Information processing device and program

Abstract

This enables appropriate communication between the parent who lives with the other parent. [Solution] An information processing device that communicates with the terminals of one parent who is divorced or planning to divorce and the other parent comprises: a message processing unit that provides functions for sending and receiving standardized messages and free-text messages as messages that can be sent and received between the terminal of the one parent and the terminal of the other parent via the communication; and a message control unit that, when a first request to prevent the sending of free-text messages is received from the terminal of the one parent, sets a restriction on the sending of free-text messages from the terminal of the other parent while enabling the sending of standardized messages from the terminal of the other parent.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus and a program for communicating with each of the terminals of one parent and the other parent who are divorced or planning to divorce.

Background Art

[0002] After both parents (a couple) with children divorce, face-to-face communication may occur. Among the divorced former couple, the parent who lives with the child is called the cohabiting parent, and the parent who lives separately from the child among the divorced former couple is called the non-cohabiting parent. Face-to-face communication refers to the non-cohabiting parent meeting and talking with the child regularly and continuously, playing together, or communicating by methods such as phone calls and letters, and is also called parent-child communication.

[0003] In Japan, the number of children whose parents have divorced is currently about 200,000 per year, which is about 25% of the number of births (about 800,000 per year). Among them, the number of children who do not have face-to-face communication is about 140,000 per year, meaning that about 70% of children cannot meet with the non-cohabiting parent. Face-to-face communication realizes the healthy growth of children while confirming the love from both parents by maintaining communication between the children and both parents, and an improvement in the implementation rate of face-to-face communication is desired. Also, it is normal for children to want to meet the non-cohabiting parent.

[0004] On the other hand, divorced former couples (or couples planning to divorce) may have difficulty in smooth communication due to emotional factors. They want to let the child have face-to-face communication, but the coordination between the couple (former couple) on when and where to have face-to-face communication becomes a psychological burden and always develops into an emotional and long conversation. Therefore, the current situation is that the implementation rate of face-to-face communication is low due to such factors. Also, there are factors such as not wanting the non-cohabiting parent to know the address of the child (and the cohabiting parent).

[0005] Furthermore, after a divorce between parents (a married couple) with children, the custodial parent may receive child support from the non-custodial parent. Child support refers to the expenses necessary for the care and education of a child. Generally, it means the expenses required until the child becomes economically and socially independent, and includes expenses for basic necessities such as food, clothing, and shelter, as well as educational and medical expenses. The parent who has custody of the child (the custodial parent) can receive child support from the other parent (the non-custodial parent).

[0006] However, currently, the rate of child support payments remains at only around 30%, meaning that approximately 70% of children do not receive child support. In particular, divorced or planning divorced couples often face difficulties in smooth communication due to emotional factors such as wanting to separate from their spouse or wanting to be free from divorce. Negotiating child support between spouses becomes a psychological burden and inevitably leads to emotional and lengthy exchanges. As a result, the rate of child support payments remains low. Consequently, the poverty rate among single-parent families is high, hindering the healthy development of children.

[0007] Utilizing alternative dispute resolution (ADR) procedures or visitation support organizations can help facilitate visitation and child support payments. However, these methods are often costly and time-consuming, and therefore not always sufficient to improve the rate of visitation and child support payments.

[0008] Patent Document 1 describes a system for scheduling visitation dates between a non-custodial parent and a child, in which multiple predefined messages are registered on a server, and when a selection of one of the predefined messages is received from either the custodial parent's terminal or the non-custodial parent's terminal, the selected message is sent to the other party. When custodial and non-custodial parents directly input arbitrary messages (free-text messages) to the other party by text input, they may input messages that offend the other party due to negative feelings towards them, which can lead to unnecessary disputes and hinder the joint upbringing of the child by the custodial and non-custodial parents. However, by using predefined messages, it is possible to prevent custodial and non-custodial parents from sending offensive messages to the other party. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] Registered Utility Model No. 3223163 Gazette [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0010] However, if only pre-set messages can be exchanged between the custodial parent's device and the non-custodial parent's device, as in the technology described in Patent Document 1, it becomes impossible to send or receive messages that do not have pre-set messages. This can hinder communication between the custodial parent and the non-custodial parent, and as a result, there are concerns that visitation arrangements, for example, may not be properly implemented.

[0011] On the other hand, if free-text messages could be sent and received unconditionally between the resident parent's device and the non-resident parent's device, smooth communication between the two parents would be possible, but it could also lead to unnecessary disputes.

[0012] This disclosure aims to provide an information processing device and program that enables appropriate communication between a cohabiting parent and a non-cohabiting parent. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] An information processing device according to a first aspect of this disclosure is an information processing device that communicates with terminals of one parent who is divorced or planning to divorce and the other parent, and comprises: a message processing unit that provides functions for sending and receiving standardized messages and free-text messages as messages that can be sent and received between the terminal of the one parent and the terminal of the other parent via the communication; and a message control unit that, when a first request to disable the sending of free-text messages is received from the terminal of the one parent, sets a restriction on the sending of free-text messages from the terminal of the other parent while enabling the sending of standardized messages from the terminal of the other parent.

[0014] A program according to a second aspect of this disclosure causes an information processing device that communicates with terminals of one parent who is divorced or planning to divorce and the other parent to perform the following processes: provide functions for sending and receiving pre-written messages and free-text messages as messages that can be sent and received between the terminal of the one parent and the terminal of the other parent via the communication; and, when the terminal of the one parent receives a first request from the terminal of the one parent to prevent the sending of free-text messages, set a restriction on the sending of free-text messages from the terminal of the other parent while enabling the sending of pre-written messages from the terminal of the other parent. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] According to one aspect of this disclosure, an information processing device and program can be provided that enables appropriate communication between a cohabiting parent and a non-cohabiting parent. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1]It is a diagram showing a configuration example of an information processing apparatus system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing an overview of the operation of a server according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a diagram showing a configuration example of a server according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing an example of information stored in a storage unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing an operation example related to an emergency message according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing an operation example related to reply candidate proposal according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing an example of a screen display of a terminal of an ex-husband and wife when using a face-to-face communication support service. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing an example of a display of a message screen for message exchange. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing an example of a display indicating that free-form message transmission is not possible. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing another example of a display of a message screen for message exchange. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing an example of a screen display on a receiving terminal of an emergency message. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing an example of a screen display on a terminal that has received a message. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing an example of a screen display regarding a reply candidate proposal for a past received message. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing the configuration of a server according to Modification 2. [Figure 15] It is a diagram for explaining read information according to Modification 2. [Figure 16] It is a diagram showing an example of a screen display for setting read delay display according to Modification 2. [Figure 17] It is a diagram showing the configuration of a server according to Modification 3. [Figure 18] It is a diagram showing an example of a screen display when starting a process of creating a face-to-face communication plan triggered by a user operation according to Modification 3. [Figure 19] This figure shows an example of the screen display when the creation of a visitation schedule is automatically triggered based on monitoring of the message content related to the change example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0017] The information processing system according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The information processing system according to the embodiment is a system for supporting visitation, but it may also provide support for child support payments. In the drawings, identical or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals.

[0018] (1) System Configuration Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0019] The information processing system 1 according to this embodiment includes a terminal 100 for the cohabiting parent living with the child (also referred to as the "cohabiting parent terminal"), a terminal 200 for the non-cohabiting parent living separately from the child (also referred to as the "non-cohabiting parent terminal"), a server 300, and a terminal 400 for a third party who is an arbitrator or visitation support worker (also referred to as the "third-party terminal").

[0020] In the following description of the embodiments, cohabiting parents and their terminals may not be specifically distinguished, nor may non-cohabiting parents and their terminals, nor may third parties and their terminals be specifically distinguished. The ex-spouses and their children form a visitation group. The visitation group may include a third party (e.g., a visitation support worker). In the illustrated example, the ex-spouses have one child, but the ex-spouses may have multiple children. In the following description of the embodiments, we assume that the ex-spouses are divorced, but we may also assume that the ex-spouses are planning to divorce.

[0021] The cohabiting parent terminal 100, the non-cohabiting parent terminal 200, the server 300, the third-party terminal 400, and the LLM server 500 are connected to network 10 and can communicate with each other via network 10. Network 10 includes the Internet. Network 10 is a LAN (Local Area Network) and / or WAN (Wide Area Network). It may include a network.

[0022] Each terminal (cohabiting parent terminal 100, non-cohabiting parent terminal 200, third-party terminal 400) is a device having communication functions and a user interface (UI). For example, each terminal may be a smartphone, tablet terminal, personal computer (PC), or wearable device, but in the following description of the embodiment, it is mainly assumed that each terminal is a smartphone. Each terminal may have a visitation support application installed, which is a program for using the visitation support service. Alternatively, each terminal may be able to use the visitation support service provided as a web service via a general-purpose web browser.

[0023] Each server (Server 300, LLM Server 500) may be a general-purpose computer such as a workstation or PC, or it may be logically implemented through cloud computing (distributed computing). In other words, each server may consist of one computer or multiple computers.

[0024] The cohabiting parent terminal 100 receives operations from the cohabiting parent and notifies the server 300 of the operation details. The cohabiting parent terminal 100 also receives information to present to the cohabiting parent from the server 300 and presents the information to the cohabiting parent. Presenting primarily means displaying information, but may also mean outputting audio. The cohabiting parent is assumed to have an account for the visitation support service.

[0025] Furthermore, the information processing system 1 may also have a child's terminal (also referred to as the "child terminal"). The child may also have an account for the visitation support service.

[0026] The separated parent terminal 200 receives operations from the separated parent and notifies the server 300 of the operation details. The separated parent terminal 200 also receives information to present to the separated parent from the server 300 and presents that information to the separated parent. The separated parent is assumed to have an account for the visitation support service.

[0027] Server 300 is a server that provides visitation support services. Visitation support services are services that coordinate visitation between the child and the non-custodial parent between the former spouses (custodial parent and non-custodial parent). The coordination of visitation includes at least one of the following: coordination of the visitation schedule, coordination of the visitation method, and coordination of the visitation conditions. The visitation schedule refers to the date and time (start time, end time) of the visitation. The visitation method includes face-to-face visitation and online visitation. In the case of face-to-face visitation, the coordination of visitation may also include coordination of the place where the child will be handed over (meeting place, dispersal place) and the place where the visit will take place. Visitation conditions refer to the conditions imposed on the non-custodial parent during visitation, such as "I will not buy expensive gifts except for birthdays and Christmas," "The allowance will be limited to 1000 yen," and "I will not let the child eat junk food."

[0028] The types of visitation arrangements made through visitation support services include visits that are scheduled on a case-by-case basis and (regular) visits that are scheduled in advance. Note that "arrangement" in the context of visitation can refer to repeated visits (repeated arrangements) or regular visits (regular arrangements).

[0029] In visitation arrangements that are set on a case-by-case basis, Server 300 adjusts the visitation schedule based on the request of one of the former spouses and creates a visitation plan each time. Server 300 has the function of adjusting visitation arrangements on a case-by-case basis. On the other hand, in (regular) visitation arrangements that are set by prior agreement, Server 300 creates a visitation schedule based on the prior agreement for the visitation. Server 300 also has the function of making adjustments to make such agreements.

[0030] The LLM server 500 is a server that performs language processing tasks using language models built with machine learning techniques, including AI. A language model models language in terms of the probability of word occurrence. LLM is a type of generative AI that can perform various language processing tasks by being given only a few examples of tasks after being pre-trained on a large amount of text data, specifically web content from the internet. Examples of such LLMs include GPT-3 and GPT-4 developed by OpenAI, and BERT and Gemini developed by Google. For example, server 300 communicates with LLM server 500 via an API (Application Programming Interface).

[0031] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the overview of the operation of the server 300 according to this embodiment.

[0032] As shown in Figure 2(a), Server 300 essentially facilitates direct mediation to arrange visitation by facilitating the exchange of standardized communication between former spouses (custodial parent and non-custodial parent). Direct mediation has the advantage of enabling swift adjustments and avoiding the costs associated with third-party intervention, as it does not involve third-party intervention. Furthermore, in direct mediation, Server 300 facilitates the exchange of standardized communication between former spouses. Standardized communication leaves little room for emotional factors, reducing the psychological burden on former spouses. In addition, standardized communication on the visitation support service allows for communication without disclosing the child's (and custodial parent's) address, compared to using letters or other forms of communication.

[0033] As mentioned above, divorced couples sometimes have difficulty communicating smoothly due to emotional factors. They want to allow their children to have visitation, but coordinating when and where visitation will take place between the ex-spouses becomes a psychological burden and inevitably leads to emotional and lengthy exchanges. There are also factors such as not wanting the non-custodial parent to know the address of the child (and the custodial parent). Therefore, Server 300 can resolve these issues by mediating the exchange of standardized communication content between the ex-spouses and facilitating the coordination of visitation.

[0034] In cases of direct adjustment, whether it is adjustment on a case-by-case basis or adjustment of the agreement, the adjustment of visitation rights is carried out using a procedure such as the following:

[0035] STEP 1: Server 300, in response to a request from one of the former spouses (e.g., the custodial parent), displays an input screen on the custodial parent's terminal (e.g., the custodial parent's terminal 100) that accepts input of information regarding visitation (visitation dates, methods, conditions, etc.) desired by that parent. This input screen allows the custodial parent to input information regarding visitation in a selection format (e.g., dropdown menu, checkboxes, etc.). In the case of adjustments made on a case-by-case basis, multiple candidate dates can be selected for the visitation date. On the other hand, in the case of adjustments made to an agreement, the frequency of regular visits (e.g., "the second Saturday of every month") may be selected as the visitation date. For visitation conditions, arbitrary descriptions (free text format) may be used, and multiple visitation conditions may be set.

[0036] STEP 2: Once one parent has completed the input, the server 300 notifies the other parent (e.g., the non-custodial parent). At this point, the one parent waits for confirmation from the other parent. The server 300 displays a confirmation screen of the visitation arrangements entered by the one parent on the other parent's terminal (e.g., the non-custodial parent's terminal 200). On this confirmation screen, the other parent can choose to accept or reject the visitation proposal from the one parent. If rejecting, they can select reasons such as "There are no suitable dates I can attend," "I want to skip the next visit," or "Other." If rejected, the server 300 notifies the one parent of the rejection and the reason.

[0037] In response to this, if the other parent accepts the visitation proposal, they select the "OK" button if they accept the proposed visitation information (visitation date, method of visitation, visitation conditions, etc.) as is. In this case, the visitation arrangement is completed, and server 300 creates the visitation schedule. However, if the other parent wishes to change some of the proposed visitation information (visitation date, method of visitation, visitation conditions, etc.), they can propose changes to the other parent by entering the changes.

[0038] STEP 3: If the other parent proposes a change, the server 300 displays the visitation information, including the proposed change, on the other parent's terminal (for example, the cohabiting parent's terminal 100). If the other parent accepts the proposed change, they select the "OK" button. In this case, the visitation arrangement is completed, and the server 300 creates a visitation schedule. However, if the other parent does not accept the proposed change, they can reject the proposal or submit a revised proposal. In this case, the process may return to STEP 1.

[0039] Thus, in cases of direct negotiation, the former spouses directly negotiate the details of visitation, which can lead to the negotiation failing if they do not reach an agreement on the terms of visitation. Furthermore, in cases of direct negotiation, some items such as visitation conditions can be entered in a free-text format, which can result in emotionally charged messages being exchanged.

[0040] Server 300 also has a messaging function that enables message exchange between former spouses. Such message exchange is basically done by selecting (or using) pre-defined phrases. For example, one parent can select from options such as "Please allow me to cancel visitation due to poor health," "I will be a little late for visitation," or "Please allow me to cancel the next visitation," and a message will be sent to the other parent. Message exchange between former spouses may constitute part of direct adjustment. Messages may be limited to pre-defined phrases, or users may choose to write anything they want, i.e., in a free-text format. Server 300 may also have functions for message exchange between a separated parent and a child, or between former spouses and a third party. Message exchange between former spouses and a third party may constitute part of intervention adjustment.

[0041] As shown in Figure 2(b), the server 300 has not only a direct adjustment function but also an intervention adjustment function, and is configured to allow switching between direct adjustment and intervention adjustment for visitation arrangements. In intervention adjustment, an assistant is brought in between the former couple to facilitate the adjustment of visitation arrangements. Although intervention adjustment has disadvantages such as requiring a long time to adjust visitation arrangements and incurring costs due to the intervention of a third party, it has advantages such as further reducing the psychological burden on the former couple and making it easier for both parties to agree on the content of visitation.

[0042] In this way, by making it possible to switch between direct adjustment and intervention adjustment for visitation, it becomes possible to appropriately use both direct adjustment and intervention adjustment to ensure the smooth implementation of visitation. Specifically, it becomes possible to efficiently adjust visitation and increase the rate at which visitation takes place.

[0043] In intervention and coordination, an assistant generally refers to a third party such as an arbitrator or a visitation support worker. An arbitrator is an arbitrator (mediator) in ADR, and may be, for example, a lawyer. A visitation support worker is a private or administrative organization or individual (such as a parent-child interaction support group) that provides support such as coordinating communication between the parties, handing over the child, and supervision. Arbitrators may be available for intervention and coordination when adjusting (regular) visitation arrangements. Visitation support workers may be available for intervention and coordination when adjusting visitation on a case-by-case basis. However, visitation support workers may also be available for intervention and coordination when adjusting (regular) visitation arrangements.

[0044] The third-party terminal 400 receives operations from a third party (arbitrator or visitation support worker) and notifies the server 300 of the operation details. The third-party terminal 400 also receives information to be presented to the third party from the server 300 and presents that information to the third party. The third party is assumed to have an account for the visitation support service as an assistant (supporter).

[0045] The assistant in intervention coordination may be an artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot, i.e., an AI assistant (AI supporter). The AI ​​assistant may be available for intervention coordination when adjusting visitation arrangements on a case-by-case basis. However, the AI ​​assistant may also be available for intervention coordination when adjusting (regular) visitation arrangements. Server 300 may provide AI chatbot functionality in conjunction with LLM server 500.

[0046] (2) Server configuration Figure 3 shows an example configuration of the server 300 according to this embodiment.

[0047] The server 300 includes a communication unit 310, a storage unit 320, and a processing unit 330. The communication unit 310, the storage unit 320, and the processing unit 330 are interconnected by a bus or the like (not shown in the figure).

[0048] The communication unit 310, under the control of the processing unit 330, communicates with other devices (for example, the cohabiting parent terminal 100, the non-cohabiting parent terminal 200, the third-party terminal 400, and the LLM server 500) via the network 10. The communication by the communication unit 310 may be wired communication or may include wireless communication. In particular, the communication unit 310 communicates with the cohabiting parent's terminal (cohabiting parent terminal 100) and with the non-cohabiting parent's terminal (non-cohabiting parent terminal 200).

[0049] The storage unit 320 is composed of various types of memory, such as ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and auxiliary storage devices. The program executed by the processing unit 330 (visitation support program) is stored, for example, in the ROM and / or auxiliary storage devices of the storage unit 320. The processing unit 330 is composed of one or more processors (computers).

[0050] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 4(a), the storage unit 320 stores user information (account information) for each user of the visitation support service. User information is registered when the account is registered (initial login) and includes a user ID, role, name, gender, date of birth, and address. The user ID is an identifier that uniquely identifies a user of the visitation support service. The role is selected from one of the following: "cohabiting parent," "separated parent," "child," or "assistant (supporter)." The name is the user's name or nickname. The gender is selected from either male or female. The date of birth is the user's date of birth and is used, for example, when calculating the user's age. The address is the user's address, but is not disclosed to other users.

[0051] As shown in Figure 4(b), the memory unit 320 stores visitation group information for each visitation group. A visitation group is created when one user (e.g., a cohabiting parent) invites another user (e.g., a non-cohabiting parent). The visitation group information includes a visitation group ID, cohabiting parent information, non-cohabiting parent information, supporter information, and information on one or more children. The visitation group ID is an identifier that uniquely identifies the visitation group. The cohabiting parent information is information about the cohabiting parent in the visitation group, including, for example, the cohabiting parent's user ID. The non-cohabiting parent information is information about the non-cohabiting parent in the visitation group, including, for example, the non-cohabiting parent's user ID. Supporter information exists when an assistant (supporter) is added to the visitation group, and includes, for example, the assistant's (supporter's) user ID. The child information is information about the child in the visitation group, including, for example, the child's user ID. The child information may be information entered (registered) by, for example, the cohabiting parent. The child information may also include image data of the child. The image data may be a photograph of the child or an illustration of the child.

[0052] As shown in Figure 4(c), the memory unit 320 stores visitation information for each visitation. The visitation information includes a visitation ID, a visitation group ID, visitation details, status, and start and end times. The visitation ID is an identifier that uniquely identifies the visitation. The visitation group ID is the visitation group ID of the visitation group conducting the visitation. The visitation details indicate the content of the visitation (date of visitation, method of visitation, visitation conditions, etc.) agreed upon or prior to the agreement between the former spouses through visitation arrangements. The status is one of the following: "Confirmed," "Pending Confirmation," "Visit Completed," "Cancelled," etc. The start and end times are the start and end times if the visitation takes place. For example, the start and end times are registered when the non-custodial parent operates the "Start Visitation" button at the start of the visitation and when the non-custodial parent operates the "End Visitation" button at the end of the visitation.

[0053] The processing unit 330 implements the visitation support service by executing a visitation support program. In the following embodiment, the configuration and operation related to messages that can be sent and received between the cohabiting parent terminal 100 and the non-cohabiting parent terminal 200 via the server 300 will be mainly described.

[0054] The processing unit 330 implements the following functional units: a message processing unit 331, a message control unit 332, and a reply candidate suggestion unit 333. Each functional unit of the processing unit 330 communicates with other devices via the communication unit 310 and performs information processing using various information stored in the storage unit 320. In particular, the communication unit 310 communicates with the terminals of one parent who is divorced or planning to divorce, and the other parent.

[0055] Furthermore, in the following embodiment, an example is described in which "one parent" is the cohabiting parent and "the other parent" is the non-cohabiting parent, but it is also possible for "one parent" to be the non-cohabiting parent and "the other parent" to be the cohabiting parent.

[0056] (2.1) Message processing unit and message control unit The message processing unit 331 provides functions for sending and receiving both pre-written messages and free-text messages, which can be sent and received between one parent's terminal (e.g., cohabiting parent's terminal 100) and the other parent's terminal (e.g., non-cohabiting parent's terminal 200) via the server 300 (communication unit 310).

[0057] A standard message is a message selected by the user from a set of predefined standard messages. Information on multiple standard messages is pre-registered in the storage unit 320. When a user selects to send a message using a standard message on their terminal, the message processing unit 331 displays the multiple standard messages registered in the storage unit 320 on the user's terminal and sends the selected standard message as a standard message to the recipient's terminal. Standard messages can prevent messages that may offend the recipient, thus preventing unnecessary disputes. On the other hand, there is an upper limit to the number of standard messages that can be pre-registered, and a standard message with the content desired by the user may not be available. Also, if the number of pre-registered standard messages is enormous, it becomes a burden for the user when selecting a standard message.

[0058] A free-text message is a message entered by the user via text input (i.e., in free-text format). When the user selects to send a message using free text on their terminal, the message processing unit 331 displays a text input field on the user's terminal and sends the free-text message entered in the text input field to the recipient's terminal. While free-text messages can overcome the disadvantages of pre-written messages, they may lead to unnecessary disputes because messages containing offensive content may be sent and received.

[0059] In this embodiment, the message processing unit 331 provides functions for sending and receiving both pre-written messages and free-text messages as messages that can be sent and received between one parent's terminal (e.g., cohabiting parent terminal 100) and the other parent's terminal (e.g., separate parent terminal 200) via the server 300 (communication unit 310). This makes it possible to combine the advantages of both pre-written messages and free-text messages.

[0060] However, since the exchange of free-text messages can be a significant psychological burden for divorced or planning divorced parents, it is undesirable to allow unconditional sending and receiving of free-text messages between the cohabiting parent terminal 100 and the non-cohabiting parent terminal 200. Therefore, in this embodiment, a mechanism is introduced to restrict the sending of free-text messages from the other party if the cohabiting parent or non-cohabiting parent does not wish to receive such messages. As such a restriction, in this embodiment, if the cohabiting parent does not wish to receive free-text messages from the other party, the sending of such messages from the other party is disabled. Even if the sending and receiving of free-text messages is disabled, the sending and receiving of pre-written messages is still possible, thus enabling communication between the cohabiting parent and the non-cohabiting parent.

[0061] Specifically, when the message control unit 332 receives a first request from one parent's terminal (e.g., cohabiting parent's terminal 100) to disable the sending of free-text messages, it sets a restriction (also called "free-text message restriction") that disables the sending of free-text messages from the other parent's terminal (e.g., non-cohabiting parent's terminal 200), while allowing the sending of standardized messages from the other parent's terminal (e.g., non-cohabiting parent's terminal 200). When the message control unit 332 receives the first request from one parent's terminal (e.g., cohabiting parent's terminal 100), it stores information in the storage unit 320 (e.g., visitation group information) indicating that the sending of free-text messages from one parent is disabled. This allows one parent who feels a significant psychological burden from receiving free-text messages from the other parent to avoid receiving them by making the first request.

[0062] However, even with such restrictions on free-text messaging, there may be times when one parent wants to send an urgent free-text message to the other parent, for example, on the day of or the day before a visitation. If such free-text messages cannot be sent, it can lead to misunderstandings between the two parents, potentially hindering the proper conduct of visitation.

[0063] Therefore, in this embodiment, even if a restriction on free-text messages is set, if the message control unit 332 receives a second request and payment processing from the other parent's terminal (e.g., the separate parent's terminal 200) that enables the transmission of free-text messages, it performs conditional permission control that allows the transmission of free-text messages from the other parent's terminal (e.g., the separate parent's terminal 200) for a predetermined number of times (e.g., 3 times) at predetermined intervals (e.g., 1 month). Such free-text messages are basically intended to be urgent messages and will be referred to as "urgent messages" below.

[0064] Here, payment processing refers to the other parent paying a fixed monthly or annual fee for the visitation support service, but it is not necessarily limited to monetary payment; payment may also be made in the form of points or other means with monetary value. Payment processing is imposed as a condition to allow the other parent, who should not be able to send free-text messages due to the free-text message restriction, to send free-text messages (urgent messages). This makes it difficult to easily make a second request, and makes it easier to ensure the effectiveness of the free-text message restriction. In addition, by allowing the sending of urgent messages to be limited to a predetermined number of times (e.g., 3 times) at predetermined intervals (e.g., 1 month), it is easier to ensure the effectiveness of the free-text message restriction.

[0065] Furthermore, for users who are processing payments, information to that effect is stored in the storage unit 320, and information on the number of emergency messages sent per month (or the remaining number of messages that can be sent) is also stored and managed in the storage unit 320.

[0066] However, free-form messages sent as urgent messages may contain offensive (emotional) content. If such free-form messages are sent or received, it could lead to unnecessary conflict. Therefore, in this embodiment, a mechanism is introduced to prevent the transmission of such offensive (emotional) free-form messages (urgent messages).

[0067] Specifically, in this embodiment, when performing conditional permission control, the message control unit 332 determines whether the content of a free-text message that the other parent's terminal (e.g., the separate parent's terminal 200) is attempting to send to the one parent's terminal (e.g., the cohabiting parent's terminal 100) contains offensive (emotional) language. If offensive (emotional) language is found to be present, the message control unit 332 prevents the message from being sent. This determination process may be a rule-based determination process using pattern matching, an AI-based determination process in cooperation with the LLM server 500, or a combination of both. In the case of an AI-based determination process, the LLM server 500 can be provided with a prompt such as "Does this text contain offensive (emotional) language?" along with the content of the free-text message to obtain a response regarding whether offensive (emotional) language is present.

[0068] For example, when performing conditional permission control, the message control unit 332 displays a check button on the other parent's terminal (e.g., the non-resident parent terminal 200) to check the content of a free-text message (urgent message) that the other parent's terminal (e.g., the non-resident parent terminal 200) intends to send to the other parent's terminal (e.g., the cohabiting parent terminal 100), and a send button to execute the sending of the free-text message. The message control unit 332 performs a determination process in response to the operation of the check button. The message control unit 332 disables the send button until it determines that the free-text message does not contain offensive language. The message control unit 332 enables the send button once it has determined that the free-text message does not contain offensive language. This makes it possible to prevent the sending of free-text messages (urgent messages) that contain offensive language.

[0069] Furthermore, even if a free-text message (urgent message) does not contain aggressive (emotional) content, if the expression is rude (impolite), there is a concern that it may offend the feelings of the parent who receives the free-text message (urgent message). Therefore, when the message control unit 332 performs conditional permission control, if the content of a free-text message that the other parent's terminal (e.g., the non-resident parent's terminal 200) is to send to the one parent's terminal (e.g., the cohabiting parent's terminal 100) does not contain aggressive expression, the message control unit 332 modifies the content of the free-text message to make it more polite and then allows the free-text message to be sent. This text modification process may be a rule-based modification process using a conversion table, an AI-based modification process in cooperation with the LLM server 500, or a combination of both. In the case of an AI-based modification process, by providing the LLM server 500 with a prompt such as "Modify this text to polite expression" along with the content of the free-text message, it is possible to obtain a text modified to polite expression.

[0070] In this embodiment, when the message control unit 332 performs conditional permission control, when displaying a free-text message from the other parent's terminal (e.g., the cohabiting parent's terminal 100) on one parent's terminal (e.g., the cohabiting parent's terminal 200), it also displays information indicating that the free-text message is an urgent message. The parent that made the first request is aware that it will not receive a free-text message from the other parent, but by notifying that the free-text message is a special message (urgent message), it is possible to prevent confusion among the parent.

[0071] (2.2) Reply Candidate Proposal Department In this embodiment, when the receiving terminal, which is either the terminal of one parent (e.g., the cohabiting parent terminal 100) or the terminal of the other parent (e.g., the non-cohabiting parent terminal 200), receives a message (a free-text message or a standard message), the reply candidate suggestion unit 333 displays multiple candidate reply messages (e.g., three reply candidates) on the receiving terminal. That is, the reply candidate suggestion unit 333 automatically displays multiple candidate reply messages on the receiving terminal. Then, when one of the multiple reply candidates is selected, the reply candidate suggestion unit 333 sends the selected candidate as a reply message to the sending terminal.

[0072] This reduces the burden on the receiving parent in replying. In particular, for divorced or planning divorced parents, exchanging messages can be psychologically burdensome, and they usually want to complete the reply process as quickly as possible. The processing of the proposed reply candidates according to this embodiment reduces the effort required to search for desired standard phrases, making it possible to complete the reply process as quickly as possible, thereby alleviating such psychological burden.

[0073] The reply candidate suggestion unit 333 may obtain multiple reply candidates from the large-scale language model (LLM server 500) by inputting the content of the message received by the receiving terminal and a prompt instructing the generation of reply candidates (for example, a prompt such as "Provide three reply candidates for this message"). This allows for obtaining appropriate reply candidates. Alternatively, reply candidates may be obtained in a rule-based manner using a table that associates the content of the received message with the reply candidates.

[0074] In this embodiment, the reply candidate suggestion unit 333 displays multiple reply candidates and a regenerate button that accepts a regeneration operation for reply candidates on the receiving terminal. When the regenerate button is operated, the reply candidate suggestion unit 333 uses a large-scale language model (LLM server 500) to obtain a reply candidate different from the multiple reply candidates and displays the different reply candidate on the receiving terminal. Then, when one of the regenerated reply candidates is selected, the reply candidate suggestion unit 333 sends the selected candidate as a reply message to the sending terminal. As a result, if the receiving user does not have the desired content among the initial reply candidates, they can operate the regenerate button to select the desired content from other reply candidates.

[0075] For example, the reply candidate suggestion unit 333 stores reply candidates obtained using the large-scale language model (LLM server 500). When the regenerate button is pressed, the received message, the reply candidate, and a prompt instructing a different reply candidate are input to the large-scale language model (LLM server 500) to obtain the different reply candidate.

[0076] Alternatively, the reply candidate suggestion unit 333 uses a large-scale language model (LLM server 500) to acquire a large number of reply candidates in advance and displays only a portion of them on the receiving terminal. If the regeneration button is pressed, the reply candidate suggestion unit 333 displays a different portion of the large number of reply candidates that were acquired in advance on the receiving terminal.

[0077] Such generation (suggestion) of reply candidates may be applicable to messages received earlier than the most recent received message. For example, if a receiving terminal receives multiple messages in succession, the receiving user may want to use the function to generate (suggest) reply candidates to messages received earlier than the most recent received message. Therefore, when the reply candidate suggestion unit 333 receives an operation to generate reply candidates specifying a message older than the most recent message among the multiple messages received by the receiving terminal, it displays multiple reply candidates for that older message on the receiving terminal. This makes it possible to generate (suggest) reply candidates to messages received earlier than the most recent received message.

[0078] (3) Example of server operation An example of the operation of the server 300 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0079] (3.1) Actions related to emergency messages Figure 5 shows an example of the operation of an emergency message according to this embodiment.

[0080] In step S101, if the message control unit 332 receives a first request from one parent's terminal (e.g., cohabiting parent terminal 100) to disable the sending of free-text messages, it sets a restriction (free-text message restriction) that disables the sending of free-text messages from the other parent's terminal (e.g., non-cohabiting parent terminal 200), while enabling the sending of standardized messages from the other parent's terminal (e.g., non-cohabiting parent terminal 200).

[0081] In step S102, if the message control unit 332 receives a second request and payment processing from the other parent's terminal (e.g., the separate parent's terminal 200) that enables the sending of a free-text message, even if a restriction on free-text messages is set, it performs conditional permission control that allows the sending of a free-text message (urgent message) from the other parent's terminal (e.g., the separate parent's terminal 200) for a predetermined number of times (e.g., 3 times) at predetermined intervals (e.g., 1 month).

[0082] In step S103, if the message control unit 332 performs conditional permission control, it determines whether the content of the free-text message that the other parent's terminal (e.g., the separate parent's terminal 200) is trying to send to the one parent's terminal (e.g., the cohabiting parent's terminal 100) contains offensive (emotional) language.

[0083] If the content of the free-text message (urgent message) does not contain any offensive language (step S104: NO), in step S105, the message control unit 332 modifies the content of the free-text message to make it more polite and then enables the transmission of the free-text message.

[0084] In step S106, when the message control unit 332 displays a free-text message from the other parent's terminal (e.g., the non-resident parent's terminal 200) on one parent's terminal (e.g., the cohabiting parent's terminal 100), it also displays information indicating that the free-text message is an urgent message.

[0085] On the other hand, if the content of the free-text message (urgent message) contains offensive language (step S104: YES), in step S107, the message control unit 332 will disable the transmission of the free-text message.

[0086] In that case, in step S108, the message control unit 332 may accept re-input of the free-text message on the other parent terminal (for example, the separate parent terminal 200). After that, the process returns to step S104.

[0087] (3.2) Actions related to suggested replies Figure 6 shows an example of operation related to the proposed response candidate according to this embodiment.

[0088] In step S201, when the receiving terminal, which is either the terminal of one parent (e.g., the terminal of the cohabiting parent 100) or the terminal of the other parent (e.g., the terminal of the parent living separately 200), receives a message, the reply candidate suggestion unit 333 displays multiple candidate reply messages (e.g., three reply candidates) to the receiving terminal.

[0089] In step S202, if the reply candidate suggestion unit 333 receives an operation from the receiving terminal to generate a reply candidate specifying a message older than the most recent message among multiple messages received, it may display multiple reply candidates for that older message on the receiving terminal.

[0090] The reply candidate suggestion unit 333 displays multiple reply candidates and a regeneration button that accepts the operation to regenerate the reply candidates on the receiving terminal.

[0091] If one of the multiple reply candidates is selected (step S203: YES), in step S204, the reply candidate suggestion unit 333 sends the selected candidate as a reply message to the sender's terminal.

[0092] On the other hand, if no candidate is selected from the multiple reply candidates (step S203: NO) and the regeneration button is operated, the reply candidate suggestion unit 333 displays multiple reply candidates different from the selected candidates on the receiving terminal (step S205). After that, the process returns to step S203.

[0093] (4) Example of terminal screen display An example of the screen display of the terminal according to this embodiment will be described.

[0094] (4.1) Example of the top screen display Figure 7 shows an example of the screen display on the terminals of former spouses (co-resident parent terminal 100, non-custodial parent terminal 200) when using the visitation support service. This display screen may also be the screen that is initially displayed after logging in (the so-called top screen).

[0095] In the example screen display shown in Figure 7, there are areas A1 and A2 for displaying the child's image, areas A3 and A4 for displaying the visitation schedule, area A5 for displaying the number of visitation sessions, area A6 for accepting the operation to create a visitation schedule, area A7 for accepting the operation to start exchanging messages, and area A8 for accepting the operation to request support from an assistant (supporter).

[0096] In the illustrated example, areas A1 and A2 display photographs of two children. Area A3 displays the most recent visitation schedule (visitation details). In this case, the visitation shown in area A3 is scheduled for the current day, and area A3 includes "Start Visit" and "End Visit" buttons. On the other hand, area A4 displays the next visitation schedule (visitation details) and does not include "Start Visit" or "End Visit" buttons.

[0097] Area A5 displays the cumulative number of visitation sessions up to that point. Area A5 may also display the number of visitation sessions by method of visitation. For example, it may be possible to display the number of visitation sessions separately for face-to-face (direct), online, and indirect (letters or emails).

[0098] Area A6 is a button that accepts the operation to create a visitation schedule. When Area A6 is operated (tapped), the procedure for adjusting visitation arrangements through direct coordination (STEP 1 described above) is initiated. Separately from Area A6, there may be an area (button) for initiating the coordination for visitation arrangements.

[0099] Area A7 is a button that accepts the action of initiating a message exchange. When Area A7 is operated (tapped), the screen switches to a message creation screen where the recipient can be specified and a message can be created. On the message creation screen, the user can choose to select from pre-written templates or enter a message in free text format.

[0100] Area A8 is a button that accepts requests for assistance from an assistant (supporter). When Area A6 is operated (tapped), the procedure for adjusting visitation arrangements through indirect coordination is initiated.

[0101] (4.2) Example of screen display for emergency messages Figure 8 shows an example of a message screen display for exchanging messages. Here, it is assumed that the user of the terminal shown in Figure 8 is not restricted from sending free-text messages, while the recipient is configured to be restricted from sending free-text messages.

[0102] In the example screen display shown in Figure 8, there is an area B1 that displays the settings for free-text messages, an area B2 that displays received and sent messages in chronological order, a tab B3 for urgent messages, a tab B4 for free-text messages, and a tab B3 for standardized messages.

[0103] This diagram illustrates an example of the screen display when tab B3 for emergency messages is selected. It further includes a message input field B6 for entering a free-text message (emergency message), a check button B7 for checking the content of the free-text message (emergency message), and a send button B8 for sending the free-text message.

[0104] In this state, the send button B8 is ready to accept input. The send button B8 also displays information indicating the remaining number of emergency messages that can be sent this month. The user enters text in the message input field B6 and then operates (taps) the check button B7. When the check button B7 is operated, a judgment process (for example, filtering judgment using a generation AI) is executed.

[0105] In the illustrated example, the message contains the aggressive phrase "Enough already." In this case, the screen transitions to the one shown in Figure 9, and a message C1 is displayed indicating that sending the free-text message entered in the message input field B6 is not possible. Pressing the "OK" button returns the user to the screen shown in Figure 8. In this case, the send button B8 remains unresponsive. The send button B8 remains unresponsive until it is determined that the free-text message entered in the message input field B6 does not contain any aggressive language. Once it is determined that the free-text message entered in the message input field B6 does not contain any aggressive language, the send button B8 changes to an unresponsive state.

[0106] Figure 10 shows another example of the message screen displaying messages. Here, it is assumed that the free-text message entered in message input field D1 does not contain any offensive language. However, the message in question is "Can you send me a package?", which is not a polite expression. In this case, when the check button is pressed, the message is automatically corrected to a more polite expression D2, specifically, "Could you send me a package?".

[0107] Figure 11 shows an example of the screen display on a terminal receiving an emergency message. In the example shown, the terminal that receives the emergency message "Can you send me a package?" displays an indication E2 in the message display area E1 that the message is an emergency message.

[0108] (4.3) Example of screen display for suggested reply options Figure 12 shows an example of the screen display on a terminal that received a message.

[0109] In the illustrated example, the terminal displays multiple reply options F3 to F5 in the message display area F1, which are the content of reply messages to the received message F2. It also displays a regenerate button F6 that accepts the operation to regenerate the reply options.

[0110] If one of the reply options F3 through F5 is selected (tapped), that selected option will be sent as a reply message to the sender's device. On the other hand, if no option is selected from the reply options F3 through F5, and the regenerate button F6 is operated (tapped), multiple reply options different from those F3 through F5 will be displayed.

[0111] Figure 13 shows an example of a screen display showing suggested replies to previously received messages.

[0112] In the illustrated example, the message display area G1 accepts an operation to generate reply candidates, specifying a message G3 that is older than the latest message G6 among multiple messages G2 to G6 received by the receiving terminal. For example, when the older received message G3 is selected (tapped), a button G7 is displayed to instruct the generation of reply candidates for received message G3. When button G7 is operated (tapped), multiple reply candidates for received message G3 are displayed.

[0113] (5) Example of change 1 Example 1 of the above embodiment will now be described.

[0114] In the embodiment described above, an example was explained in which, if one parent does not wish to receive free-text messages from the other parent, the sending of such messages from the other parent is prohibited. However, the restriction is not limited to such a restriction; it may also be limited to restricting the days on which free-text messages can be sent from the other parent's device. For example, the days on which free-text messages can be sent may be limited to the day of and / or the day before the visitation. In this case, free-text messages from the other parent's device are only permitted on the day of and / or the day before the visitation.

[0115] Alternatively, the restriction could be one that limits the number of free-text messages that can be sent from the other parent's device. For example, the number of free-text messages that can be sent could be limited to once or twice per month. In this case, only one or two free-text messages per month would be permitted from the other parent's device.

[0116] (6) Example of change 2 A second modification example of the above embodiment will now be described. Figure 14 shows the configuration of the server 300 according to the second modification example.

[0117] The server 300 in this modified example further includes a read receipt processing unit 334. The read receipt processing unit 334, based on the fact that a receiving terminal, which is either one of the parent terminals (e.g., the cohabiting parent terminal 100) or the other parent terminal (e.g., the non-cohabiting parent terminal 200), receives a message (a free-text message or a pre-written message) and the message is displayed on the receiving terminal, causes the sending terminal of the message to display read receipt information indicating that the message has been read.

[0118] Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating the read status information related to this modification example. Figure 15(a) shows an example of the screen display on the terminal sending the message, and Figure 15(b) shows an example of the screen display on the terminal receiving the message.

[0119] In the illustrated example, assume that the message "I have transferred the child support payment" is sent from the sending terminal to the receiving terminal. When this message is displayed on the receiving terminal (i.e., when the receiving parent views the message), the read receipt processing unit 334 detects this and immediately displays read receipt information on the sending terminal to indicate that the message has been read. This allows the receiving parent to know that they have viewed the message.

[0120] However, assuming that such read receipts are displayed, the receiving parent may feel psychological pressure to reply quickly after viewing the message. For example, the receiving parent may feel burdened by the fact that the sending parent knows the message has been read and may send additional messages (additional communications) from the sending parent.

[0121] Therefore, in this modified example, the read receipt processing unit 334 does not display the read receipt information on the sending terminal until a predetermined time (also called the "read receipt delay time") has elapsed after the message has been displayed on the receiving terminal, and then displays the read receipt information on the sending terminal when the predetermined read receipt delay time has elapsed. In other words, the read receipt processing unit 334 controls the display of the read receipt information on the sending terminal with a predetermined delay of time (also called "read receipt delay display control").

[0122] This means that even if the recipient's parent views the message, the read receipt will not be displayed on the sender's device until a pre-set read delay period has elapsed. This relieves the psychological pressure to reply quickly and also reduces the burden of receiving additional messages (additional communications) from the sender's parent.

[0123] Furthermore, once a pre-set read delay period has elapsed, the sender's device will display a read receipt, ensuring that the sender can confirm whether or not the message has been read—a crucial fact for them. This helps to alleviate anxieties, for example, that the sending parent might have, for instance, worried that the receiving parent may have withdrawn from the visitation service (app).

[0124] For example, the read receipt processing unit 334 periodically checks for messages that are actually read but are being managed as unread, and marks the message as read when the read delay period has elapsed (i.e., displays read status information for the message on the sending terminal).

[0125] Furthermore, in order to enable the read receipt delay display control, payment processing may be required as a condition, similar to the emergency message function described above.

[0126] The read receipt processing unit 334, upon receiving a message on the receiving terminal, does not display the read receipt information on the sending terminal until a predetermined read receipt delay period has elapsed. Once the predetermined read receipt delay period has elapsed, it displays the read receipt information on the sending terminal. In other words, the read receipt processing unit 334 controls the display of the read receipt information on the sending terminal with a predetermined delay (also referred to as "delayed read receipt display").

[0127] Figure 16 shows an example of a screen display for setting the read receipt delay display in this modification example. In the example shown, a button (slider) H1 labeled "Mark as Read Later" is displayed, and by selecting this button (slider) H1, the user can switch between enabling (turning on) or disabling (turning off) the read receipt delay display. The read receipt processing unit 334 enables (turns on) or disables (turns off) the read receipt delay display in response to such user operation.

[0128] Furthermore, the read receipt delay time may also be switchable according to user operation. For example, the read receipt processing unit 334 displays candidate read receipt delay times such as 2 hours, 6 hours, 12 hours, and 24 hours on the terminal, and sets the read receipt delay time selected from these candidates according to user operation.

[0129] However, even after the receiving device receives a message from the sending device, it may accept a reply to that message before the read delay period has elapsed. For example, if a read delay indicator is set and the read delay period is set to 6 hours, and the parent on the receiving device replies to the message one hour after receiving it, the sending device will receive the reply message, but the parent will feel uneasy when they see that the message they sent is still marked as unread.

[0130] Therefore, when the receiving terminal receives one or more messages from the sending terminal, and the receiving terminal performs a reply operation to one or more of those messages, the read receipt processing unit 334 displays read receipt information for that one or more messages on the sending terminal, even if a pre-set time (read delay time) has not elapsed. For example, if read delay display is set and the read delay time is set to 6 hours, suppose the receiving parent performs a reply operation 1 hour after receiving the message. In this case, the read receipt processing unit 334 displays read receipt information for that message on the sending terminal, even if the 6-hour read delay time has not elapsed. This solves the aforementioned problem of the sending parent feeling uneasy.

[0131] (7) Example of change 3 A third modification example of the above embodiment will now be described. Figure 17 shows the configuration of the server 300 according to modification example 3.

[0132] The server 300 in this modified example further includes a schedule creation unit 335. The schedule creation unit 335 may operate in cooperation with the LLM server 500 (AI). The schedule creation unit 335 processes the creation of visitation schedules between one parent and the parent who is separated from the child (the non-custodial parent) and the child, based on the history of messages sent and received between one parent's terminal and the other parent's terminal (also referred to as "message history" or "chat history"). This makes it possible to automatically or semi-automatically create visitation schedules from the content of message exchanges, reducing the effort required to create visitation schedules.

[0133] The schedule creation unit 335 may perform the process of creating a visitation schedule based on the message history and information on past visitation between the child and the non-custodial parent. This makes it possible to create (propose) a visitation schedule with high accuracy by taking into account not only the content of the message exchange but also the history of past visitation.

[0134] For example, even if the schedule creation unit 335 can determine the scheduled start date and time of the next visitation from the message exchange, it may not be able to determine the scheduled end date and time of the visitation (i.e., the duration of the visitation) from the message content. In such cases, if the duration of the previous visitation was 2 hours, the schedule creation unit 335 will create (propose) the schedule for the next visitation assuming that the scheduled end date and time of the visitation is 2 hours after the scheduled end date and time.

[0135] Alternatively, even if the schedule creation unit 335 can determine the scheduled start date of the next visitation from the message exchange, it may not be able to determine the scheduled start time of the visitation from the message content. In such cases, if the start time of the previous visitation was 13:00, the schedule creation unit 335 will create (propose) the schedule for the next visitation assuming that the scheduled start time of the visitation is 13:00.

[0136] The schedule creation unit 335 may start the process of creating a visitation schedule in response to receiving a schedule creation operation specifying any message on the message history screen displayed on either the terminal of one parent or the terminal of the other parent. In other words, the schedule creation unit 335 may start the process of creating a visitation schedule triggered by a user operation.

[0137] Figure 18 shows an example of the screen display when the process of creating a visitation schedule is initiated by a user operation, as described in this modification example.

[0138] As shown in Figure 18(a), the schedule creation unit 335 displays a menu (button) J1 labeled "AI Schedule Proposal" on the terminal of the sending or receiving parent when they tap the three dots next to the message or long-press the message. As shown in Figure 18(b), when this menu (button) J1 is tapped, the schedule creation unit 335 uses past messages (for example, about 10) and past visitation schedules (for example, about 3) as input to create a visitation schedule. In the illustrated example, the schedule creation unit 335 creates (proposes) the visitation schedule shown in Figure 18(b) from message J2, which includes a sentence stating that the next visitation is scheduled for the 16th, and message J3, which includes a sentence stating that the next visitation will start at 10:00 and that the location will be a park. If there are any errors or corrections needed in the schedule created by the schedule creation unit 335, the parent can manually correct the visitation schedule and then confirm it by pressing the "Create Visitation Schedule" button J4. In the example shown, the scheduled end time for the visitation is set to 12:00, which is set based on past visitation records. Specifically, even if an end time is not specified in the message, the AI ​​can determine that the end time is 12:00 if previous visits have lasted 2 hours.

[0139] Figure 19 shows an example of the screen display when the creation of a visitation schedule is automatically triggered based on monitoring of message content, as described in this modification example.

[0140] The schedule creation unit 335 starts the process of creating a visitation schedule when it detects a message in the message history related to scheduling or changing the schedule of a visitation. For example, as shown in Figure 19(a), if the schedule creation unit 335 detects that the chat content is related to scheduling, it displays a button K1 on the terminal that conveys the intention to "create a visitation schedule from the conversation". When button K1 is tapped, the schedule creation unit 335 starts the process of creating a visitation schedule.

[0141] As shown in Figure 19(b), the schedule creation unit 335 creates a visitation schedule using past messages (for example, about 10) and past visitation schedules (for example, about 3) as input. In the illustrated example, the schedule creation unit 335 creates (proposes) the visitation schedule shown in Figure 19(b) from message K2, which includes a sentence stating that the next visitation is scheduled for the 16th, and message K3, which includes a sentence stating that the next visitation will start at 10:00 and that the location will be a park. If there are any errors or corrections needed in the content created by the schedule creation unit 335, the parent can manually correct the visitation schedule and confirm the schedule by pressing the "Create Visitation Schedule" button K4.

[0142] The same applies to requests to change visitation schedules. When the schedule creation unit 335 detects a message such as, "It's scheduled for ~ day, but my child is suddenly ill, so please reschedule," it displays a button such as "Change Schedule" on the terminal. The schedule creation unit 335 may also guide the user by displaying a message such as, "Please suggest an alternative date," on the visitation schedule screen.

[0143] The embodiment shown in Figure 18 and the embodiment shown in Figure 19 may be used in combination. For example, if the schedule creation unit 335 is unable to detect that the message is related to scheduling or changing the date of visitation, the terminal may display a menu (button) labeled "AI Schedule Suggestion" by tapping the three dots next to the message or by long-pressing the message.

[0144] (8) Other embodiments The process of determining whether or not offensive language is included, and the process of correcting it to polite language, in the above-described embodiment may also be applied to messages other than emergency messages. The message control unit 332 may determine whether or not offensive language is included in the content of a free-text message sent and received between the cohabiting parent terminal 100 and the separate parent terminal 200, and may prevent the transmission of the free-text message if offensive language is included.

[0145] The operation flows and operation examples in the embodiments described above do not necessarily have to be executed chronologically in the order shown in the flow diagram or sequence diagram. For example, the steps in the operation may be executed in a different order than that shown in the flow diagram or sequence diagram, or they may be executed in parallel. Also, some steps in the operation may be deleted, or further steps may be added to the process. Furthermore, the operation flows and operation examples in the embodiments described above may be implemented separately and independently, or two or more operation flows and operation examples may be combined and implemented. For example, some steps of one operation flow may be added to another operation flow, or some steps of one operation flow may be replaced with some steps of another operation flow.

[0146] A program may be provided that causes a computer to perform the operations according to the above embodiment. The program may be recorded on a computer-readable medium. Using a computer-readable medium, it is possible to install the program on a computer. Here, the computer-readable medium on which the program is recorded may be a non-transient recording medium. The non-transient recording medium is not particularly limited, but may be a recording medium such as a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM.

[0147] As used in this disclosure, the phrases “based on” and “according to” do not mean “based solely on” or “according solely to” unless otherwise specified. The phrase “based on” means both “based solely on” and “based at least partially on.” Similarly, the phrase “according to” means both “based solely on” and “according at least partially to.” Furthermore, the terms “include,” “comprise,” and variations thereof do not mean that they include only the listed items, but may include only the listed items or may include additional items in addition to the listed items. Also, the term “or” as used in this disclosure is not intended to mean exclusive OR. In this disclosure, where articles are added by translation, such as a, an, and the in English, these articles are intended to include multiple items unless it is clearly indicated otherwise from the context.

[0148] Although the embodiments have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to those described above, and various design changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0149] 1: Information Processing System 10: Network 100: Co-habiting parent's terminal 200: Separated parent's terminal 300: Server 310: Communications Department 320: Storage section 330: Processing Unit 331: Message Processing Unit 332: Message Control Unit 333: Reply Candidate Proposal Department 334: Read receipt processing 335: Schedule Creation Department 400: Third-party terminal 500: LLM Server

Claims

1. An information processing device that communicates with the terminals of one parent who is divorced or planning to divorce, and the other parent, A message processing unit that provides functions for sending and receiving pre-written messages and free-text messages, respectively, as messages that can be sent and received between the one parent terminal and the other parent terminal via the communication; The system includes a message control unit that, when a first request to disable the sending of the free-text message is received from one parent terminal, restricts the sending of the free-text message from the other parent terminal while allowing the sending of the standard message from the other parent terminal. Information processing device.

2. The aforementioned restriction is one that prevents the sending of the free-text message from the other parent's terminal. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned restriction limits the days on which the free-text message can be sent from the other parent's terminal. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

4. The aforementioned restriction limits the number of times the free-text message can be sent from the other parent's terminal. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

5. Even if the restrictions are set, if the message control unit receives a second request and payment processing from the other parent terminal that enables the transmission of the free-text message, it will perform conditional permission control that allows the other parent terminal to send the free-text message a predetermined number of times at predetermined intervals. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. When the message control unit performs the conditional permission control, it determines whether the content of the free-text message that the other parent terminal intends to send to the one parent terminal contains offensive language, and if it contains offensive language, it prevents the sending of the free-text message. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5.

7. When the message control unit performs the conditional permission control, The other parent's terminal displays a check button for checking the content of the free-text message to be sent from the other parent's terminal to the one parent's terminal, and a send button for sending the free-text message. The determination process is performed in response to the operation of the aforementioned check button. Until it is determined that the free-text message does not contain offensive language, the send button will be disabled. If it is determined that the free-text message does not contain offensive language, the send button will be made available for operation. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6.

8. When the message control unit performs the conditional permission control, and the content of the free-text message that the other parent terminal intends to send to the one parent terminal does not contain any offensive language, the message control unit modifies the content of the free-text message to use polite language and then allows the transmission of the free-text message. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6.

9. When the message control unit performs the conditional permission control, it displays the free-text message from the other parent terminal on the one parent terminal, and also displays information indicating that the free-text message is an urgent message. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5.

10. When the receiving terminal, which is either the terminal of one parent or the terminal of the other parent, receives the message, the system further includes a reply candidate suggestion unit that displays multiple candidate reply message content options for the received message on the receiving terminal. If a candidate is selected from the multiple candidates, the reply candidate suggestion unit sends the selected candidate as the reply message to the sending terminal. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

11. The reply candidate suggestion unit inputs the content of the message received by the receiving terminal and a prompt instructing the generation of a reply to the large-scale language model, thereby obtaining the multiple candidates from the large-scale language model. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10.

12. The aforementioned response candidate proposal section: The receiving terminal displays the aforementioned multiple candidates and a regenerate button that accepts the operation to regenerate the reply candidates. In response to the operation of the regeneration button, the large-scale language model is used to obtain a different reply candidate from the multiple candidates, and this different reply candidate is displayed on the receiving terminal. The information processing apparatus according to claim 11.

13. When the reply candidate suggestion unit receives an operation from the receiving terminal to generate a reply candidate specifying a message older than the most recent message among a plurality of messages received by the receiving terminal, it displays the plurality of candidates for that older message on the receiving terminal. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10.

14. The message control unit performs a determination process to determine whether the content of the free-text message sent and received between the one parent terminal and the other parent terminal contains offensive language, and if offensive language is found to be present, it prevents the transmission of the free-text message. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

15. The system further includes a read receipt processing unit that, based on the receiving terminal, which is either the terminal of one parent or the terminal of the other parent, receives the message and the message is displayed on the receiving terminal, displays read receipt information on the terminal that sent the message, indicating that the message has been read. The read receipt processing unit prevents the sender's terminal from displaying the read receipt information until a predetermined time has elapsed after the message is displayed on the receiving terminal, and then displays the read receipt information on the sender's terminal once the predetermined time has elapsed. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

16. The read receipt processing unit, when the receiving terminal receives one or more messages from the sending terminal and the receiving terminal processes a reply to any of those one or more messages, will display the read receipt information for that one or more messages on the sending terminal, even if the predetermined time has not elapsed. The information processing apparatus according to claim 15.

17. The system further includes a schedule creation unit that processes the creation of a schedule for visitation between the child and the parent who is separated from the child, based on the history of messages sent and received between the terminal of one parent and the terminal of the other parent. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

18. The aforementioned schedule creation unit performs the process of creating the schedule based on the history and information on past visitation and contact between the child and the parent who is not living with the child. The information processing apparatus according to claim 17.

19. The schedule creation unit starts the process of creating the schedule in response to receiving a schedule creation operation specifying any message on the message history screen displayed on either the one parent terminal or the other parent terminal. The information processing apparatus according to claim 17.

20. The schedule creation unit starts the process of creating the schedule when it detects a message in the history regarding scheduling or changing the date of the visitation. The information processing apparatus according to claim 17.

21. An information processing device that communicates with the terminals of one parent who is divorced or planning to divorce, and the other parent, A process that provides functions for sending and receiving both pre-written messages and free-text messages as messages that can be sent and received between the one parent terminal and the other parent terminal via the communication, If a first request to disable the sending of the free-text message is received from one parent terminal, the system will execute a process that restricts the sending of the free-text message from the other parent terminal while enabling the sending of the standard message from the other parent terminal. program.

Images