Cyber-physical systems

Abstract

This system provides a mechanism for various "things" in the real world to make autonomous decisions in cyberspace, allowing them to operate from the perspective of "things" themselves, fulfilling their inherent roles such as longevity, health, and contribution, thereby contributing to the reduction of resource consumption and the protection of the global environment and resources. [Solution] The cyber-physical system of this embodiment includes: a virtual decision management unit that models a thinking model corresponding to something in the real world in cyberspace and determines the autonomous thinking characteristics of the thinking model based on one or more thinking factors that define the objective that the thinking model should achieve; a physical data interface unit that provides collected physical data to cyberspace; a cyberspace execution unit that performs a virtual thinking process for each thinking model to evaluate and select from multiple action candidates based on the autonomous thinking characteristics; and a cyber data interface unit that outputs an action autonomously decided by the thinking model or information based on said action.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to the technology of cyber-physical systems.

Background Art

[0002] As a method of using the cyber space (virtual space), there is CPS (Cyber-Physical System). CPS is a mechanism that feeds back the analysis results and accumulated information in the cyber space to the physical side (real world side) to create added value. Further, as an example of CPS, there is a digital twin. A digital twin is a technology that "reproduces" the same manufacturing maintenance and environment as the real world in the cyber space and causes it to perform the same operations as the real world.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In recent years, various efforts have been made to protect the earth's resources and aim for a sustainable society and economy. For example, efforts have been made to appropriately, long-term, and carefully use "things". In order to appropriately, long-term, and carefully use "things", it is necessary for people to appropriately manage these "things". However, it is not realistic for people to manage all "things", and it will take a great deal of time and effort (costs, etc.).

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism in which "things" in the real world operate autonomously in the cyber space, and to realize a cyber-physical system capable of autonomous management by the "things" themselves.

[0006] Furthermore, the aim is to provide a mechanism for a virtual will model that operates autonomously in cyberspace. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The cyber-physical system of the embodiment includes: a virtual decision management unit that models a thinking model corresponding to something in the real world in cyberspace and determines the autonomous thinking characteristics of the thinking model based on one or more thinking factors that define the objective that the thinking model should achieve; a physical data interface unit that provides collected physical data to cyberspace; a cyberspace execution unit that causes each of the thinking models to execute a virtual thinking process that evaluates and selects from a plurality of action candidates based on the autonomous thinking characteristics; and a cyber data interface unit that outputs an action autonomously determined by the thinking model through the virtual thinking process or information based on such action. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a conceptual diagram of the cyber-physical system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a system configuration diagram of the server physical system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a functional block diagram of the server-physical system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows the processing flow of the cyber-physical system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example configuration of a virtual will module that operates the thinking model of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This figure shows the processing flow of the standalone virtual thinking process of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure shows the processing flow of the mutually cooperative virtual thinking process in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a diagram illustrating the thinking factors of the first embodiment. [Figure 9]This is a diagram illustrating the autonomous thinking characteristics based on the thinking factors of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a conceptual diagram of the computer system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a system configuration diagram of the computer system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a functional block diagram of the computer system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] This diagram shows the processing flow of the computer system according to the second embodiment. [Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention]

[0009] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0010] (First Embodiment) Figures 1 to 9 are diagrams illustrating the first embodiment.

[0011] One of the features of this embodiment is that it has the thought models described below as a mechanism for real-world "things" to operate autonomously in cyberspace. There are several types of thought models that are represented in this cyberspace. For example, there are thought models that correspond to real-world "things," thought models that correspond to real-world "services," thought models that correspond to people or organizations that provide services in the real world, and thought models that correspond to objects that are not linked to real-world "things."

[0012] First, let's describe the "thing" in the embodiment. "Thing" refers to an object in the real world, which is an object that can be perceived as existing, including tangible objects (Kodansha Encyclopedia, 7th Edition). In the following explanations, "things" such as equipment, machines, devices, products, or vehicles operating in the real world are taken as examples, but it is not limited to this. For example, artificial objects (in addition to mobile devices / moving bodies such as equipment, machines, devices, vehicles, robots, for example, structures such as buildings, bridges, roads, products in circulation / use, processed products using raw materials or materials, product parts manufactured by manufacturing equipment or manufacturing machines, or product parts manufactured manually), agricultural and livestock products (for example, agricultural products or processed agricultural products, livestock products or processed livestock products, etc.), natural objects such as plants obtained from nature (for example, natural resources such as trees, flowers, and products of agriculture grown as agricultural products), animals existing in nature (including livestock), etc. can also be included as objects applicable to the fiber physical system of this embodiment.

[0013] In addition, the "thing" described in this embodiment can include not only the "thing" having a processing mechanism, connection function, etc. in itself, such as the above-mentioned equipment, machines, devices, products, etc., but also the "thing" that does not have a processing mechanism, connection function, etc. alone in itself. That is, for example, parts, raw materials, fluids, or aggregates that make up equipment, machines, devices, products, etc. can also be applied as the "thing" of this embodiment.

[0014] As described above, in order to appropriately, long-term, and carefully use "things", management is necessary. However, there are a large number of "things". For example, there are many different "things", and there may also be many of the same "thing". Therefore, it is very time-consuming to manage a large number of "things" individually.

[0015] On the one hand, known Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) can analyze the collected sensor data in the cyber space or perform operations similar to those in the real world. Therefore, although known CPS has an aspect of being able to manage "things", it is only a "reproduction" of real-world "things" in the cyber space, and it remains necessary to monitor and manage the reproduced "things". Thus, even if one attempts to manage "things" appropriately, for a long time, and carefully using existing CPS, it is necessary to monitor and manage each of the numerous "things" reproduced in the cyber space.

[0016] To address such problems, the applicant of the present application has arrived at the idea that "things are created by people for people to use, but by looking from the side of 'things' rather than from the human side, a solution different from the conventional one can be obtained."

[0017] That is, when looking from the perspective of "things", it can be regarded as if "things" have intentions, such as ensuring that "things" continue to be used with their original functions, performances, etc. over a long period.

[0018] Therefore, a mechanism in which "things" are represented in the cyber space as if they have intentions is realized by software, and a mechanism (virtual intention model) is provided in which "things" operate autonomously in the cyber space, make their own decisions on the actions to be taken, or execute the determined actions. As a result, for example, the virtual intentions of "things", such as being used continuously over a long period (longevity for "things"), continuously exhibiting the original functions and performances of "things" (health as "things"), and being used and remaining useful (contribution as "things"), can be represented in the cyber space.

[0019] Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram of the cyber-physical system of this embodiment. Although "things" in the real world do not actually have intentions, in the cyber space, a virtual intention model in which "things" act with intentions is modeled in the cyber space.

[0020] For example, by representing a thought model in software that has common objectives for many "things," such as "longevity (long life)," "health (maintaining a predetermined state)," and "maintaining appropriate functional performance (maintenance, repair, replenishment, etc.)," ​​and having the thought model execute virtual thought processing, it can operate as a virtual will model. This makes it possible to provide a mechanism in which "things" themselves think autonomously and reduce resource consumption and waste caused by the consumption of "things."

[0021] The cyber-physical system of this embodiment represents and operates a virtual will model in cyberspace using software to ensure that "things" are used appropriately, for a long time, and with care, thereby realizing autonomous management by the "things" themselves.

[0022] Next, let's explain the "services" mentioned above. The cyber-physical system of this embodiment can represent and operate not only "things" in the real world, but also "services" provided to "things" in the real world, as virtual will models in cyberspace. In other words, the provision of services by people or organizations to "things" in the real world in real-world social and economic activities can be represented as virtual will models in cyberspace. Not limited to this, the provision of services by people or organizations that are not performed on "things" in the real world can also be represented as virtual will models in cyberspace. For example, there are services provided to people and organizations, such as management consulting, and these services, which are not "things" but to people and organizations, also fall under the "services" of this embodiment and can be represented as virtual thought models in cyberspace. It should be noted that the services of this embodiment are, for example, real-world services, services, benefits, etc., provided by people, organizations, things, machines, devices, products, etc., and there is no need to distinguish between paid and unpaid services.

[0023] Furthermore, the thinking model created in cyberspace in response to an "object" can be configured to hold various types of information associated with that "object," such as basic information (product name, serial number, ID, manufacturing classification, etc.), configuration information (components, etc.), specification information (ratings, performance, etc.), status information (operating hours, performance values, fuel consumption, etc.), surrounding environment information (location, temperature, humidity, wind direction, wind speed, etc.), maintenance history information (inspection records, maintenance records, parts replacement, consumables, etc.), and provenance (place of manufacture, manufacturer, user, person in charge of management, etc.).

[0024] Furthermore, a thinking model that corresponds to a service provided to a "thing" can be configured to hold various information related to the service provided, such as basic information (service name, service details, etc.), service target information (specification of the recipient of the service, etc.), service specifications (service level, available time and period, service conditions, service location, etc.), service price information (price corresponding to the service conditions, etc.), and service history information.

[0025] Next, we will explain other types of models besides "things" and "services." Modeling targets in cyberspace include those other than the aforementioned "things" and "services." These are modeling targets that are not linked to "things" in the real world, and we will explain these. The cyber-physical system 100 of this embodiment can also utilize modeling targets that are not linked to "things" in the real world. The virtual decision management unit 122 can model non-linked thinking models in cyberspace, which have interrelationships with thinking models corresponding to "things" and are executed without being linked to "things" in the real world.

[0026] Examples of non-cooperative thinking models include agent functions that mediate between thinking models of "things," matching functions that connect users with collaborators, scheduling functions that prompt the execution of actions at appropriate times and periods, optimization calculation functions that optimize energy consumption and action execution, and AI functions.

[0027] The non-linked thinking model is constructed similarly to the thinking model linked to real-world "things" described above, except that it is a thinking model that is not linked to real-world "things". The non-linked thinking model also has its autonomous thinking characteristics determined and operates as a virtual will model that performs the virtual thinking processing described above by the cyberspace execution unit 123.

[0028] <System Configuration> Figure 2 is a system configuration diagram of the server physical system 100 in this embodiment. Figure 3 is a functional block diagram of the server physical system 100.

[0029] As shown in Figure 3, the cyber-physical system 100 includes a communication device 110, a control device 120, and a storage device 130. The control device 120 is composed of a physical data interface unit 121, a virtual decision management unit 122, an autonomous thought control unit 122A, a cyberspace execution unit 123, and a cyber data interface unit 124.

[0030] In Figure 2, the physical data interface unit 121 provides information collected in the real world, such as information collected through a predetermined data collection system (such as a sensor system), to cyberspace. The physical data interface unit 121 can acquire physical data, such as sensor data, from the data collection system via the communication device 110. In addition to the data collection system, the physical data interface unit 121 can also receive physical data from other sources, such as predetermined observation devices and equipment (including sensors, device signals, imaging devices, etc.), and provide it to cyberspace. Furthermore, the physical data interface unit 121 can associate modeled thinking models with physical data, enabling each thinking model to use the corresponding physical data.

[0031] In the real world (physical world), various kinds of "things" exist, such as equipment, machinery, devices, products, and mobile objects (vehicles, aircraft, etc.), and artificial structures and social infrastructure are constructed from collections and combinations of these "things." The same applies to services; activities of providing services by people or organizations to "things" in the real world, such as repair services, are formed.

[0032] The virtual decision management unit 122 models thought models in cyberspace that correspond to these real-world "things" and "services." Specifically, it receives input for the object to be modeled and generates a thought model corresponding to the input object. The virtual decision management unit 122 also includes an autonomous thought control unit 122A, which determines the autonomous thinking characteristics of the generated thought model based on predetermined thinking factors.

[0033] The cyberspace execution unit 123 is a functional unit that operates each thought model modeled in cyberspace and realizes the autonomous operation of the thought models through software control (program control). The cyberspace execution unit 123 causes the thought models to execute virtual thought processing based on autonomous thought characteristics, so that the thought models operate as virtual will models (see Figure 1) that virtually possess will and behave autonomously in cyberspace.

[0034] The cyber data interface unit 124 outputs the results of virtual thinking processing performed by each thinking model in cyberspace. These virtual thinking processing results are the results of autonomous thinking by the thinking model through virtual thinking processing, or information based on the results of autonomous thinking. The cyber data interface unit 124 can, for example, output the results of virtual thinking processing to a predetermined display device, transmit them to a predetermined device via a network, or store them in a predetermined memory area. It can also notify predetermined people or organizations, thereby enabling the execution of services in the real world.

[0035] Figure 4 shows the processing flow of the cyber-physical system 100 in this embodiment. A modeling target is input to the cyber-physical system 100 (S101). The modeling target is an "object" from the real world. Input of the modeling target to the cyber-physical system 100 can be done without using input means such as a terminal. For example, in a manufacturing facility, each product being manufactured can be detected and the detected product can be automatically input as a modeling target. In this way, a mechanism that links to "objects" in the real world in advance can be introduced and configured so that when an "object" appears in the real world or is recognized in the real world, a corresponding thought model is automatically modeled in cyberspace. As mentioned above, there are many "objects" in the real world, both identical and different. Therefore, a mechanism in which "objects" that appear in the real world or are recognized in the real world are automatically modeled in cyberspace greatly contributes to reducing effort and cost. Note that the system may also be configured to include a function for inputting the modeling target using input means such as a terminal.

[0036] On the other hand, in addition to "things" from the real world, it is also possible to input modeling targets that are not linked to "things" from the real world (S102).

[0037] The virtual decision management unit 122 generates a thinking model corresponding to the input modeling target (S301). The autonomous thinking control unit 122A controls the system to set one or more different thinking factors that constitute the autonomous thinking characteristics, and sets the thinking factors for the generated thinking model (S103). Based on the set thinking factors, the autonomous thinking control unit 122A determines the autonomous thinking characteristics of the generated thinking model (S302). The determined autonomous thinking characteristics are applied to the corresponding thinking model.

[0038] Furthermore, the method for setting the thinking factors can be, for example, predetermined, so that the autonomous thinking characteristics are automatically determined when the thinking model is generated (preset processing of autonomous thinking characteristics). Alternatively, the system may be configured to allow input of the thinking factors to be set for each thinking model using an input means such as a terminal, and then determine the autonomous thinking characteristics.

[0039] The cyber-physical system 100 accepts physical data input through the physical data interface unit 121 (S104).

[0040] The cyber-physical system 100 operates each thinking model in the cyber-space execution domain via the cyber-space execution unit 123 and executes virtual thinking processing based on autonomous thinking characteristics (S303). The cyber-physical system 100 stores the results of the virtual thinking processing performed by each thinking model in cyberspace in the storage device 130 for each thinking model (S304). In addition, information resulting from autonomous thinking by the thinking models through virtual thinking processing, or information based on the results of autonomous thinking, is output via the cyber-data interface unit 124 (S305).

[0041] Figure 5 shows an example configuration of a virtual will module that operates a thinking model. As described above, the thinking model is configured as software (program) executed by the cyberspace execution unit 123, and one virtual will module 200 is applied to one thinking model. In the example in Figure 5, virtual thinking module 200A and virtual thinking module 200B are applied individually to thinking model A and thinking model B, respectively. Note that the functions of the virtual thinking modules applied to each thinking model are the same.

[0042] The virtual will module 200 consists of a self-situation awareness function 201, an action selection function 202, an action list 203, an action execution function 204, and a mutual cooperation function 210. The mutual cooperation function 210 is a functional unit that interacts with other virtual will modules 200 of other thinking models, and includes a cooperation content evaluation function 211 and a mutual communication function 212.

[0043] The self-situation awareness function 201 performs situation awareness processing based on physical data, etc. The situation awareness processing is a process that uses the user's own physical data, etc., acquired through the physical data interface unit 121 to grasp and analyze the user's own state and situation, and outputs the results. In other words, the situation awareness processing is a process that grasps the situation in order to take appropriate actions according to the situation. At this time, the situation awareness processing may be configured to grasp the user's own state and situation by using, for example, the physical data of other thinking models and the results of the situation awareness processing of other thinking models, in addition to physical data related to the user.

[0044] The action selection function 202 is a control unit that selects an action based on the results of the situation assessment process. Based on the results of the situation assessment process, it determines whether a standalone action by the thinking model itself or a cooperative action requiring the cooperation of other thinking models is necessary, based on the autonomous thinking characteristics. This determination of whether an action is necessary includes determining whether either a standalone action or a cooperative action is required, as well as determining whether neither action is necessary (determining no action to be performed). In other words, the action selection function 202 determines whether an action is necessary based on the results of the situation assessment process, and if an action is necessary, it determines whether a standalone action or a cooperative action is required and performs the selection process.

[0045] When a standalone action is selected, the action selection function 202 selects a candidate action from among the standalone actions included in the action list 203 that matches the result of the situation assessment process based on the autonomous thinking characteristics, and then determines the selected candidate action to be executed.

[0046] Figure 6 shows the processing flow of the standalone virtual thinking process (first virtual thinking process), which corresponds to step S303 in Figure 4. As shown in Figure 6, the processes described above—situation assessment processing (S3031), determination of the necessity of standalone actions or cooperative actions (S3032), if a standalone action is selected (S3033), selection of candidate actions belonging to standalone actions that match the result of the situation assessment processing based on autonomous thinking characteristics from the action list 203 (S3034), and determination of the selected candidate actions as execution actions (S3035)—all correspond to the standalone virtual thinking process. In other words, the cyberspace execution unit 123 executes the standalone virtual thinking process through the virtual will module 200, realizing a mechanism in which the thinking model operates autonomously. Thus, in step S3032, if it is determined that the problem faced can be solved by a standalone action, the standalone virtual thinking process is selected and executed.

[0047] The action execution function 204 executes the determined execution action (step S3036 in Figure 6). Here, action execution is the process of outputting the determined execution action to the real world through the cyber data interface unit 124 or storing it in the storage device 130. It also reflects the execution result of the determined execution action in the thinking model and updates the thinking model (state of "things," etc.). Through the cyber data interface unit 124, the results of autonomous thinking by the thinking model through virtual thinking processing, or information based on the results of autonomous thinking, are fed back to the real world. Here, the results of autonomous thinking are, for example, the execution actions described above. The information based on the results of autonomous thinking is, for example, information related to the determined execution action that is notified to "things" or related people and organizations in the real world. The execution result of the determined execution action can also be fed back to the real world as information based on the results of autonomous thinking.

[0048] In the example shown in Figure 6, the process (S3036) for executing the determined execution action is described as being included in the standalone virtual thinking process, but this is not the only example. In other words, step 3036 may be executed at a different time from the standalone virtual thinking process, after step S3035, which determines the selected candidate action as the execution action.

[0049] Next, as described above, the action selection function 202 determines, based on the autonomous thinking characteristics, whether a single action performed by the thinking model itself or a cooperative action requiring the cooperation of other thinking models is necessary in response to the results of the situation assessment process. In this case, if the action selection function 202 selects a cooperative action, it evaluates the content of cooperation presented by other thinking models through the cooperative function 210 based on the autonomous thinking characteristics, and decides to execute a cooperative action based on the content of cooperation.

[0050] The mutual cooperation function 210, when the action selection function 202 selects a mutual cooperation type action, instructs the cooperation content evaluation function 211 to perform an evaluation process that evaluates the cooperation content presented by other thinking models based on their autonomous thinking characteristics. Then, it instructs the mutual communication function 212 to perform a mutual communication process to form an agreement with the cooperation partner based on the transaction conditions held by each thinking model, based on the results of the evaluation process. The action execution function 204 determines a candidate action corresponding to the cooperation partner based on the mutual communication process as the action to be executed.

[0051] The mutual communication function 212 may be configured to include the following transaction processing (transaction function). For example, each mutual cooperation function 210 can communicate with each other between its own and its partner's thinking models. For example, by applying known smart contract technology, where software automatically enters into contracts, a transaction protocol can be defined in which pre-held transaction conditions are matched between the two parties, and when the transaction conditions of both parties are met, a predetermined process, i.e., a transaction contract that concludes a mutually cooperative transaction, is automatically executed. The mutual communication function 212 can perform transaction processing (exchanges to form an agreement based on each other's transaction conditions) with the mutual communication function 212 of the partner through the transaction protocol method.

[0052] The transaction protocol can, for example, define a series of mutual flows in a transaction contract, and can be configured to include protocols for various processes aimed at reaching an agreement, such as negotiation, comparison, and decision-making processes leading up to the conclusion of the contract, as well as the acceptance and holding of requests and contract termination in each process. The cyberspace execution unit 123 provides the transaction protocol used for transaction processing by the mutual communication function 212, and the mutual communication function 212 can also perform transaction processing based on the transaction protocol. However, for example, in the various processes aimed at reaching an agreement, there may be cases where an agreement is not reached as a result of negotiations leading up to the conclusion of the contract. In other words, the mutual communication function 212 executes various processes aimed at reaching an agreement and conducts exchanges to form an agreement based on each other's transaction conditions, but if an agreement is not reached with the other party as a result, it determines that cooperation cannot be obtained from that party. The mutual cooperation function 210 can then control the execution of mutual communication processing to form an agreement based on transaction conditions with another cooperation partner evaluated through the evaluation process described above.

[0053] Here, the following methods can be used to obtain information on cooperation presented from other thinking models and perform an evaluation process.

[0054] (1) Each thinking model keeps candidate actions belonging to individual actions and candidate actions belonging to cooperative actions in the action list 202. The cooperation content evaluation function 211 can perform an evaluation process to evaluate the cooperation content of each candidate action belonging to cooperative actions held in the action list 202 based on the autonomous thinking characteristics.

[0055] In this case, the action list 202 is configured to include candidate actions belonging to single-execution actions (first candidate actions), candidate actions belonging to mutual cooperation actions that include cooperation content presented by other thinking models (second candidate actions), and candidate actions belonging to mutual cooperation actions that include cooperation content that can be provided by itself to other thinking models modeled in cyberspace (third candidate actions). The cyberspace execution unit 123 can perform candidate action provision processing to provide the third candidate actions held in the action list 202 of each thinking model to other thinking models. Each thinking model treats the shared third candidate action as a second candidate action (a candidate action belonging to mutual cooperation actions that include cooperation content presented by other thinking models), and the cooperation content evaluation function 211 can perform evaluation processing using the action list 202.

[0056] Furthermore, any known method can be appropriately applied to maintain candidate actions (second candidate actions) belonging to mutually cooperative actions that include collaborative content presented by other thinking models in one's own action list 202. As an example, known Pub / Sub messaging technology may be applied. In Pub / Sub messaging technology, the client that creates and sends a message is called a publisher, and the client that receives the message is called a subscriber. Messages sent from a publisher are registered to a destination called a topic, and messages registered to a topic are delivered to one or more subscribers who have subscribed to receive messages from that topic.

[0057] By applying this known Pub / Sub messaging technology, the cyberspace execution unit 123 can be configured to have one or more topics for storing third candidate actions transmitted from thinking models, and a function for distributing the third candidate actions registered in the topics to thinking models that wish to receive them from those topics. The cyberspace execution unit 123 accepts applications from each thinking model for topics to which they wish to receive information in advance, one or more topics, and each thinking model transmits third candidate actions to the topics (destinations). With this configuration, each thinking model can select and collect the second candidate actions it needs via topics, while appropriately providing third candidate actions to other thinking models.

[0058] (2) In the case of (1) above, each thinking model had candidate actions (second candidate actions) belonging to mutually cooperative actions that include the content of cooperation presented by other thinking models in the action list 202. However, in order to dynamically utilize actions presented by others, it is also acceptable to not have second candidate actions in the action list 202.

[0059] Specifically, each thinking model is configured such that its action list 202 includes candidate actions belonging to the single-action type (first candidate action) and candidate actions belonging to the mutually cooperative type (third candidate action) that include cooperative content that can be provided from itself to other thinking models modeled in cyberspace.

[0060] The cyberspace execution unit 123 can collect third candidate actions held by each thinking model, store them in a predetermined memory area, and perform candidate action provision processing to provide candidate actions belonging to cooperative actions to other thinking models. In other words, the cyberspace execution unit 123 provides a viewing area for cooperative actions obtained from other thinking models, and each thinking model refers to the viewing area. The cooperation content evaluation function 211 can perform evaluation processing to evaluate the cooperation content of candidate actions belonging to cooperative actions accumulated in the viewing area based on autonomous thinking characteristics.

[0061] (3) As with (2) above, another way to avoid storing second candidate actions in the action list 202 is for the thinking model to interactively obtain second candidate actions from other thinking models and perform evaluation processing.

[0062] Specifically, each thinking model is configured such that its action list 202 includes candidate actions belonging to the single-action type (first candidate action) and candidate actions belonging to the mutually cooperative type (third candidate action) that include cooperative content that can be provided from itself to other thinking models modeled in cyberspace.

[0063] The cooperative function 210 can perform query processing to other thinking models and response processing to queries from other thinking models, outputting candidate actions (third candidate actions) belonging to cooperative actions that include the content of cooperation. The query processing is the process of obtaining candidate actions (second candidate actions) of cooperative actions that can be obtained from other thinking models from other thinking models. The response processing is the process of providing the other thinking model with candidate actions (third candidate actions) belonging to cooperative actions that include the content of cooperation that can be provided, from the action list 202, in response to queries from other thinking models. The cooperative function 210 can perform dialogue processing, including query processing and response processing. The cooperation content evaluation function 211 can perform evaluation processing to evaluate the cooperation content obtained through dialogue processing based on autonomous thinking characteristics.

[0064] Figure 7 shows the processing flow of the cooperative virtual thinking process (second virtual thinking process), which corresponds to step S303 in Figure 4. Processes similar to those in the standalone virtual thinking process shown in Figure 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0065] As shown in Figure 7, the following processes correspond to the cooperative virtual thinking process: situation assessment (S3031), determination of the necessity of a single-action or cooperative action (S3032), evaluation of the cooperation content (S3042) performed when a cooperative action is selected (S3041), mutual communication with the cooperation partner based on the results of the evaluation process (S3043), and determination of a candidate action corresponding to the cooperation partner as the action to be executed based on the mutual communication process (S3044). The cyberspace execution unit 123 executes the cooperative virtual thinking process through the virtual will module 200, realizing a mechanism in which the thinking model operates autonomously. Thus, in step S3032, if it is determined that other cooperation is necessary to solve the problem at hand, the cooperative virtual thinking process is selected and executed.

[0066] The action execution function 204 executes the determined execution action (step S3036 in Figure 7). Similarly in the cooperative virtual thinking process, the execution of an action is the process of outputting the determined execution action to the real world through the cyber data interface unit 124 or storing it in the memory device 130. It also performs a process of reflecting the result of the execution of the determined execution action in the thinking model and updating the thinking model (state of "things," etc.).

[0067] At this time, actions are executed by the respective action execution functions 204 in both of the cooperating thinking models. In other words, the action selection function 202 of the cooperating side also decides as an execution action to provide to the other party with whom it has agreed through the mutual cooperation function 210 (for example, a transaction contract has been concluded). Then, the decided execution action is executed (step S3036 in Figure 6 or Figure 7).

[0068] <Explanation of thinking factors and autonomous thinking characteristics> Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the thinking factors of this embodiment. Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the autonomous thinking characteristics based on the thinking factors.

[0069] As shown in Figure 8, there are five thinking factors: the first thinking factor governs "survival and longevity," the second thinking factor governs "living and lifestyle," the third thinking factor governs "health and good state," the fourth thinking factor governs "beauty and best work," and the fifth thinking factor governs "being useful." In the example in Figure 8, the thinking factor units are shown in a hierarchical structure, with the first thinking factor as the starting point (center), and the second through fifth thinking factors each forming layers.

[0070] To explain using equipment as an example, the first thinking factor, "survival / longevity," is a factor that generates a tendency (purpose) to want to continue existing, for example. The second thinking factor, "living / life," is a factor that generates a tendency (purpose) to want to continue operating, for example. The third thinking factor, "health / good condition," is a factor that generates a tendency to want to operate in the best possible condition by maintaining a predetermined state or maintaining appropriate functional performance (maintenance, repair, replenishment, etc.). The fourth thinking factor, "beauty / best work," is a factor that generates a tendency to want to exert maximum performance (to exert maximum function / performance), for example. The fifth thinking factor, "usefulness," is a factor that generates a tendency to want to support others, provide services and contribute to others, for example. Furthermore, the fifth thinking factor, "usefulness," also includes factors similar to a person's need for recognition from others or society through contributing to others.

[0071] Using these thinking factors, the autonomous thinking characteristics of the thinking model are determined based on one thinking factor or a combination of several different thinking factors. The autonomous thinking control unit 122A, for example as shown in Figure 9, holds table information that allows each thinking factor to be specified and can control the system to specify one or more different thinking factors. Based on the specified thinking factors, it can control the system to determine the autonomous thinking characteristics of each thinking model.

[0072] Furthermore, the autonomous thinking control unit 122A defines the autonomous thinking characteristics as a function composed of five thinking factors, for example, as shown in Figure 9. It can also be configured to allow setting weight values ​​for multiple different thinking factors and to determine autonomous thinking characteristics based on one or more different thinking factors based on the set weight values.

[0073] Here, we will explain the autonomous thinking characteristics by referring to the table in Figure 9. When the thinking model is "equipment," as shown in Figure 9, the autonomous thinking characteristic designated with the second thinking factor "living / life" has the characteristic of extending the operating time (enabling long-term operation). Also, the autonomous thinking characteristic designated with the third thinking factor "health / good state" has the characteristic of maintaining the equipment (device) in a good state. Furthermore, the autonomous thinking characteristic designated with the fifth thinking factor "useful" has the characteristic of assisting other equipment.

[0074] Autonomous thinking characteristics designated with the third thinking factor "Health / Good State" and the fifth thinking factor "Usefulness" have the characteristic of maintaining their own state while assisting other equipment (devices). Autonomous thinking characteristics designated with the second thinking factor "Living / Life" and the third thinking factor "Health / Good State" have the characteristic of maintaining the equipment's condition in good state while extending its operating time. Furthermore, autonomous thinking characteristics designated with the fourth thinking factor "Beauty / Best Work" and the fifth thinking factor "Usefulness" have the characteristic of providing maximum assistance to other equipment.

[0075] Furthermore, the autonomous thinking control unit 122A can also be controlled to dynamically change thinking factors or combinations of multiple different thinking factors according to the physical data corresponding to each thinking model, or the results of situational awareness processing based on the physical data. Alternatively, it can be controlled to statically maintain (fix) the autonomous thinking characteristics once they have been determined, without dynamically changing them. Multiple thinking models modeled in cyberspace can also be configured to include those whose autonomous thinking characteristics, determined at the time of thinking model generation, do not change, and those whose autonomous thinking characteristics change dynamically after the thinking model generation.

[0076] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the first thinking factor ("longevity") and the third thinking factor ("health (maintaining a predetermined state)" and "maintaining appropriate functional performance (maintenance, repair, replenishment, etc.)") can be incorporated into the autonomous thinking characteristics of each thinking model as thinking factors (objectives) common to many "things." In other words, it is possible to configure the system to automatically set one or more predetermined different thinking factors for each type of "thing" or for the benefits and functions that "things" provide, thereby determining the autonomous thinking characteristics. This allows common thinking factors (objectives) to be incorporated as common software or settings, rather than incorporating individual thinking factors for each diverse "thing." Conversely, even for the same type of "thing," or even if the benefits and functions that "things" provide are the same, it is possible to set different thinking factors or combinations of different thinking factors to determine the autonomous thinking characteristics.

[0077] Thus, the autonomous thinking characteristics of the thinking model in this embodiment can be determined based on one thinking factor or a combination of multiple different thinking factors. For example, a virtual will model can be realized that enables autonomous decision-making, such as contributing to others, as long as it does not impair longevity or health.

[0078] The five thinking factors mentioned above are examples, and other thinking factors may be applied to determine autonomous thinking characteristics. Furthermore, the selection of thinking factor groups for determining autonomous thinking characteristics is arbitrary. For example, a thinking factor group consisting of three of the five thinking factors mentioned above may be used as a base, and autonomous thinking characteristics may be determined based on one or more combinations of these three thinking factors.

[0079] Here, using the thinking model "Mobile Unit" as an example, we will explain a concrete example of virtual thinking processing based on autonomous thinking characteristics. Assume that the second thinking factor "Living / Life" is designated as an autonomous thinking characteristic. In the standalone virtual thinking processing shown in Figure 6, assume that the result of the situation assessment processing in step S3031 is that the degree of degradation of the drive battery is below the specified value. At this time, the thinking model "Mobile Unit," based on its autonomous thinking characteristics, can evaluate that since the degree of degradation of the drive battery is below the battery replacement specified value, there is no problem in maintaining operation without replacing the drive battery. In step S3032, the thinking model "Mobile Unit" determines that a cooperative action is unnecessary because the drive battery does not need to be replaced, and selects a standalone action (S3033).

[0080] In step S3034, the thinking model "mobile entity" selects a candidate action from the action list 203 that belongs to the category of standalone actions. At this time, based on its autonomous thinking characteristics, it selects a candidate action that matches the result of the situation assessment process (the degree of degradation of the drive battery is below the battery replacement threshold). For example, since the degree of degradation is below the battery replacement threshold, it can select an action to charge the battery to full capacity.

[0081] Next, in the cooperative virtual thinking process shown in Figure 7, suppose the result of the situation assessment process in step S3031 is that the degree of degradation of the drive battery is above a specified value. At this time, the thinking model "mobile" evaluates, based on its autonomous thinking characteristics, that since the degree of degradation of the drive battery is above the battery replacement specified value, the drive battery should be replaced. In step S3032, the thinking model "mobile" determines that a drive battery replacement is necessary, and therefore a single-action type action is unnecessary, and selects a cooperative action (S3041).

[0082] Next, if the "thing" corresponding to the thinking model is a mobile object (hereinafter referred to as the thinking model "mobile object"), it evaluates the cooperation content, including battery replacement work, presented by other thinking models in order to receive maintenance for replacing the drive battery, based on its autonomous thinking characteristics (S3042). For example, the thinking model "mobile object" highly values ​​cooperation content that allows for battery replacement work at an early stage because it wants to operate for a long time. The thinking model "mobile object" performs mutual communication processing with the cooperating partner that presented cooperation content that allows for battery replacement work at an early stage, and determines the candidate action corresponding to the cooperating partner based on the mutual communication processing as the action to be executed.

[0083] The judgments and choices based on the autonomous thinking characteristics described above will differ if the autonomous thinking characteristics are different. For example, if the thinking model "Mobile Body" has an autonomous thinking characteristic in which the third thinking factor "Health / Good State" is specified in addition to the second thinking factor "Living / Life", it will have the characteristic of extending the operating time while maintaining the Mobile Body's state in good condition. Therefore, even if the degree of degradation of the drive battery is below the specified value, it will judge that the drive battery needs to be replaced and will choose a cooperative action. This will result in different judgments and choices from an autonomous thinking characteristic in which only the second thinking factor "Living / Life" is specified.

[0084] In this way, by processing thought using each of the first to fifth thinking factors, "things" can autonomously achieve longevity and health (maintain their state), which in turn can contribute to reducing resource consumption and waste, and to contributing to the global environment.

[0085] The cyber-physical system 100 of this embodiment can realize a cyberspace in which "things" in the real world that do not actually have wills virtually possess wills and act according to the will of those "things".

[0086] Specifically, this system provides a mechanism that allows thought models modeled in cyberspace to perform virtual thought processing based on autonomous thinking characteristics in a software-like manner, enabling them to act with the will of "things." By having them perform virtual thought processing based on autonomous thinking characteristics, each thought model can be made to operate as a virtual will model that behaves with autonomous will.

[0087] Therefore, it becomes possible for "things" in the real world to be used appropriately, for a long time, and with care, through autonomous management by the "things" themselves.

[0088] The cyber-physical system 100 of this embodiment allows real-world "things" to be modeled as thought models in cyberspace, enabling them to operate autonomously without human intervention, and thus achieving the following specific effects.

[0089] Even simple software without computational processing capabilities can express virtual intentions, dramatically increasing the number of entities participating in cyberspace and expanding the scope of interconnectedness and cooperation between "things."

[0090] Furthermore, since there is no need for humans to manage all "things," and "things" can autonomously manage their own lifespan (life) and condition maintenance (health), the burden of managing "things" by humans is eliminated, and it becomes possible to provide new benefits to "things," such as appropriate condition maintenance and offerings to the next user or for different uses, according to the user's life stage.

[0091] Autonomous thinking characteristics, as virtual wills of "things," implement common thinking factors (purposes) such as "longevity / survival" and "health / maintenance" as common software, eliminating the need to develop and implement software for each individual "thing."

[0092] In human society, individuals with willpower can cooperate with each other to accomplish things that would be impossible for them to do alone, and to create new value. Similarly, the cyber-physical system 100 of this embodiment enables the creation of new value that was previously unattainable by having "things" represented as "virtual will model" software build cooperative relationships with each other in cyberspace.

[0093] Based on the above, if a large number of "things" are used appropriately for as long as possible, it will contribute to the realization of an economy and society that is not based on the conventional model of mass consumption and mass disposal, but rather one that contributes to the protection of Earth's resources.

[0094] In particular, a notable feature that distinguishes this technology from publicly known CPS technologies is that it virtualizes "things," "people," and "services" by incorporating the concept of a "virtual will model," placing them on the same playing field in cyberspace and allowing them to be handled in the same way.

[0095] Here, we illustrate autonomous operation by a virtual thinking model utilizing the cyber-physical system 100 of this embodiment.

[0096] (Example 1) To extend the lifespan of equipment (self-health maintenance of equipment), a "thing" corresponding to the thinking model is modeled in cyberspace as "equipment" (hereinafter, thinking model "equipment"), and its autonomous thinking characteristics are determined. The thinking model "equipment" self-diagnoses the need for maintenance as its condition and performance deteriorate over time (execution of situation assessment processing based on physical data). If it determines that maintenance is necessary, it selects a cooperative action and evaluates the cooperation content (maintenance content) of the cooperating partner that provides the maintenance service. The thinking model "equipment" performs mutual communication processing with the cooperating partner that presented the cooperation content (may include transaction processing until the transaction is concluded), and determines a candidate action corresponding to the cooperating partner (with whom a transaction contract has been concluded) as the action to be executed. In other words, the thinking model "equipment" orders maintenance work from the cooperating partner. Subsequently, the status information of the thinking model "equipment" is updated in accordance with the execution of the maintenance work (execution of an action). The thinking model "equipment" can perform mutual cooperative virtual thinking processing and extend the lifespan of equipment (self-health maintenance of equipment).

[0097] Meanwhile, for the partner providing maintenance services, a "service" corresponding to the thinking model, "Equipment Maintenance Service" (hereinafter referred to as the thinking model "Equipment Maintenance Service"), is modeled in cyberspace, and its autonomous thinking characteristics are determined. The thinking model "Equipment Maintenance Service" grasps the service provision status, including the service content, through situation assessment processing. If the thinking model "Equipment Maintenance Service" determines that it can provide the service, it selects a standalone action and then selects a candidate action to provide the equipment maintenance service. Specifically, it generates a candidate action (third candidate action) belonging to a mutual cooperation action that includes the cooperation content that can be provided to other thinking models, and executes an action that makes it possible to present the generated third candidate action to other thinking models. The thinking model "Equipment Maintenance Service" executes a standalone virtual thinking process and provides the equipment maintenance service. Then, through mutual communication processing, it receives an order from the thinking model "Equipment" mentioned above, and the thinking model "Equipment Maintenance Service" executes an action to provide the equipment maintenance service that it has received an order for from the thinking model "Equipment".

[0098] (Example 2) The "things" corresponding to the thought models are modeled in cyberspace as mobile entities responsible for logistics. For example, a thought model "cargo vehicle" and a thought model "drone" are modeled, and their autonomous thinking characteristics are determined. In this case, the drone is an unmanned aerial vehicle used for transporting cargo.

[0099] The thinking model "Cargo Vehicle" is equipped with drone transport facilities on its roof where drones can land, and it determines the availability of the roof through a situational awareness process. If the thinking model "Cargo Vehicle" determines that there is availability, it decides that it can cooperate in transporting drones based on the autonomous thinking characteristic "useful," and selects a standalone action. The thinking model "Cargo Vehicle" selects a candidate action to cooperate in transporting drones and generates a candidate action (third candidate action) belonging to the mutual cooperation type, which includes cooperation that can be offered to other thinking models. For example, it generates a third candidate action that includes cooperation that there is availability of drone transport facilities in the section of Route A. The thinking model "Cargo Vehicle" then performs an action that makes the generated third candidate action available to other thinking models. In this way, the thinking model "Cargo Vehicle" executes standalone virtual thinking processing and provides a transport service using the drone transport facilities on its roof.

[0100] Meanwhile, the thinking model "Drone" self-diagnoses the remaining battery capacity and degree of degradation based on physical data (situation assessment process). If the remaining battery capacity is low and the degree of degradation exceeds a specified value, it determines, based on the autonomous thinking characteristic "longevity," that it is necessary to have the battery transported by another mobile unit in order to conserve battery power. The thinking model "Drone" selects a mutually cooperative action and evaluates the cooperation offered by the partner providing the drone transport service. For example, it can perform an evaluation process that matches the thinking model "Drone's" travel route with the transportable routes provided by the partner.

[0101] The thinking model "Drone" performs mutual communication processing (which may include transaction processing until the transaction is concluded) with the cooperating partner (thinking model "Cargo Vehicle") that has presented the details of the cooperation, and determines a candidate action corresponding to the cooperating partner (with whom a transaction contract has been concluded) as the action to be executed. In other words, the thinking model "Drone" places an order for drone transport with the thinking model "Cargo Vehicle". Subsequently, the thinking model "Drone" updates its status information (executes an action) after receiving the drone transport service. The thinking model "Drone" performs mutually cooperative virtual thinking processing to extend the lifespan of the drone and reduce and optimize energy consumption.

[0102] (Second Embodiment) Figures 10 to 13 are diagrams illustrating the second embodiment.

[0103] The first embodiment described above provides a mechanism that allows real-world "things" to be virtually given will and operate autonomously in cyberspace. However, virtual will models that do not require a link to real-world "things" can also be introduced into cyberspace. Figure 10 is a conceptual diagram of the computer system 300 of this embodiment.

[0104] In the first embodiment described above, the concept of a non-cooperative thinking model was explained. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 10, this non-cooperative thinking model can also be constructed as a virtual will model in which multiple non-cooperative thinking models cooperate with each other, without being linked to "things" in the real world, and each non-cooperative thinking model operates autonomously in cyberspace.

[0105] For example, in the case of a software service that provides benefits solely through software (program modules), one or more functions constituting the software service can be modeled in cyberspace as a virtual thinking model. Examples include an agent function that mediates between each function module, a matching function that matches with other function modules (partners), a scheduling function that prompts function modules to execute actions at appropriate times and periods, an optimization calculation processing function that optimizes computing resources and action execution, and an AI function for the function module.

[0106] From another perspective, for example, the energy and computation time required for computer processing contribute to energy consumption related to the global environment, and maintaining these conditions and continuing to use them over a long period of time can hinder the reduction and optimization of energy consumption. Therefore, by operating computer processing that is not linked to the real world, in other words, software (program modules) that is not linked to the real world, using a mechanism similar to the virtual will model of "things" in the first embodiment described above, it is possible to contribute to solving the problem of reducing resource waste and contributing to the global environment.

[0107] Therefore, this embodiment provides a mechanism for a virtual will model that operates autonomously in cyberspace.

[0108] Figure 11 is a system configuration diagram of the computer system 300 of this embodiment. Figure 12 is a functional block diagram of the computer system 300 of this embodiment.

[0109] The computer system 300 includes a communication device 310, a control device 320, and a storage device 330. The control device 320 is composed of a virtual decision management unit 321, an autonomous thinking control unit 321A, and a cyberspace execution unit 322.

[0110] The virtual decision management unit 321 corresponds to the virtual decision management unit 122 in the first embodiment and models a thinking model in cyberspace in which virtual thinking processing is executed without being linked to the real world. The autonomous thinking control unit 321A corresponds to the autonomous thinking control unit 122A in the first embodiment and determines the autonomous thinking characteristics of the thinking model based on predetermined thinking factors. The configuration of the thinking factors and autonomous thinking characteristics is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0111] The cyberspace execution unit 322 causes each thinking model to execute virtual thinking processing based on autonomous thinking characteristics. This corresponds to the cyberspace execution unit 123 in the first embodiment described above, and causes the thinking models to execute virtual thinking processing (single-execution type virtual thinking processing, mutually cooperative type virtual thinking processing) based on autonomous thinking characteristics described in the first embodiment, and to operate as a virtual will model in cyberspace.

[0112] Figure 13 shows the processing flow of the computer system 300 in this embodiment. A modeling target is input to the computer system 300 from a predetermined terminal (S101a). The modeling target is limited to objects that are not linked to real-world "things".

[0113] The virtual decision management unit 321 generates a thinking model corresponding to the input modeling target (S301a). The autonomous thinking control unit 321A controls the system to set one or more different thinking factors that constitute the autonomous thinking characteristics, and sets the thinking factors for the generated thinking model (S102a). Based on the set thinking factors, the autonomous thinking control unit 321A determines the autonomous thinking characteristics of the generated thinking model (S302a). The determined autonomous thinking characteristics are applied to the corresponding thinking model.

[0114] The computer system 300 operates each thinking model in the cyberspace execution domain via the cyberspace execution unit 322 and executes virtual thinking processing based on autonomous thinking characteristics (S303a). The computer system 300 stores the results of the virtual thinking processing performed by each thinking model in cyberspace in the storage device 130, separately for each thinking model (S304a). It also outputs the results of the virtual thinking processing as needed (S305a).

[0115] As described above, each function constituting the cyber-physical system and the computer system can be realized by a program. Computer programs prepared in advance to realize each function are stored in an auxiliary storage device, and a control unit such as a CPU reads the program stored in the auxiliary storage device into the main memory. The control unit then executes the program read into the main memory, thereby enabling the operation of each part.

[0116] Furthermore, the above program can also be provided to a computer in a state where it is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. Examples of computer-readable recording media include optical discs such as CD-ROMs and Blu-ray® Disc Rewritables, phase-change optical discs such as DVD-ROMs, magneto-optical discs such as MO (Magneto Optical), magnetic discs such as floppy disks and hard disks, and memory cards such as SD memory cards and USB flash drives. Hardware devices such as integrated circuits (IC chips such as ROMs and RAMs) that are specially designed and configured for the purposes of the present invention are also included as recording media. Furthermore, the present invention, including the above-mentioned program, is not limited to being executed on a von Neumann computer architecture, but may also be executed on so-called non-von Neumann computer architectures, such as neurocomputers based on the mechanisms of brain neural circuits or quantum computers that apply quantum mechanics to information processing.

[0117] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. This novel embodiment can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0118] 100 Cyber-Physical Systems 110 Communication equipment 120 Control device 121 Physical Data Interface Section 122 Virtual Decision Management Department 122A Autonomous Thinking Control Unit 123 Cyberspace Execution Unit 124 Cyber ​​Data Interface Department 130 Storage device 200 Virtual Will Modules 201 Self-Situation Awareness Function 202 Action Selection Function 203 Action List 204 Action Execution Function 210 Mutual Cooperation Function 211 Collaboration content evaluation function 212 Interactive communication function 300 Computer Systems 310 Communication equipment 320 Control device 321 Virtual Decision Management Department 321A Autonomous Thinking Control Unit 322 Cyber ​​Data Interface Department 330 Storage device

Claims

[Claim 1] A virtual decision management unit that models a thinking model corresponding to something in the real world in cyberspace, and determines the autonomous thinking characteristics of the thinking model based on one or more thinking factors that define the objective that the thinking model should achieve, A physical data interface unit that provides collected physical data to cyberspace, For each of the aforementioned thinking models, a cyberspace execution unit is provided to perform a virtual thinking process that evaluates and selects multiple action candidates based on the autonomous thinking characteristics. A cyber data interface unit that outputs an action autonomously determined by the thinking model through the virtual thinking process, or information based on such action, A cyber-physical system having [a certain feature].

Images