Invention support system and invention support method

Abstract

This invention support system and method utilize generative AI to efficiently generate creative inventions. [Solution] In the invention support system, the invention support device comprises: a problem reception unit 201 that receives problem information; a first prompt generation unit 202 that generates first prompt information that instructs a generative artificial intelligence model to output one or more first answer information that solves the problem from among the invention principle information; a first answer provision unit 203 that inputs the first prompt information to the generative artificial intelligence model and provides the output first answer information; a second prompt generation unit 204 that generates second prompt information that instructs the generative artificial intelligence model to output second answer information that indicates an invention that solves the problem, by combining one or more invention principles included in the first answer information; and a second answer provision unit 205 that inputs the second prompt information to the generative artificial intelligence model and provides the output second answer information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an invention support system and an invention support method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, inventions having combinations of components that did not exist in the past have been generated from existing data such as papers and patent documents stored in a database in advance (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Since the invention generation method of Patent Document 1 uses a statistical method or an AI method, it strongly depends on existing data and it has been difficult to create completely new viewpoints or creative inventions.

[0005] On the other hand, in recent years, with the emergence of generative AI having high creativity and flexibility, it has become possible to generate unprecedented ideas and patterns by utilizing generative artificial intelligence models.

[0006] In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide an invention support system and an invention support method for efficiently creating creative inventions by utilizing generative AI.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, an invention support system according to an aspect of the present invention includes: a problem reception unit that receives problem information including problem data indicating a problem to be solved; Based on the aforementioned problem information, a first prompt generation unit generates first prompt information that instructs a generative artificial intelligence model to output one or more first answer information, which are inventive principle information, that solve the problem from among a plurality of inventive principle information, which are inventive principle information, that represent a specific approach to solving the problem. A first response providing unit that provides the first response information output from the generative artificial intelligence model by inputting the first prompt information to the generative artificial intelligence model, A second prompt generation unit generates second prompt information that instructs a generative artificial intelligence model to output second prompt information indicating an invention that solves the problem, by combining one or more of the inventive principles contained in the first prompt information based on the first prompt information, The system includes a second response providing unit that provides the second response information output from the generative artificial intelligence model by inputting the second prompt information to the generative artificial intelligence model. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, an invention support system makes it possible to efficiently generate creative inventions by utilizing generation AI.

[0009] Other issues, configurations, and effects will be clarified in the embodiments for carrying out the invention described later. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is an overall configuration diagram showing an example of the invention support system 1. [Figure 2] This is an example of the user interface screen for Invention Support System 1. [Figure 3] This is a functional configuration diagram showing an example of the invention support system 1 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of the invention principle memory device 3. [Figure 5] This is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of the Computer 900. [Figure 6] It is a flowchart showing an example of an invention support method according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] It is an example of a user interface screen of the invention support system 1 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a functional configuration diagram showing an example of the invention support system 1 according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a flowchart showing an example of an invention support method according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] It is an example of a user interface screen of the invention support system 1 according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] It is an example of a user interface screen of the invention support system 1 according to the third embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a functional configuration diagram showing an example of the invention support system 1 according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a flowchart showing an example of an invention support method according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 14] It is an example of a user interface screen of the invention support system 1 according to the fourth embodiment.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following, the scope necessary for explaining the present invention is schematically shown, and mainly the scope necessary for explaining the relevant part of the present invention will be described, and the parts where the explanation is omitted are assumed to be based on known techniques.

[0012] (First Embodiment) FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram showing an example of the invention support system 1. The invention support system 1 mainly includes an invention support device 2, an invention principle storage device 3, and a user terminal device 4. The invention support device 2 and the invention principle storage device 3, and the invention support device 2 and the user terminal device 4 are connected to a wired or wireless network 5 so that various data can be transmitted and received to and from each other. The network 5 may be either wired or wireless, and may be either a shared line or a dedicated line. Note that the number of the invention support device 2, the invention principle storage device 3, and the user terminal device 4 and the connection configuration of the network 5 are not limited to the example of FIG. 1, and may be changed as appropriate.

[0013] The invention support device 2 is a server-type computer or a cloud-type computer, and is composed of a general-purpose or dedicated computer (see FIG. 5 described later) or the like. The invention support device 2 inputs the first prompt information D62, the second prompt information D64, etc. into the generative artificial intelligence model 210 to generate the first response information D63, the second response information D65, etc.

[0014] The invention support device 2 mainly includes a generative artificial intelligence model 210. The generative artificial intelligence model is a generative model constructed using a very large dataset and deep learning technology. For example, open-source generative artificial intelligence models such as GPT of OpenAI and Gemini of Google are known. Also, as dialogue-type generative AI services using these, ChatGPT provided by OpenAI and Gemini of Google are known. In recent years, technologies and services that enable these generative artificial intelligence models to be used on-premises are also known.

[0015] When a generative artificial intelligence model is applied to a system for conducting question-and-answer sessions, when a question sentence is input into the generative artificial intelligence model, an answer sentence is output from the generative artificial intelligence model. In a generative artificial intelligence model, the input text is called a "prompt".

[0016] Generally, a prompt is a part of the instructions or information given to a generative artificial intelligence model, and it serves to dictate the content and responses that the model generates. Typically, prompts are given in the form of sentences or questions, and the model generates responses based on them. Furthermore, if specific data is input to the generative AI model along with this prompt, the model will process the specific data based on the prompt, and the desired output that is suitable for the purpose can be obtained from the model for that specific data.

[0017] The invention principle storage device 3 is a device that temporarily or permanently stores various types of information, and is, for example, a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, an SSD (Solid State Drive), or a combination thereof. The invention principle storage device 3 stores invention principle information D61, etc.

[0018] The user terminal device 4 is a client-type computer and consists of a general-purpose or dedicated computer (see Figure 5 below). The user terminal device 4 accepts various input operations via display screens such as applications and browsers, and outputs various information via display screens and audio, in order to allow user U using the user terminal device 4 to transmit and confirm various information.

[0019] Figure 2 shows an example of the user interface screen of the invention support system 1. The user interface is displayed on the display of the user terminal device 4 and includes at least an information input screen 10, an information display screen 11, and an answer display screen 12.

[0020] The information input screen 10 includes a text input section 100, a file attachment section 101, and a voice input section 102. The text input section 100 accepts text input from user U. The file attachment section 101 accepts attachments of files in common formats such as image files and CSV files from user U. The voice input section 102 records user U's speech and transcribes the speech into text.

[0021] The information display screen 11 displays the input made by user U to the information input screen 10 as a prompt. The information display screen 11 also displays prompts generated by the invention support device 2. The information display screen 11 may also accept editing of the prompts by user U.

[0022] The answer display screen 12 displays the answer generated by the invention support device 2. The answer display screen 12 may display not only a single answer, but also multiple answers, allowing the user U to select the most suitable answer from among them.

[0023] (Configuration of Invention Support Device 2) Figure 3 is a functional configuration diagram showing an example of an invention support system 1 according to the first embodiment. The invention support device 2 constituting the invention support system 1 includes a control unit 20, a learned model storage unit 21, a communication unit 22, an input unit 23, and an output unit 24.

[0024] The communication unit 22 is connected to an external device (e.g., a user terminal device 4) via the network 5 and functions as a communication interface for sending and receiving various types of data. The input unit 23 accepts various input operations, and the output unit 24 functions as a user interface by outputting various types of information via a display screen or sound. Note that the input unit 23 and the output unit 24 may be omitted.

[0025] The trained model storage unit 21 stores a generative artificial intelligence model 210. The generative artificial intelligence model 210 stored in the trained model storage unit 21 may be provided to other devices via the network 5 or a recording medium. Furthermore, the number of generative artificial intelligence models 210 stored in the trained model storage unit 21 is not limited to one; for example, multiple generative artificial intelligence models with different conditions, such as different types of open-source generative artificial intelligence models, may be stored and made available for selective or parallel use.

[0026] The control unit 20 functions as a transmission / reception control unit 200, a task reception unit 201, a first prompt generation unit 202, a first answer provision unit 203, a second prompt generation unit 204, and a second answer provision unit 205 by executing a predetermined information processing program.

[0027] (Transmit / receive control unit 200) The transmission / reception control unit 200 transmits and receives various types of data to and from an external device (for example, a user terminal device 4). For example, the transmission / reception control unit 200 transmits display information to the user terminal device 4 for outputting various display screens to the user terminal device 4, and also receives operation information from the user terminal device 4 for accepting input operations performed on the display screen of the user terminal device 4. In doing so, the transmission / reception control unit 200 works in conjunction with each unit 201 to 205 to transmit display information to the user terminal device 4 and to receive operation information from the user terminal device 4.

[0028] (Assignment Submission Department 201) The problem reception unit 201 accepts problem information D60, for example, by receiving it from the user terminal device 4 via the transmission / reception control unit 200. Here, problem information D60 includes problem data indicating the problem to be solved, and can be written in natural language or in other data formats such as image data, as long as it is a compilation of the problem that user U is trying to solve as electronic information. The problem reception unit 201 may accept multiple pieces of problem information D60 at once.

[0029] (First prompt generation unit 202) Based on the problem information D60 received by the problem reception unit 201, the first prompt generation unit 202 generates first prompt information D62 which instructs the generative artificial intelligence model 210 to output first answer information D63, which is one or more inventive principles that solve the problem, from among multiple inventive principle information D61, which are inventive principle information that shows a specific approach to solving the problem.

[0030] In the first embodiment, the invention principle information D61 is described as the TRIZ invention principle. Here, TRIZ is an abbreviation for Theoria Resolusy Inventions (Russian) or Theory of Inventive Problem Solving, and is a methodology that defines the inventive principles for solving problems. Note that the TRIZ invention principle is one of various problem-solving theories and may be any other invention principle.

[0031] (1st answer provision department 203) The first answer providing unit 203 inputs the first prompt information D62 generated by the first prompt generation unit 202 to the generative artificial intelligence model 210, thereby providing the first answer information D63, which is one or more inventive principles corresponding to the problem information D60 output from the generative artificial intelligence model 210.

[0032] (Second prompt generation unit 204) The second prompt generation unit 204 generates second prompt information D64, which instructs the generative artificial intelligence model 210 to output second prompt information D65 indicating an invention that solves the problem corresponding to the problem information D60, by combining one or more inventive principles included in the first answer information D63, based on the first answer information D63 provided by the first answer provision unit 203. At this time, the second prompt information D64 may be edited by user U by accepting editing from user U. For example, the second prompt generation unit 204 may receive specific instructions from user U to change the combination of one or more inventive principles included in the first answer information D63, and generate second prompt information D64 based on those instructions. Furthermore, combining one or more inventive principles includes both using one inventive principle as is, and using two or more inventive principles in appropriate combinations.

[0033] (Second Answer Providing Department 205) The second response providing unit 205 inputs the second prompt information D64 generated by the second prompt generation unit 204 to the generative artificial intelligence model 210, thereby providing the second response information D65 output from the generative artificial intelligence model 210.

[0034] (Configuration of the invention principle memory device 3) Furthermore, the invention principle storage device 3, which constitutes the invention support system 1, includes a database 30 and an information processing program 31. The database 30 stores various types of information, such as invention principle information D61. The information processing program 31 is applied to a technique called search-enhanced generation (RAG), for example. Search-enhanced generation is a technique that includes reference information obtained by searching predetermined data sources in prompts in order to obtain good output results from a generative artificial intelligence model.

[0035] Figure 4(A) shows an example of the invention principle storage device 3 in the first embodiment. The database 30 of the invention principle storage device 3 stores invention principle information D61. In the first embodiment, the invention principle information D61 is the invention principle of TRIZ, and the database 30 stores 40 invention principles such as "division principle" and "separation principle" as specific approaches to solving problems. Each invention principle is assigned a number from 1 to 40. Note that the specific configuration of the database 30 is not limited to the example in Figure 4 and can be designed as appropriate.

[0036] (Hardware configuration) Figure 5 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of computer 900. The invention support device 2 and user terminal device 4 of the invention support system 1 are composed of a general-purpose or dedicated computer 900.

[0037] As shown in Figure 5, the computer 900 comprises, as its main components, a bus 910, a processor 912, memory 914, an input device 916, an output device 917, a display device 918, a storage device 920, a communication interface unit 922, an external device interface unit 924, an I / O device interface unit 926, and a media input / output unit 928. Note that the above components may be omitted as appropriate depending on the intended use of the computer 900.

[0038] The processor 912 consists of one or more arithmetic processing units (CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro-processing unit), DSP (digital signal processor), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), etc.) and operates as a control unit that oversees the entire computer 900. The memory 914 stores various data and programs 930 and consists of volatile memory (DRAM, SRAM, etc.) that functions as main memory, and non-volatile memory (ROM), flash memory, etc.

[0039] The input device 916 consists of, for example, a keyboard, mouse, numeric keypad, or electronic pen, and functions as an input unit. The output device 917 consists of, for example, a sound (voice) output device or a vibration device, and functions as an output unit. The display device 918 consists of, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, electronic paper, or a projector, and functions as an output unit. The input device 916 and the display device 918 may be configured as an integrated unit, such as a touch panel display. The storage device 920 consists of, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive), and functions as a storage unit. The storage device 920 stores various data necessary for the execution of the operating system and the program 930.

[0040] The communication I / F unit 922 is connected by wired or wireless connection to a network 940 such as the Internet or an intranet (which may be the same as network 5 in Figure 1) and functions as a communication unit that sends and receives data with other computers according to a predetermined communication standard. The external device I / F unit 924 is connected by wired or wireless connection to external devices 950 such as cameras, printers, scanners, and reader / writers and functions as a communication unit that sends and receives data with external devices 950 according to a predetermined communication standard. The I / O device I / F unit 926 is connected to I / O devices 960 such as various sensors and actuators and functions as a communication unit that sends and receives various signals and data with the I / O devices 960, for example, detection signals from sensors and control signals to actuators. The media input / output unit 928 consists of, for example, a drive device such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) drive or a CD (Compact Disc) drive, a memory card slot, and a USB connector, and reads and writes data to media (non-temporary storage media) 970 such as DVDs, CDs, memory cards, and USB memory.

[0041] In the computer 900 having the above configuration, the processor 912 calls and executes the program 930 stored in the storage device 920 in the memory 914, and controls various parts of the computer 900 via the bus 910. The program 930 may also be stored in the memory 914 instead of the storage device 920. The program 930 may be recorded on the media 970 in an installable or executable file format and provided to the computer 900 via the media input / output unit 928. The program 930 may also be provided to the computer 900 by downloading it via the network 940 through the communication interface unit 922. Furthermore, the computer 900 may implement the various functions realized by the processor 912 executing the program 930 using hardware such as an FPGA or ASIC.

[0042] Computer 900 is an electronic device of any form, consisting of, for example, a stationary computer or a portable computer. Computer 900 may be a client computer, a server computer, a cloud computer, or an embedded computer such as a control panel or controller (including microcontrollers, programmable logic controllers, and sequencers).

[0043] (First method for supporting invention) Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of an invention support method according to the first embodiment. The series of invention support methods in the invention support system 1 shown in Figure 6 will be explained assuming that a single generative artificial intelligence model 210 is stored in the learned model storage unit 21 of the invention support device 2. Furthermore, it will be explained assuming that invention principle information D61 is pre-stored in the database 30 of the invention principle storage device 3.

[0044] First, in step S700, when the user terminal device 4 is operated by user U and transmits the problem information D60 to the invention support device 2, the problem reception unit 201 receives the problem information D60 from the user terminal device 4 and accepts the problem information D60.

[0045] Next, in step S710, the first prompt generation unit 202 generates first prompt information D62, which instructs the generative artificial intelligence model 210 to output first answer information D63, which is one or more inventive principles that solve the problem, from among the inventive principle information D61, based on the problem information D60 received in step S700. The first prompt information D62 is displayed together with the problem information D60 on the information display screen 11 of the user terminal device 4.

[0046] Next, in step S720, the first response providing unit 203 inputs the first prompt information D62 generated in S710 into the generative artificial intelligence model 210.

[0047] Next, in step S721, the generative artificial intelligence model 210 takes the first prompt information D62 as input and generates the first response information D63.

[0048] Next, in step S722, the first response provision unit 203 transmits the first response information D63 generated in S721 to the user terminal device 4. As a result, the first response information D63 is displayed on the response display screen 12 of the user terminal device 4.

[0049] Next, in step S730, the second prompt generation unit 204 generates second prompt information D64, which instructs the generative artificial intelligence model 210 to output second prompt information D65 indicating an invention that solves the problem, by combining one or more inventive principles contained in the first prompt information D63 provided in step S722, based on the first prompt information D63. The second prompt information D64 is displayed on the information display screen 11 of the user terminal device 4.

[0050] Next, in step S740, the second response providing unit 205 inputs the second prompt information D64 generated in S730 into the generative artificial intelligence model 210.

[0051] Next, in step S741, the generative artificial intelligence model 210 takes the second prompt information D64 as input and generates the second response information D65.

[0052] Next, in step S742, the second response provision unit 205 transmits the second response information D65 generated in S741 to the user terminal device 4. As a result, the second response information D65 is displayed on the response display screen 12 of the user terminal device 4.

[0053] (First user interface) Figure 7 is an example of the user interface screen of the invention support system 1 according to the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, the user interface screen of the invention support system 1 transitions from Figure 7(A) to Figure 7(B). Hereinafter, an example of a prompt displayed on the information display screen 11 of the user interface screen will be referred to as [Prompt], and an example of a response displayed on the response display screen 12 will be referred to as [Response].

[0054] As shown in Figure 7(A), user U enters the problem information D60, "I want to make my smartphone more durable," into the information input screen 10 and submits it. Then, the following text is displayed on the information display screen 11 as the first prompt information D62. [prompt] ● Issue Information I want to make my smartphone more durable. ● First prompt information Please provide the 40 TRIZ inventive principles for the given problem. The 40 inventive principles of TRIZ are as follows: 1.Dividing principle 2. Separation principle 3. Local Properties Principle (The invention principles up to the 40th are described below, but are omitted here.)

[0055] As shown in Figure 7(A), the following text is displayed on the response display screen 12 as the first response information D63 in response to the first prompt information D62. [answer] ●First answer information The inventive principle for the challenge "Making smartphones more durable" is shown below. -Division principle (1) - Principle of equilibrium (8) -Composite material principles (40) - Principle of variability (15) - Parameter change principle (35) -Fluid action principle (29) - Principle of anticipatory action (10) -Curved surface principle (14) -Principles of thin film usage (30) - The principle of disposability (27) - Local properties principle (3) -Alternative principle (26)

[0056] As shown in Figure 7(B), upon receiving the first response information D63, the following text is displayed on the information display screen 11 as the second prompt information D64. [prompt] ●Second prompt information Use the previously generated inventive principles individually or in combination to create a solution to the problem.

[0057] As shown in Figure 7(B), the following text is displayed on the response display screen 12 as the second response information D65 in response to the second prompt information D64. [answer] ●Second answer information To address the challenge of "making smartphones more robust," we created solutions by using the previously presented inventive principles individually or in combination. Solution 1: Use of composite materials Invention Principle 40: Principle of Composite Materials Solution: By using composite materials (for example, a mixture of carbon fiber and polycarbonate) for the exterior of the smartphone, a lightweight yet high-strength body can be achieved. This makes it more resistant to impact from drops and improves durability. Solution 2: Adoption of a variable frame Invention Principle 15: Principle of Variability Solution: The smartphone frame will have a variable structure, making it thin under normal use and automatically thickening when subjected to impact to increase shock resistance. This will allow it to maintain its slim profile during normal use while providing robustness when impacted. ... Solution 10: Adopt a curved design Invention Principle 14: Curved Surface Principle Solution: The smartphone's exterior is designed with a curved surface so that the force is distributed when it is hit. This improves its resistance to impact. Solution 11: Use of alternative materials Invention Principle 26: Substitution Principle Solution: Use alternative materials (e.g., bioplastics instead of conventional plastics) in the structure of smartphones to provide high strength while remaining lightweight.

[0058] The user interface screen of the invention support system 1 is not limited to the example shown in Figure 7 and may be modified as appropriate. For example, an image file representing the invention may be displayed along with text as the second response information D65.

[0059] As described above, according to the invention support system 1 and invention support method of the first embodiment, an inventive principle for problem information D60 is generated using a generative artificial intelligence model 210, and an invention that solves the problem indicated by problem information D60 is generated by combining these inventive principles. Therefore, by utilizing generative AI, it becomes possible to efficiently create creative inventions.

[0060] (Second embodiment) Figure 8 is a functional configuration diagram showing an example of the invention support system 1 according to the second embodiment. The invention support device 2 constituting the invention support system 1 includes a control unit 20, a learned model storage unit 21, a communication unit 22, an input unit 23, and an output unit 24. The following description of parts whose functions are the same as those in the first embodiment will be omitted. In the second embodiment as well, the invention principle information D61 will be described as the TRIZ invention principle.

[0061] The control unit 20 functions as a transmission / reception control unit 200, a task reception unit 201, a first prompt generation unit 202, a first answer provision unit 203, a second prompt generation unit 204, and a second answer provision unit 205 by executing a predetermined information processing program.

[0062] (First prompt generation unit 202) The first prompt generation unit 202 comprises a third prompt generation unit 202A, a third answer provision unit 202B, and an invention principle derivation unit 202C.

[0063] (Third prompt generation unit 202A) The third prompt generation unit 202A generates third prompt information D68, which instructs the generative artificial intelligence model 210 to output contradiction information D69 indicating a contradiction with the task information D60 received by the task reception unit 201. Here, contradiction information D69 is information that represents a situation in the task related to task information D60 where, in order to achieve one requirement or objective, another requirement or objective is impaired. This contradiction may be expressed in natural language or in other data formats such as image data, as long as it is a compilation of electronic information representing a technical contradiction where, in order to improve one characteristic, another characteristic deteriorates, or a physical contradiction where two contradictory states are required simultaneously for the same element. At this time, editing by user U is accepted, and user U may edit the third prompt information D68.

[0064] (Third Answer Providing Department 202B) The third response provider unit 202B inputs the third prompt information D68 to the generative artificial intelligence model 210, thereby providing the contradiction information D69 output from the generative artificial intelligence model 210.

[0065] (Invention principle derivation section 202C) The invention principle derivation unit 202C obtains invention principle information D61 based on the contradiction information D69 output from the third answer provision unit 202B. Then, the first prompt generation unit 202 generates first prompt information D62, which instructs the generative artificial intelligence model 210 to output the invention principle information D61 obtained by the invention principle derivation unit 202C as first answer information D63.

[0066] (1st answer provision department 203) The first response providing unit 203 inputs the first prompt information D62 generated by the first prompt generation unit 202 to the generative artificial intelligence model 210, thereby providing the first response information D63 output from the generative artificial intelligence model 210.

[0067] (Second method of supporting invention) Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of an invention support method according to the second embodiment. The series of invention support methods in the invention support system 1 shown in Figure 9 will be described assuming that a single generative artificial intelligence model 210 is stored in the learned model storage unit 21 of the invention support device 2. Furthermore, it will be described assuming that invention principle information D61 is pre-stored in the database 30 of the invention principle storage device 3. The following description of steps identical to those in the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0068] In step S701, the third prompt generation unit 202A generates third prompt information D68, which instructs the generative artificial intelligence model 210 to output contradiction information D69 indicating a contradiction with the task information D60 received in step S700. The third prompt information D68, along with the task information D60, is displayed on the information display screen 11 of the user terminal device 4.

[0069] Next, in step S702, the third response providing unit 202B inputs the third prompt information D68 generated in S701 into the generative artificial intelligence model 210.

[0070] Next, in step S703, the generative artificial intelligence model 210 takes the third prompt information D68 as input and generates contradictory information D69.

[0071] Next, in step S704, the third answer provision unit 202B transmits the contradiction information D69 generated in S703 to the user terminal device 4. As a result, the contradiction information D69 is displayed on the answer display screen 12 of the user terminal device 4.

[0072] Next, in step S705, the invention principle derivation unit 202C obtains invention principle information D61 based on the contradiction information D69 provided in S704.

[0073] Next, in step S710, the first prompt generation unit 202 generates first prompt information D62, which instructs the generative artificial intelligence model 210 to output the invention principle information D61 obtained in S705 as first response information D63.

[0074] (Second user interface) Figure 10 is an example of the user interface screen of the invention support system 1 according to the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, the user interface screen of the invention support system 1 transitions from Figure 10(A) to Figure 10(B) and then to Figure 10(C).

[0075] As shown in Figure 10(A), user U enters the problem information D60, "I want to make my smartphone more durable," into the information input screen 10 and submits it. Then, as the third prompt information D68, the following text is displayed on the information display screen 11. [prompt] ● Issue Information I want to make my smartphone more durable. ● Third prompt information Please identify the inconsistencies in the problem statement. Examples of inconsistencies are shown below. (The following section describes examples of identifying issues and contradictions, but these are omitted here.)

[0076] As shown in Figure 10(A), the following text is displayed on the answer display screen 12 as contradiction information D69 for the third prompt information D68. [answer] ●Contradictory information The following is an example of identifying contradictions in the problem "We want to make smartphones more durable." We want to increase "sturdiness" but maintain "lightweight." - To make it more durable, it's necessary to increase its impact resistance and water resistance, which usually requires using thicker materials or adding an extra protective layer. However, this increases the weight of the smartphone, compromising its portability and ease of carrying. We want to increase "durability" but maintain "thinness." - Making a smartphone more durable requires thicker materials and additional protective structures, but this can compromise its slimness, potentially reducing its design appeal and portability. We want to increase "durability" but keep "cost" down. - Making something robust requires special materials and designs, which increases manufacturing costs. Using expensive materials and manufacturing techniques raises the product price and reduces its cost competitiveness. We want to increase "durability" but maintain "design freedom." - Adopting a robust design limits design options and reduces the freedom of appearance. In particular, when a simple and slim design is required, it becomes difficult to balance robustness and aesthetics. We want to increase "durability" but maintain "battery life". - Using additional protective layers or materials to make a smartphone more robust can reduce internal space and potentially limit battery size. This can lead to reduced battery capacity and shorter battery life.

[0077] As shown in Figure 10(B), upon receiving the contradiction information D69, the following text is displayed on the information display screen 11 as the first prompt information D62. [prompt] ● First prompt information Based on conflicting information, please provide the 40 TRIZ inventive principles to address the problem. The 40 inventive principles of TRIZ are as follows: 1.Dividing principle 2. Separation principle 3. Local Properties Principle (The invention principles up to the 40th are described below, but are omitted here.)

[0078] The user interface screens from the first response information D63 onwards are identical to those of the first embodiment, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0079] As described above, according to the invention support system 1 and invention support method of the second embodiment, a generative artificial intelligence model 210 is used to generate contradictory information D69 with respect to problem information D60, an inventive principle is derived from the contradictory information D69, and an invention is generated that solves the problem indicated by problem information D60 by combining the inventive principle. Therefore, by utilizing generative AI with Few-Shot Prompting (a method of providing several examples in advance when having a task executed), it becomes possible to efficiently create creative inventions.

[0080] (Third embodiment) Figure 4(B) shows an example of the invention principle storage device 3 in the third embodiment. The database 30 of the invention principle storage device 3 stores invention principle information D61, characteristic parameters D66, and contradiction matrix D67. In the third embodiment, the invention principle information D61, characteristic parameters D66, and contradiction matrix D67 are the TRIZ invention principle, TRIZ characteristic parameters, and TRIZ contradiction matrix, respectively.

[0081] Characteristic Parameter D66 is an index that represents the properties and functions of a system or product used to analyze technical problems and derive solutions. Characteristic Parameter D66 includes 39 standard parameters that define the direction of system improvement and invention, such as "weight of moving object" and "length of moving object." Each parameter is numbered from 1 to 39.

[0082] The Contradiction Matrix D67 is a tool used to resolve technical contradictions (problems where improving one characteristic worsens another). The Contradiction Matrix D67 uses the characteristic parameter to be improved D66 on the vertical axis and the characteristic parameter to be worsened D66 on the horizontal axis, and shows the inventive principle information D61 that provides a solution for combinations of contradictory characteristic parameters D66. For example, if the number of the characteristic parameter to be improved D66 is "1" and the number of the characteristic parameter to be worsened D66 is "3", the inventive principle information D61 derived from the Contradiction Matrix D67 is inventive principle "8" and "15".

[0083] (Third method of supporting invention) The method for generating the first prompt information D62 in the third embodiment will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 9.

[0084] In step S701, the third prompt generation unit 202A generates third prompt information D68, which instructs the generative artificial intelligence model 210 to output contradiction information D69 while referring to characteristic parameters D66 stored in the invention principle memory device 3, based on the problem information D60 received in step S700. Specifically, the third prompt information D68 is an instruction to apply contradiction information D69 to characteristic parameters D66. The third prompt information D68, along with the problem information D60, is displayed on the information display screen 11 of the user terminal device 4.

[0085] Next, in step S702, the third response providing unit 202B inputs the third prompt information D68 generated in S701 into the generative artificial intelligence model 210.

[0086] Next, in step S703, the generative artificial intelligence model 210 takes the third prompt information D68 as input and generates contradictory information D69.

[0087] Next, in step S704, the third answer provision unit 202B transmits the contradiction information D69 generated in S703 to the user terminal device 4. As a result, the contradiction information D69 is displayed on the answer display screen 12 of the user terminal device 4.

[0088] Next, in step S705, the invention principle derivation unit 202C obtains invention principle information D61 based on the contradiction information D69 provided in S704, while referring to the contradiction matrix D67 stored in the invention principle storage device 3. Specifically, it selects an intersecting cell in the contradiction matrix D67 from the numbers of the characteristic parameters D66 that are improved and the numbers of the characteristic parameters D66 that are worsened, and derives the invention principle of the number described in that cell as the invention principle information D61 corresponding to the problem information D60.

[0089] Next, in step S710, the first prompt generation unit 202 generates first prompt information D62, which instructs the generative artificial intelligence model 210 to output the invention principle information D61 obtained in S705 as first response information D63.

[0090] (Third user interface) Figure 11 is an example of the user interface screen of the invention support system 1 according to the third embodiment. In the third embodiment, the user interface screen of the invention support system 1 transitions from Figure 11(A) to Figure 11(B) and then to Figure 11(C).

[0091] As shown in Figure 11(A), user U enters the problem information D60, "I want to make my smartphone more durable," into the information input screen 10 and submits it. Then, as the third prompt information D68, the following text is displayed on the information display screen 11. [prompt] ● Issue Information I want to make my smartphone more durable. ● Third prompt information Please identify the inconsistencies in the problem statement. Examples of inconsistencies are shown below. (The following describes examples of identifying issues and contradictions.) Next, apply the 39 characteristic parameters of TRIZ to the extracted contradictions. The 39 characteristic parameters of TRIZ are as follows: 1. Weight of the moving object 2. Weight of a stationary object 3. Length of the moving object (The following describes the characteristic parameters up to the 39th, but they are omitted here.)

[0092] As shown in Figure 11(A), the following text is displayed on the answer display screen 12 as contradiction information D69 for the third prompt information D68. [answer] ●Contradictory information The following shows an example of extracting contradictions related to the problem "We want to make smartphones more robust," along with the corresponding characteristic parameters. We want to increase "sturdiness" but maintain "lightweight." - To make it more durable, it's necessary to increase its impact resistance and water resistance, which usually requires using thicker materials or adding an extra protective layer. However, this increases the weight of the smartphone, compromising its portability and ease of carrying. We want to increase "durability" but maintain "thinness." - Making a smartphone more durable requires thicker materials and additional protective structures, but this can compromise its slimness, potentially reducing its design appeal and portability. We want to increase "durability" but keep "cost" down. - Making something robust requires special materials and designs, which increases manufacturing costs. Using expensive materials and manufacturing techniques raises the product price and reduces its cost competitiveness. We want to increase "durability" but maintain "design freedom." - Adopting a robust design limits design options and reduces the freedom of appearance. In particular, when a simple and slim design is required, it becomes difficult to balance robustness and aesthetics. We want to increase "durability" but maintain "battery life". - Using additional protective layers or materials to make a smartphone more robust can reduce internal space and potentially limit battery size. This can lead to reduced battery capacity and shorter battery life.

[0093] As shown in Figure 11(B), upon receiving the contradiction information D69, the following text is displayed on the information display screen 11 as the first prompt information D62. [prompt] ● First prompt information Based on the contradictory information, please answer the problem using the 40 TRIZ inventive principles, referring to the attached contradiction matrix. The 40 inventive principles of TRIZ are as follows: 1.Dividing principle 2. Separation principle 3. Local Properties Principle (The invention principles up to the 40th are described below, but are omitted here.) (A CSV file containing the contradiction matrix is ​​attached.)

[0094] The user interface screens from the first response information D63 onwards are identical to those of the first embodiment, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0095] As described above, according to the invention support system 1 and invention support method of the third embodiment, a generative artificial intelligence model 210 is used to generate contradiction information D69 with respect to problem information D60 while referring to characteristic parameter D66, an inventive principle is derived from the contradiction information D69 while referring to the contradiction matrix D67, and an invention is generated that solves the problem indicated by problem information D60 by combining the inventive principle. Therefore, by utilizing generative AI with a more sophisticated use of Few-Shot Prompting (a method of providing several examples in advance when having a task performed), it becomes possible to efficiently create creative inventions.

[0096] (Fourth embodiment) Figure 12 is a functional configuration diagram showing an example of the invention support system 1 according to the fourth embodiment. The invention support device 2 constituting the invention support system 1 includes a control unit 20, a learned model storage unit 21, a communication unit 22, an input unit 23, and an output unit 24. The following description of parts whose functions are the same as those in the first embodiment will be omitted. In addition, in the fourth embodiment, the invention principle information D61 will be described as the TRIZ invention principle.

[0097] The control unit 20 functions as a transmission / reception control unit 200, a task reception unit 201, a prompt generation unit 202D, and an answer provision unit 205A by executing a predetermined information processing program.

[0098] (Prompt generation unit 202D) The prompt generation unit 202D generates prompt information D620 that instructs the generative artificial intelligence model 210 to output answer information D650 indicating an invention that solves the problem, while referring to invention principle information D61, which is a set of invention principles that show specific approaches to solving the problem, based on the problem information D60 received by the problem reception unit 201. At this time, the prompt information D620 may be edited by user U by accepting editing from user U.

[0099] (Answer Providing Department 205A) The response provision unit 205A provides response information D650 output from the generative artificial intelligence model 210 by inputting the prompt information D620 generated by the prompt generation unit 202D to the generative artificial intelligence model 210.

[0100] (Fourth method of supporting invention) Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of an invention support method according to the fourth embodiment. The series of invention support methods in the invention support system 1 shown in Figure 13 will be described assuming that a single generative artificial intelligence model 210 is stored in the learned model storage unit 21 of the invention support device 2. Furthermore, it will be described assuming that invention principle information D61 is pre-stored in the database 30 of the invention principle storage device 3. The following description of steps identical to those in the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0101] In step S710A, the prompt generation unit 202D generates prompt information D620 that instructs the generative artificial intelligence model 210 to output answer information D650 indicating an invention that solves the problem, based on the problem information D60 received in step S700 and referring to the invention principle information D61. The prompt information D620, along with the problem information D60, is displayed on the information display screen 11 of the user terminal device 4.

[0102] Next, in step S720A, the response provision unit 205A inputs the prompt information D620 generated in S710A to the generative artificial intelligence model 210.

[0103] Next, in step S741A, the generative artificial intelligence model 210 takes prompt information D620 as input and generates response information D650.

[0104] Next, in step S742A, the response provision unit 205A transmits the response information D650 generated in S741A to the user terminal device 4. As a result, the response information D650 is displayed on the response display screen 12 of the user terminal device 4.

[0105] (Fourth user interface) Figure 14 is an example of the user interface screen of the invention support system 1 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0106] User U enters the task information D60, "I want to make my smartphone more durable," into the information input screen 10 and submits it. Then, the following text is displayed on the information display screen 11 as prompt information D620. [prompt] ● Issue Information I want to make my smartphone more durable. ● Prompt information Referencing TRIZ's 40 inventive principles, create a solution to the problem.

[0107] In response to prompt information D620, the following text is displayed on the response display screen 12 as response information D650. [answer] ●Answer information We created a solution to the challenge of "making smartphones more robust" by referring to the 40 inventive principles of TRIZ. Solution 1: Use of composite materials Invention Principle 40: Principle of Composite Materials Solution: By using composite materials (for example, a mixture of carbon fiber and polycarbonate) for the smartphone's exterior, a lightweight yet high-strength body can be achieved. This makes it more resistant to impact from drops and improves durability. (The following is omitted.)

[0108] As described above, according to the invention support system 1 and invention support method of the fourth embodiment, an invention is generated that solves the problem indicated by the problem information D60 while referring to the invention principle information D61, using the generative artificial intelligence model 210. Therefore, by utilizing generative AI, it becomes possible to efficiently create creative inventions from simple prompts.

[0109] (Other embodiments) The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be implemented with various modifications without departing from the spirit of the invention. All such modifications are included in the technical concept of the present invention.

[0110] In the above embodiment, the invention support device 2 was described as being composed of a single device, but it may be composed of multiple devices. For example, the invention support system 1 may be composed of multiple devices by distributing the parts 200 to 205 of the invention support device 2 among multiple devices. In this case, each part (each process) of each of the above devices may be realized by a program that can be executed by the computer 900.

[0111] In the above embodiment, the case was described in which the invention support device 2 receives problem information D60 from the user terminal device 4 and generates or acquires data D61 to D69 by performing various processes on the problem information D60. Alternatively, the user terminal device 4 may function as the invention support device 2. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0112] 1...Invention support system, 2...Invention support device, 3...Invention principle memory device, 4...User terminal device, 5...Network, 20...Control unit, 21...Trained model storage unit, 22...Communication section, 23...Input section, 24...Output section, 200...Transmission / reception control unit, 201...Task reception unit, 202...First prompt generation unit, 203...First response provision unit, 204...Second prompt generation unit, 205...Second response provision unit, 210...Generative artificial intelligence model, 30...Database, 31...Information processing program, 202A...Third prompt generation unit, 202B...Third response provision unit, 202C...Invention principle derivation section, 202D…Prompt generation unit, 205A…Answer provision unit

Claims

1. A problem reception unit that receives problem information, including problem data that indicates the problem to be solved, Based on the aforementioned problem information, a first prompt generation unit generates first prompt information that instructs a generative artificial intelligence model to output one or more first answer information, which are inventive principle information, that solve the aforementioned problem from among a plurality of inventive principle information, which are that show a specific approach to solving the aforementioned problem. A first response providing unit that provides the first response information output from the generative artificial intelligence model by inputting the first prompt information to the generative artificial intelligence model, A second prompt generation unit generates second prompt information that instructs a generative artificial intelligence model to output second prompt information that shows an invention that solves the problem, by combining one or more of the inventive principles contained in the first prompt information, based on the first prompt information. The system includes a second response providing unit that provides the second response information output from the generative artificial intelligence model by inputting the second prompt information to the generative artificial intelligence model, Invention support system.

2. The aforementioned information on the principle of invention is, The inventive principle of TRIZ (Theoria Resolusi Inventions or Theory of Inventive Problem Solving) is The invention support system according to claim 1.

3. The first prompt generation unit, A third prompt generation unit generates third prompt information that instructs a generative artificial intelligence model to output contradiction information indicating a contradiction with the said problem information, based on the aforementioned problem information. A third response providing unit that provides the contradiction information output from the generative artificial intelligence model by inputting the third prompt information into the generative artificial intelligence model, The system includes an invention principle information derivation unit that derives the invention principle information based on the contradictory information output from the third answer providing unit, The invention support system according to claim 1.

4. The third prompt generation unit is: The third prompt information is generated so as to output the contradiction information while referring to predetermined characteristic parameters. The aforementioned invention principle information derivation unit is: Based on the aforementioned contradictory information, the invention principle information is obtained by referring to a predetermined contradiction matrix. The invention support system according to claim 3.

5. A problem reception unit that receives problem information, including problem data that indicates the problem to be solved, A prompt generation unit generates prompt information that instructs a generative artificial intelligence model to output answer information indicating an invention that solves the problem, while referring to invention principle information, which is an invention principle that shows a specific approach to solving the problem, based on the aforementioned problem information. The system includes an answer providing unit that provides the answer information output from the generative artificial intelligence model by inputting the prompt information into the generative artificial intelligence model. Invention support system.

6. The aforementioned information on the principle of invention is, The inventive principle of TRIZ (Theoria Resolusi Inventions or Theory of Inventive Problem Solving) is The invention support system according to claim 5.

7. An invention support method that uses a computer to assist in the creation of inventions, A problem reception process that receives problem information including problem data that indicates the problem to be solved, Based on the aforementioned problem information, a first prompt generation step generates first prompt information that instructs a generative artificial intelligence model to output one or more first answer information, which are inventive principle information, that solve the aforementioned problem from among a plurality of inventive principle information, which are that solve the aforementioned problem, and A first response provision step, which provides the first response information output from the generative artificial intelligence model by inputting the first prompt information into the generative artificial intelligence model, A second prompt generation step generates second prompt information that instructs a generative artificial intelligence model to output second prompt information that shows an invention that solves the problem, by combining one or more of the inventive principles contained in the first prompt information, based on the first prompt information. The system includes a second response provision step of providing the second response information output from the generative artificial intelligence model by inputting the second prompt information into the generative artificial intelligence model, Invention support method.

8. The aforementioned information on the principle of invention is, The inventive principle of TRIZ (Theoria Resolusi Inventions or Theory of Inventive Problem Solving) is The invention support method according to claim 7.

9. The first prompt generation step is: A third prompt generation step generates third prompt information that instructs a generative artificial intelligence model to output contradiction information indicating a contradiction with the said problem information, based on the aforementioned problem information. A third response provision step, which provides the contradiction information output from the generative artificial intelligence model by inputting the third prompt information into the generative artificial intelligence model, The invention includes an invention principle information derivation step that determines the invention principle information based on the contradictory information output from the third answer provision step, The invention support method according to claim 7.

10. The third prompt generation step is as follows: The third prompt information is generated so as to output the contradiction information while referring to predetermined characteristic parameters. The above-mentioned step of deriving information on the principle of invention is: Based on the aforementioned contradictory information, the invention principle information is obtained by referring to a predetermined contradiction matrix. The invention support method described in claim 9.

11. An invention support method that uses a computer to assist in the creation of inventions, A problem reception process that receives problem information including problem data that indicates the problem to be solved, A prompt generation step generates prompt information that instructs a generative artificial intelligence model to output answer information indicating an invention that solves the problem, while referring to invention principle information, which is an invention principle that shows a specific approach to solving the problem, based on the aforementioned problem information. The system includes a response provision step of providing the response information output from the generative artificial intelligence model by inputting the prompt information into the generative artificial intelligence model. Invention support method.

12. The aforementioned information on the principle of invention is, The inventive principle of TRIZ (Theoria Resolusi Inventions or Theory of Inventive Problem Solving) is The invention support method according to claim 11.

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