a system and confirming that the user has legitimate access rights.

[0012] "Access rights" refer to the ability of an authenticated user to access system functions or resources that they are permitted to do.

[0013] A "dialogue log" is data that records the content of conversations between a user and a digital avatar.

[0014] "Feedback" refers to information that users provide to the system, such as their evaluations and opinions on an interaction. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0015] [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 a data processing device and a 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] This shows an emotion map where multiple emotions are mapped. [Figure 11] This is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow of the data processing system in Example 1. [Figure 12] This is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow of the data processing system in Application Example 1. [Figure 13] This is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow of the data processing system in Example 2, which incorporates an emotion engine. [Figure 14] It is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow of a data processing system in Application Example 2 when a sentiment engine is combined.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0016] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of a system according to the technology of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0017] First, the terms used in the following description will be explained.

[0018] 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 multiple arithmetic units. Also, the processor may be a single type of arithmetic unit or a combination of multiple 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.

[0019] 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.

[0020] In the following embodiments, a storage with a reference numeral is one or more non-volatile storage devices that store various programs and various parameters, etc. Examples of non-volatile storage devices include flash memory (SSD (Solid State Drive)), magnetic disks (e.g., hard disks), or magnetic tapes, etc.

[0021] 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).

[0022] 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."

[0023] [First Embodiment]

[0024] Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of the data processing system 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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).

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] Figure 2 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart device 14.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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".

[0036] This invention provides a system that virtually recreates the presence of a charismatic leader, allowing employees to interact with that leader at any time. Specific embodiments of this system are described below.

[0037] Overall structure

[0038] The system consists of three main components: a server, terminals, and users. The server performs core processing such as generating and managing digital avatars, natural language processing, and saving and analyzing dialogue logs. Terminals provide an interface for users to interact with the system. Through terminals, users access the metaverse and begin interacting with the manager's digital avatar.

[0039] Server functions and operation

[0040] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executive. This avatar replicates the executive's appearance and behavior within the virtual space. The server also receives and authenticates user requests to access the metaverse. If authentication is successful, the server loads the digital avatar into the virtual space, allowing the user to interact with it.

[0041] When a user submits a question or comment to the server, the server uses a natural language processing engine to analyze it and generate an appropriate response based on the analysis. This response is then sent back to the user, and the dialogue continues. Once the dialogue is complete, the server saves a dialogue log for later analysis.

[0042] Device functions and operation

[0043] The terminal provides a graphical user interface (GUI) for users to access the metaverse. The interface displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar and allows users to input questions via voice or text. Once the user inputs, the terminal sends it to the server. Upon receiving a response from the server, the terminal displays it on the screen and, in the case of a voice response, plays it through the speaker.

[0044] Furthermore, the terminal has a function to receive user feedback, which is then sent to a server to help improve the system.

[0045] User actions

[0046] Users log in using their devices to access the metaverse. They enter authentication information during login, and the server performs the authentication process. If successful, the user begins interacting with a manager avatar in the virtual space. Users input questions and opinions, and receive advice for business improvement and new business creation through responses from the manager avatar. After the interaction ends, users provide feedback, which is used to further improve the system.

[0047] Specific example

[0048] For example, if an employee is considering a new market strategy, they can access the metaverse via a terminal and ask a digital avatar, "I'd like your opinion on a new market strategy." The server receives this question and analyzes it using a natural language processing engine. Based on the analysis, the server generates a response such as, "I think it's important to proceed with market research. You should also conduct initial interviews with potential users," and communicates it to the employee via the terminal. The employee can then use this advice to conduct specific market research and interviews, and further refine their strategy.

[0049] Thus, the present invention is a system that recreates the presence of management in a virtual space, allowing employees to constantly receive advice from management and promoting new ideas and business improvements.

[0050] The following describes the processing flow.

[0051] Step 1:

[0052] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. The generated avatar information is then stored in storage.

[0053] Step 2:

[0054] The user opens a login screen to access the metaverse using their device. The user enters their authentication information (username, password, etc.) and presses the "Login" button.

[0055] Step 3:

[0056] The terminal receives the user's authentication information and sends it to the server. The server verifies the received authentication information and authenticates that the user has legitimate access rights.

[0057] Step 4:

[0058] After successful authentication, the server loads a digital avatar into the virtual space for the user. It then performs an initialization process until the avatar is ready for interaction.

[0059] Step 5:

[0060] The device displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar in a virtual space. Users can input questions or comments using on-screen input fields or voice recognition.

[0061] Step 6:

[0062] The terminal sends the user's input (questions and opinions) to the server. The server then passes the received input to a natural language processing engine for analysis.

[0063] Step 7:

[0064] The server uses a natural language processing engine to analyze user input. Based on the analysis results, it generates an appropriate response message.

[0065] Step 8:

[0066] The server sends the generated response message to the terminal. The terminal displays this response message to the user. If there is an audio response, it is played through the speaker.

[0067] Step 9:

[0068] The user reviews the displayed response messages and audio, and based on that, considers their next questions and actions. They continue the conversation as needed.

[0069] Step 10:

[0070] After the interaction ends, the server saves the interaction log. This can then be used to improve the quality of future interactions and for analysis.

[0071] Step 11:

[0072] Users provide feedback on the system's usability and the quality of its interaction through a feedback form. The device then sends this feedback to the server.

[0073] Step 12:

[0074] The server uses the received feedback to improve the system. This enables continuous quality improvement.

[0075] (Example 1)

[0076] 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."

[0077] In today's business environment, the presence of charismatic leaders is expected to contribute to business improvement and the creation of new businesses. However, due to physical and time constraints, it is difficult for employees to receive advice from management on a regular basis. Furthermore, there is a lack of means to improve systems using employee feedback. Therefore, there is a need to build a system that uses a virtual space to reproduce the presence of management in real time, allowing employees to interact with them at any time.

[0078] 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.

[0079] In this invention, the server includes means for generating a digital avatar, means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, means for receiving input from a user and analyzing the input using a generated AI model, means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user, means for saving the dialogue log for later analysis, and means for receiving feedback from the user and reflecting it in improving the system. As a result, employees can always receive advice from management in a virtual space, and continuous improvement of the system can be achieved based on the feedback.

[0080] A "digital avatar" is a digital representation that imitates the appearance and behavior of a specific person within a virtual space.

[0081] A "virtual space" is a digital environment created by computers that is similar to or different from the real world, allowing users to interact.

[0082] A "generative AI model" is an algorithm or system that uses artificial intelligence technology to analyze data and generate responses such as text or speech.

[0083] "Natural language processing" is a technology that uses computers to process and analyze human language in order to understand its meaning.

[0084] A "dialogue log" is data that records the content of the conversation between the user and the system.

[0085] "Feedback" refers to information such as comments and suggestions for improvement that users provide to the system.

[0086] User authentication is the process of verifying that a user accessing a system has legitimate permissions.

[0087] "Access rights" refer to the permission or qualifications to access a system or certain functions within it.

[0088] A "graphical user interface (GUI) in a virtual space" refers to a screen or means of operation that allows a user to visually interact with a system.

[0089] A "server" is a computer system that stores, analyzes, and provides data.

[0090] A "terminal" is a device that a user uses to access and operate a system.

[0091] This invention relates to a system that generates digital avatars of charismatic business leaders in a virtual space, allowing employees to interact with these leaders at any time. This system enables users to obtain advice on various business improvements and new business ventures within the virtual space.

[0092] This system consists primarily of three components: servers, terminals, and users.

[0093] 1. Server Functions

[0094] The server performs core processing such as generating and managing digital avatars, natural language processing, and storing and analyzing dialogue logs.

[0095] Digital Avatar Generation

[0096] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. This process utilizes computer vision and speech synthesis technologies.

[0097] Usage example:

[0098] The "OpenCV" library will be used to process the image data.

[0099] The audio data processing uses "WaveNet" technology.

[0100] User Authentication

[0101] The server receives the user's authentication information, compares it with the database, and performs authentication.

[0102] Authentication protocol:

[0103] Use "OAuth 2.0".

[0104] Natural Language Processing

[0105] The server analyzes user input using a generation AI model (e.g., "GPT-4®") and generates an appropriate response.

[0106] Natural language processing engine:

[0107] Use the "GPT-4" API.

[0108] Saving and analyzing dialogue logs

[0109] The server saves the dialogue log when the interaction ends, for later analysis.

[0110] Database system:

[0111] Use "MySQL(registered trademark)".

[0112] 2. Device functions

[0113] The terminal provides an interface for the user to interact with the system.

[0114] Graphical User Interface (GUI)

[0115] The terminal displays a GUI that provides the user with access to a virtual space. Here, the user can input questions via voice or text and receive responses.

[0116] Usage example:

[0117] We will use "React.js" to build the GUI.

[0118] Sending input data and receiving responses

[0119] The user enters data, which is then sent to the server, and a response is received from the server.

[0120] Communication protocol:

[0121] Use "WebSocket".

[0122] Gathering feedback

[0123] The device will use user feedback sent to the server to help improve the system.

[0124] 3. User actions

[0125] Accessing and Interacting with the Metaverse

[0126] Users log in using their devices to access the metaverse. They enter authentication information during login, and the server performs the authentication process. If successful, the user begins interacting with the manager avatar in the virtual space.

[0127] Example of a prompt:

[0128] "Please enter your login information to begin a conversation with the CEO avatar."

[0129] "I'd like to hear your opinion on a new market strategy."

[0130] Dialogue progression

[0131] Users input questions and opinions, and receive advice for business improvement and the creation of new businesses through responses from manager avatars.

[0132] Provide feedback

[0133] After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback, which is used to further improve the system.

[0134] By utilizing the system of this invention, employees can constantly receive advice from management in a virtual space, promoting business improvement and the generation of new ideas. Furthermore, the system can be continuously improved based on the collected user feedback.

[0135] The flow of the specific processing in Example 1 will be explained using Figure 11.

[0136] Step 1: Start User Authentication

[0137] The server receives authentication information entered by the user from the terminal. This authentication information includes the username and password or an OAuth token. The server then verifies this authentication information against the database to perform authentication.

[0138] input:

[0139] Username and password or OAuth token

[0140] User information from the database

[0141] Data processing / calculations:

[0142] The entered authentication information is compared against the user information in the database.

[0143] Based on the verification results, the success or failure of authentication is determined.

[0144] output:

[0145] If authentication is successful: Session ID

[0146] If authentication fails: Authentication failure message

[0147] Specific actions:

[0148] The user enters their username and password on the device's login screen.

[0149] The device sends this information to the server.

[0150] The server queries the MySQL database to check user information.

[0151] Upon successful authentication, a session ID is generated and sent to the device.

[0152] Step 2: Accessing the Metaverse

[0153] The server grants access to the metaverse's virtual space to users who have successfully authenticated. The terminal displays the virtual space's graphical user interface (GUI).

[0154] input:

[0155] Authentication success message

[0156] User access request

[0157] Data processing / calculations:

[0158] Prepare the initial dataset for the virtual space.

[0159] Check the user's access permissions.

[0160] output:

[0161] Initial data for the virtual space

[0162] Access permission message

[0163] Specific actions:

[0164] The server sends an authentication success message to the terminal, which includes the initial data for the virtual space.

[0165] The device receives this and uses React.js to display a GUI for the virtual space.

[0166] Step 3: Begin interacting with your digital avatar

[0167] The user sends an initial message through their device to begin interacting with the digital avatar. The server loads the digital avatar into the virtual space and starts the avatar's actions.

[0168] input:

[0169] User's initial message

[0170] Data processing / calculations:

[0171] Loading digital avatars

[0172] Initial placement of avatars in virtual space

[0173] output:

[0174] Initial dialogue start message

[0175] Specific actions:

[0176] The user types, "Hello, I'd like to discuss market strategy."

[0177] The terminal sends this message to the server.

[0178] The server loads the digital avatar into the virtual space and prepares to begin the initial interaction.

[0179] Step 4: Question analysis using natural language processing

[0180] The server receives questions from users, sends them to a generative AI model (e.g., GPT-4), and performs analysis.

[0181] input:

[0182] User question message

[0183] Data processing / calculations:

[0184] Send the question message to the text analysis engine.

[0185] Analyze the content of the question and generate an appropriate response.

[0186] output:

[0187] Analysis results and response text

[0188] Specific actions:

[0189] The server sends the user's question in text format to the natural language processing engine (GPT-4).

[0190] GPT-4 analyzes questions and generates response results.

[0191] Step 5: Response generation and sending

[0192] The server receives the response from the natural language processing engine and sends it back to the user. The terminal displays or plays the received response audibly to the user.

[0193] input:

[0194] Response text from GPT-4

[0195] Data processing / calculations:

[0196] Format the generated response text and send it to the terminal.

[0197] Convert to speech as needed.

[0198] output:

[0199] Formatted response text or audio data

[0200] Specific actions:

[0201] The server sends the response text received from "GPT-4" to the terminal.

[0202] The device uses React.js to display responses on the interactive screen and plays them back using a speech synthesis engine.

[0203] Step 6: Save the conversation log

[0204] After the interaction ends, the server saves the content of the interaction as a log. This log will be used later for analyzing user behavior and improving the system.

[0205] input:

[0206] Dialogue content (text)

[0207] Data processing / calculations:

[0208] Convert the conversation content into a database format and save it.

[0209] output:

[0210] Dialogue log recording data

[0211] Specific actions:

[0212] The server saves the content of the conversation to a database.

[0213] The conversation log is stored in a MySQL database.

[0214] Step 7: Gathering Feedback

[0215] The device receives feedback from the user and sends it to the server. The server stores the collected feedback and uses it to improve the system.

[0216] input:

[0217] User feedback

[0218] Data processing / calculations:

[0219] We analyze the feedback and convert it into data for system improvement.

[0220] output:

[0221] Feedback record data

[0222] Specific actions:

[0223] The user enters feedback into their device saying, "This advice was very helpful."

[0224] The device sends this feedback to the server.

[0225] The server stores the feedback in a database for aggregation and analysis.

[0226] (Application Example 1)

[0227] 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."

[0228] For companies, it is crucial to create an environment where employees can always receive advice from charismatic leaders. However, leaders are not always physically present, making it difficult for employees to receive timely advice from them. Furthermore, there is a lack of efficient means to collect employee feedback and improve systems. In addition, there is a need for a system that allows employees to receive advice from leaders anytime, anywhere, using mobile devices such as smartphones.

[0229] 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.

[0230] In this invention, the server includes means for generating a digital avatar, means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, means for receiving input from a user and analyzing the input using a natural language processing engine, means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user, means for saving a dialogue log for later analysis, means for providing dialogue with the digital avatar through a smartphone application, and database means for saving the generated responses and using them for future data analysis. This makes it possible to create an environment where employees can always receive advice from management, effectively collect feedback, and improve the system.

[0231] A "digital avatar" is a virtual entity that recreates a specific person or character in a virtual space and can interact with them.

[0232] A "virtual space" is a digital environment created by a computer, a space in which users can move and operate without physical constraints.

[0233] "User input" refers to text or audio data such as questions, instructions, or opinions that users provide to the system.

[0234] A "natural language processing engine" is software or algorithms that analyze user input and provide technology for understanding and generating human language.

[0235] "Response generation" is the process of creating appropriate responses or actions based on input data analyzed by a natural language processing engine.

[0236] A "dialogue log" is data that records all the content of the conversations that took place between the user and the system.

[0237] A "smartphone application" is a software program that runs on a smartphone device and is developed to perform specific tasks or functions.

[0238] A "database system" is a system that systematically stores and manages data such as generated responses and dialogue logs, making it easy to access and analyze them at a later date.

[0239] "Feedback" refers to information such as evaluations, opinions, and suggestions for improvement that users provide after using a system.

[0240] "User authentication" is the process by which a system verifies the user's identity and grants them access rights.

[0241] This invention provides a system that allows employees in a company to receive advice from charismatic managers on a regular basis. The system of this invention consists of three main components: a server, a terminal, and a user.

[0242] Server functions and operation

[0243] The server has the following functions:

[0244] 1. Digital avatar generation method:

[0245] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. This digital avatar replicates the executives' appearance and behavior within the virtual space.

[0246] 2. Natural Language Processing Engine (NLP Engine):

[0247] The server receives input from the user and analyzes it using a natural language processing engine (for example, Hugging Face's Transformers). This process helps the server understand the user's question and generate an appropriate response.

[0248] 3. Means for saving and database-ing dialogue logs:

[0249] The server stores the generated responses and interaction logs in a database such as Firebase Firestore for future data analysis.

[0250] Device functions and operation

[0251] The terminal provides an interface for the user to interact with the system.

[0252] 1. Smartphone applications:

[0253] For example, a smartphone application developed using Flutter® can support user-system interaction. Users can utilize a GUI to interact with a digital avatar via their smartphone.

[0254] 2. User Authentication:

[0255] The device uses Firebase Authentication to authenticate the user and verify appropriate access permissions.

[0256] 3. Gathering feedback:

[0257] The terminal has the ability to receive user feedback and send it to the server. This allows for system improvements.

[0258] User actions

[0259] The user implements the invention by following the steps below.

[0260] 1. Login and Authentication:

[0261] The user opens the smartphone application and logs in with their email address and password. The device uses Firebase Authentication to authenticate the user.

[0262] 2. Interacting with digital avatars:

[0263] Once authentication is successful, the user begins interacting with a digital avatar in the virtual space. For example, if the user asks, "I'd like your opinion on a new market strategy," the server's NLP engine analyzes the question and generates a response such as, "It's important to conduct market research. You should also conduct initial interviews with potential users."

[0264] 3. Saving dialogue logs and feedback:

[0265] Once the interaction with the user is complete, the server saves the interaction log to Firebase Firestore. User feedback is also collected and used to improve the system.

[0266] For example, if a user enters "I'd like your opinion on a new market strategy" into the app, the natural language processing engine analyzes it and provides appropriate advice. An example of a prompt is "QA Model: I'd like your opinion on a new market strategy."

[0267] In this way, the present invention provides a system that allows employees to always receive advice from management, thereby promoting new ideas and business improvements within the company.

[0268] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 1 will be explained using Figure 12.

[0269] Step 1:

[0270] The user opens the smartphone application and logs in with their email address and password. The user's authentication information (email address and password) is provided as input. The device receives this information and performs user authentication using Firebase Authentication. If authentication is successful, the user information is retrieved and the process proceeds to the next step. The output includes the authentication result and user information.

[0271] Step 2:

[0272] The server provides users who have successfully authenticated with an interaction screen with a digital avatar. User information and a login success flag are provided as input. The terminal updates the user interface and displays the digital avatar. Users can input questions and comments in text or voice. The output is the displayed digital avatar and the user's input.

[0273] Step 3:

[0274] When a user enters a question or comment, the terminal sends that input to the server. The input is provided as text or voice data from the user. The server receives this and passes it to the natural language processing engine. The output is the data to be analyzed and passed to the NLP engine.

[0275] Step 4:

[0276] The server uses an NLP engine to analyze user input. The input is provided as user text or voice data. The analysis process uses a generative AI model (e.g., Hugging Face's Transformers) to understand the meaning of the input data and generate an appropriate response. The output is the generated response text.

[0277] Step 5:

[0278] Based on the analysis results, the server provides the generated response to the user. The input is the generated response text. The server sends this response to the terminal, making it viewable and listenable to the user. The output is the response provided to the user.

[0279] Step 6:

[0280] The server saves the dialogue log and stores it in a database for later analysis. The input is the entire dialogue with the user (questions and answers). The server saves this data to a database such as Firebase Firestore. The output is the dialogue log stored in the database.

[0281] Step 7:

[0282] After the interaction ends, the user can provide feedback. The input consists of the user's feedback information (rating, comments, etc.). The device sends this feedback to the server. The output is the collected feedback data.

[0283] Step 8:

[0284] The server analyzes the feedback from the user and identifies areas for system improvement. Feedback data is provided as input. The server uses data analysis techniques to analyze the feedback information and generate insights for system improvement. As output, areas for improvement and specific recommended actions therefor are obtained.

[0285] Furthermore, an emotion engine for estimating the user's emotion may be combined. That is, the specific processing unit 290 may estimate the user's emotion using the emotion recognition model 59 and perform specific processing using the user's emotion.

[0286] The present invention is a system that installs a virtual avatar of a charismatic manager in a virtual space and promotes business improvement and creation of new businesses by allowing employees to interact with the avatar on a daily basis. In particular, by combining an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotion, the quality of the interaction is further improved.

[0287] Overall Configuration

[0288] The system consists of three main components: a server, a terminal, and a user. The server is responsible for core processing such as generation and management of digital avatars, natural language processing, emotion analysis by an emotion engine, and storage and analysis of conversation logs. The terminal serves as an interface with the user, and the user accesses the metaverse through the terminal.

[0289] Functions and Operations of the Server

[0290] The server generates a digital avatar based on pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavior patterns of the manager. The generated avatar is stored in storage. When a request to access the metaverse from the user is sent, the server checks the authentication information and authenticates the user.

[0291] Upon successful authentication, the server loads a digital avatar into the virtual space, making it ready for interaction. When user input is received, the server uses a natural language processing engine to analyze the input and then an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional data. Based on the analysis results, it generates an appropriate response and provides it to the user. Dialogue logs and emotional data are saved and used for future analysis.

[0292] Device functions and operation

[0293] The terminal provides a graphical user interface (GUI) for users to access the metaverse. The interface displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar and allows users to input questions via voice or text. The input is sent to the server. When a response is received from the server, the terminal displays it on the screen and plays it aloud through its speaker.

[0294] The device also accepts user feedback. This feedback is sent to the server and used to improve the system.

[0295] User actions

[0296] The user enters authentication information to log in using their device. Upon successful authentication, they can begin interacting with a manager avatar in the virtual space. The user inputs questions and opinions, and the digital avatar responds appropriately. During the interaction, an emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice tone to understand their emotions. Based on this data, more appropriate responses are provided.

[0297] After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback, which is received by the system. This feedback is stored as important data for system improvement.

[0298] Specific example

[0299] For example, if an employee is struggling with a new market strategy, they can access the metaverse through their device and ask their digital avatar, "I'd like your opinion on the new market strategy." The server receives this question, analyzes it using a natural language processing engine, and then analyzes the employee's emotional data using an emotion engine. Based on the analysis results, the server generates a response such as, "I think it's important to proceed with market research. You should also conduct initial interviews with potential users." The device displays this response on the screen and plays it back as audio.

[0300] If the user's facial expression during input is determined to be "confused" or "anxious," the server will generate and provide additional advice that takes that emotion into consideration (e.g., "It may seem difficult, but the first step is important. Please feel free to contact us anytime if you need support").

[0301] Thus, the present invention is a system that recreates the presence of managers in a virtual space and further enables dialogue adapted to the user's emotions through an emotion engine, allowing employees to constantly receive advice from managers and promoting new ideas and business improvements.

[0302] The following describes the processing flow.

[0303] Step 1:

[0304] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. The generated avatar information is then stored in storage.

[0305] Step 2:

[0306] The user opens a login screen to access the metaverse using their device. The user enters their authentication information (username, password, etc.) and presses the "Login" button.

[0307] Step 3:

[0308] The terminal receives the user's authentication information and sends it to the server. The server checks the received authentication information and authenticates that the user has legitimate access rights.

[0309] Step 4:

[0310] After successful authentication, the server loads a digital avatar for the user into the virtual space and performs initialization processing until the avatar becomes interactive.

[0311] Step 5:

[0312] The terminal displays a dialogue screen with the digital avatar in the virtual space. The user inputs questions or opinions using the input fields on the screen or the voice recognition function.

[0313] Step 6:

[0314] The terminal sends the questions and opinions input by the user to the server. The server passes the received input to the natural language processing engine for analysis.

[0315] Step 7:

[0316] The server analyzes the user's input using the natural language processing engine and generates an appropriate response message based on the analysis results.

[0317] Step 8:

[0318] The server analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice tones during input using the emotion engine to obtain the user's emotion data. The emotion data can also include biometric information such as the user's body temperature and pulse.

[0319] <00010​​​​The server generates a response based on the sentiment analysis results, corresponding to the analysis results of the natural language processing engine. This response is adjusted based on the sentiment analysis.

[0321] Step 10:

[0322] The server sends the generated response message to the terminal. The terminal displays this response message to the user and, if it's audio, plays it through the speaker.

[0323] Step 11:

[0324] The user reviews the displayed response messages and audio, and based on that, considers their next questions and actions. They continue the conversation as needed.

[0325] Step 12:

[0326] After the interaction ends, the server saves the interaction log. This can then be used to improve the quality of future interactions and for analysis.

[0327] Step 13:

[0328] The server also saves emotional data generated during the conversation along with the conversation log. This allows for a detailed analysis of the user's emotional state.

[0329] Step 14:

[0330] After the interaction ends, users provide feedback on the system's usability and the quality of the interaction through a feedback form. The device then sends this feedback to the server.

[0331] Step 15:

[0332] The server uses the received feedback to improve the system. This enables continuous quality improvement.

[0333] (Example 2)

[0334] 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".

[0335] Traditional virtual reality dialogue systems struggled to replicate the feeling of receiving advice from actual business leaders, resulting in a decline in the quality of the conversations. Furthermore, they failed to generate responses that adequately reflected user emotions, hindering user satisfaction. Additionally, they lacked mechanisms for effectively utilizing feedback to improve the system.

[0336] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means.

[0337] In this invention, the server includes means for generating a digital avatar, means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, means for receiving input from a user and analyzing the input using a natural language processing engine, means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user, means for saving a dialogue log for later analysis, means including an emotion analysis engine for analyzing the user's emotions, means for adjusting the response content based on the emotion analysis results, means for receiving feedback from the user and improving the system based on the feedback, means for providing an interface for the user to access the virtual space, and means for verifying authentication information entered by the user and authenticating the user based on the authentication.

[0338] This allows users to experience, in a virtual space, the feeling of receiving advice from actual business leaders, receive appropriate responses based on their emotions, and enable continuous improvement of the system.

[0339] A "digital avatar" is a virtual person or character created to interact with a user in a virtual space.

[0340] A "virtual space" is a virtual three-dimensional environment provided via the internet or a network, within which users can perform activities and operations.

[0341] A "user" refers to a person who uses this system to access the virtual space and interact with a digital avatar.

[0342] A "natural language processing engine" is a technology or software that analyzes user input and generates appropriate responses, possessing the ability to understand and process human language.

[0343] An "emotion analysis engine" is a technology or software that analyzes a user's voice and facial expressions to determine their emotional state.

[0344] A "dialogue log" is data that records the content of past conversations between a user and a digital avatar.

[0345] An "interface" is the means a user uses to access and interact with a virtual space, and includes graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and other input devices.

[0346] "Authentication information" refers to identifiers (e.g., user ID and password) that a user provides when accessing the system, and this is used to verify the user's identity.

[0347] "Feedback" refers to the opinions and impressions that users provide after using a system, and is information that can be used to evaluate and improve the system.

[0348] This invention is a system that promotes business improvement and the creation of new businesses by placing a virtual avatar of a charismatic leader in a virtual space and allowing employees to interact with this avatar on a daily basis. In particular, the quality of the interaction is further improved by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions. The system consists of three main components: a server, a terminal, and a user.

[0349] Server functions and operation

[0350] The server is responsible for core processes such as generating and managing digital avatars, natural language processing, sentiment analysis using an emotion engine, and saving and analyzing dialogue logs. Specifically, it generates digital avatars based on pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of executives. The technologies used in this step include speech synthesis engines and image processing software, such as general-purpose software for speech synthesis and general-purpose graphics tools for image processing. The generated avatars are stored in storage.

[0351] When a user sends a request to access the metaverse, the server verifies the authentication information and authenticates the user. If authentication is successful, the server loads a digital avatar into the virtual space and makes it interactive. When user input is sent, the server analyzes the input using a natural language processing engine and further analyzes the user's emotional data using an emotion engine. Based on the analysis results, it generates an appropriate response and provides it to the user.

[0352] Device functions and operation

[0353] The terminal provides a graphical user interface for users to access the metaverse. The interface displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar and allows users to input questions via voice or text. The input is sent to the server. Upon receiving a response from the server, the terminal displays it on the screen and plays it aloud through its speaker. The terminal also accepts user feedback, which is sent to the server and used to improve the system.

[0354] User actions

[0355] The user enters authentication information to log in using their device. Upon successful authentication, they can begin interacting with a manager avatar in a virtual space. The user inputs questions and opinions, and the digital avatar provides appropriate responses. During the interaction, an emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice tone to understand their emotions. Based on this data, more appropriate responses are provided. After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback, which is received by the system. This feedback is stored as important data for system improvement.

[0356] Specific example

[0357] For example, if an employee is struggling with a new market strategy, they can access the metaverse through their device and ask their digital avatar, "I'd like your opinion on the new market strategy." The server receives this question, analyzes it using a natural language processing engine, and then analyzes the employee's emotional data using an emotion analysis engine. Based on the analysis results, the server generates a response such as, "I think it's important to proceed with market research. You should also conduct initial interviews with potential users." The device displays this response on the screen and plays it back as audio.

[0358] If the user's facial expression during input is determined to be "confused" or "anxious," the server generates additional advice that takes that emotion into consideration (e.g., "It may seem difficult, but the first step is important. Please feel free to contact us anytime if you need support") and provides it to the user. In this way, the present invention is a system that recreates the presence of management in a virtual space and further enables dialogue adapted to the user's emotions through an emotion engine, allowing employees to constantly receive advice from management and promoting new ideas and business improvements.

[0359] The flow of the specific processing in Example 2 will be explained using Figure 13.

[0360] Step 1: Collecting and generating management data

[0361] The server generates a digital avatar based on pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executive. During this process, the server analyzes the voice data and uses a speech synthesis engine to generate the avatar's voice. It also analyzes the image data and uses image processing software to generate the avatar's appearance. The generated avatar is stored in storage. The input is the executive's voice data and image data, and the output is the generated digital avatar.

[0362] Step 2: Acceptance of Metaverse Access Request and User Authentication

[0363] When a user attempts to access the metaverse through their device, they enter authentication information (e.g., user ID and password). This authentication information is sent from the device to the server, which verifies it against the authentication information in the database. If authentication is successful, the user is granted access to the metaverse. The input is the user's authentication information, and the output is the granting of access rights.

[0364] Step 3: Loading the Digital Avatar

[0365] When a user successfully authenticates and accesses the virtual space, the server loads a digital avatar stored in storage. This loaded avatar is sent to the terminal and displayed in the virtual space. The input is the digital avatar in storage, and the output is the avatar displayed on the terminal.

[0366] Step 4: Receiving and analyzing user input

[0367] The user inputs a question via voice or text through the terminal's interface. This input is sent from the terminal to the server. The server analyzes the input using a natural language processing engine. For example, it uses OpenAI® GPT-3® to analyze the meaning of the text and extract information to generate an appropriate response. The input is the user's question, and the output is the analyzed question.

[0368] Step 5: Emotion Analysis

[0369] The server analyzes the voice tone and facial expression data associated with the user's input using an emotion analysis engine. For example, it uses the Microsoft® Azure® Emotion API to identify the user's emotional state. The analysis results are reflected in response generation. The input is the user's voice tone and facial expression data, and the output is the identified emotional state.

[0370] Step 6: Response Generation

[0371] The server generates an appropriate response based on the analysis results of the natural language processing engine and the sentiment analysis results. Specifically, it uses tools such as OpenAI GPT-3 to generate answers to user questions and adds sentiment-sensitive advice. This response is sent to the terminal. The input is the analysis results and sentiment state, and the output is the generated response.

[0372] Step 7: Display response to user and play

[0373] The terminal displays the response received from the server on the screen and plays it back as audio through the speaker. For example, it uses the Google® Text-to-Speech engine to generate speech from text and deliver it to the user. The input is response data from the server, and the output is screen display and audio playback.

[0374] Step 8: Saving dialogue logs and sentiment data

[0375] The server saves dialogue logs and sentiment data to a database. This saved data is used later for system improvement and analysis. The input is dialogue logs and sentiment data, and the output is saving to the database.

[0376] Step 9: Receiving and analyzing feedback

[0377] After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback. The terminal sends this feedback to the server, which stores it in a database. The stored feedback is analyzed for system improvement. The input is the user's feedback, and the output is the storage and analysis of that feedback.

[0378] (Application Example 2)

[0379] 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".

[0380] In modern business management, effective business improvement and the launch of new businesses require rapid decision-making and accurate advice. However, the difficulty in direct dialogue with managers and experts means that businesses often cannot receive sufficient support in their daily operations. There are also problems such as a decline in the quality of dialogue due to emotions and a lack of mechanisms to properly reflect user feedback. Virtual stores, in particular, have limited means of receiving strategic advice on store operations, making it difficult to optimize operations.

[0381] 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 generating a digital avatar, means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, and means for receiving input from a user and analyzing the input using a natural language processing engine. This makes it possible to recreate the presence of a manager in a virtual space and promote business improvement and the creation of new businesses by allowing users to interact with the virtual manager avatar on a daily basis.

[0382] Furthermore, the server includes means for saving dialogue logs for later analysis, and an emotion engine for analyzing user emotion data, as well as means for generating responses based on said emotion data. This enables high-quality dialogue adapted to emotions, allowing for the provision of optimal advice tailored to the user's emotions.

[0383] Furthermore, the server provides a means for user authentication and verification of access rights based on that authentication, as well as a means for the virtual environment administrator to interact with virtual avatars within the virtual space. This allows for strategic advice to be received in the operation of virtual stores, enabling optimization of operations.

[0384] Furthermore, the system provides means for receiving user feedback and improving the system based on that feedback, as well as means for evaluating the appropriateness of responses generated based on sentiment analysis data. This ensures continuous system improvement and enhances the quality of dialogue.

[0385] A "digital avatar" is a digital representation of a person or character that is virtually generated for the purpose of interacting with users.

[0386] A "virtual space" is a virtual environment built on a computer as a place for users to interact with digital avatars.

[0387] A "natural language processing engine" is a software technology that analyzes human language and converts it into a form that machines can understand.

[0388] A "response" is the answer that a system provides in response to user input.

[0389] A "dialogue log" is a record of the conversation that took place between the user and the digital avatar.

[0390] An "emotion engine" is a software technology that analyzes a user's emotions from their voice and facial expressions and generates appropriate responses.

[0391] User authentication is the process of verifying whether a user attempting to access a system is a legitimate user.

[0392] "Feedback" refers to the opinions and evaluations that users provide after using a system, and these are used to improve the system.

[0393] A "virtual environment administrator" is a person or system responsible for the operation and management of a virtual space.

[0394] "Emotional analysis data" refers to data obtained by analyzing a user's emotions.

[0395] A "virtual store" is an online shop built within a virtual space, where goods and services are sold.

[0396] A "generative AI model" is an artificial intelligence model that has been trained to generate specific tasks or responses.

[0397] A "prompt message" is text data used as input for a generative AI model, and it serves as an instruction to generate a specific response.

[0398] The system for implementing this invention mainly consists of three main components: a server, a terminal, and a user.

[0399] First, the server generates a digital avatar based on pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. This digital avatar is stored in storage and loaded into the virtual space in response to user access requests. The server also uses a natural language processing engine to analyze user input and an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional data. Based on the analysis results, it generates appropriate responses according to the emotions. Dialogue logs and emotional data are saved and used for later analysis.

[0400] Next, the terminal provides an interface for the user to interact with the system. The user can use the terminal to access the virtual space and begin interacting with a digital avatar. The interface accepts input in the form of voice or text and sends it to the server. When a response is received from the server, the terminal displays it on the screen and plays it back aloud. Furthermore, the terminal also accepts feedback from the user, which is sent to the server and used to improve the system.

[0401] The specific hardware used includes smartphones and head-mounted displays. The software utilizes Python, the emotion_recognition library, the chatbot_engine library, and a REST API. By coordinating this hardware and software, the system analyzes user input using a natural language processing engine and an emotion engine to generate appropriate responses. The use of generative AI models enables the generation of complex dialogues and advice.

[0402] As a concrete example, consider a scenario where a virtual store manager consults a virtual manager avatar about a new product placement strategy. The manager logs into the virtual store app on their smartphone and texts (or voice-inputs) "I'd like some advice on new product placement." The emotion engine detects "excitement" (anticipation for the new product). The server responds with advice such as, "We recommend placing the new product in a prominent location and collecting customer feedback." The manager then provides feedback, and the system uses this feedback to make further improvements.

[0403] Examples of prompt statements are as follows:

[0404] Question: I would like some advice on a new product layout.

[0405] Emotion: excitement

[0406] In this way, the system effectively supports dialogue that facilitates business improvement and the creation of new businesses.

[0407] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 2 will be explained using Figure 14.

[0408] Step 1:

[0409] The user logs in using their device. The user enters their authentication information, which the device sends to the server. The server verifies the user's authentication information, and if authentication is successful, it retrieves the user's ID. Upon successful authentication, a login success message is displayed on the device.

[0410] Step 2:

[0411] The terminal provides an interface for the user to access the virtual space. The user sends an access request, and the server receives this request. The server verifies the user's access rights and loads the digital avatar into the virtual space.

[0412] Step 3:

[0413] The user initiates an interaction with a digital avatar through their device. The user inputs questions via voice or text, and the device sends this input to the server. The input data is received by the server.

[0414] Step 4:

[0415] The server analyzes user input data using a natural language processing engine. The analyzed text data is then sent to an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotions. Based on these analysis results, the server generates an appropriate response.

[0416] Step 5:

[0417] The server uses a generative AI model to create specific responses. Input data is provided as a prompt, such as "Question: I would like advice on new product placement. Emotion: Excited." Based on the analysis results, the server retrieves the generated response.

[0418] Step 6:

[0419] The server sends the generated response to the terminal. The terminal displays this response on the screen and plays it aloud through the speaker. The user can review the provided advice and proceed to the next step in the interaction.

[0420] Step 7:

[0421] After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback. The user inputs the feedback through the terminal, which then sends it to the server. The server receives the feedback, stores it, and analyzes it for system improvement.

[0422] Step 8:

[0423] The server analyzes the saved dialogue logs and sentiment data at a later date. This allows for the accumulation of data to improve the quality of future interactions. Furthermore, system improvements are made based on user feedback.

[0424] 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.

[0425] 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.

[0426] 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.

[0427] [Second Embodiment]

[0428] Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of the data processing system 210 according to the second embodiment.

[0429] 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.

[0430] 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).

[0431] 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.

[0432] 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.

[0433] 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).

[0434] 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.

[0435] 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.

[0436] 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.

[0437] 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.

[0438] 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.

[0439] 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".

[0440] This invention provides a system that virtually recreates the presence of a charismatic leader, allowing employees to interact with that leader at any time. Specific embodiments of this system are described below.

[0441] Overall structure

[0442] The system consists of three main components: a server, terminals, and users. The server performs core processing such as generating and managing digital avatars, natural language processing, and saving and analyzing dialogue logs. Terminals provide an interface for users to interact with the system. Through terminals, users access the metaverse and begin interacting with the manager's digital avatar.

[0443] Server functions and operation

[0444] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executive. This avatar replicates the executive's appearance and behavior within the virtual space. The server also receives and authenticates user requests to access the metaverse. If authentication is successful, the server loads the digital avatar into the virtual space, allowing the user to interact with it.

[0445] When a user submits a question or comment to the server, the server uses a natural language processing engine to analyze it and generate an appropriate response based on the analysis. This response is then sent back to the user, and the dialogue continues. Once the dialogue is complete, the server saves a dialogue log for later analysis.

[0446] Device functions and operation

[0447] The terminal provides a graphical user interface (GUI) for users to access the metaverse. The interface displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar and allows users to input questions via voice or text. Once the user inputs, the terminal sends it to the server. Upon receiving a response from the server, the terminal displays it on the screen and, in the case of a voice response, plays it through the speaker.

[0448] Furthermore, the terminal has a function to receive user feedback, which is then sent to a server to help improve the system.

[0449] User actions

[0450] Users log in using their devices to access the metaverse. They enter authentication information during login, and the server performs the authentication process. If successful, the user begins interacting with a manager avatar in the virtual space. Users input questions and opinions, and receive advice for business improvement and new business creation through responses from the manager avatar. After the interaction ends, users provide feedback, which is used to further improve the system.

[0451] Specific example

[0452] For example, if an employee is considering a new market strategy, they can access the metaverse via a terminal and ask a digital avatar, "I'd like your opinion on a new market strategy." The server receives this question and analyzes it using a natural language processing engine. Based on the analysis, the server generates a response such as, "I think it's important to proceed with market research. You should also conduct initial interviews with potential users," and communicates it to the employee via the terminal. The employee can then use this advice to conduct specific market research and interviews, and further refine their strategy.

[0453] Thus, the present invention is a system that recreates the presence of management in a virtual space, allowing employees to constantly receive advice from management and promoting new ideas and business improvements.

[0454] The following describes the processing flow.

[0455] Step 1:

[0456] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. The generated avatar information is then stored in storage.

[0457] Step 2:

[0458] The user opens a login screen to access the metaverse using their device. The user enters their authentication information (username, password, etc.) and presses the "Login" button.

[0459] Step 3:

[0460] The terminal receives the user's authentication information and sends it to the server. The server verifies the received authentication information and authenticates that the user has legitimate access rights.

[0461] Step 4:

[0462] After successful authentication, the server loads a digital avatar into the virtual space for the user. It then performs an initialization process until the avatar is ready for interaction.

[0463] Step 5:

[0464] The device displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar in a virtual space. Users can input questions or comments using on-screen input fields or voice recognition.

[0465] Step 6:

[0466] The terminal sends the user's input (questions and opinions) to the server. The server then passes the received input to a natural language processing engine for analysis.

[0467] Step 7:

[0468] The server uses a natural language processing engine to analyze user input. Based on the analysis results, it generates an appropriate response message.

[0469] Step 8:

[0470] The server sends the generated response message to the terminal. The terminal displays this response message to the user. If there is an audio response, it is played through the speaker.

[0471] Step 9:

[0472] The user reviews the displayed response messages and audio, and based on that, considers their next questions and actions. They continue the conversation as needed.

[0473] Step 10:

[0474] After the interaction ends, the server saves the interaction log. This can then be used to improve the quality of future interactions and for analysis.

[0475] Step 11:

[0476] Users provide feedback on the system's usability and the quality of its interaction through a feedback form. The device then sends this feedback to the server.

[0477] Step 12:

[0478] The server uses the received feedback to improve the system. This enables continuous quality improvement.

[0479] (Example 1)

[0480] 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."

[0481] In today's business environment, the presence of charismatic leaders is expected to contribute to business improvement and the creation of new businesses. However, due to physical and time constraints, it is difficult for employees to receive advice from management on a regular basis. Furthermore, there is a lack of means to improve systems using employee feedback. Therefore, there is a need to build a system that uses a virtual space to reproduce the presence of management in real time, allowing employees to interact with them at any time.

[0482] 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.

[0483] In this invention, the server includes means for generating a digital avatar, means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, means for receiving input from a user and analyzing the input using a generated AI model, means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user, means for saving the dialogue log for later analysis, and means for receiving feedback from the user and reflecting it in improving the system. As a result, employees can always receive advice from management in a virtual space, and continuous improvement of the system can be achieved based on the feedback.

[0484] A "digital avatar" is a digital representation that imitates the appearance and behavior of a specific person within a virtual space.

[0485] A "virtual space" is a digital environment created by computers that is similar to or different from the real world, allowing users to interact.

[0486] A "generative AI model" is an algorithm or system that uses artificial intelligence technology to analyze data and generate responses such as text or speech.

[0487] "Natural language processing" is a technology that uses computers to process and analyze human language in order to understand its meaning.

[0488] A "dialogue log" is data that records the content of the conversation between the user and the system.

[0489] "Feedback" refers to information such as comments and suggestions for improvement that users provide to the system.

[0490] User authentication is the process of verifying that a user accessing a system has legitimate permissions.

[0491] "Access rights" refer to the permission or qualifications to access a system or certain functions within it.

[0492] A "graphical user interface (GUI) in a virtual space" refers to a screen or means of operation that allows a user to visually interact with a system.

[0493] A "server" is a computer system that stores, analyzes, and provides data.

[0494] A "terminal" is a device that a user uses to access and operate a system.

[0495] This invention relates to a system that generates digital avatars of charismatic business leaders in a virtual space, allowing employees to interact with these leaders at any time. This system enables users to obtain advice on various business improvements and new business ventures within the virtual space.

[0496] This system consists primarily of three components: servers, terminals, and users.

[0497] 1. Server Functions

[0498] The server performs core processing such as generating and managing digital avatars, natural language processing, and storing and analyzing dialogue logs.

[0499] Digital Avatar Generation

[0500] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. This process utilizes computer vision and speech synthesis technologies.

[0501] Usage example:

[0502] The "OpenCV" library will be used to process the image data.

[0503] The "WaveNet" technology is used for processing audio data.

[0504] User Authentication

[0505] The server receives the user's authentication information, compares it with the database, and performs authentication.

[0506] Authentication protocol:

[0507] Use "OAuth 2.0".

[0508] Natural Language Processing

[0509] The server analyzes user input using a generation AI model (e.g., "GPT-4") and generates an appropriate response.

[0510] Natural language processing engine:

[0511] Use the "GPT-4" API.

[0512] Saving and analyzing dialogue logs

[0513] The server saves the dialogue log when the interaction ends, for later analysis.

[0514] Database system:

[0515] Use "MySQL".

[0516] 2. Device functions

[0517] The terminal provides an interface for the user to interact with the system.

[0518] Graphical User Interface (GUI)

[0519] The terminal displays a GUI that provides the user with access to a virtual space. Here, the user can input questions via voice or text and receive responses.

[0520] Usage example:

[0521] We will use "React.js" to build the GUI.

[0522] Sending input data and receiving responses

[0523] The user enters data, which is then sent to the server, and a response is received from the server.

[0524] Communication protocol:

[0525] Use "WebSocket".

[0526] Gathering feedback

[0527] The device will use user feedback sent to the server to help improve the system.

[0528] 3. User actions

[0529] Accessing and Interacting with the Metaverse

[0530] Users log in using their devices to access the metaverse. They enter authentication information during login, and the server performs the authentication process. If successful, the user begins interacting with the manager avatar in the virtual space.

[0531] Example of a prompt:

[0532] "Please enter your login information to begin a conversation with the CEO avatar."

[0533] "I'd like to hear your opinion on a new market strategy."

[0534] Dialogue progression

[0535] Users input questions and opinions, and receive advice for business improvement and the creation of new businesses through responses from manager avatars.

[0536] Provide feedback

[0537] After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback, which is used to further improve the system.

[0538] By utilizing the system of this invention, employees can constantly receive advice from management in a virtual space, promoting business improvement and the generation of new ideas. Furthermore, the system can be continuously improved based on the collected user feedback.

[0539] The flow of the specific processing in Example 1 will be explained using Figure 11.

[0540] Step 1: Start User Authentication

[0541] The server receives authentication information entered by the user from the terminal. This authentication information includes the username and password or an OAuth token. The server then verifies this authentication information against the database to perform authentication.

[0542] input:

[0543] Username and password or OAuth token

[0544] User information from the database

[0545] Data processing / calculations:

[0546] The entered authentication information is compared against the user information in the database.

[0547] Based on the verification results, the success or failure of authentication is determined.

[0548] output:

[0549] If authentication is successful: Session ID

[0550] If authentication fails: Authentication failure message

[0551] Specific actions:

[0552] The user enters their username and password on the device's login screen.

[0553] The device sends this information to the server.

[0554] The server queries the MySQL database to check user information.

[0555] Upon successful authentication, a session ID is generated and sent to the device.

[0556] Step 2: Accessing the Metaverse

[0557] The server grants access to the metaverse's virtual space to users who have successfully authenticated. The terminal displays the virtual space's graphical user interface (GUI).

[0558] input:

[0559] Authentication success message

[0560] User access request

[0561] Data processing / calculations:

[0562] Prepare the initial dataset for the virtual space.

[0563] Check the user's access permissions.

[0564] output:

[0565] Initial data for the virtual space

[0566] Access permission message

[0567] Specific actions:

[0568] The server sends an authentication success message to the terminal, which includes the initial data for the virtual space.

[0569] The device receives this and uses React.js to display a GUI for the virtual space.

[0570] Step 3: Begin interacting with your digital avatar

[0571] The user sends an initial message through their device to begin interacting with the digital avatar. The server loads the digital avatar into the virtual space and starts the avatar's actions.

[0572] input:

[0573] User's initial message

[0574] Data processing / calculations:

[0575] Loading digital avatars

[0576] Initial placement of avatars in virtual space

[0577] output:

[0578] Initial dialogue start message

[0579] Specific actions:

[0580] The user types, "Hello, I'd like to discuss market strategy."

[0581] The terminal sends this message to the server.

[0582] The server loads the digital avatar into the virtual space and prepares to begin the initial interaction.

[0583] Step 4: Question analysis using natural language processing

[0584] The server receives questions from users, sends them to a generative AI model (e.g., GPT-4), and performs analysis.

[0585] input:

[0586] User question message

[0587] Data processing / calculations:

[0588] Send the question message to the text analysis engine.

[0589] Analyze the content of the question and generate an appropriate response.

[0590] output:

[0591] Analysis results and response text

[0592] Specific actions:

[0593] The server sends the user's question in text format to the natural language processing engine (GPT-4).

[0594] GPT-4 analyzes questions and generates response results.

[0595] Step 5: Response generation and sending

[0596] The server receives the response from the natural language processing engine and sends it back to the user. The terminal displays or plays the received response audibly to the user.

[0597] input:

[0598] Response text from GPT-4

[0599] Data processing / calculations:

[0600] Format the generated response text and send it to the terminal.

[0601] Convert to speech as needed.

[0602] output:

[0603] Formatted response text or audio data

[0604] Specific actions:

[0605] The server sends the response text received from "GPT-4" to the terminal.

[0606] The device uses React.js to display responses on the interactive screen and plays them back using a speech synthesis engine.

[0607] Step 6: Save the conversation log

[0608] After the interaction ends, the server saves the content of the interaction as a log. This log will be used later for analyzing user behavior and improving the system.

[0609] input:

[0610] Dialogue content (text)

[0611] Data processing / calculations:

[0612] Convert the conversation content into a database format and save it.

[0613] output:

[0614] Dialogue log recording data

[0615] Specific actions:

[0616] The server saves the content of the conversation to a database.

[0617] The conversation log is stored in a MySQL database.

[0618] Step 7: Gathering Feedback

[0619] The device receives feedback from the user and sends it to the server. The server stores the collected feedback and uses it to improve the system.

[0620] input:

[0621] User feedback

[0622] Data processing / calculations:

[0623] We analyze the feedback and convert it into data for system improvement.

[0624] output:

[0625] Feedback record data

[0626] Specific actions:

[0627] The user enters feedback into their device saying, "This advice was very helpful."

[0628] The device sends this feedback to the server.

[0629] The server stores the feedback in a database for aggregation and analysis.

[0630] (Application Example 1)

[0631] 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."

[0632] For companies, it is crucial to create an environment where employees can always receive advice from charismatic leaders. However, leaders are not always physically present, making it difficult for employees to receive timely advice from them. Furthermore, there is a lack of efficient means to collect employee feedback and improve systems. In addition, there is a need for a system that allows employees to receive advice from leaders anytime, anywhere, using mobile devices such as smartphones.

[0633] 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.

[0634] In this invention, the server includes means for generating a digital avatar, means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, means for receiving input from a user and analyzing the input using a natural language processing engine, means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user, means for saving a dialogue log for later analysis, means for providing dialogue with the digital avatar through a smartphone application, and database means for saving the generated responses and using them for future data analysis. This makes it possible to create an environment where employees can always receive advice from management, effectively collect feedback, and improve the system.

[0635] A "digital avatar" is a virtual entity that recreates a specific person or character in a virtual space and can interact with them.

[0636] A "virtual space" is a digital environment created by a computer, a space in which users can move around and operate without physical constraints.

[0637] "User input" refers to text or audio data such as questions, instructions, or opinions that users provide to the system.

[0638] A "natural language processing engine" is software or algorithms that analyze user input and provide technology for understanding and generating human language.

[0639] "Response generation" is the process of creating appropriate responses or actions based on input data analyzed by a natural language processing engine.

[0640] A "dialogue log" is data that records all the content of the conversations that took place between the user and the system.

[0641] A "smartphone application" is a software program that runs on a smartphone device and is developed to perform specific tasks or functions.

[0642] A "database system" is a system that systematically stores and manages data such as generated responses and dialogue logs, making it easy to access and analyze them at a later date.

[0643] "Feedback" refers to information such as evaluations, opinions, and suggestions for improvement that users provide after using a system.

[0644] "User authentication" is the process by which a system verifies the user's identity and grants them access rights.

[0645] This invention provides a system that allows employees in a company to receive advice from charismatic managers on a regular basis. The system of this invention consists of three main components: a server, a terminal, and a user.

[0646] Server functions and operation

[0647] The server has the following functions:

[0648] 1. Digital avatar generation method:

[0649] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. This digital avatar replicates the executives' appearance and behavior within the virtual space.

[0650] 2. Natural Language Processing Engine (NLP Engine):

[0651] The server receives input from the user and analyzes it using a natural language processing engine (for example, Hugging Face's Transformers). This process helps the server understand the user's question and generate an appropriate response.

[0652] 3. Means for saving and database-ing dialogue logs:

[0653] The server stores the generated responses and interaction logs in a database such as Firebase Firestore for future data analysis.

[0654] Device functions and operation

[0655] The terminal provides an interface for the user to interact with the system.

[0656] 1. Smartphone applications:

[0657] For example, a smartphone application developed using Flutter can support user-system interaction. Users can utilize a GUI to interact with a digital avatar via their smartphone.

[0658] 2. User Authentication:

[0659] The device uses Firebase Authentication to authenticate the user and verify appropriate access permissions.

[0660] 3. Gathering feedback:

[0661] The terminal has the ability to receive user feedback and send it to the server. This allows for system improvements.

[0662] User actions

[0663] The user implements the invention by following the steps below.

[0664] 1. Login and Authentication:

[0665] The user opens the smartphone application and logs in with their email address and password. The device uses Firebase Authentication to authenticate the user.

[0666] 2. Interacting with digital avatars:

[0667] Once authentication is successful, the user begins interacting with a digital avatar in the virtual space. For example, if the user asks, "I'd like your opinion on a new market strategy," the server's NLP engine analyzes the question and generates a response such as, "It's important to conduct market research. You should also conduct initial interviews with potential users."

[0668] 3. Saving dialogue logs and feedback:

[0669] Once the interaction with the user is complete, the server saves the interaction log to Firebase Firestore. User feedback is also collected and used to improve the system.

[0670] For example, if a user enters "I'd like your opinion on a new market strategy" into the app, the natural language processing engine analyzes this and provides appropriate advice. An example of a prompt is "QA Model: I'd like your opinion on a new market strategy."

[0671] In this way, the present invention provides a system that allows employees to always receive advice from management, thereby promoting new ideas and business improvements within the company.

[0672] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 1 will be explained using Figure 12.

[0673] Step 1:

[0674] The user opens the smartphone application and logs in with their email address and password. The user's authentication information (email address and password) is provided as input. The device receives this information and performs user authentication using Firebase Authentication. If authentication is successful, the user information is retrieved and the process proceeds to the next step. The output includes the authentication result and user information.

[0675] Step 2:

[0676] The server provides users who have successfully authenticated with an interaction screen with a digital avatar. User information and a login success flag are provided as input. The terminal updates the user interface and displays the digital avatar. Users can input questions and comments in text or voice. The output is the displayed digital avatar and the user's input.

[0677] Step 3:

[0678] When a user enters a question or comment, the terminal sends that input to the server. The input is provided as text or voice data from the user. The server receives this and passes it to the natural language processing engine. The output is the data to be analyzed and passed to the NLP engine.

[0679] Step 4:

[0680] The server uses an NLP engine to analyze user input. The input is provided as user text or voice data. The analysis process uses a generative AI model (e.g., Hugging Face's Transformers) to understand the meaning of the input data and generate an appropriate response. The output is the generated response text.

[0681] Step 5:

[0682] Based on the analysis results, the server provides the generated response to the user. The input is the generated response text. The server sends this response to the terminal, making it viewable and listenable to the user. The output is the response provided to the user.

[0683] Step 6:

[0684] The server saves the dialogue log and stores it in a database for later analysis. The input is the entire dialogue with the user (questions and answers). The server saves this data to a database such as Firebase Firestore. The output is the dialogue log stored in the database.

[0685] Step 7:

[0686] After the interaction ends, the user can provide feedback. The input consists of the user's feedback information (rating, comments, etc.). The device sends this feedback to the server. The output is the collected feedback data.

[0687] Step 8:

[0688] The server analyzes user feedback to identify areas for system improvement. Feedback data is provided as input. The server uses data analysis techniques to analyze the feedback information and generate insights for system improvement. The output includes areas for improvement and specific recommended actions.

[0689] 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.

[0690] This invention is a system that promotes business improvement and the creation of new businesses by placing a virtual avatar of a charismatic leader in a virtual space and having employees interact with that avatar on a daily basis. In particular, the quality of the interaction is further improved by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions.

[0691] Overall structure

[0692] The system consists of three main components: a server, a terminal, and a user. The server is responsible for core processes such as generating and managing digital avatars, natural language processing, sentiment analysis using an emotion engine, and saving and analyzing dialogue logs. The terminal serves as the interface with the user, who accesses the metaverse through the terminal.

[0693] Server functions and operation

[0694] The server generates a digital avatar based on pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. The generated avatar is stored in storage. When a user sends a request to access the metaverse, the server verifies the authentication information and authenticates the user.

[0695] Upon successful authentication, the server loads a digital avatar into the virtual space, making it ready for interaction. When user input is received, the server uses a natural language processing engine to analyze the input and then an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional data. Based on the analysis results, it generates an appropriate response and provides it to the user. Dialogue logs and emotional data are saved and used for future analysis.

[0696] Device functions and operation

[0697] The terminal provides a graphical user interface (GUI) for users to access the metaverse. The interface displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar and allows users to input questions via voice or text. The input is sent to the server. When a response is received from the server, the terminal displays it on the screen and plays it aloud through its speaker.

[0698] The device also accepts user feedback. This feedback is sent to the server and used to improve the system.

[0699] User actions

[0700] The user enters authentication information to log in using their device. Upon successful authentication, they can begin interacting with a manager avatar in the virtual space. The user inputs questions and opinions, and the digital avatar responds appropriately. During the interaction, an emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice tone to understand their emotions. Based on this data, more appropriate responses are provided.

[0701] After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback, which is received by the system. This feedback is stored as important data for system improvement.

[0702] Specific example

[0703] For example, if an employee is struggling with a new market strategy, they can access the metaverse through their device and ask their digital avatar, "I'd like your opinion on the new market strategy." The server receives this question, analyzes it using a natural language processing engine, and then analyzes the employee's emotional data using an emotion engine. Based on the analysis results, the server generates a response such as, "I think it's important to proceed with market research. You should also conduct initial interviews with potential users." The device displays this response on the screen and plays it back as audio.

[0704] If the user's facial expression during input is determined to be "confused" or "anxious," the server will generate and provide additional advice that takes that emotion into consideration (e.g., "It may seem difficult, but the first step is important. Please feel free to contact us anytime if you need support").

[0705] Thus, the present invention is a system that recreates the presence of managers in a virtual space and further enables dialogue adapted to the user's emotions through an emotion engine, allowing employees to constantly receive advice from managers and promoting new ideas and business improvements.

[0706] The following describes the processing flow.

[0707] Step 1:

[0708] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. The generated avatar information is then stored in storage.

[0709] Step 2:

[0710] The user opens a login screen to access the metaverse using their device. The user enters their authentication information (username, password, etc.) and presses the "Login" button.

[0711] Step 3:

[0712] The terminal receives the user's authentication information and sends it to the server. The server verifies the received authentication information and authenticates that the user has legitimate access rights.

[0713] Step 4:

[0714] After successful authentication, the server loads a digital avatar into the virtual space for the user. It then performs an initialization process until the avatar is ready for interaction.

[0715] Step 5:

[0716] The device displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar in a virtual space. Users can input questions or comments using on-screen input fields or voice recognition.

[0717] Step 6:

[0718] The terminal sends the user's input (questions and opinions) to the server. The server then passes the received input to a natural language processing engine for analysis.

[0719] Step 7:

[0720] The server uses a natural language processing engine to analyze user input. Based on the analysis results, it generates an appropriate response message.

[0721] Step 8:

[0722] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's facial expressions and voice tone during input, and obtains the user's emotional data. This emotional data can also include biometric information such as the user's perceived temperature and pulse rate.

[0723] Step 9:

[0724] The server generates a response based on the sentiment analysis results, corresponding to the analysis results of the natural language processing engine. This response is adjusted based on the sentiment analysis.

[0725] Step 10:

[0726] The server sends the generated response message to the terminal. The terminal displays this response message to the user and, if it's audio, plays it through the speaker.

[0727] Step 11:

[0728] The user reviews the displayed response messages and audio, and based on that, considers their next questions and actions. They continue the conversation as needed.

[0729] Step 12:

[0730] After the interaction ends, the server saves the interaction log. This can then be used to improve the quality of future interactions and for analysis.

[0731] Step 13:

[0732] The server also saves emotional data generated during the conversation along with the conversation log. This allows for a detailed analysis of the user's emotional state.

[0733] Step 14:

[0734] After the interaction ends, users provide feedback on the system's usability and the quality of the interaction through a feedback form. The device then sends this feedback to the server.

[0735] Step 15:

[0736] The server uses the received feedback to improve the system. This enables continuous quality improvement.

[0737] (Example 2)

[0738] 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".

[0739] Traditional virtual reality dialogue systems struggled to replicate the feeling of receiving advice from actual business leaders, resulting in a decline in the quality of the conversations. Furthermore, they failed to generate responses that adequately reflected user emotions, hindering user satisfaction. Additionally, they lacked mechanisms for effectively utilizing feedback to improve the system.

[0740] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means.

[0741] In this invention, the server includes means for generating a digital avatar, means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, means for receiving input from a user and analyzing the input using a natural language processing engine, means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user, means for saving a dialogue log for later analysis, means including an emotion analysis engine for analyzing the user's emotions, means for adjusting the response content based on the emotion analysis results, means for receiving feedback from the user and improving the system based on the feedback, means for providing an interface for the user to access the virtual space, and means for verifying authentication information entered by the user and authenticating the user based on the authentication.

[0742] This allows users to experience, in a virtual space, the feeling of receiving advice from actual business leaders, receive appropriate responses based on their emotions, and enable continuous improvement of the system.

[0743] A "digital avatar" is a virtual person or character created to interact with a user in a virtual space.

[0744] A "virtual space" is a virtual three-dimensional environment provided via the internet or a network, within which users can perform activities and operations.

[0745] A "user" refers to a person who uses this system to access the virtual space and interact with a digital avatar.

[0746] A "natural language processing engine" is a technology or software that analyzes user input and generates appropriate responses, possessing the ability to understand and process human language.

[0747] An "emotion analysis engine" is a technology or software that analyzes a user's voice and facial expressions to determine their emotional state.

[0748] A "dialogue log" is data that records the content of past conversations between a user and a digital avatar.

[0749] An "interface" is the means a user uses to access and interact with a virtual space, and includes graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and other input devices.

[0750] "Authentication information" refers to identifiers (e.g., user ID and password) that a user provides when accessing the system, and this is used to verify the user's identity.

[0751] "Feedback" refers to the opinions and impressions that users provide after using a system, and this information is used to evaluate and improve the system.

[0752] This invention is a system that promotes business improvement and the creation of new businesses by placing a virtual avatar of a charismatic leader in a virtual space and allowing employees to interact with this avatar on a daily basis. In particular, the quality of the interaction is further improved by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions. The system consists of three main components: a server, a terminal, and a user.

[0753] Server functions and operation

[0754] The server is responsible for core processes such as generating and managing digital avatars, natural language processing, sentiment analysis using an emotion engine, and saving and analyzing dialogue logs. Specifically, it generates digital avatars based on pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of executives. The technologies used in this step include speech synthesis engines and image processing software, such as general-purpose software for speech synthesis and general-purpose graphics tools for image processing. The generated avatars are stored in storage.

[0755] When a user sends a request to access the metaverse, the server verifies the authentication information and authenticates the user. If authentication is successful, the server loads a digital avatar into the virtual space and makes it interactive. When user input is sent, the server analyzes the input using a natural language processing engine and further analyzes the user's emotional data using an emotion engine. Based on the analysis results, it generates an appropriate response and provides it to the user.

[0756] Device functions and operation

[0757] The terminal provides a graphical user interface for users to access the metaverse. The interface displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar and allows users to input questions via voice or text. The input is sent to the server. Upon receiving a response from the server, the terminal displays it on the screen and plays it aloud through its speaker. The terminal also accepts user feedback, which is sent to the server and used to improve the system.

[0758] User actions

[0759] The user enters authentication information to log in using their device. Upon successful authentication, they can begin interacting with a manager avatar in a virtual space. The user inputs questions and opinions, and the digital avatar provides appropriate responses. During the interaction, an emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice tone to understand their emotions. Based on this data, more appropriate responses are provided. After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback, which is received by the system. This feedback is stored as important data for system improvement.

[0760] Specific example

[0761] For example, if an employee is struggling with a new market strategy, they can access the metaverse through their device and ask their digital avatar, "I'd like your opinion on the new market strategy." The server receives this question, analyzes it using a natural language processing engine, and then analyzes the employee's emotional data using an emotion analysis engine. Based on the analysis results, the server generates a response such as, "I think it's important to proceed with market research. You should also conduct initial interviews with potential users." The device displays this response on the screen and plays it back as audio.

[0762] If the user's facial expression during input is determined to be "confused" or "anxious," the server generates additional advice that takes that emotion into consideration (e.g., "It may seem difficult, but the first step is important. Please feel free to contact us anytime if you need support") and provides it to the user. In this way, the present invention is a system that recreates the presence of management in a virtual space and further enables dialogue adapted to the user's emotions through an emotion engine, allowing employees to constantly receive advice from management and promoting new ideas and business improvements.

[0763] The flow of the specific processing in Example 2 will be explained using Figure 13.

[0764] Step 1: Collecting and generating management data

[0765] The server generates a digital avatar based on pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executive. During this process, the server analyzes the voice data and uses a speech synthesis engine to generate the avatar's voice. It also analyzes the image data and uses image processing software to generate the avatar's appearance. The generated avatar is stored in storage. The input is the executive's voice data and image data, and the output is the generated digital avatar.

[0766] Step 2: Acceptance of Metaverse Access Request and User Authentication

[0767] When a user attempts to access the metaverse through their device, they enter authentication information (e.g., user ID and password). This authentication information is sent from the device to the server, which verifies it against the authentication information in the database. If authentication is successful, the user is granted access to the metaverse. The input is the user's authentication information, and the output is the granting of access rights.

[0768] Step 3: Loading the Digital Avatar

[0769] When a user successfully authenticates and accesses the virtual space, the server loads a digital avatar stored in storage. This loaded avatar is sent to the terminal and displayed in the virtual space. The input is the digital avatar in storage, and the output is the avatar displayed on the terminal.

[0770] Step 4: Receiving and analyzing user input

[0771] The user inputs a question via voice or text through the terminal's interface. This input is sent from the terminal to the server. The server analyzes the input using a natural language processing engine. For example, it might use OpenAI GPT-3 to analyze the meaning of the text and extract information to generate an appropriate response. The input is the user's question, and the output is the analyzed question.

[0772] Step 5: Emotion Analysis

[0773] The server analyzes the voice tone and facial expression data associated with the user's input using an emotion analysis engine. For example, it uses the Microsoft Azure Emotion API to identify the user's emotional state. The analysis results are reflected in the response generation. The input is the user's voice tone and facial expression data, and the output is the identified emotional state.

[0774] Step 6: Response Generation

[0775] The server generates an appropriate response based on the analysis results of the natural language processing engine and the sentiment analysis results. Specifically, it uses tools such as OpenAI GPT-3 to generate answers to user questions and adds sentiment-sensitive advice. This response is sent to the terminal. The input is the analysis results and sentiment state, and the output is the generated response.

[0776] Step 7: Display response to user and play

[0777] The terminal displays the response received from the server on the screen and plays it back as audio through the speaker. For example, it can use the Google Text-to-Speech engine to generate speech from text and deliver it to the user. The input is response data from the server, and the output is screen display and audio playback.

[0778] Step 8: Saving dialogue logs and sentiment data

[0779] The server saves dialogue logs and sentiment data to a database. This saved data is used later for system improvement and analysis. The input is dialogue logs and sentiment data, and the output is saving to the database.

[0780] Step 9: Receiving and analyzing feedback

[0781] After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback. The terminal sends this feedback to the server, which stores it in a database. The stored feedback is analyzed for system improvement. The input is the user's feedback, and the output is the storage and analysis of that feedback.

[0782] (Application Example 2)

[0783] 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."

[0784] In modern business management, effective business improvement and the launch of new businesses require rapid decision-making and accurate advice. However, the difficulty in direct dialogue with managers and experts means that businesses often cannot receive sufficient support in their daily operations. There are also problems such as a decline in the quality of dialogue due to emotions and a lack of mechanisms to properly reflect user feedback. Virtual stores, in particular, have limited means of receiving strategic advice on store operations, making it difficult to optimize operations.

[0785] 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 generating a digital avatar, means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, and means for receiving input from a user and analyzing the input using a natural language processing engine. This makes it possible to recreate the presence of a manager in a virtual space and promote business improvement and the creation of new businesses by allowing users to interact with the virtual manager avatar on a daily basis.

[0786] Furthermore, the server includes means for saving dialogue logs for later analysis, and an emotion engine for analyzing user emotion data, as well as means for generating responses based on said emotion data. This enables high-quality dialogue adapted to emotions, allowing for the provision of optimal advice tailored to the user's emotions.

[0787] Furthermore, the server provides a means for user authentication and verification of access rights based on that authentication, as well as a means for the virtual environment administrator to interact with virtual avatars within the virtual space. This allows for strategic advice to be received in the operation of virtual stores, enabling optimization of operations.

[0788] Furthermore, the system provides means for receiving user feedback and improving the system based on that feedback, as well as means for evaluating the appropriateness of responses generated based on sentiment analysis data. This ensures continuous system improvement and enhances the quality of dialogue.

[0789] A "digital avatar" is a digital representation of a person or character that is virtually generated for the purpose of interacting with users.

[0790] A "virtual space" is a virtual environment built on a computer as a place for users to interact with digital avatars.

[0791] A "natural language processing engine" is a software technology that analyzes human language and converts it into a form that machines can understand.

[0792] A "response" is the answer that a system provides in response to user input.

[0793] A "dialogue log" is a record of the conversation that took place between the user and the digital avatar.

[0794] An "emotion engine" is a software technology that analyzes a user's emotions from their voice and facial expressions and generates appropriate responses.

[0795] User authentication is the process of verifying whether a user attempting to access a system is a legitimate user.

[0796] "Feedback" refers to the opinions and evaluations that users provide after using a system, and these are used to improve the system.

[0797] A "virtual environment administrator" is a person or system responsible for the operation and management of a virtual space.

[0798] "Emotional analysis data" refers to data obtained by analyzing a user's emotions.

[0799] A "virtual store" is an online shop built within a virtual space, where goods and services are sold.

[0800] A "generative AI model" is an artificial intelligence model that has been trained to generate specific tasks or responses.

[0801] A "prompt message" is text data used as input for a generative AI model, and it serves as an instruction to generate a specific response.

[0802] The system for implementing this invention mainly consists of three main components: a server, a terminal, and a user.

[0803] First, the server generates a digital avatar based on pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. This digital avatar is stored in storage and loaded into the virtual space in response to user access requests. The server also uses a natural language processing engine to analyze user input and an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional data. Based on the analysis results, it generates appropriate responses according to the emotions. Dialogue logs and emotional data are saved and used for later analysis.

[0804] Next, the terminal provides an interface for the user to interact with the system. The user can use the terminal to access the virtual space and begin interacting with a digital avatar. The interface accepts input in the form of voice or text and sends it to the server. When a response is received from the server, the terminal displays it on the screen and plays it back aloud. Furthermore, the terminal also accepts feedback from the user, which is sent to the server and used to improve the system.

[0805] The specific hardware used includes smartphones and head-mounted displays. The software utilizes Python, the emotion_recognition library, the chatbot_engine library, and a REST API. By coordinating this hardware and software, the system analyzes user input using a natural language processing engine and an emotion engine to generate appropriate responses. The use of generative AI models enables the generation of complex dialogues and advice.

[0806] As a concrete example, consider a scenario where a virtual store manager consults a virtual manager avatar about a new product placement strategy. The manager logs into the virtual store app on their smartphone and texts (or voice-inputs) "I'd like some advice on new product placement." The emotion engine detects "excitement" (anticipation for the new product). The server responds with advice such as, "We recommend placing the new product in a prominent location and collecting customer feedback." The manager then provides feedback, and the system uses this feedback to make further improvements.

[0807] Examples of prompt statements are as follows:

[0808] Question: I would like some advice on a new product layout.

[0809] Emotion: excitement

[0810] In this way, the system effectively supports dialogue that facilitates business improvement and the creation of new businesses.

[0811] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 2 will be explained using Figure 14.

[0812] Step 1:

[0813] The user logs in using their device. The user enters their authentication information, which the device sends to the server. The server verifies the user's authentication information, and if authentication is successful, it retrieves the user's ID. Upon successful authentication, a login success message is displayed on the device.

[0814] Step 2:

[0815] The terminal provides an interface for the user to access the virtual space. The user sends an access request, and the server receives this request. The server verifies the user's access rights and loads the digital avatar into the virtual space.

[0816] Step 3:

[0817] The user initiates an interaction with a digital avatar through their device. The user inputs questions via voice or text, and the device sends this input to the server. The input data is received by the server.

[0818] Step 4:

[0819] The server analyzes user input data using a natural language processing engine. The analyzed text data is then sent to an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotions. Based on these analysis results, the server generates an appropriate response.

[0820] Step 5:

[0821] The server uses a generative AI model to create specific responses. Input data is provided as a prompt, such as "Question: I would like advice on new product placement. Emotion: Excited." Based on the analysis results, the server retrieves the generated response.

[0822] Step 6:

[0823] The server sends the generated response to the terminal. The terminal displays this response on the screen and plays it aloud through the speaker. The user can review the provided advice and proceed to the next step in the interaction.

[0824] Step 7:

[0825] After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback. The user inputs the feedback through the terminal, which then sends it to the server. The server receives the feedback, stores it, and analyzes it for system improvement.

[0826] Step 8:

[0827] The server analyzes the saved dialogue logs and sentiment data at a later date. This allows for the accumulation of data to improve the quality of future interactions. Furthermore, system improvements are made based on user feedback.

[0828] 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.

[0829] 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.

[0830] 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.

[0831] [Third Embodiment]

[0832] Figure 5 shows an example of the configuration of the data processing system 310 according to the third embodiment.

[0833] 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.

[0834] 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).

[0835] 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.

[0836] 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.

[0837] 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).

[0838] 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.

[0839] 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.

[0840] 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.

[0841] 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.

[0842] 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.

[0843] 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".

[0844] This invention provides a system that virtually recreates the presence of a charismatic leader, allowing employees to interact with that leader at any time. Specific embodiments of this system are described below.

[0845] Overall structure

[0846] The system consists of three main components: a server, terminals, and users. The server performs core processing such as generating and managing digital avatars, natural language processing, and saving and analyzing dialogue logs. Terminals provide an interface for users to interact with the system. Through terminals, users access the metaverse and begin interacting with the manager's digital avatar.

[0847] Server functions and operation

[0848] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executive. This avatar replicates the executive's appearance and behavior within the virtual space. The server also receives and authenticates user requests to access the metaverse. If authentication is successful, the server loads the digital avatar into the virtual space, allowing the user to interact with it.

[0849] When a user submits a question or comment to the server, the server uses a natural language processing engine to analyze it and generate an appropriate response based on the analysis. This response is then sent back to the user, and the dialogue continues. Once the dialogue is complete, the server saves a dialogue log for later analysis.

[0850] Device functions and operation

[0851] The terminal provides a graphical user interface (GUI) for users to access the metaverse. The interface displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar and allows users to input questions via voice or text. Once the user inputs, the terminal sends it to the server. Upon receiving a response from the server, the terminal displays it on the screen and, in the case of a voice response, plays it through the speaker.

[0852] Furthermore, the terminal has a function to receive user feedback, which is then sent to a server to help improve the system.

[0853] User actions

[0854] Users log in using their devices to access the metaverse. They enter authentication information during login, and the server performs the authentication process. If successful, the user begins interacting with a manager avatar in the virtual space. Users input questions and opinions, and receive advice for business improvement and new business creation through responses from the manager avatar. After the interaction ends, users provide feedback, which is used to further improve the system.

[0855] Specific example

[0856] For example, if an employee is considering a new market strategy, they can access the metaverse via a terminal and ask a digital avatar, "I'd like your opinion on a new market strategy." The server receives this question and analyzes it using a natural language processing engine. Based on the analysis, the server generates a response such as, "I think it's important to proceed with market research. You should also conduct initial interviews with potential users," and communicates it to the employee via the terminal. The employee can then use this advice to conduct specific market research and interviews, and further refine their strategy.

[0857] Thus, the present invention is a system that recreates the presence of management in a virtual space, allowing employees to constantly receive advice from management and promoting new ideas and business improvements.

[0858] The following describes the processing flow.

[0859] Step 1:

[0860] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. The generated avatar information is then stored in storage.

[0861] Step 2:

[0862] The user opens a login screen to access the metaverse using their device. The user enters their authentication information (username, password, etc.) and presses the "Login" button.

[0863] Step 3:

[0864] The terminal receives the user's authentication information and sends it to the server. The server verifies the received authentication information and authenticates that the user has legitimate access rights.

[0865] Step 4:

[0866] After successful authentication, the server loads a digital avatar into the virtual space for the user. It then performs an initialization process until the avatar is ready for interaction.

[0867] Step 5:

[0868] The device displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar in a virtual space. Users can input questions or comments using on-screen input fields or voice recognition.

[0869] Step 6:

[0870] The terminal sends the user's input (questions and opinions) to the server. The server then passes the received input to a natural language processing engine for analysis.

[0871] Step 7:

[0872] The server uses a natural language processing engine to analyze user input. Based on the analysis results, it generates an appropriate response message.

[0873] Step 8:

[0874] The server sends the generated response message to the terminal. The terminal displays this response message to the user. If there is an audio response, it is played through the speaker.

[0875] Step 9:

[0876] The user reviews the displayed response messages and audio, and based on that, considers their next questions and actions. They continue the conversation as needed.

[0877] Step 10:

[0878] After the interaction ends, the server saves the interaction log. This can then be used to improve the quality of future interactions and for analysis.

[0879] Step 11:

[0880] Users provide feedback on the system's usability and the quality of its interaction through a feedback form. The device then sends this feedback to the server.

[0881] Step 12:

[0882] The server uses the received feedback to improve the system. This enables continuous quality improvement.

[0883] (Example 1)

[0884] 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."

[0885] In today's business environment, the presence of charismatic leaders is expected to contribute to business improvement and the creation of new businesses. However, due to physical and time constraints, it is difficult for employees to receive advice from management on a regular basis. Furthermore, there is a lack of means to improve systems using employee feedback. Therefore, there is a need to build a system that uses a virtual space to reproduce the presence of management in real time, allowing employees to interact with them at any time.

[0886] 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.

[0887] In this invention, the server includes means for generating a digital avatar, means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, means for receiving input from a user and analyzing the input using a generated AI model, means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user, means for saving the dialogue log for later analysis, and means for receiving feedback from the user and reflecting it in improving the system. As a result, employees can always receive advice from management in a virtual space, and continuous improvement of the system can be achieved based on the feedback.

[0888] A "digital avatar" is a digital representation that imitates the appearance and behavior of a specific person within a virtual space.

[0889] A "virtual space" is a digital environment created by computers that is similar to or different from the real world, allowing users to interact.

[0890] A "generative AI model" is an algorithm or system that uses artificial intelligence technology to analyze data and generate responses such as text or speech.

[0891] "Natural language processing" is a technology that uses computers to process and analyze human language in order to understand its meaning.

[0892] A "dialogue log" is data that records the content of the conversation between the user and the system.

[0893] "Feedback" refers to information such as comments and suggestions for improvement that users provide to the system.

[0894] User authentication is the process of verifying that a user accessing a system has legitimate permissions.

[0895] "Access rights" refer to the permission or qualifications to access a system or certain functions within it.

[0896] A "graphical user interface (GUI) in a virtual space" refers to a screen or means of operation that allows a user to visually interact with a system.

[0897] A "server" is a computer system that stores, analyzes, and provides data.

[0898] A "terminal" is a device that a user uses to access and operate a system.

[0899] This invention relates to a system that generates digital avatars of charismatic business leaders in a virtual space, allowing employees to interact with these leaders at any time. This system enables users to obtain advice on various business improvements and new business ventures within the virtual space.

[0900] This system consists primarily of three components: servers, terminals, and users.

[0901] 1. Server Functions

[0902] The server performs core processing such as generating and managing digital avatars, natural language processing, and storing and analyzing dialogue logs.

[0903] Digital Avatar Generation

[0904] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. This process utilizes computer vision and speech synthesis technologies.

[0905] Usage example:

[0906] The "OpenCV" library will be used to process the image data.

[0907] The "WaveNet" technology is used for processing audio data.

[0908] User Authentication

[0909] The server receives the user's authentication information, compares it with the database, and performs authentication.

[0910] Authentication protocol:

[0911] Use "OAuth 2.0".

[0912] Natural Language Processing

[0913] The server analyzes user input using a generation AI model (e.g., "GPT-4") and generates an appropriate response.

[0914] Natural language processing engine:

[0915] Use the "GPT-4" API.

[0916] Saving and analyzing dialogue logs

[0917] The server saves the dialogue log when the interaction ends, for later analysis.

[0918] Database system:

[0919] Use "MySQL".

[0920] 2. Device functions

[0921] The terminal provides an interface for the user to interact with the system.

[0922] Graphical User Interface (GUI)

[0923] The terminal displays a GUI that provides the user with access to a virtual space. Here, the user can input questions via voice or text and receive responses.

[0924] Usage example:

[0925] We will use "React.js" to build the GUI.

[0926] Sending input data and receiving responses

[0927] The user enters data, which is then sent to the server, and a response is received from the server.

[0928] Communication protocol:

[0929] Use "WebSocket".

[0930] Gathering feedback

[0931] The device will use user feedback sent to the server to help improve the system.

[0932] 3. User actions

[0933] Accessing and Interacting with the Metaverse

[0934] Users log in using their devices to access the metaverse. They enter authentication information during login, and the server performs the authentication process. If successful, the user begins interacting with the manager avatar in the virtual space.

[0935] Example of a prompt:

[0936] "Please enter your login information to begin a conversation with the CEO avatar."

[0937] "I'd like to hear your opinion on a new market strategy."

[0938] Dialogue progression

[0939] Users input questions and opinions, and receive advice for business improvement and the creation of new businesses through responses from manager avatars.

[0940] Provide feedback

[0941] After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback, which is used to further improve the system.

[0942] By utilizing the system of this invention, employees can constantly receive advice from management in a virtual space, promoting business improvement and the generation of new ideas. Furthermore, the system can be continuously improved based on the collected user feedback.

[0943] The flow of the specific processing in Example 1 will be explained using Figure 11.

[0944] Step 1: Start User Authentication

[0945] The server receives authentication information entered by the user from the terminal. This authentication information includes the username and password or an OAuth token. The server then verifies this authentication information against the database to perform authentication.

[0946] input:

[0947] Username and password or OAuth token

[0948] User information from the database

[0949] Data processing / calculations:

[0950] The entered authentication information is compared against the user information in the database.

[0951] Based on the verification results, the success or failure of authentication is determined.

[0952] output:

[0953] If authentication is successful: Session ID

[0954] If authentication fails: Authentication failure message

[0955] Specific actions:

[0956] The user enters their username and password on the device's login screen.

[0957] The device sends this information to the server.

[0958] The server queries the MySQL database to check user information.

[0959] Upon successful authentication, a session ID is generated and sent to the device.

[0960] Step 2: Accessing the Metaverse

[0961] The server grants access to the metaverse's virtual space to users who have successfully authenticated. The terminal displays the virtual space's graphical user interface (GUI).

[0962] input:

[0963] Authentication success message

[0964] User access request

[0965] Data processing / calculations:

[0966] Prepare the initial dataset for the virtual space.

[0967] Check the user's access permissions.

[0968] output:

[0969] Initial data for the virtual space

[0970] Access permission message

[0971] Specific actions:

[0972] The server sends an authentication success message to the terminal, which includes the initial data for the virtual space.

[0973] The device receives this and uses React.js to display a GUI for the virtual space.

[0974] Step 3: Begin interacting with your digital avatar

[0975] The user sends an initial message through their device to begin interacting with the digital avatar. The server loads the digital avatar into the virtual space and starts the avatar's actions.

[0976] input:

[0977] User's initial message

[0978] Data processing / calculations:

[0979] Loading digital avatars

[0980] Initial placement of avatars in virtual space

[0981] output:

[0982] Initial dialogue start message

[0983] Specific actions:

[0984] The user types, "Hello, I'd like to discuss market strategy."

[0985] The terminal sends this message to the server.

[0986] The server loads the digital avatar into the virtual space and prepares to begin the initial interaction.

[0987] Step 4: Question analysis using natural language processing

[0988] The server receives questions from users, sends them to a generative AI model (e.g., GPT-4), and performs analysis.

[0989] input:

[0990] User question message

[0991] Data processing / calculations:

[0992] Send the question message to the text analysis engine.

[0993] Analyze the content of the question and generate an appropriate response.

[0994] output:

[0995] Analysis results and response text

[0996] Specific actions:

[0997] The server sends the user's question in text format to the natural language processing engine (GPT-4).

[0998] GPT-4 analyzes questions and generates response results.

[0999] Step 5: Response generation and sending

[1000] The server receives the response from the natural language processing engine and sends it back to the user. The terminal displays or plays the received response audibly to the user.

[1001] input:

[1002] Response text from GPT-4

[1003] Data processing / calculations:

[1004] Format the generated response text and send it to the terminal.

[1005] Convert to speech as needed.

[1006] output:

[1007] Formatted response text or audio data

[1008] Specific actions:

[1009] The server sends the response text received from "GPT-4" to the terminal.

[1010] The device uses React.js to display responses on the interactive screen and plays them back using a speech synthesis engine.

[1011] Step 6: Save the conversation log

[1012] After the interaction ends, the server saves the content of the interaction as a log. This log will be used later for analyzing user behavior and improving the system.

[1013] input:

[1014] Dialogue content (text)

[1015] Data processing / calculations:

[1016] Convert the conversation content into a database format and save it.

[1017] output:

[1018] Dialogue log recording data

[1019] Specific actions:

[1020] The server saves the content of the conversation to a database.

[1021] The conversation log is stored in a MySQL database.

[1022] Step 7: Gathering Feedback

[1023] The device receives feedback from the user and sends it to the server. The server stores the collected feedback and uses it to improve the system.

[1024] input:

[1025] User feedback

[1026] Data processing / calculations:

[1027] We analyze the feedback and convert it into data for system improvement.

[1028] output:

[1029] Feedback record data

[1030] Specific actions:

[1031] The user enters feedback into their device saying, "This advice was very helpful."

[1032] The device sends this feedback to the server.

[1033] The server stores the feedback in a database for aggregation and analysis.

[1034] (Application Example 1)

[1035] 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."

[1036] For companies, it is crucial to create an environment where employees can always receive advice from charismatic leaders. However, leaders are not always physically present, making it difficult for employees to receive timely advice from them. Furthermore, there is a lack of efficient means to collect employee feedback and improve systems. In addition, there is a need for a system that allows employees to receive advice from leaders anytime, anywhere, using mobile devices such as smartphones.

[1037] 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.

[1038] In this invention, the server includes means for generating a digital avatar, means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, means for receiving input from a user and analyzing the input using a natural language processing engine, means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user, means for saving a dialogue log for later analysis, means for providing dialogue with the digital avatar through a smartphone application, and database means for saving the generated responses and using them for future data analysis. This makes it possible to create an environment where employees can always receive advice from management, effectively collect feedback, and improve the system.

[1039] A "digital avatar" is a virtual entity that recreates a specific person or character in a virtual space and can interact with them.

[1040] A "virtual space" is a digital environment created by a computer, a space in which users can move around and operate without physical constraints.

[1041] "User input" refers to text or audio data such as questions, instructions, or opinions that users provide to the system.

[1042] A "natural language processing engine" is software or algorithms that analyze user input and provide technology for understanding and generating human language.

[1043] "Response generation" is the process of creating appropriate responses or actions based on input data analyzed by a natural language processing engine.

[1044] A "dialogue log" is data that records all the content of the conversations that took place between the user and the system.

[1045] A "smartphone application" is a software program that runs on a smartphone device and is developed to perform specific tasks or functions.

[1046] A "database system" is a system that systematically stores and manages data such as generated responses and dialogue logs, making it easy to access and analyze them at a later date.

[1047] "Feedback" refers to information such as evaluations, opinions, and suggestions for improvement that users provide after using a system.

[1048] "User authentication" is the process by which a system verifies the user's identity and grants them access rights.

[1049] This invention provides a system that allows employees in a company to receive advice from charismatic managers on a regular basis. The system of this invention consists of three main components: a server, a terminal, and a user.

[1050] Server functions and operation

[1051] The server has the following functions:

[1052] 1. Digital avatar generation method:

[1053] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. This digital avatar replicates the executives' appearance and behavior within the virtual space.

[1054] 2. Natural Language Processing Engine (NLP Engine):

[1055] The server receives input from the user and analyzes it using a natural language processing engine (for example, Hugging Face's Transformers). This process helps the server understand the user's question and generate an appropriate response.

[1056] 3. Means for saving and database-ing dialogue logs:

[1057] The server stores the generated responses and interaction logs in a database such as Firebase Firestore for future data analysis.

[1058] Device functions and operation

[1059] The terminal provides an interface for the user to interact with the system.

[1060] 1. Smartphone applications:

[1061] For example, a smartphone application developed using Flutter can support user-system interaction. Users can utilize a GUI to interact with a digital avatar via their smartphone.

[1062] 2. User Authentication:

[1063] The device uses Firebase Authentication to authenticate the user and verify appropriate access permissions.

[1064] 3. Gathering feedback:

[1065] The terminal has the ability to receive user feedback and send it to the server. This allows for system improvements.

[1066] User actions

[1067] The user implements the invention by following the steps below.

[1068] 1. Login and Authentication:

[1069] The user opens the smartphone application and logs in with their email address and password. The device uses Firebase Authentication to authenticate the user.

[1070] 2. Interacting with digital avatars:

[1071] Once authentication is successful, the user begins interacting with a digital avatar in the virtual space. For example, if the user asks, "I'd like your opinion on a new market strategy," the server's NLP engine analyzes the question and generates a response such as, "It's important to conduct market research. You should also conduct initial interviews with potential users."

[1072] 3. Saving dialogue logs and feedback:

[1073] Once the interaction with the user is complete, the server saves the interaction log to Firebase Firestore. User feedback is also collected and used to improve the system.

[1074] For example, if a user enters "I'd like your opinion on a new market strategy" into the app, the natural language processing engine analyzes this and provides appropriate advice. An example of a prompt is "QA Model: I'd like your opinion on a new market strategy."

[1075] In this way, the present invention provides a system that allows employees to always receive advice from management, thereby promoting new ideas and business improvements within the company.

[1076] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 1 will be explained using Figure 12.

[1077] Step 1:

[1078] The user opens the smartphone application and logs in with their email address and password. The user's authentication information (email address and password) is provided as input. The device receives this information and performs user authentication using Firebase Authentication. If authentication is successful, the user information is retrieved and the process proceeds to the next step. The output includes the authentication result and user information.

[1079] Step 2:

[1080] The server provides users who have successfully authenticated with an interaction screen with a digital avatar. User information and a login success flag are provided as input. The terminal updates the user interface and displays the digital avatar. Users can input questions and comments in text or voice. The output is the displayed digital avatar and the user's input.

[1081] Step 3:

[1082] When a user enters a question or comment, the terminal sends that input to the server. The input is provided as text or voice data from the user. The server receives this and passes it to the natural language processing engine. The output is the data to be analyzed and passed to the NLP engine.

[1083] Step 4:

[1084] The server uses an NLP engine to analyze user input. The input is provided as user text or voice data. The analysis process uses a generative AI model (e.g., Hugging Face's Transformers) to understand the meaning of the input data and generate an appropriate response. The output is the generated response text.

[1085] Step 5:

[1086] Based on the analysis results, the server provides the generated response to the user. The input is the generated response text. The server sends this response to the terminal, making it viewable and listenable to the user. The output is the response provided to the user.

[1087] Step 6:

[1088] The server saves the dialogue log and stores it in a database for later analysis. The input is the entire dialogue with the user (questions and answers). The server saves this data to a database such as Firebase Firestore. The output is the dialogue log stored in the database.

[1089] Step 7:

[1090] After the interaction ends, the user can provide feedback. The input consists of the user's feedback information (rating, comments, etc.). The device sends this feedback to the server. The output is the collected feedback data.

[1091] Step 8:

[1092] The server analyzes user feedback to identify areas for system improvement. Feedback data is provided as input. The server uses data analysis techniques to analyze the feedback information and generate insights for system improvement. The output includes areas for improvement and specific recommended actions.

[1093] 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.

[1094] This invention is a system that promotes business improvement and the creation of new businesses by placing a virtual avatar of a charismatic leader in a virtual space and having employees interact with that avatar on a daily basis. In particular, the quality of the interaction is further improved by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions.

[1095] Overall structure

[1096] The system consists of three main components: a server, a terminal, and a user. The server is responsible for core processes such as generating and managing digital avatars, natural language processing, sentiment analysis using an emotion engine, and saving and analyzing dialogue logs. The terminal serves as the interface with the user, who accesses the metaverse through the terminal.

[1097] Server functions and operation

[1098] The server generates a digital avatar based on pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. The generated avatar is stored in storage. When a user sends a request to access the metaverse, the server verifies the authentication information and authenticates the user.

[1099] Upon successful authentication, the server loads a digital avatar into the virtual space, making it ready for interaction. When user input is received, the server uses a natural language processing engine to analyze the input and then an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional data. Based on the analysis results, it generates an appropriate response and provides it to the user. Dialogue logs and emotional data are saved and used for future analysis.

[1100] Device functions and operation

[1101] The terminal provides a graphical user interface (GUI) for users to access the metaverse. The interface displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar and allows users to input questions via voice or text. The input is sent to the server. When a response is received from the server, the terminal displays it on the screen and plays it aloud through its speaker.

[1102] The device also accepts user feedback. This feedback is sent to the server and used to improve the system.

[1103] User actions

[1104] The user enters authentication information to log in using their device. Upon successful authentication, they can begin interacting with a manager avatar in the virtual space. The user inputs questions and opinions, and the digital avatar responds appropriately. During the interaction, an emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice tone to understand their emotions. Based on this data, more appropriate responses are provided.

[1105] After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback, which is received by the system. This feedback is stored as important data for system improvement.

[1106] Specific example

[1107] For example, if an employee is struggling with a new market strategy, they can access the metaverse through their device and ask their digital avatar, "I'd like your opinion on the new market strategy." The server receives this question, analyzes it using a natural language processing engine, and then analyzes the employee's emotional data using an emotion engine. Based on the analysis results, the server generates a response such as, "I think it's important to proceed with market research. You should also conduct initial interviews with potential users." The device displays this response on the screen and plays it back as audio.

[1108] If the user's facial expression during input is determined to be "confused" or "anxious," the server will generate and provide additional advice that takes that emotion into consideration (e.g., "It may seem difficult, but the first step is important. Please feel free to contact us anytime if you need support").

[1109] Thus, the present invention is a system that recreates the presence of managers in a virtual space and further enables dialogue adapted to the user's emotions through an emotion engine, allowing employees to constantly receive advice from managers and promoting new ideas and business improvements.

[1110] The following describes the processing flow.

[1111] Step 1:

[1112] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. The generated avatar information is then stored in storage.

[1113] Step 2:

[1114] The user opens a login screen to access the metaverse using their device. The user enters their authentication information (username, password, etc.) and presses the "Login" button.

[1115] Step 3:

[1116] The terminal receives the user's authentication information and sends it to the server. The server verifies the received authentication information and authenticates that the user has legitimate access rights.

[1117] Step 4:

[1118] After successful authentication, the server loads a digital avatar into the virtual space for the user. It then performs an initialization process until the avatar is ready for interaction.

[1119] Step 5:

[1120] The device displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar in a virtual space. Users can input questions or comments using on-screen input fields or voice recognition.

[1121] Step 6:

[1122] The terminal sends the user's input (questions and opinions) to the server. The server then passes the received input to a natural language processing engine for analysis.

[1123] Step 7:

[1124] The server uses a natural language processing engine to analyze user input. Based on the analysis results, it generates an appropriate response message.

[1125] Step 8:

[1126] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's facial expressions and voice tone during input, and obtains the user's emotional data. This emotional data can also include biometric information such as the user's perceived temperature and pulse rate.

[1127] Step 9:

[1128] The server generates a response based on the sentiment analysis results, corresponding to the analysis results of the natural language processing engine. This response is adjusted based on the sentiment analysis.

[1129] Step 10:

[1130] The server sends the generated response message to the terminal. The terminal displays this response message to the user and, if it's audio, plays it through the speaker.

[1131] Step 11:

[1132] The user reviews the displayed response messages and audio, and based on that, considers their next questions and actions. They continue the conversation as needed.

[1133] Step 12:

[1134] After the interaction ends, the server saves the interaction log. This can then be used to improve the quality of future interactions and for analysis.

[1135] Step 13:

[1136] The server also saves emotional data generated during the conversation along with the conversation log. This allows for a detailed analysis of the user's emotional state.

[1137] Step 14:

[1138] After the interaction ends, users provide feedback on the system's usability and the quality of the interaction through a feedback form. The device then sends this feedback to the server.

[1139] Step 15:

[1140] The server uses the received feedback to improve the system. This enables continuous quality improvement.

[1141] (Example 2)

[1142] 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."

[1143] Traditional virtual reality dialogue systems struggled to replicate the feeling of receiving advice from actual business leaders, resulting in a decline in the quality of the conversations. Furthermore, they failed to generate responses that adequately reflected user emotions, hindering user satisfaction. Additionally, they lacked mechanisms for effectively utilizing feedback to improve the system.

[1144] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means.

[1145] In this invention, the server includes means for generating a digital avatar, means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, means for receiving input from a user and analyzing the input using a natural language processing engine, means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user, means for saving a dialogue log for later analysis, means including an emotion analysis engine for analyzing the user's emotions, means for adjusting the response content based on the emotion analysis results, means for receiving feedback from the user and improving the system based on the feedback, means for providing an interface for the user to access the virtual space, and means for verifying authentication information entered by the user and authenticating the user based on the authentication.

[1146] This allows users to experience, in a virtual space, the feeling of receiving advice from actual business leaders, receive appropriate responses based on their emotions, and enable continuous improvement of the system.

[1147] A "digital avatar" is a virtual person or character created to interact with a user in a virtual space.

[1148] A "virtual space" is a virtual three-dimensional environment provided via the internet or a network, within which users can perform activities and operations.

[1149] A "user" refers to a person who uses this system to access the virtual space and interact with a digital avatar.

[1150] A "natural language processing engine" is a technology or software that analyzes user input and generates appropriate responses, possessing the ability to understand and process human language.

[1151] An "emotion analysis engine" is a technology or software that analyzes a user's voice and facial expressions to determine their emotional state.

[1152] A "dialogue log" is data that records the content of past conversations between a user and a digital avatar.

[1153] An "interface" is the means a user uses to access and interact with a virtual space, and includes graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and other input devices.

[1154] "Authentication information" refers to identifiers (e.g., user ID and password) that a user provides when accessing the system, and this is used to verify the user's identity.

[1155] "Feedback" refers to the opinions and impressions that users provide after using a system, and this information is used to evaluate and improve the system.

[1156] This invention is a system that promotes business improvement and the creation of new businesses by placing a virtual avatar of a charismatic leader in a virtual space and allowing employees to interact with this avatar on a daily basis. In particular, the quality of the interaction is further improved by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions. The system consists of three main components: a server, a terminal, and a user.

[1157] Server functions and operation

[1158] The server is responsible for core processes such as generating and managing digital avatars, natural language processing, sentiment analysis using an emotion engine, and saving and analyzing dialogue logs. Specifically, it generates digital avatars based on pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of executives. The technologies used in this step include speech synthesis engines and image processing software, such as general-purpose software for speech synthesis and general-purpose graphics tools for image processing. The generated avatars are stored in storage.

[1159] When a user sends a request to access the metaverse, the server verifies the authentication information and authenticates the user. If authentication is successful, the server loads a digital avatar into the virtual space and makes it interactive. When user input is sent, the server analyzes the input using a natural language processing engine and further analyzes the user's emotional data using an emotion engine. Based on the analysis results, it generates an appropriate response and provides it to the user.

[1160] Device functions and operation

[1161] The terminal provides a graphical user interface for users to access the metaverse. The interface displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar and allows users to input questions via voice or text. The input is sent to the server. Upon receiving a response from the server, the terminal displays it on the screen and plays it aloud through its speaker. The terminal also accepts user feedback, which is sent to the server and used to improve the system.

[1162] User actions

[1163] The user enters authentication information to log in using their device. Upon successful authentication, they can begin interacting with a manager avatar in a virtual space. The user inputs questions and opinions, and the digital avatar provides appropriate responses. During the interaction, an emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice tone to understand their emotions. Based on this data, more appropriate responses are provided. After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback, which is received by the system. This feedback is stored as important data for system improvement.

[1164] Specific example

[1165] For example, if an employee is struggling with a new market strategy, they can access the metaverse through their device and ask their digital avatar, "I'd like your opinion on the new market strategy." The server receives this question, analyzes it using a natural language processing engine, and then analyzes the employee's emotional data using an emotion analysis engine. Based on the analysis results, the server generates a response such as, "I think it's important to proceed with market research. You should also conduct initial interviews with potential users." The device displays this response on the screen and plays it back as audio.

[1166] If the user's facial expression during input is determined to be "confused" or "anxious," the server generates additional advice that takes that emotion into consideration (e.g., "It may seem difficult, but the first step is important. Please feel free to contact us anytime if you need support") and provides it to the user. In this way, the present invention is a system that recreates the presence of management in a virtual space and further enables dialogue adapted to the user's emotions through an emotion engine, allowing employees to constantly receive advice from management and promoting new ideas and business improvements.

[1167] The flow of the specific processing in Example 2 will be explained using Figure 13.

[1168] Step 1: Collecting and generating management data

[1169] The server generates a digital avatar based on pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executive. During this process, the server analyzes the voice data and uses a speech synthesis engine to generate the avatar's voice. It also analyzes the image data and uses image processing software to generate the avatar's appearance. The generated avatar is stored in storage. The input is the executive's voice data and image data, and the output is the generated digital avatar.

[1170] Step 2: Acceptance of Metaverse Access Request and User Authentication

[1171] When a user attempts to access the metaverse through their device, they enter authentication information (e.g., user ID and password). This authentication information is sent from the device to the server, which verifies it against the authentication information in the database. If authentication is successful, the user is granted access to the metaverse. The input is the user's authentication information, and the output is the granting of access rights.

[1172] Step 3: Loading the Digital Avatar

[1173] When a user successfully authenticates and accesses the virtual space, the server loads a digital avatar stored in storage. This loaded avatar is sent to the terminal and displayed in the virtual space. The input is the digital avatar in storage, and the output is the avatar displayed on the terminal.

[1174] Step 4: Receiving and analyzing user input

[1175] The user inputs a question via voice or text through the terminal's interface. This input is sent from the terminal to the server. The server analyzes the input using a natural language processing engine. For example, it might use OpenAI GPT-3 to analyze the meaning of the text and extract information to generate an appropriate response. The input is the user's question, and the output is the analyzed question.

[1176] Step 5: Emotion Analysis

[1177] The server analyzes the voice tone and facial expression data associated with the user's input using an emotion analysis engine. For example, it uses the Microsoft Azure Emotion API to identify the user's emotional state. The analysis results are reflected in the response generation. The input is the user's voice tone and facial expression data, and the output is the identified emotional state.

[1178] Step 6: Response Generation

[1179] The server generates an appropriate response based on the analysis results of the natural language processing engine and the sentiment analysis results. Specifically, it uses tools such as OpenAI GPT-3 to generate answers to user questions and adds sentiment-sensitive advice. This response is sent to the terminal. The input is the analysis results and sentiment state, and the output is the generated response.

[1180] Step 7: Display response to user and play

[1181] The terminal displays the response received from the server on the screen and plays it back as audio through the speaker. For example, it can use the Google Text-to-Speech engine to generate speech from text and deliver it to the user. The input is response data from the server, and the output is screen display and audio playback.

[1182] Step 8: Saving dialogue logs and sentiment data

[1183] The server saves dialogue logs and sentiment data to a database. This saved data is used later for system improvement and analysis. The input is dialogue logs and sentiment data, and the output is saving to the database.

[1184] Step 9: Receiving and analyzing feedback

[1185] After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback. The terminal sends this feedback to the server, which stores it in a database. The stored feedback is analyzed for system improvement. The input is the user's feedback, and the output is the storage and analysis of that feedback.

[1186] (Application Example 2)

[1187] 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."

[1188] In modern business management, effective business improvement and the launch of new businesses require rapid decision-making and accurate advice. However, the difficulty in direct dialogue with managers and experts means that businesses often cannot receive sufficient support in their daily operations. There are also problems such as a decline in the quality of dialogue due to emotions and a lack of mechanisms to properly reflect user feedback. Virtual stores, in particular, have limited means of receiving strategic advice on store operations, making it difficult to optimize operations.

[1189] 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 generating a digital avatar, means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, and means for receiving input from a user and analyzing the input using a natural language processing engine. This makes it possible to recreate the presence of a manager in a virtual space and promote business improvement and the creation of new businesses by allowing users to interact with the virtual manager avatar on a daily basis.

[1190] Furthermore, the server includes means for saving dialogue logs for later analysis, and an emotion engine for analyzing user emotion data, as well as means for generating responses based on said emotion data. This enables high-quality dialogue adapted to emotions, allowing for the provision of optimal advice tailored to the user's emotions.

[1191] Furthermore, the server provides a means for user authentication and verification of access rights based on that authentication, as well as a means for the virtual environment administrator to interact with virtual avatars within the virtual space. This allows for strategic advice to be received in the operation of virtual stores, enabling optimization of operations.

[1192] Furthermore, the system provides means for receiving user feedback and improving the system based on that feedback, as well as means for evaluating the appropriateness of responses generated based on sentiment analysis data. This ensures continuous system improvement and enhances the quality of dialogue.

[1193] A "digital avatar" is a digital representation of a person or character that is virtually generated for the purpose of interacting with users.

[1194] A "virtual space" is a virtual environment built on a computer as a place for users to interact with digital avatars.

[1195] A "natural language processing engine" is a software technology that analyzes human language and converts it into a form that machines can understand.

[1196] A "response" is the answer that a system provides in response to user input.

[1197] A "dialogue log" is a record of the conversation that took place between the user and the digital avatar.

[1198] An "emotion engine" is a software technology that analyzes a user's emotions from their voice and facial expressions and generates appropriate responses.

[1199] User authentication is the process of verifying whether a user attempting to access a system is a legitimate user.

[1200] "Feedback" refers to the opinions and evaluations that users provide after using a system, and these are used to improve the system.

[1201] A "virtual environment administrator" is a person or system responsible for the operation and management of a virtual space.

[1202] "Emotional analysis data" refers to data obtained by analyzing a user's emotions.

[1203] A "virtual store" is an online shop built within a virtual space, where goods and services are sold.

[1204] A "generative AI model" is an artificial intelligence model that has been trained to generate specific tasks or responses.

[1205] A "prompt message" is text data used as input for a generative AI model, and it serves as an instruction to generate a specific response.

[1206] The system for implementing this invention mainly consists of three main components: a server, a terminal, and a user.

[1207] First, the server generates a digital avatar based on pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. This digital avatar is stored in storage and loaded into the virtual space in response to user access requests. The server also uses a natural language processing engine to analyze user input and an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional data. Based on the analysis results, it generates appropriate responses according to the emotions. Dialogue logs and emotional data are saved and used for later analysis.

[1208] Next, the terminal provides an interface for the user to interact with the system. The user can use the terminal to access the virtual space and begin interacting with a digital avatar. The interface accepts input in the form of voice or text and sends it to the server. When a response is received from the server, the terminal displays it on the screen and plays it back aloud. Furthermore, the terminal also accepts feedback from the user, which is sent to the server and used to improve the system.

[1209] The specific hardware used includes smartphones and head-mounted displays. The software utilizes Python, the emotion_recognition library, the chatbot_engine library, and a REST API. By coordinating this hardware and software, the system analyzes user input using a natural language processing engine and an emotion engine to generate appropriate responses. The use of generative AI models enables the generation of complex dialogues and advice.

[1210] As a concrete example, consider a scenario where a virtual store manager consults a virtual manager avatar about a new product placement strategy. The manager logs into the virtual store app on their smartphone and texts (or voice-inputs) "I'd like some advice on new product placement." The emotion engine detects "excitement" (anticipation for the new product). The server responds with advice such as, "We recommend placing the new product in a prominent location and collecting customer feedback." The manager then provides feedback, and the system uses this feedback to make further improvements.

[1211] Examples of prompt statements are as follows:

[1212] Question: I would like some advice on a new product layout.

[1213] Emotion: excitement

[1214] In this way, the system effectively supports dialogue that facilitates business improvement and the creation of new businesses.

[1215] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 2 will be explained using Figure 14.

[1216] Step 1:

[1217] The user logs in using their device. The user enters their authentication information, which the device sends to the server. The server verifies the user's authentication information, and if authentication is successful, it retrieves the user's ID. Upon successful authentication, a login success message is displayed on the device.

[1218] Step 2:

[1219] The terminal provides an interface for the user to access the virtual space. The user sends an access request, and the server receives this request. The server verifies the user's access rights and loads the digital avatar into the virtual space.

[1220] Step 3:

[1221] The user initiates an interaction with a digital avatar through their device. The user inputs questions via voice or text, and the device sends this input to the server. The input data is received by the server.

[1222] Step 4:

[1223] The server analyzes user input data using a natural language processing engine. The analyzed text data is then sent to an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotions. Based on these analysis results, the server generates an appropriate response.

[1224] Step 5:

[1225] The server uses a generative AI model to create specific responses. Input data is provided as a prompt, such as "Question: I would like advice on new product placement. Emotion: Excited." Based on the analysis results, the server retrieves the generated response.

[1226] Step 6:

[1227] The server sends the generated response to the terminal. The terminal displays this response on the screen and plays it aloud through the speaker. The user can review the provided advice and proceed to the next step in the interaction.

[1228] Step 7:

[1229] After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback. The user inputs the feedback through the terminal, which then sends it to the server. The server receives the feedback, stores it, and analyzes it for system improvement.

[1230] Step 8:

[1231] The server analyzes the saved dialogue logs and sentiment data at a later date. This allows for the accumulation of data to improve the quality of future interactions. Furthermore, system improvements are made based on user feedback.

[1232] 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.

[1233] 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.

[1234] 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.

[1235] [Fourth Embodiment]

[1236] Figure 7 shows an example of the configuration of the data processing system 410 according to the fourth embodiment.

[1237] 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.

[1238] 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).

[1239] 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.

[1240] 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.

[1241] 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).

[1242] 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.

[1243] 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.

[1244] 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.

[1245] 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.

[1246] 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.

[1247] 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.

[1248] 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".

[1249] This invention provides a system that virtually recreates the presence of a charismatic leader, allowing employees to interact with that leader at any time. Specific embodiments of this system are described below.

[1250] Overall structure

[1251] The system consists of three main components: a server, terminals, and users. The server performs core processing such as generating and managing digital avatars, natural language processing, and saving and analyzing dialogue logs. Terminals provide an interface for users to interact with the system. Through terminals, users access the metaverse and begin interacting with the manager's digital avatar.

[1252] Server functions and operation

[1253] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executive. This avatar replicates the executive's appearance and behavior within the virtual space. The server also receives and authenticates user requests to access the metaverse. If authentication is successful, the server loads the digital avatar into the virtual space, allowing the user to interact with it.

[1254] When a user submits a question or comment to the server, the server uses a natural language processing engine to analyze it and generate an appropriate response based on the analysis. This response is then sent back to the user, and the dialogue continues. Once the dialogue is complete, the server saves a dialogue log for later analysis.

[1255] Device functions and operation

[1256] The terminal provides a graphical user interface (GUI) for users to access the metaverse. The interface displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar and allows users to input questions via voice or text. Once the user inputs, the terminal sends it to the server. Upon receiving a response from the server, the terminal displays it on the screen and, in the case of a voice response, plays it through the speaker.

[1257] Furthermore, the terminal has a function to receive user feedback, which is then sent to a server to help improve the system.

[1258] User actions

[1259] Users log in using their devices to access the metaverse. They enter authentication information during login, and the server performs the authentication process. If successful, the user begins interacting with a manager avatar in the virtual space. Users input questions and opinions, and receive advice for business improvement and new business creation through responses from the manager avatar. After the interaction ends, users provide feedback, which is used to further improve the system.

[1260] Specific example

[1261] For example, if an employee is considering a new market strategy, they can access the metaverse via a terminal and ask a digital avatar, "I'd like your opinion on a new market strategy." The server receives this question and analyzes it using a natural language processing engine. Based on the analysis, the server generates a response such as, "I think it's important to proceed with market research. You should also conduct initial interviews with potential users," and communicates it to the employee via the terminal. The employee can then use this advice to conduct specific market research and interviews, and further refine their strategy.

[1262] Thus, the present invention is a system that recreates the presence of management in a virtual space, allowing employees to constantly receive advice from management and promoting new ideas and business improvements.

[1263] The following describes the processing flow.

[1264] Step 1:

[1265] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. The generated avatar information is then stored in storage.

[1266] Step 2:

[1267] The user opens a login screen to access the metaverse using their device. The user enters their authentication information (username, password, etc.) and presses the "Login" button.

[1268] Step 3:

[1269] The terminal receives the user's authentication information and sends it to the server. The server verifies the received authentication information and authenticates that the user has legitimate access rights.

[1270] Step 4:

[1271] After successful authentication, the server loads a digital avatar into the virtual space for the user. It then performs an initialization process until the avatar is ready for interaction.

[1272] Step 5:

[1273] The device displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar in a virtual space. Users can input questions or comments using on-screen input fields or voice recognition.

[1274] Step 6:

[1275] The terminal sends the user's input (questions and opinions) to the server. The server then passes the received input to a natural language processing engine for analysis.

[1276] Step 7:

[1277] The server uses a natural language processing engine to analyze user input. Based on the analysis results, it generates an appropriate response message.

[1278] Step 8:

[1279] The server sends the generated response message to the terminal. The terminal displays this response message to the user. If there is an audio response, it is played through the speaker.

[1280] Step 9:

[1281] The user reviews the displayed response messages and audio, and based on that, considers their next questions and actions. They continue the conversation as needed.

[1282] Step 10:

[1283] After the interaction ends, the server saves the interaction log. This can then be used to improve the quality of future interactions and for analysis.

[1284] Step 11:

[1285] Users provide feedback on the system's usability and the quality of its interaction through a feedback form. The device then sends this feedback to the server.

[1286] Step 12:

[1287] The server uses the received feedback to improve the system. This enables continuous quality improvement.

[1288] (Example 1)

[1289] 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".

[1290] In today's business environment, the presence of charismatic leaders is expected to contribute to business improvement and the creation of new businesses. However, due to physical and time constraints, it is difficult for employees to receive advice from management on a regular basis. Furthermore, there is a lack of means to improve systems using employee feedback. Therefore, there is a need to build a system that uses a virtual space to reproduce the presence of management in real time, allowing employees to interact with them at any time.

[1291] 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.

[1292] In this invention, the server includes means for generating a digital avatar, means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, means for receiving input from a user and analyzing the input using a generated AI model, means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user, means for saving the dialogue log for later analysis, and means for receiving feedback from the user and reflecting it in improving the system. As a result, employees can always receive advice from management in a virtual space, and continuous improvement of the system can be achieved based on the feedback.

[1293] A "digital avatar" is a digital representation that imitates the appearance and behavior of a specific person within a virtual space.

[1294] A "virtual space" is a digital environment created by computers that is similar to or different from the real world, allowing users to interact.

[1295] A "generative AI model" is an algorithm or system that uses artificial intelligence technology to analyze data and generate responses such as text or speech.

[1296] "Natural language processing" is a technology that uses computers to process and analyze human language in order to understand its meaning.

[1297] A "dialogue log" is data that records the content of the conversation between the user and the system.

[1298] "Feedback" refers to information such as comments and suggestions for improvement that users provide to the system.

[1299] User authentication is the process of verifying that a user accessing a system has legitimate permissions.

[1300] "Access rights" refer to the permission or qualifications to access a system or certain functions within it.

[1301] A "graphical user interface (GUI) in a virtual space" refers to a screen or means of operation that allows a user to visually interact with a system.

[1302] A "server" is a computer system that stores, analyzes, and provides data.

[1303] A "terminal" is a device that a user uses to access and operate a system.

[1304] This invention relates to a system that generates digital avatars of charismatic business leaders in a virtual space, allowing employees to interact with these leaders at any time. This system enables users to obtain advice on various business improvements and new business ventures within the virtual space.

[1305] This system consists primarily of three components: servers, terminals, and users.

[1306] 1. Server Functions

[1307] The server performs core processing such as generating and managing digital avatars, natural language processing, and storing and analyzing dialogue logs.

[1308] Digital Avatar Generation

[1309] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. This process utilizes computer vision and speech synthesis technologies.

[1310] Usage example:

[1311] The "OpenCV" library will be used to process the image data.

[1312] The "WaveNet" technology is used for processing audio data.

[1313] User Authentication

[1314] The server receives the user's authentication information, compares it with the database, and performs authentication.

[1315] Authentication protocol:

[1316] Use "OAuth 2.0".

[1317] Natural Language Processing

[1318] The server analyzes user input using a generation AI model (e.g., "GPT-4") and generates an appropriate response.

[1319] Natural language processing engine:

[1320] Use the "GPT-4" API.

[1321] Saving and analyzing dialogue logs

[1322] The server saves the dialogue log when the interaction ends, for later analysis.

[1323] Database system:

[1324] Use "MySQL".

[1325] 2. Device functions

[1326] The terminal provides an interface for the user to interact with the system.

[1327] Graphical User Interface (GUI)

[1328] The terminal displays a GUI that provides the user with access to a virtual space. Here, the user can input questions via voice or text and receive responses.

[1329] Usage example:

[1330] We will use "React.js" to build the GUI.

[1331] Sending input data and receiving responses

[1332] The user enters data, which is then sent to the server, and a response is received from the server.

[1333] Communication protocol:

[1334] Use "WebSocket".

[1335] Gathering feedback

[1336] The device will use user feedback sent to the server to help improve the system.

[1337] 3. User actions

[1338] Accessing and Interacting with the Metaverse

[1339] Users log in using their devices to access the metaverse. They enter authentication information during login, and the server performs the authentication process. If successful, the user begins interacting with the manager avatar in the virtual space.

[1340] Example of a prompt:

[1341] "Please enter your login information to begin a conversation with the CEO avatar."

[1342] "I'd like to hear your opinion on a new market strategy."

[1343] Dialogue progression

[1344] Users input questions and opinions, and receive advice for business improvement and the creation of new businesses through responses from manager avatars.

[1345] Provide feedback

[1346] After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback, which is used to further improve the system.

[1347] By utilizing the system of this invention, employees can constantly receive advice from management in a virtual space, promoting business improvement and the generation of new ideas. Furthermore, the system can be continuously improved based on the collected user feedback.

[1348] The flow of the specific processing in Example 1 will be explained using Figure 11.

[1349] Step 1: Start User Authentication

[1350] The server receives authentication information entered by the user from the terminal. This authentication information includes the username and password or an OAuth token. The server then verifies this authentication information against the database to perform authentication.

[1351] input:

[1352] Username and password or OAuth token

[1353] User information from the database

[1354] Data processing / calculations:

[1355] The entered authentication information is compared against the user information in the database.

[1356] Based on the verification results, the success or failure of authentication is determined.

[1357] output:

[1358] If authentication is successful: Session ID

[1359] If authentication fails: Authentication failure message

[1360] Specific actions:

[1361] The user enters their username and password on the device's login screen.

[1362] The device sends this information to the server.

[1363] The server queries the MySQL database to check user information.

[1364] Upon successful authentication, a session ID is generated and sent to the device.

[1365] Step 2: Accessing the Metaverse

[1366] The server grants access to the metaverse's virtual space to users who have successfully authenticated. The terminal displays the virtual space's graphical user interface (GUI).

[1367] input:

[1368] Authentication success message

[1369] User access request

[1370] Data processing / calculations:

[1371] Prepare the initial dataset for the virtual space.

[1372] Check the user's access permissions.

[1373] output:

[1374] Initial data for the virtual space

[1375] Access permission message

[1376] Specific actions:

[1377] The server sends an authentication success message to the terminal, which includes the initial data for the virtual space.

[1378] The device receives this and uses React.js to display a GUI for the virtual space.

[1379] Step 3: Begin interacting with your digital avatar

[1380] The user sends an initial message through their device to begin interacting with the digital avatar. The server loads the digital avatar into the virtual space and starts the avatar's actions.

[1381] input:

[1382] User's initial message

[1383] Data processing / calculations:

[1384] Loading digital avatars

[1385] Initial placement of avatars in virtual space

[1386] output:

[1387] Initial dialogue start message

[1388] Specific actions:

[1389] The user types, "Hello, I'd like to discuss market strategy."

[1390] The terminal sends this message to the server.

[1391] The server loads the digital avatar into the virtual space and prepares to begin the initial interaction.

[1392] Step 4: Question analysis using natural language processing

[1393] The server receives questions from users, sends them to a generative AI model (e.g., GPT-4), and performs analysis.

[1394] input:

[1395] User question message

[1396] Data processing / calculations:

[1397] Send the question message to the text analysis engine.

[1398] Analyze the content of the question and generate an appropriate response.

[1399] output:

[1400] Analysis results and response text

[1401] Specific actions:

[1402] The server sends the user's question in text format to the natural language processing engine (GPT-4).

[1403] GPT-4 analyzes questions and generates response results.

[1404] Step 5: Response generation and sending

[1405] The server receives the response from the natural language processing engine and sends it back to the user. The terminal displays or plays the received response audibly to the user.

[1406] input:

[1407] Response text from GPT-4

[1408] Data processing / calculations:

[1409] Format the generated response text and send it to the terminal.

[1410] Convert to speech as needed.

[1411] output:

[1412] Formatted response text or audio data

[1413] Specific actions:

[1414] The server sends the response text received from "GPT-4" to the terminal.

[1415] The device uses React.js to display responses on the interactive screen and plays them back using a speech synthesis engine.

[1416] Step 6: Save the conversation log

[1417] After the interaction ends, the server saves the content of the interaction as a log. This log will be used later for analyzing user behavior and improving the system.

[1418] input:

[1419] Dialogue content (text)

[1420] Data processing / calculations:

[1421] Convert the conversation content into a database format and save it.

[1422] output:

[1423] Dialogue log recording data

[1424] Specific actions:

[1425] The server saves the content of the conversation to a database.

[1426] The conversation log is stored in a MySQL database.

[1427] Step 7: Gathering Feedback

[1428] The device receives feedback from the user and sends it to the server. The server stores the collected feedback and uses it to improve the system.

[1429] input:

[1430] User feedback

[1431] Data processing / calculations:

[1432] We analyze the feedback and convert it into data for system improvement.

[1433] output:

[1434] Feedback record data

[1435] Specific actions:

[1436] The user enters feedback into their device saying, "This advice was very helpful."

[1437] The device sends this feedback to the server.

[1438] The server stores the feedback in a database for aggregation and analysis.

[1439] (Application Example 1)

[1440] 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".

[1441] For companies, it is crucial to create an environment where employees can always receive advice from charismatic leaders. However, leaders are not always physically present, making it difficult for employees to receive timely advice from them. Furthermore, there is a lack of efficient means to collect employee feedback and improve systems. In addition, there is a need for a system that allows employees to receive advice from leaders anytime, anywhere, using mobile devices such as smartphones.

[1442] 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.

[1443] In this invention, the server includes means for generating a digital avatar, means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, means for receiving input from a user and analyzing the input using a natural language processing engine, means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user, means for saving a dialogue log for later analysis, means for providing dialogue with the digital avatar through a smartphone application, and database means for saving the generated responses and using them for future data analysis. This makes it possible to create an environment where employees can always receive advice from management, effectively collect feedback, and improve the system.

[1444] A "digital avatar" is a virtual entity that recreates a specific person or character in a virtual space and can interact with them.

[1445] A "virtual space" is a digital environment created by a computer, a space in which users can move around and operate without physical constraints.

[1446] "User input" refers to text or audio data such as questions, instructions, or opinions that users provide to the system.

[1447] A "natural language processing engine" is software or algorithms that analyze user input and provide technology for understanding and generating human language.

[1448] "Response generation" is the process of creating appropriate responses or actions based on input data analyzed by a natural language processing engine.

[1449] A "dialogue log" is data that records all the content of the conversations that took place between the user and the system.

[1450] A "smartphone application" is a software program that runs on a smartphone device and is developed to perform specific tasks or functions.

[1451] A "database system" is a system that systematically stores and manages data such as generated responses and dialogue logs, making it easy to access and analyze them at a later date.

[1452] "Feedback" refers to information such as evaluations, opinions, and suggestions for improvement that users provide after using a system.

[1453] "User authentication" is the process by which a system verifies the user's identity and grants them access rights.

[1454] This invention provides a system that allows employees in a company to receive advice from charismatic managers on a regular basis. The system of this invention consists of three main components: a server, a terminal, and a user.

[1455] Server functions and operation

[1456] The server has the following functions:

[1457] 1. Digital avatar generation method:

[1458] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. This digital avatar replicates the executives' appearance and behavior within the virtual space.

[1459] 2. Natural Language Processing Engine (NLP Engine):

[1460] The server receives input from the user and analyzes it using a natural language processing engine (for example, Hugging Face's Transformers). This process helps the server understand the user's question and generate an appropriate response.

[1461] 3. Means for saving and database-ing dialogue logs:

[1462] The server stores the generated responses and interaction logs in a database such as Firebase Firestore for future data analysis.

[1463] Device functions and operation

[1464] The terminal provides an interface for the user to interact with the system.

[1465] 1. Smartphone applications:

[1466] For example, a smartphone application developed using Flutter can support user-system interaction. Users can utilize a GUI to interact with a digital avatar via their smartphone.

[1467] 2. User Authentication:

[1468] The device uses Firebase Authentication to authenticate the user and verify appropriate access permissions.

[1469] 3. Gathering feedback:

[1470] The terminal has the ability to receive user feedback and send it to the server. This allows for system improvements.

[1471] User actions

[1472] The user implements the invention by following the steps below.

[1473] 1. Login and Authentication:

[1474] The user opens the smartphone application and logs in with their email address and password. The device uses Firebase Authentication to authenticate the user.

[1475] 2. Interacting with digital avatars:

[1476] Once authentication is successful, the user begins interacting with a digital avatar in the virtual space. For example, if the user asks, "I'd like your opinion on a new market strategy," the server's NLP engine analyzes the question and generates a response such as, "It's important to conduct market research. You should also conduct initial interviews with potential users."

[1477] 3. Saving dialogue logs and feedback:

[1478] Once the interaction with the user is complete, the server saves the interaction log to Firebase Firestore. User feedback is also collected and used to improve the system.

[1479] For example, if a user enters "I'd like your opinion on a new market strategy" into the app, the natural language processing engine analyzes this and provides appropriate advice. An example of a prompt is "QA Model: I'd like your opinion on a new market strategy."

[1480] In this way, the present invention provides a system that allows employees to always receive advice from management, thereby promoting new ideas and business improvements within the company.

[1481] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 1 will be explained using Figure 12.

[1482] Step 1:

[1483] The user opens the smartphone application and logs in with their email address and password. The user's authentication information (email address and password) is provided as input. The device receives this information and performs user authentication using Firebase Authentication. If authentication is successful, the user information is retrieved and the process proceeds to the next step. The output includes the authentication result and user information.

[1484] Step 2:

[1485] The server provides users who have successfully authenticated with an interaction screen with a digital avatar. User information and a login success flag are provided as input. The terminal updates the user interface and displays the digital avatar. Users can input questions and comments in text or voice. The output is the displayed digital avatar and the user's input.

[1486] Step 3:

[1487] When a user enters a question or comment, the terminal sends that input to the server. The input is provided as text or voice data from the user. The server receives this and passes it to the natural language processing engine. The output is the data to be analyzed and passed to the NLP engine.

[1488] Step 4:

[1489] The server uses an NLP engine to analyze user input. The input is provided as user text or voice data. The analysis process uses a generative AI model (e.g., Hugging Face's Transformers) to understand the meaning of the input data and generate an appropriate response. The output is the generated response text.

[1490] Step 5:

[1491] Based on the analysis results, the server provides the generated response to the user. The input is the generated response text. The server sends this response to the terminal, making it viewable and listenable to the user. The output is the response provided to the user.

[1492] Step 6:

[1493] The server saves the dialogue log and stores it in a database for later analysis. The input is the entire dialogue with the user (questions and answers). The server saves this data to a database such as Firebase Firestore. The output is the dialogue log stored in the database.

[1494] Step 7:

[1495] After the interaction ends, the user can provide feedback. The input consists of the user's feedback information (rating, comments, etc.). The device sends this feedback to the server. The output is the collected feedback data.

[1496] Step 8:

[1497] The server analyzes user feedback to identify areas for system improvement. Feedback data is provided as input. The server uses data analysis techniques to analyze the feedback information and generate insights for system improvement. The output includes areas for improvement and specific recommended actions.

[1498] 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.

[1499] This invention is a system that promotes business improvement and the creation of new businesses by placing a virtual avatar of a charismatic leader in a virtual space and having employees interact with that avatar on a daily basis. In particular, the quality of the interaction is further improved by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions.

[1500] Overall structure

[1501] The system consists of three main components: a server, a terminal, and a user. The server is responsible for core processes such as generating and managing digital avatars, natural language processing, sentiment analysis using an emotion engine, and saving and analyzing dialogue logs. The terminal serves as the interface with the user, who accesses the metaverse through the terminal.

[1502] Server functions and operation

[1503] The server generates a digital avatar based on pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. The generated avatar is stored in storage. When a user sends a request to access the metaverse, the server verifies the authentication information and authenticates the user.

[1504] Upon successful authentication, the server loads a digital avatar into the virtual space, making it ready for interaction. When user input is received, the server uses a natural language processing engine to analyze the input and then an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional data. Based on the analysis results, it generates an appropriate response and provides it to the user. Dialogue logs and emotional data are saved and used for future analysis.

[1505] Device functions and operation

[1506] The terminal provides a graphical user interface (GUI) for users to access the metaverse. The interface displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar and allows users to input questions via voice or text. The input is sent to the server. When a response is received from the server, the terminal displays it on the screen and plays it aloud through its speaker.

[1507] The device also accepts user feedback. This feedback is sent to the server and used to improve the system.

[1508] User actions

[1509] The user enters authentication information to log in using their device. Upon successful authentication, they can begin interacting with a manager avatar in the virtual space. The user inputs questions and opinions, and the digital avatar responds appropriately. During the interaction, an emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice tone to understand their emotions. Based on this data, more appropriate responses are provided.

[1510] After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback, which is received by the system. This feedback is stored as important data for system improvement.

[1511] Specific example

[1512] For example, if an employee is struggling with a new market strategy, they can access the metaverse through their device and ask their digital avatar, "I'd like your opinion on the new market strategy." The server receives this question, analyzes it using a natural language processing engine, and then analyzes the employee's emotional data using an emotion engine. Based on the analysis results, the server generates a response such as, "I think it's important to proceed with market research. You should also conduct initial interviews with potential users." The device displays this response on the screen and plays it back as audio.

[1513] If the user's facial expression during input is determined to be "confused" or "anxious," the server will generate and provide additional advice that takes that emotion into consideration (e.g., "It may seem difficult, but the first step is important. Please feel free to contact us anytime if you need support").

[1514] Thus, the present invention is a system that recreates the presence of managers in a virtual space and further enables dialogue adapted to the user's emotions through an emotion engine, allowing employees to constantly receive advice from managers and promoting new ideas and business improvements.

[1515] The following describes the processing flow.

[1516] Step 1:

[1517] The server generates a digital avatar using pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. The generated avatar information is then stored in storage.

[1518] Step 2:

[1519] The user opens a login screen to access the metaverse using their device. The user enters their authentication information (username, password, etc.) and presses the "Login" button.

[1520] Step 3:

[1521] The terminal receives the user's authentication information and sends it to the server. The server verifies the received authentication information and authenticates that the user has legitimate access rights.

[1522] Step 4:

[1523] After successful authentication, the server loads a digital avatar into the virtual space for the user. It then performs an initialization process until the avatar is ready for interaction.

[1524] Step 5:

[1525] The device displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar in a virtual space. Users can input questions or comments using on-screen input fields or voice recognition.

[1526] Step 6:

[1527] The terminal sends the user's input (questions and opinions) to the server. The server then passes the received input to a natural language processing engine for analysis.

[1528] Step 7:

[1529] The server uses a natural language processing engine to analyze user input. Based on the analysis results, it generates an appropriate response message.

[1530] Step 8:

[1531] The server uses an emotion engine to analyze the user's facial expressions and voice tone during input, and obtains the user's emotional data. This emotional data can also include biometric information such as the user's perceived temperature and pulse rate.

[1532] Step 9:

[1533] The server generates a response based on the sentiment analysis results, corresponding to the analysis results of the natural language processing engine. This response is adjusted based on the sentiment analysis.

[1534] Step 10:

[1535] The server sends the generated response message to the terminal. The terminal displays this response message to the user and, if it's audio, plays it through the speaker.

[1536] Step 11:

[1537] The user reviews the displayed response messages and audio, and based on that, considers their next questions and actions. They continue the conversation as needed.

[1538] Step 12:

[1539] After the interaction ends, the server saves the interaction log. This can then be used to improve the quality of future interactions and for analysis.

[1540] Step 13:

[1541] The server also saves emotional data generated during the conversation along with the conversation log. This allows for a detailed analysis of the user's emotional state.

[1542] Step 14:

[1543] After the interaction ends, users provide feedback on the system's usability and the quality of the interaction through a feedback form. The device then sends this feedback to the server.

[1544] Step 15:

[1545] The server uses the received feedback to improve the system. This enables continuous quality improvement.

[1546] (Example 2)

[1547] Next, we will describe Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the robot 414 as the "terminal".

[1548] Traditional virtual reality dialogue systems struggled to replicate the feeling of receiving advice from actual business leaders, resulting in a decline in the quality of the conversations. Furthermore, they failed to generate responses that adequately reflected user emotions, hindering user satisfaction. Additionally, they lacked mechanisms for effectively utilizing feedback to improve the system.

[1549] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means.

[1550] In this invention, the server includes means for generating a digital avatar, means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, means for receiving input from a user and analyzing the input using a natural language processing engine, means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user, means for saving a dialogue log for later analysis, means including an emotion analysis engine for analyzing the user's emotions, means for adjusting the response content based on the emotion analysis results, means for receiving feedback from the user and improving the system based on the feedback, means for providing an interface for the user to access the virtual space, and means for verifying authentication information entered by the user and authenticating the user based on the authentication.

[1551] This allows users to experience, in a virtual space, the feeling of receiving advice from actual business leaders, receive appropriate responses based on their emotions, and enable continuous improvement of the system.

[1552] A "digital avatar" is a virtual person or character created to interact with a user in a virtual space.

[1553] A "virtual space" is a virtual three-dimensional environment provided via the internet or a network, within which users can perform activities and operations.

[1554] A "user" refers to a person who uses this system to access the virtual space and interact with a digital avatar.

[1555] A "natural language processing engine" is a technology or software that analyzes user input and generates appropriate responses, possessing the ability to understand and process human language.

[1556] An "emotion analysis engine" is a technology or software that analyzes a user's voice and facial expressions to determine their emotional state.

[1557] A "dialogue log" is data that records the content of past conversations between a user and a digital avatar.

[1558] An "interface" is the means a user uses to access and interact with a virtual space, and includes graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and other input devices.

[1559] "Authentication information" refers to identifiers (e.g., user ID and password) that a user provides when accessing the system, and this is used to verify the user's identity.

[1560] "Feedback" refers to the opinions and impressions that users provide after using a system, and this information is used to evaluate and improve the system.

[1561] This invention is a system that promotes business improvement and the creation of new businesses by placing a virtual avatar of a charismatic leader in a virtual space and allowing employees to interact with this avatar on a daily basis. In particular, the quality of the interaction is further improved by combining it with an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotions. The system consists of three main components: a server, a terminal, and a user.

[1562] Server functions and operation

[1563] The server is responsible for core processes such as generating and managing digital avatars, natural language processing, sentiment analysis using an emotion engine, and saving and analyzing dialogue logs. Specifically, it generates digital avatars based on pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of executives. The technologies used in this step include speech synthesis engines and image processing software, such as general-purpose software for speech synthesis and general-purpose graphics tools for image processing. The generated avatars are stored in storage.

[1564] When a user sends a request to access the metaverse, the server verifies the authentication information and authenticates the user. If authentication is successful, the server loads a digital avatar into the virtual space and makes it interactive. When user input is sent, the server analyzes the input using a natural language processing engine and further analyzes the user's emotional data using an emotion engine. Based on the analysis results, it generates an appropriate response and provides it to the user.

[1565] Device functions and operation

[1566] The terminal provides a graphical user interface for users to access the metaverse. The interface displays a screen for interacting with a digital avatar and allows users to input questions via voice or text. The input is sent to the server. Upon receiving a response from the server, the terminal displays it on the screen and plays it aloud through its speaker. The terminal also accepts user feedback, which is sent to the server and used to improve the system.

[1567] User actions

[1568] The user enters authentication information to log in using their device. Upon successful authentication, they can begin interacting with a manager avatar in a virtual space. The user inputs questions and opinions, and the digital avatar provides appropriate responses. During the interaction, an emotion engine analyzes the user's facial expressions and voice tone to understand their emotions. Based on this data, more appropriate responses are provided. After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback, which is received by the system. This feedback is stored as important data for system improvement.

[1569] Specific example

[1570] For example, if an employee is struggling with a new market strategy, they can access the metaverse through their device and ask their digital avatar, "I'd like your opinion on the new market strategy." The server receives this question, analyzes it using a natural language processing engine, and then analyzes the employee's emotional data using an emotion analysis engine. Based on the analysis results, the server generates a response such as, "I think it's important to proceed with market research. You should also conduct initial interviews with potential users." The device displays this response on the screen and plays it back as audio.

[1571] If the user's facial expression during input is determined to be "confused" or "anxious," the server generates additional advice that takes that emotion into consideration (e.g., "It may seem difficult, but the first step is important. Please feel free to contact us anytime if you need support") and provides it to the user. In this way, the present invention is a system that recreates the presence of management in a virtual space and further enables dialogue adapted to the user's emotions through an emotion engine, allowing employees to constantly receive advice from management and promoting new ideas and business improvements.

[1572] The flow of the specific processing in Example 2 will be explained using Figure 13.

[1573] Step 1: Collecting and generating management data

[1574] The server generates a digital avatar based on pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executive. During this process, the server analyzes the voice data and uses a speech synthesis engine to generate the avatar's voice. It also analyzes the image data and uses image processing software to generate the avatar's appearance. The generated avatar is stored in storage. The input is the executive's voice data and image data, and the output is the generated digital avatar.

[1575] Step 2: Acceptance of Metaverse Access Request and User Authentication

[1576] When a user attempts to access the metaverse through their device, they enter authentication information (e.g., user ID and password). This authentication information is sent from the device to the server, which verifies it against the authentication information in the database. If authentication is successful, the user is granted access to the metaverse. The input is the user's authentication information, and the output is the granting of access rights.

[1577] Step 3: Loading the Digital Avatar

[1578] When a user successfully authenticates and accesses the virtual space, the server loads a digital avatar stored in storage. This loaded avatar is sent to the terminal and displayed in the virtual space. The input is the digital avatar in storage, and the output is the avatar displayed on the terminal.

[1579] Step 4: Receiving and analyzing user input

[1580] The user inputs a question via voice or text through the terminal's interface. This input is sent from the terminal to the server. The server analyzes the input using a natural language processing engine. For example, it might use OpenAI GPT-3 to analyze the meaning of the text and extract information to generate an appropriate response. The input is the user's question, and the output is the analyzed question.

[1581] Step 5: Emotion Analysis

[1582] The server analyzes the voice tone and facial expression data associated with the user's input using an emotion analysis engine. For example, it uses the Microsoft Azure Emotion API to identify the user's emotional state. The analysis results are reflected in the response generation. The input is the user's voice tone and facial expression data, and the output is the identified emotional state.

[1583] Step 6: Response Generation

[1584] The server generates an appropriate response based on the analysis results of the natural language processing engine and the sentiment analysis results. Specifically, it uses tools such as OpenAI GPT-3 to generate answers to user questions and adds sentiment-sensitive advice. This response is sent to the terminal. The input is the analysis results and sentiment state, and the output is the generated response.

[1585] Step 7: Display response to user and play

[1586] The terminal displays the response received from the server on the screen and plays it back as audio through the speaker. For example, it can use the Google Text-to-Speech engine to generate speech from text and deliver it to the user. The input is response data from the server, and the output is screen display and audio playback.

[1587] Step 8: Saving dialogue logs and sentiment data

[1588] The server saves dialogue logs and sentiment data to a database. This saved data is used later for system improvement and analysis. The input is dialogue logs and sentiment data, and the output is saving to the database.

[1589] Step 9: Receiving and analyzing feedback

[1590] After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback. The terminal sends this feedback to the server, which stores it in a database. The stored feedback is analyzed for system improvement. The input is the user's feedback, and the output is the storage and analysis of that feedback.

[1591] (Application Example 2)

[1592] 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 robot 414 as the "terminal".

[1593] In modern business management, effective business improvement and the launch of new businesses require rapid decision-making and accurate advice. However, the difficulty in direct dialogue with managers and experts means that businesses often cannot receive sufficient support in their daily operations. There are also problems such as a decline in the quality of dialogue due to emotions and a lack of mechanisms to properly reflect user feedback. Virtual stores, in particular, have limited means of receiving strategic advice on store operations, making it difficult to optimize operations.

[1594] 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 generating a digital avatar, means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, and means for receiving input from a user and analyzing the input using a natural language processing engine. This makes it possible to recreate the presence of a manager in a virtual space and promote business improvement and the creation of new businesses by allowing users to interact with the virtual manager avatar on a daily basis.

[1595] Furthermore, the server includes means for saving dialogue logs for later analysis, and an emotion engine for analyzing user emotion data, as well as means for generating responses based on said emotion data. This enables high-quality dialogue adapted to emotions, allowing for the provision of optimal advice tailored to the user's emotions.

[1596] Furthermore, the server provides a means for user authentication and verification of access rights based on that authentication, as well as a means for the virtual environment administrator to interact with virtual avatars within the virtual space. This allows for strategic advice to be received in the operation of virtual stores, enabling optimization of operations.

[1597] Furthermore, the system provides means for receiving user feedback and improving the system based on that feedback, as well as means for evaluating the appropriateness of responses generated based on sentiment analysis data. This ensures continuous system improvement and enhances the quality of dialogue.

[1598] A "digital avatar" is a digital representation of a person or character that is virtually generated for the purpose of interacting with users.

[1599] A "virtual space" is a virtual environment built on a computer as a place for users to interact with digital avatars.

[1600] A "natural language processing engine" is a software technology that analyzes human language and converts it into a form that machines can understand.

[1601] A "response" is the answer that a system provides in response to user input.

[1602] A "dialogue log" is a record of the conversation that took place between the user and the digital avatar.

[1603] An "emotion engine" is a software technology that analyzes a user's emotions from their voice and facial expressions and generates appropriate responses.

[1604] User authentication is the process of verifying whether a user attempting to access a system is a legitimate user.

[1605] "Feedback" refers to the opinions and evaluations that users provide after using a system, and these are used to improve the system.

[1606] A "virtual environment administrator" is a person or system responsible for the operation and management of a virtual space.

[1607] "Emotional analysis data" refers to data obtained by analyzing a user's emotions.

[1608] A "virtual store" is an online shop built within a virtual space, where goods and services are sold.

[1609] A "generative AI model" is an artificial intelligence model that has been trained to generate specific tasks or responses.

[1610] A "prompt message" is text data used as input for a generative AI model, and it serves as an instruction to generate a specific response.

[1611] The system for implementing this invention mainly consists of three main components: a server, a terminal, and a user.

[1612] First, the server generates a digital avatar based on pre-collected voice data, image data, and behavioral patterns of the executives. This digital avatar is stored in storage and loaded into the virtual space in response to user access requests. The server also uses a natural language processing engine to analyze user input and an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotional data. Based on the analysis results, it generates appropriate responses according to the emotions. Dialogue logs and emotional data are saved and used for later analysis.

[1613] Next, the terminal provides an interface for the user to interact with the system. The user can use the terminal to access the virtual space and begin interacting with a digital avatar. The interface accepts input in the form of voice or text and sends it to the server. When a response is received from the server, the terminal displays it on the screen and plays it back aloud. Furthermore, the terminal also accepts feedback from the user, which is sent to the server and used to improve the system.

[1614] The specific hardware used includes smartphones and head-mounted displays. The software utilizes Python, the emotion_recognition library, the chatbot_engine library, and a REST API. By coordinating this hardware and software, the system analyzes user input using a natural language processing engine and an emotion engine to generate appropriate responses. The use of generative AI models enables the generation of complex dialogues and advice.

[1615] As a concrete example, consider a scenario where a virtual store manager consults a virtual manager avatar about a new product placement strategy. The manager logs into the virtual store app on their smartphone and texts (or voice-inputs) "I'd like some advice on new product placement." The emotion engine detects "excitement" (anticipation for the new product). The server responds with advice such as, "We recommend placing the new product in a prominent location and collecting customer feedback." The manager then provides feedback, and the system uses this feedback to make further improvements.

[1616] Examples of prompt statements are as follows:

[1617] Question: I would like some advice on a new product layout.

[1618] Emotion: excitement

[1619] In this way, the system effectively supports dialogue that facilitates business improvement and the creation of new businesses.

[1620] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 2 will be explained using Figure 14.

[1621] Step 1:

[1622] The user logs in using their device. The user enters their authentication information, which the device sends to the server. The server verifies the user's authentication information, and if authentication is successful, it retrieves the user's ID. Upon successful authentication, a login success message is displayed on the device.

[1623] Step 2:

[1624] The terminal provides an interface for the user to access the virtual space. The user sends an access request, and the server receives this request. The server verifies the user's access rights and loads the digital avatar into the virtual space.

[1625] Step 3:

[1626] The user initiates an interaction with a digital avatar through their device. The user inputs questions via voice or text, and the device sends this input to the server. The input data is received by the server.

[1627] Step 4:

[1628] The server analyzes user input data using a natural language processing engine. The analyzed text data is then sent to an emotion engine to analyze the user's emotions. Based on these analysis results, the server generates an appropriate response.

[1629] Step 5:

[1630] The server uses a generative AI model to create specific responses. Input data is provided as a prompt, such as "Question: I would like advice on new product placement. Emotion: Excited." Based on the analysis results, the server retrieves the generated response.

[1631] Step 6:

[1632] The server sends the generated response to the terminal. The terminal displays this response on the screen and plays it aloud through the speaker. The user can review the provided advice and proceed to the next step in the interaction.

[1633] Step 7:

[1634] After the interaction ends, the user provides feedback. The user inputs the feedback through the terminal, which then sends it to the server. The server receives the feedback, stores it, and analyzes it for system improvement.

[1635] Step 8:

[1636] The server analyzes the saved dialogue logs and sentiment data at a later date. This allows for the accumulation of data to improve the quality of future interactions. Furthermore, system improvements are made based on user feedback.

[1637] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the robot 414. In the robot 414, the control unit 46A causes the speaker 240 and the controlled object 443 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.

[1638] 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.

[1639] 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 robot 414.

[1640] Furthermore, the emotion identification model 59, acting as an emotion engine, may determine the user's emotion according to a specific mapping. Specifically, the emotion identification model 59 may determine the user's emotion according to a specific mapping, which is an emotion map (see Figure 9). Similarly, the emotion identification model 59 may also determine the robot's emotion, and the identification processing unit 290 may perform identification processing using the robot's emotion.

[1641] Figure 9 shows an emotion map 400 in which multiple emotions are mapped. In the emotion map 400, emotions are arranged in concentric circles radiating from the center. The closer to the center of the concentric circles, the more primitive the emotions are located. Further out of the concentric circles, emotions representing states and actions arising from mental states are located. Emotion is a concept that includes feelings and mental states. On the left side of the concentric circles, emotions that are generally generated from reactions occurring in the brain are located. On the right side of the concentric circles, emotions that are generally induced by situational judgment are located. Above and below the concentric circles, emotions that are generally generated from reactions occurring in the brain and induced by situational judgment are located. In addition, the emotion of "pleasure" is located on the upper side of the concentric circles, and the emotion of "displeasure" is located on the lower side. Thus, in the emotion map 400, multiple emotions are mapped based on the structure in which emotions arise, and emotions that are likely to occur simultaneously are mapped close together.

[1642] These emotions are distributed at the 3 o'clock position on the Emotion Map 400, and usually fluctuate between feelings of security and anxiety. In the right half of the Emotion Map 400, situational awareness takes precedence over internal feelings, resulting in a calm impression.

[1643] The inside of the Emotion Map 400 represents inner thoughts, while the outside represents actions. Therefore, the further you go from the outside of the Emotion Map 400, the more visible (expressed in actions) your emotions become.

[1644] Here, human emotions are based on various balances, such as posture and blood sugar levels. When these balances deviate from the ideal, it results in discomfort, and when they approach the ideal, it results in pleasure. Similarly, in robots, cars, motorcycles, etc., emotions can be created based on various balances, such as posture and battery level. When these balances deviate from the ideal, it results in discomfort, and when they approach the ideal, it results in pleasure. The emotion map can be generated, for example, based on Dr. Mitsuyoshi's emotion map (Research on a system for analyzing brain physiological signals of speech emotion recognition and emotion, Tokushima University, doctoral dissertation: https: / / ci.nii.ac.jp / naid / 500000375379). The left half of the emotion map contains emotions belonging to a region called "response," where sensation is dominant. The right half of the emotion map contains emotions belonging to a region called "situation," where situational awareness is dominant.

[1645] The emotion map defines two emotions that promote learning. One is the emotion around the middle of the negative "repentance" and "reflection" on the situation side. In other words, it is when the robot experiences negative emotions such as "I never want to feel this way again" or "I don't want to be scolded again." The other is the emotion around the positive "desire" on the reaction side. In other words, it is when the robot has positive feelings such as "I want more" or "I want to know more."

[1646] The emotion identification model 59 inputs user input into a pre-trained neural network, obtains emotion values ​​representing each emotion shown in the emotion map 400, and determines the user's emotion. This neural network is pre-trained based on multiple training data sets, which are combinations of user input and emotion values ​​representing each emotion shown in the emotion map 400. Furthermore, this neural network is trained so that emotions located close together have similar values, as shown in the emotion map 900 in Figure 10. Figure 10 shows an example where multiple emotions such as "reassured," "calm," and "confident" have similar emotion values.

[1647] The above description primarily focuses on the functions of the data processing device 12 in relation to this disclosure. However, the system related to this disclosure is not necessarily implemented on a server. The system related to this disclosure may be implemented as a general information processing system. This disclosure may be implemented, for example, as a software program that runs on a personal computer or as an application that runs on a smartphone. The method related to this disclosure may be provided to users in SaaS (Software as a Service) format.

[1648] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which a specific process is performed by a single computer 22. However, the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto, and a distributed processing of the specific process may be performed by multiple computers, including computer 22. For example, a data generation model 58 may be provided in an external device of the data processing device 12, and the external device may generate data according to the input data.

[1649] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the specific processing program 56 is stored in the storage 32, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the specific processing program 56 may be stored in a portable, computer-readable, non-temporary storage medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. The specific processing program 56 stored in the non-temporary storage medium is installed in the computer 22 of the data processing device 12. The processor 28 executes specific processing according to the specific processing program 56.

[1650] Alternatively, the specific processing program 56 may be stored in a storage device such as a server connected to the data processing device 12 via the network 54, and the specific processing program 56 may be downloaded and installed on the computer 22 in response to a request from the data processing device 12.

[1651] Furthermore, it is not necessary to store the entirety of the specific processing program 56 in a storage device such as a server connected to the data processing device 12 via the network 54, or to store the entirety of the specific processing program 56 in the storage 32; it is acceptable to store only a portion of the specific processing program 56.

[1652] The following types of processors can be used as hardware resources to perform specific processing. Examples of processors include a CPU, a general-purpose processor that functions as a hardware resource to perform specific processing by executing software, i.e., a program. Other examples of processors include dedicated electrical circuits, such as FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays), PLDs (Programmable Logic Devices), or ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), which have circuit configurations specifically designed to perform specific processing. All of these processors have built-in or connected memory, and all of them perform specific processing by using memory.

[1653] The hardware resource that performs a specific process may consist of one of these various processors, or it may consist of a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (for example, a combination of multiple FPGAs, or a combination of a CPU and an FPGA). Alternatively, the hardware resource that performs a specific process may consist of a single processor.

[1654] Examples of configurations using a single processor include, firstly, a configuration in which one or more CPUs and software are combined to form a single processor, and this processor functions as a hardware resource that performs a specific process. Secondly, there is a configuration using a processor that realizes the functions of the entire system, including multiple hardware resources that perform a specific process, on a single IC chip, as exemplified by SoCs (System-on-a-chip). In this way, a specific process is realized using one or more of the above types of processors as hardware resources.

[1655] Furthermore, the hardware structure of these various processors can more specifically utilize electrical circuits that combine circuit elements such as semiconductor devices. Also, the specific processing described above is merely an example. Therefore, it goes without saying that unnecessary steps can be deleted, new steps added, or the processing order rearranged, as long as it does not deviate from the main purpose.

[1656] The descriptions and illustrations presented above are detailed explanations of the technical aspects of this disclosure and are merely examples of the technical aspects. For example, the above descriptions of the structure, function, operation, and effect are examples of the structure, function, operation, and effect of the technical aspects of this disclosure. Therefore, it goes without saying that you may delete unnecessary parts, add new elements, or replace elements in the descriptions and illustrations presented above, as long as you do not deviate from the essence of the technical aspects of this disclosure. Furthermore, in order to avoid confusion and facilitate understanding of the technical aspects of this disclosure, explanations of common technical knowledge and the like that do not require special explanation to enable the implementation of the technical aspects of this disclosure have been omitted from the descriptions and illustrations presented above.

[1657] All documents, patent applications, and technical standards described herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual document, patent application, and technical standard were specifically and individually noted to be incorporated by reference.

[1658] The following is further disclosed regarding the embodiments described above.

[1659] (Claim 1)

[1660] Means for generating digital avatars,

[1661] Means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space,

[1662] A means for receiving input from a user and analyzing said input using a natural language processing engine,

[1663] A means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user,

[1664] A system that includes means for saving dialogue logs and analyzing them at a later date.

[1665] (Claim 2)

[1666] The system according to claim 1, further comprising means for performing user authentication and verifying access rights based on said authentication.

[1667] (Claim 3)

[1668] The system according to claim 1, further comprising means for receiving user feedback and improving the system based on said feedback.

[1669] "Example 1"

[1670] (Claim 1)

[1671] Means for generating digital avatars,

[1672] Means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space,

[1673] A means for receiving input from a user and analyzing said input using a generative AI model,

[1674] A means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user,

[1675] A means to save the conversation log and analyze it at a later date,

[1676] A system that includes means for receiving feedback from users and incorporating it into system improvements.

[1677] (Claim 2)

[1678] The system according to claim 1, further comprising means for performing user authentication and verifying access rights based on said authentication.

[1679] (Claim 3)

[1680] The system according to claim 1, further comprising means for managing access to a virtual space.

[1681] "Application Example 1"

[1682] (Claim 1)

[1683] Means for generating digital avatars,

[1684] Means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space,

[1685] A means for receiving input from a user and analyzing said input using a natural language processing engine,

[1686] A means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user,

[1687] A means to save the conversation log and analyze it at a later date,

[1688] A means of providing interaction with the digital avatar through a smartphone application,

[1689] A system including a database for storing generated responses and using them for future data analysis.

[1690] (Claim 2)

[1691] The system according to claim 1, further comprising means for performing user authentication and verifying access rights based on said authentication.

[1692] (Claim 3)

[1693] The system according to claim 1, further comprising means for receiving user feedback and improving the system based on said feedback.

[1694] "Example 2 of combining an emotion engine"

[1695] (Claim 1)

[1696] Means for generating digital avatars,

[1697] Means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space,

[1698] A means for receiving input from a user and analyzing said input using a natural language processing engine,

[1699] A means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user,

[1700] A means to save the conversation log and analyze it at a later date,

[1701] A means including an emotion analysis engine that analyzes the user's emotions,

[1702] A means for adjusting the response content based on the emotion analysis results,

[1703] A means of receiving user feedback and improving the system based on that feedback,

[1704] A means of providing an interface for users to access a virtual space,

[1705] A system that includes means for verifying authentication information entered by the user and authenticating the user based on said authentication.

[1706] (Claim 2)

[1707] The system according to claim 1, further comprising means for performing user authentication and verifying access rights based on said authentication.

[1708] (Claim 3)

[1709] The system according to claim 1, further comprising means for saving user feedback and using it to improve the system.

[1710] "Application example 2 when combining with an emotional engine"

[1711] (Claim 1)

[1712] Means for generating digital avatars,

[1713] Means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space,

[1714] A means for receiving input from a user and analyzing said input using a natural language processing engine,

[1715] A means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user,

[1716] A means to save the conversation log and analyze it at a later date,

[1717] A system including an emotion engine for analyzing user emotion data, and means for generating a response based on said emotion data.

[1718] (Claim 2)

[1719] The system further includes means for performing user authentication and verifying access rights based on said authentication,

[1720] The system according to claim 1, which provides a means for an administrator of a virtual environment to interact with a virtual avatar in a virtual space.

[1721] (Claim 3)

[1722] The system further includes means of receiving user feedback and improving the system based on that feedback,

[1723] The system according to claim 1, which provides means for evaluating the appropriateness of a response generated based on emotion analysis data. [Explanation of symbols]

[1724] 10, 210, 310, 410 Data Processing Systems 12 Data Processing Devices 14 Smart Devices 214 Smart Glasses 314 Headset-type terminal 414 Robots< / url:> < / url:> < / url:> < / url:>

Claims

1. Means for generating digital avatars, Means for placing the digital avatar in a virtual space, A means for receiving input from a user and analyzing said input using a natural language processing engine, A means for generating an appropriate response based on the analysis results and providing the response to the user, A system that includes means for saving dialogue logs and analyzing them at a later date.

2. The system according to claim 1, further comprising means for performing user authentication and verifying access rights based on said authentication.

3. The system according to claim 1, further comprising means for receiving user feedback and improving the system based on said feedback.

Images