Problem-solving idea generation support system, problem-solving idea generation support device, and problem-solving idea generation support method

Abstract

This embodiment provides a problem-solving idea generation support system, a problem-solving idea generation support device, and a problem-solving idea generation support method that further support idea generation. [Solution] In one embodiment, the database contains set data in which conditional clause information (IF) and execution clause information (THEN) are combined through software processing. Furthermore, the system is configured to prepare linked data that associates this combination with information on multiple useful situations (target users, scenes, themes), and the system is configured to allow this linked data to be viewed visually.

Description

Technical Field

[0004]

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a problem-solving idea support system, a problem-solving idea support device, and a problem-solving idea support method for assisting in solving problems.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, many problem-solving techniques or many techniques for promoting users' awareness, discovery, and invention have been proposed. As an example of a creative idea support method for solving problems, the following method has been proposed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An object of the present embodiment is to provide a problem-solving idea support method, a problem-solving idea support system, a control device, and a problem-solving idea support method for more effectively supporting ideas.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] In one embodiment, there is provided a problem-solving idea support system having a database including data related to a first execution means and a second execution means, and a control device, The database is conditional clause information (IF) corresponding to the data of the first execution means, execution clause information (THEN) corresponding to the data of the second execution means, and means for storing set data. The set data is a combination of the conditional clause information (IF) and the execution clause information (THEN) through software processing, and this combination is further associated with information on multiple useful situations (target user, scene, theme, conditional clause (IF), execution clause (THEN)), and the software includes a routine to check for cases where the combination is impossible. The aforementioned database can be connected to multiple devices having display screens. The device includes a display screen that displays information for each of the multiple situations (target user, scene, theme, conditional clause (IF), execution clause (TEN)) in its corresponding area, and has means for selectively placing the information in the area based on user operation, and for storing the placed information as set data in the database based on user operation. The control device is When the user provides the conditional clause information (IF), the execution clause information (THEN) linked to the provided conditional clause information (IF) is identified. Furthermore, a problem-solving idea support system is provided, characterized in that, among the first and second execution means, it has means for presenting information that identifies the first execution means corresponding to the identified conditional clause information (IF), and means for presenting information that identifies the second execution means corresponding to the identified execution clause information (THEN).

[0006] In this embodiment, the database is provided on a server, and multiple devices having display screens can be connected to the database via a network. The device includes a display screen that displays information for each of the multiple situations (target user, scene, theme, conditional clause (IF), execution clause (TEN)) in its respective block. Based on user operation, the information is selectively placed in the block, and based on the operation, the placed information is linked and transmitted to the server's database.

[0007] In this embodiment, the database is provided on a server, and multiple devices having display screens can be connected to the database via a network. The device includes a display screen that displays information for each of the multiple situations (target user, scene, theme, conditional clause (IF), execution clause (TEN)) in its respective block. Based on user operation, the information in the block is selectively arranged, and based on the operation, some of the blocks are set to blank as a query area, linked together with the information in the other blocks, and sent to the server's database.

[0008] Furthermore, the problem-solving idea generation support system of this embodiment is applied to a problem-solving idea generation support device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1A] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram illustrating the first basic model of one embodiment. [Figure 1B] Figure 1B is a schematic diagram illustrating a second basic model of another embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an illustrative diagram illustrating an example of a method for providing problem-solving support services. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram showing specific examples of commonality within Figures 1A and 2. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a display screen shown during the problem-solving proposal planning step. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the relationships between the selection information set within each region of Figure 4. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an illustrative diagram illustrating an example of the first piece of information specified within the first category area. [Figure 7A] Figure 7A is an illustrative diagram illustrating an example of the second piece of information specified within the second category area. [Figure 7B] Figure 7B is an explanatory diagram illustrating further uses of the co-creation document format. [Figure 7C]FIG. 7C is an explanatory diagram showing an example of using the co-creation material format of FIG. 7B on an electrical display screen. [Figure 7D] FIG. 7D is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the display screen 110 described in FIG. 7C and the database 27. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic explanatory diagram of a problem-solving idea support system for verification. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a structural explanatory diagram of a control device in the problem-solving idea support system. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the description of problem-solving rule information. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific content example of verification. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram of another embodiment of the problem-solving idea support method.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] The outline of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B. FIG. 1A is a schematic explanatory diagram of the first basic outline of one embodiment. Each block is a "processing block" for processing data, but in the following description, the term "processing block" is omitted using plain terms. Also, in the description of the embodiment, the term "means" is used, but this means may be replaced with a processor, circuit, unit, etc.

[0011] The problem-solving support service system includes processing blocks for target problem specification 10, idea generation for problem solution 12, verification 14, result announcement 16, and evaluation information collection 18. And each processing block receives information input from the user 8A.

[0012] The target problem specification 10 is a block (or place) where the problem to be solved is clarified. Therefore, problem information is input from the user 8A. The idea generation for problem solution 12 is a block (or place) where idea information for solving the problem is presented. Therefore, an idea for solving the problem is input from the user 8A.

[0013] Verification 14 is a block (or space) that obtains verification information such as the tools, environment, and probability required to realize a proposed plan for solving a problem. Therefore, user 8A inputs information such as methods and tools for realizing the proposed plan for solving the problem.

[0014] The results publication section 16 is a block (or space) for publishing (or notifying) information on whether a successful problem solution was achieved or not. The evaluation information collection section 18 is a block for calculating information that evaluates the results obtained for problem solving using a predetermined index, for example. For evaluation, evaluation methods appropriate to the various problems are adopted. For example, these may include the probability of problem solving, a percentage, or a judgment of 0 or 1.

[0015] Database 22 stores linked information such as the aforementioned issue information, planning information, demonstration information, publication information, and evaluation information. At least the planning information, demonstration information, publication information, and evaluation information for the same issue are linked. In addition, standardization 20 links at least the planning information and demonstration information as common data and standardizes the format.

[0016] This system further includes a feedback system 24. The feedback information from the feedback system 24 can be used in the problem-solving planning process 12. If a plan is presented, and the evaluation index for the plan is low, the system can issue a warning or suppress the plan.

[0017] Furthermore, this system can also have the function of collecting advertising fees.30 In other words, if a demonstration of high effectiveness in solving a problem is obtained, it is possible to advertise the user who conducted the demonstration (or the product used to solve the problem, etc.).

[0018] In the explanation above, it was described as if the processing of blocks 10 (specifying the target issue), 12 (developing a solution plan), and 14 (verification) were performed in order. However, this system is not limited to a specific processing order. It is also possible to first determine the planning information and verification information in 12 (developing a solution plan) and 14 (verification), and then pose the question, "What kind of problems can be solved based on this planning and verification information?" In other words, it is also possible to decide on two of the problem information, planning information, and verification information first, and then search (consider) the remaining one possibility.

[0019] Figure 1B is a schematic diagram illustrating the second basic principle of a further developed embodiment. The upper part of Figure 1B shows the form of the problem-solving support service (a collaborative work space for problem-solving) 2. The lower part of Figure 1B shows the members participating in the service and the viewers / evaluators 8 of the published results.

[0020] In this embodiment, the problem-solving support service 2 provides a platform for collaborative problem-solving among members 42, 52, 62, and 72 belonging to different genres (specialized fields) 40, 50, 60, and 70, and conducts verification 14 based on the formulation 12 of problem-solving proposals obtained through this platform. The results of this verification 14 are then publicly announced 16, for example, using a homepage on the internet. Incidentally, prior to the formulation 12 of problem-solving proposals, the end-user member 42 who is troubled by the problem may specify the target problem 10. The target problem specification 10 here may be entered in advance, for example, from a homepage screen on the internet.

[0021] An example of problem solving performed in this embodiment is shown. For example, if the end-user members 42 include the director or manager of a nursing care facility, the owner of a restaurant, or a construction site supervisor, and the target problem 10 is designated as "solving labor shortages" or "reducing labor costs through personnel reduction," then an example will be described.

[0022] As a solution to this problem, service provider member 52 proposed a service to lend a "mechanized system" capable of solving the problem to end-user member 42, and wanted to consult with system integrator member 62 who could develop such a mechanized system.

[0023] This "mechanized system" requires devices to detect requests from residents of nursing homes and customers of restaurants, and devices (such as simple robots) to provide services in response to those requests. Therefore, the device product members 72 who supply these devices also participate in formulating solutions 12 and verifying the prototype "mechanized system" 14.

[0024] By creating a platform for collaborative problem-solving among the 42, 52, 62, and 72 members belonging to the 40, 50, 60, and 70 different genres (specialized fields), it becomes possible not only to construct an optimal system from a broad perspective but also to conduct detailed and accurate examinations. It should be noted that the examination can be conducted even if all or some of the members do not belong to different genres (specialized fields). However, in this embodiment, it is explained as an example where each member belongs to a different genre (specialized field) because belonging to different genres (specialized fields) has the potential to generate ideas that have not been considered before. Similarly, while it is possible for one person to generate ideas according to this embodiment, generating ideas with multiple people is more effective because it allows for participation in the brainstorming process with a game-like feel and enables comparison of ideas with other members, thus promoting more ideation. Therefore, the following explanation is based on an example where multiple people participate.

[0025] Here, if the results of the verification 14 are to be published, for example, on a website 16, the detailed contents of the prototype "mechanized system" will include not only a) the name of the system integrator member 62 who designed the system and the name of the system design company to which they belong, and b) the names of the manufacturers / sellers 72 of each device used, but also c) the name of the end-user member 42 who will actually use (or plan to use) the system and the location of use, and d) the name and location of the service provider member 52 who will provide the system rental service. Furthermore, the contents of this published results 16 will not only be viewable by each viewer / evaluator 44, 54, 64, and 74, but will also be able to optionally input personal evaluation results on the website. This evaluation information may then be collected 18 and fed back 24 into the formulation of problem-solving proposals 12.

[0026] Individuals belonging to categories 40, 50, 60, and 70 (specialized fields) are constantly struggling to optimize problem-solving. Therefore, the content of these published results (16) will be useful for the viewers / evaluators (44, 54, 64, and 74) belonging to each category in carrying out their work. As a result, this forum for publishing the results (16) effectively leads directly to business negotiations.

[0027] Therefore, advertising fees 30 may be collected from end-user members 42, service provider members 52, system integrator members 62, and device product members 72 for this results publication 16. Alternatively, instead of collecting advertising fees for the results publication 16, a referral fee may be collected for each visitor to the homepage posted by each member 42, 52, 62, or 72.

[0028] Thus, the problem-solving support service 2 in this embodiment consists of three main steps. Specifically, the first step is to formulate a problem-solving plan 12 through collaborative work among the members 42, 52, 62, and 72 based on the designation of the target problem 10. In the next second step, verification 14 is performed based on the results of the first step. Finally, in the third step, the results obtained in the second step are published 16, and evaluation information 18 is collected from each viewer / evaluator 44, 54, 64, and 74.

[0029] Furthermore, in the problem-solving support service 2 of this embodiment, the results of each stage from the designation of the target problem 10 to the collection of evaluation information 18 are sequentially stored in the database 22. The contents of this sequential database 22 can then be used as a reference or for application when formulating a problem-solving plan 12 for another target problem.

[0030] Furthermore, in Figures 1A and 1B, the publication of results 16 and the collection of evaluation information 18 are not necessarily required, and the process of designating the target issue 10, formulating a solution 12, and verifying the results 14 may suffice. This is because, as with the publication of results 16, the results can be considered confidentially and only with the relevant parties, rather than being made public.

[0031] Figure 2 shows a specific example of the problem-solving support service (a collaborative workspace for problem-solving) 2, from the designation of the target problem 10 to the publication of results 16, as shown in Figures 1A and 1B. In Figure 2, the workspace for problem-solving through collaborative work among members belonging to different genres (specialized fields) is likened to a high-end restaurant (Bistro). The collaborative event for problem-solving is called "Bistro ifLink" (ifLink is a registered trademark of Toshiba Digital Solutions Corporation). In Figure 2, the dish that customer 4 eats at a high-end restaurant is prepared by chef 6 using ingredients provided by ingredient provider 7. This is then evaluated by menu viewer / food reviewer 9. Customer 4 corresponds to end-user member 42 in Figure 1B, ingredient provider 7 corresponds to device product member 72, and chef 6 corresponds to system integrator member 62. In line with this correspondence, the result of problem-solving proposal 12 (problem-solving proposal) is called a "recipe."

[0032] Steps 1, 2, 3, and 4 in Figure 2, "Let's have the target users try it out and gather their feedback!", correspond to the identification of the target problem (10), the formulation of a solution (12), the verification of the proof (14), the publication of the results (16), and the collection of evaluation information (18) in Figures 1A and 1B, respectively.

[0033] In Figure 1B, end-user member 42 specifies the target issue 10. In the example shown in Figure 2, this is not limited to end-user member 42; other members 52, 62, and 72 may also specify the target issue 10. In this case, the member specifying the target issue 10 "presents the theme to the other members 42, 52, 62, and 72 to recruit collaborators." Thus, the customers 4, chefs 6, ingredient providers 7, and menu viewers / food reviewers 9 who make up the participating members and the viewers / evaluators 8 of the published results can be any of the end-user members 42, service provider members 52, system integrator members 62, or device product members 72, and are not fixed. Note that "IF-THEN brainstorming" described in Figure 2 refers to an idea generation method using the co-creation document format used in STEP 2 (problem-solving proposal 12). The specific co-creation document format will be described later using Figure 4.

[0034] In STEP 2, which involves formulating a solution 12 for the embodiment shown in Figure 2, members 42, 52, 62, and 72 gather directly and arrange various cards on a sheet of paper spread out on a table. Then, they photograph the arranged cards using an imaging device such as a mobile terminal (corresponding to the input device 104 described later in Figure 3) and input the data. In other words, by photographing the paper with the imaging device, it is treated as input device 104, just like input from a screen.

[0035] In particular, as shown in Figures 1A and 1B, in this embodiment, the format of the plan in [A] the plan in the plan formulation 12, the format of the verification 14 (prototyping by combining available means), and the database format showing a list of available means for verification 14, as well as the format of the database 22 that records the results of the plan formulation 12, are "standardized 20". As a result, at the stage of planning the plan 12, it becomes "easy to refer to and apply / develop previously obtained plan solutions recorded in the database 22". Furthermore, because the standardization 20 between [A] and [B] allows for an easy and rapid transition to verification 14, it also results in the "ability to quickly confirm the effectiveness of the solution and revise the plan early".

[0036] The technical methods for the above-mentioned commonality 20 will be explained in detail with reference to Figure 3. In this embodiment, the basic form of problem solving is set to an algorithm that "when a predetermined condition occurs (for example, corresponding to "IF" in C language), performs a predetermined execution process to provide a service (corresponding to "THEN" in C language)," and the commonality 20 between [A] to [C] above is achieved in accordance with that algorithm. This algorithm may use AI (artificial intelligence) and is executed on a CPU (Central Processing Unit) not shown.

[0037] Furthermore, the verification step S4 in Figure 3 corresponds to the step of actually performing the verification 14 in Figures 1A and 1B. In this verification step S4, a problem-solving idea support system consisting of a control device 500, a first execution means 86, and a second execution means 96 is prototyped, as will be described later using Figure 8. As a result, the function of the first execution means 86 (a function to detect the occurrence of a predetermined condition) and the function of the second execution means 96 (a function to perform a predetermined execution process / service provision) work together to solve the problem.

[0038] In this embodiment, as a form of coordination between the two functions described above, the execution of the first execution means 86 starts in chronological order, followed by the execution of the second execution means 96. However, this is not the only option; for example, the execution of both may start simultaneously, or the timing of their start may be reversed. Here, the method of coordination of execution between the first execution means 86 and the second execution means 96 is referred to as a "rule."

[0039] The means having a sensor function and communication function that detects the "occurrence of a predetermined condition" in the above algorithm corresponds to the first execution means 86. This sensor function is not limited to detecting physical states such as temperature and light intensity, but may also detect chemical states such as oxygen concentration in the air and pH value in water, or biological / physiological states such as the activation state of microorganisms such as mold or the sweating state of higher organisms. Furthermore, it may also detect more advanced states such as the emotions and requests of a user (human) or animal. As an example of this advanced state detection, the system may use morphological analysis techniques to understand the meaning from input text information or audio information and predict emotions and requests. Therefore, the extraction of these estimation / prediction results (or estimation / prediction processing) is also included in the broad sense of sensor functions.

[0040] Furthermore, the means having the function of "performing predetermined execution processing or providing predetermined services" and a communication function corresponds to the second execution means 96. The functions performed by this second execution means 96 are not limited to driving functions such as those of a robot, but can include any execution processing or service provision function, such as display functions (screen display, sound output, odor generation, user tactile stimulation), communication transmission functions, arithmetic processing functions, and control functions.

[0041] Here, the form of the execution means is not limited to mobile personal computers or mobile terminals such as smartphones / tablets, but may take any form, such as a single-function device or single-function module. Also, for convenience, it has been classified into a first execution means 86 and a second execution means 96, but it is not limited to that, and a single device or module may serve as both the first execution means 86 and the second execution means 96, as shown in Figure 10, with an LED with an illuminance sensor which will be described later.

[0042] The list of first and second execution means 86, 87, 96, and 97 usable within the problem-solving idea support system prototyped in the verification step S4 (i.e.) is stored in the aforementioned database 22 as the “list of means usable for verification 14” described in [C] above, and as the database 28 of execution means (services / devices / modules).

[0043] The database 28 of these execution means (services / devices / modules) is divided into an area 29-1-1 for recording the first group of execution means and an area 29-2-1 for recording the second group of execution means. A list of the first execution means (sensor devices / modules) 86, 87-1, and 87-2 that can be used in the problem-solving idea support system prototyped in the verification step S4 is recorded in the area 29-1-1 for recording the first group of execution means and is used as a database of sensor devices / modules. Similarly, a list of the second execution means (service devices / modules) 96, 97-1, and 97-2 that can be used is recorded in the area 29-2-1 for recording the second group of execution means and is used as a database of service devices / modules.

[0044] In this embodiment, the problem-solving idea generation support system is controlled by a control device 500, as will be described later with reference to Figure 8, which controls the operation of these execution means 86 and 96. Information regarding the dedicated control unit (installed control program) for the first and second execution means required at this time is prepared in advance. Therefore, when a prototype of the problem-solving idea generation support system is created by combining any execution means 86, 87, 96, and 97 registered in the database 28 of the execution means (services / devices / modules), the overall operation of the problem-solving idea generation support system can be confirmed quickly, thus having the effect of "quickly confirming the effectiveness of problem solving and early revising the problem-solving proposal."

[0045] Next, we will explain the technical methods for "standardization 20" between the format of the proposed solution in [A] the formulation of a problem-solving plan 12 mentioned above and the format of the verification 14 in [B] (creating a prototype by combining available means).

[0046] Step S3 of formulating a problem solution in Figure 3 corresponds to the step of executing the problem solution formulation 12 in Figures 1A and 1B. In the solution formulation step S32, two distinct categories, a first category area 80 and a second category area 90, are defined. Then, in the solution formulation step S32, the first information (conditional clause information) 84 is specified within the first category area 80. Also, the second information (execution clause information) 94 is specified within the second category area 90. This defines the link between the first information (conditional clause information) 84 and the second information (execution clause information) 94.

[0047] As a method for commonality 20 between [A] and [B] above, the first category area 80 is associated with the first execution means group 29-1, and the second category area 90 is associated with the second execution means group 29-2. Then, the first information (condition clause information) 84 is associated with the function of the first execution means (sensor device / module) 86 used in the verification step S4, and the second information (execution clause information) 94 is associated with the function of the second execution means (service device / module) 96 used in the verification step S4.

[0048] In other words, the first category area 80 is pre-configured (category setting related to "condition: IF") so that information corresponding to (related to) the "detection function of occurrence of predetermined conditions" performed by the first execution means 86 is designated as the first information (condition clause information) 84.

[0049] Similarly, the second category area 90 is pre-configured (category setting related to "Execute: THEN") so that information corresponding to (related to) the "predetermined execution process / service provision function" executed by the second execution means 96 is designated as the second information (execution section information) 94.

[0050] In this way, when the first information (conditional clause information) 84 is specified in accordance with the function of the first execution means (sensor device / module) 86, and the second information (execution clause information) 94 is specified in accordance with the function of the second execution means (service device / module) 96, the transition from the solution planning step S32 to the verification step S4 proceeds quickly. As a result, the effectiveness of solving the problem can be quickly confirmed, and the solution plan can be revised early.

[0051] In this example, the problem-solving support service in this embodiment was used to provide a detailed explanation of "Commonization 20." However, the above explanation is not limited to this example and applies commonly to problem-solving ideation support methods, problem-solving ideation support systems, and control devices.

[0052] Incidentally, as shown in Figure 3, in addition to the database 28 of the execution means (services / devices / modules) mentioned above, there is also a database 26 of problem-solving proposals (recipe) within the database 22. And the "results of formulating problem-solving proposals 12" described in [C] above are recorded in this problem-solving proposal (recipe) database 26.

[0053] A common database format (data recording method) is known as the "key / value database." In this method, a "pair" is formed between information belonging to a category called the "key" and information belonging to a category called the "value," and data is recorded in "pair units."

[0054] During data retrieval, the "key" information is used to retrieve the corresponding "value" information. This "key / value database" has the advantage of being easy to handle because of its simple structure. Furthermore, it enables faster information retrieval.

[0055] The database 26 of problem-solving proposals (recipes) shown in Figure 3 employs the "key / value database" described above. Therefore, the ease of use and high speed of information retrieval, which are characteristics of the "key / value database," are achieved. Furthermore, when supporting problem-solving ideation, it becomes easy to refer to past problem-solving proposals (recipes) already recorded in the database 26. Moreover, this has the effect of encouraging each participating member 42, 52, 62, and 72 to apply and develop problem-solving ideas based on the referenced information.

[0056] Specifically, the first piece of information (condition clause information) 84 is recorded in the first category column (condition: IF column) 82, which corresponds to the "key" column. The second piece of information (execution clause information) 94, linked to the first piece of information (condition clause information) 84, is recorded in the second category column (execution: THEN column) 92 on the same row. The recorded second piece of information (execution clause information) 94 can then be searched using the same method as "searching for value data" in a "key / value database".

[0057] In this way, by defining the format of the database 26 for problem-solving proposals (recipes), it becomes possible to repurpose and utilize surrounding infrastructure that uses a "key / value database." Therefore, since there is no need to develop new search tools or data management tools, it also has the effect of making it easy to build the database 26 for problem-solving proposals (recipes).

[0058] Furthermore, the above is not limited to the above; a link destination field 32 may also be provided, and link information 34 may be recorded on the same line. For example, if new unique information is generated when the first information (conditional clause information) 84 and the second information (execution clause information) 94 are linked, link information (such as URL information) for accessing this unique information may be recorded in the link destination field 32.

[0059] In this embodiment of the problem-solving idea generation support method, each participating member 42, 52, 62, and 72 inputs first information (condition clause information) 84 specified within the first category area (condition: IF) 80. Similarly, second information (execution clause information) 94 specified within the second category area (execution: THEN) 90 is input. This defines the link between the first information 84 and the second information 94. The first information 84 and the second information 94 are then recorded in the same row within the problem-solving proposal (recipe) database 26, and the database is created while maintaining the link between the two.

[0060] The input means 104 within the service environment provision device (idea sharing server) 100 is used for inputting the first information 84 and the second information 94. In one embodiment shown in Figure 2, the participating members 42, 52, 62, and 72 physically gather directly, and an imaging means is used as this input means 104.

[0061] However, the participants 42, 52, 62, and 72 may also gather in cyberspace using SNS (Social Network Service) or chat. In this case, the display means 106 within the service environment provider device (idea sharing server) 100 may be used to display the proposed solutions on the display screens 110 of each participating member 42, 52, 62, and 72. In this case, each participating member 42, 52, 62, and 72 may use a keyboard as their input means 104. Furthermore, the input voice information may be converted into text data using voice analysis technology.

[0062] Then, the display screen generation unit 108 within the service environment provision device (idea sharing server) 100 generates a display screen to be shown to each participating member 42, 52, 62, and 72 based on information from the control / processing unit 102. This display screen may also be made publicly available on the recipe sharing site in real time via the network connection unit 112 114.

[0063] Step S3 of formulating a solution to the problem in Figure 3 corresponds to STEP 2 in Figure 2 and the formulation of the solution to the problem in Figures 1A and 1B. Furthermore, regardless of whether the participation of each member 42, 52, 62, or 72 is physical or cyberspace-based, if the solution to the problem can be completed on the same display screen 110, work efficiency will be improved.

[0064] In step S2, where end-user member 42 specifies the target issue 10, clarifying and narrowing down the target issue allows for the development of more efficient problem-solving proposals. Therefore, in the problem-solving ideation support method of this embodiment, step S31, which involves clarifying the target issue and aligning the understanding among members, is set at the beginning of the problem-solving proposal development step S3. In this step S31, members 42, 52, 62, and 72 align their understanding of "who wants to do what, in what situation?" and "what the problem is and what the effect of solving the problem will be?"

[0065] If the solution planning step S32 is carried out after sufficient alignment of understanding among members 42, 52, 62, and 72, the solution planning step S32 will proceed smoothly.

[0066] In the problem-solving ideation support method of this embodiment, in order to guide problem-solving ideas in accordance with the above procedure, a co-creation document format is displayed on the display screen 110, and each participating member 42, 52, 62, and 72 is asked to jointly fill in each field in the format in order.

[0067] Figure 4 shows an example of the co-creation document format described above. The upper part and lower left of Figure 4 form the area 204 for clarifying the issue / aligning members' understanding. The upper part of this format forms the area 206 for selecting a theme, and the lower part forms the area 208 for defining the issue (pain) / achievement objective (gain). Furthermore, the lower right part of the format in Figure 4 forms the area 202 for considering solutions (IF-THEN thinking). Therefore, by sequentially filling in each field from the upper left to the right and from the lower left to the right on the display screen 110, the system is configured to guide users from the step S31 for clarifying the issue / aligning members' understanding to the step S32 for formulating solutions.

[0068] Using the input means 104 within the service environment provider device (idea sharing server) 100, each participating member 42, 52, 62, and 72 sequentially fills in the respective fields while discussing. This input means 104 may use keyboard input or an automatic text conversion method based on voice input. In addition, candidates may be predetermined, and members may select from a pull-down menu while discussing.

[0069] Furthermore, if each of the participating members 42, 52, 62, and 72 can physically gather (as in Figure 2), cards listing the selection candidates may be prepared and sequentially placed on the above-mentioned co-creation material format, which is composed of physical media such as paper, like a card game. Physical media could include not only paper but also plastic or metal, and could even be printed on a desk, for example. If there is no selection card that the participant wishes to specify, each of the participating members 42, 52, 62, and 72 may directly attach sticky notes with their writing on them. In this case, the paper surface will be photographed with the imaging device and treated as input device 104, similar to input from a screen. An example of a pre-prepared list of candidates is shown in Figure 5. Within the theme selection area 206, the target user setting area 210 can be selected as one of the following candidates: workers 212, administrators / operators 214, or users 216.

[0070] In addition, within the theme selection area 206, the theme setting area 220 can be selected from among the following options: security 222, efficiency 224, comfort 226, safety 228, sharing 230, automation 232, making money / saving 234, entertainment 236, convenience 238, problem solving 240, visualization 242, added functionality 244, energy saving 246, and eco 248.

[0071] Then, within the theme selection area 206, the scene setting area 250 can be selected from any of the following options: conference room 251, restaurant interior 252, luggage packing area 253, construction site 254, office 255, classroom interior 256, elevator 257, house grounds 258, living room at home 260, grocery store 262, coffee shop 264, park 266, school grounds 268, clothing store (apparel shop) 270, immigration gate 272, tourist spot 274, convenience store 276, art museum 278, train station 280, office building 282, hotel 284, highway 286, hotel lobby 288, logistics center 290, tennis court 292, airport 294, toilet 296, or inside a bus 298.

[0072] This collaborative document format, which includes items like those mentioned above, forces members 42, 52, 62, and 72 to generate ideas based on unexpected combinations, rather than solely from a purely technical perspective, thereby better supporting the creation of diverse ideas.

[0073] In other words, even if the target users have different attributes than themselves, each member (42, 52, 62, 72) can easily imagine scenarios they couldn't have imagined before, allowing them to imagine who feels what and when, and thus generate unexpected ideas.

[0074] To summarize the above, using this co-creation document format as a tool allows for, firstly, the generation of ideas that would normally be unimaginable. Because ideas are generated from the perspective of the target user, better results (higher quality ideas) can be obtained than from a technical perspective (primarily focusing on functionality). Secondly, it becomes easier to ensure a large quantity and variety of ideas.

[0075] As shown in Figure 4, the co-creation document format has a section 204 for clarifying the problem target and aligning member awareness at the top and bottom left, a section 206 for selecting a theme at the top of the format, a section 208 for defining the problem (pain) and the goal (gain) below it, and a section 202 for formulating and considering solutions (IF-THEN thinking) at the bottom right of the format. By filling in each section sequentially from the top left to the right and from the bottom left to the right on the display screen 110, the prerequisites for brainstorming in the solution formulation and consideration section (IF-THEN thinking) 202 are properly set up. If the solution formulation and consideration section (IF-THEN thinking) 202 exists alone, it becomes difficult to know what to brainstorm, and ideas tend to be limited to isolated ideas starting from technology or functions. This co-creation document format prevents such situations.

[0076] Given the background described above, selecting candidates in advance in this way has the effect of inducing more flexible solution planning. When an end-user member 42 specifies a target issue 10, the content to be specified in each field of the target user setting area 210, theme setting area 220, and scene (situation) setting area 250 is often predetermined in the mind of the end-user member 42. Here, if one or more of the target user setting area 210, theme setting area 220, scene (situation) setting area 250, and issue (problem / pain) / achievement objective (gain) definition area 208 are predetermined before brainstorming, a constraint is placed on the premise for brainstorming in the solution planning consideration area (IF-THEN brainstorming) 202, and by forcing brainstorming, flexible thinking may be induced in the solution planning step S32. After doing this, changing the content of the theme selection area 206 can further induce new ideas.

[0077] For example, the target user setting area 210, theme setting area 220, scene setting area 250, and first category area (condition: IF) 80 may be individually or automatically fixed in advance, and configured to enable the generation of problem (pain) / achievement objective (gain) definition area 208 and second category area (execution: THEN) 90. According to this example, it is possible to induce the generation of problem (pain) / achievement objective (gain) and THEN related to the first execution means (sensor device / module) 86.

[0078] Specifically, instead of selecting from a pull-down menu, the service environment provider (idea sharing server) 100 may randomly select / display an option from the above candidates. Furthermore, if the participating members 42, 52, 62, and 72 can physically gather (as in Figure 2), cards containing the selection candidates may be shuffled and cards drawn at will.

[0079] Similarly, examples of cards that can be placed in each column of the solution planning and consideration area (IF-THEN thinking) 202 are shown in Figures 6 and 7A. Within the first category area (condition: IF) 80 of the solution planning and consideration area (IF-THEN thinking) 202, the first information (condition clause information) 84 corresponding to the first execution means 86 that performs the detection function of "occurrence of predetermined condition" is specified. An example of a card corresponding to this first information (condition clause information) 84 is shown in Figure 6.

[0080] For example, if the director or manager of a nursing care facility is struggling with "resolving staff shortages" or "reducing labor costs by cutting staff," then it is necessary to detect the occurrence of abnormal behavior in residents (Figure 6(b)) or wandering behavior (Figure 6(a)) as "predetermined conditions."

[0081] Furthermore, within the second category area (Execution: THEN) 90 of the solution planning and consideration area (IF-THEN thinking) 202, a second piece of information (execution section information) 94 is specified that corresponds to a second execution means 96 that performs a function to perform a predetermined execution process / service provision. An example of a card corresponding to this second piece of information (execution section information) 94 is shown in Figure 7A.

[0082] To address the issue of residents in nursing homes experiencing unusual behavior or wandering off, a plan is being devised in which communication robots would take appropriate action or notify the facility director.

[0083] Thus, in the solution planning step S32, the card shown in Figure 6 may be placed in the first category area (condition: IF) 80 in Figure 4, and the card shown in Figure 7A may be placed in the second category area (execution: THEN) 90. In this case, the image capture function of a mobile terminal may be used as the input means 104 to the service environment providing device (idea sharing server) 100 to input an image of the card arrangement. In Figures 6 and 7A, a QR (Quick Response) code is printed on each card. Therefore, the control / processing unit 102 in the service environment providing device (idea sharing server) 100 may use this QR code (registered trademark) to save data in the database 22.

[0084] In the problem-solving idea generation support method of this embodiment, as described above, execution means 86 and 96 correspond to two different types of category areas 80 and 90, respectively, and problem-solving proposals (problem-solving rule information) are formulated 12 in a coordinated manner between the two. These problem-solving proposals are then stored in the database 22 via the input means 104. In other words, the problem-solving idea generation support method of this embodiment consists of a target problem clarification / member awareness alignment step S31 and a problem-solving proposal formulation step S32, and there is an input means 104 for inputting the content obtained in the target problem clarification / member awareness alignment step S31 and the problem-solving proposal formulation step S32.

[0085] Then, in the problem-solving proposal step S32, a first category area 80 and a second category area 90, which are different from each other, are defined. Then, the first information 84 is assigned to the first category area 80, and the second information 94 is assigned to the second category area 90, defining the link between the first information 84 and the second information 94. Furthermore, the first information 84 and the second information 94 are input using the input means 104, and the database 22 is formed while maintaining the link between the first information 84 and the second information 94.

[0086] Furthermore, in this problem-solving idea generation support method, the coordination between the first execution means 86 and the second execution means 96 is such that the execution of the second execution means 96 begins after the execution of the first execution means 86 has begun.

[0087] Figure 7B illustrates further uses of the co-creation document format. The co-creation document can also be written as worksheet 202B. Within this worksheet 202B, the target user setting area 210, the scene setting area 250, and the theme setting area 220 are arranged in the upper section, and the problem / objective achievement area (or problem / positive outcome area) 208 is placed in the lower section. Following area 208, the first category area (condition: IF) 80 and the second category area (execution: THEN) 90 are placed. It is preferable that these areas be arranged so that they can be viewed simultaneously on the same surface. However, this arrangement and order are not limited.

[0088] Here, the topic cards to be placed in the target user setting area 210 are assumed to include user, administrator, employee, professor, and nurse. The topic cards to be placed in the scene setting area 250 are assumed to include school, hospital, prefectural office, and park. Furthermore, the topic cards to be placed in the theme setting area 220 are assumed to include security, sharing, safety, cleanliness, automation, and efficiency. Note that these topic cards are merely examples, and various other topic cards are possible.

[0089] When a user uses worksheet 202B, they might use it in the following way, for example. For instance, suppose the target user setting area 210 is a nurse. The nurse has a need to know immediately whether a patient has arrived at the hospital.

[0090] In this case, the user (nurse) places the nurse card in the target user setting area 210 and the hospital card in the scene setting area 250. Then, for example, they place "Automation" in the theme setting area.

[0091] Now, suppose the nurse has a call device (notification) that emits a ringing sound. The nurse can then place the microphone in the first category area (condition: IF) 80 to create an environment where the patient can call using the microphone. In other words, the nurse places the microphone card in the first category area (condition: IF) 80, places the notification card in the second category area (execution: THEN) 90, and makes a decision to build an automated notification system. The decision is to create an IF-THEN link, and the information of the cards used is linked and built into the database 22. The link information also includes the location and identification information of the sensor (microphone), the identification information of the call device, and so on.

[0092] The linking process is performed, for example, by launching the IF-THEN-LINK application on a smartphone, scanning the QR code on each card, and operating the confirmation button on the screen.

[0093] Once this link is established, when a patient speaks into the microphone at the hospital entrance, a notification will automatically be sent to the nurse via the calling system.

[0094] As described above, users of this system do not need to know the detailed technology of the system. However, it is possible to easily construct an IF-THEN-LINK.

[0095] In the above-described embodiment, it is also possible to change the perspective. For example, theme setting area 22 Place the "Efficiency" card in 0, and further in the first category area 80, add a body with automatic measurement function. A thermometer card can also be placed there. In other words, when a patient arrives at the hospital, a notification is sent to the nurse. At the same time, the patient's body temperature will also be measured by a sensor.

[0096] The system described above allows for easy construction of IF-THEN-LINK sequences and can also assist users when they encounter difficulties. For example, if a user is unsure which cards to place in area 80 or area 90, pressing the help button will cause the system to retrieve IF-THEN-LINK data from database 22 and provide it to area 80 or area 90 for reference. This function becomes more effective as the database becomes more comprehensive.

[0097] Figure 7C shows the display screen of a smartphone, personal computer (PC), tablet PC, television device, etc., and the display screen 110 shows the worksheet 202B described in Figure 7B as is. This display may be performed by the smartphone, personal computer (PC), tablet PC, television device, etc., based on the information in the database 22 they possess, or it may be performed by receiving signals from the database 22 via a network. Furthermore, the database 22 here does not merely store information, but is stored in a server (for example, the server 400 or the idea sharing server 100 mentioned above) and operates as a problem-solving idea generation support device. Below this worksheet 202B, images of various cards are displayed. Users can place any card in the desired areas 210, 250, 220, 208, 80, and 90 by drag-and-drop operations. Cards for the "Problem / Objective Achievement" area may be prepared in advance, or users may input them in the form of characters or shapes using a key input function (not shown), for example.

[0098] In this system, if the user agrees to the link decision for the data in each area, the data in each area will be linked, and this linked data will be stored in database 22 via the network.

[0099] Numerous other similar devices are connected to the network NTW, and they transmit link data to database 22. As a result, database 22 aggregates a large amount of reference link data, which links IoT devices and their usage data according to various situations (this may also be called appropriate links). Therefore, as explained earlier in Figure 7B, the database 22 contains cases of the optimal combination of information in each area of ​​worksheet 202B, thereby increasing the added value of the database.

[0100] Figure 7D is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the display screen 110 and the database 27 described earlier. The database 27 is designed to store various set data that have been built from the past to the present. The database 27 has memory areas for the target user field 180, scene field 150, theme field 120, task / objective achievement definition area 208, first category field 80, and second category field 90, with each row corresponding to these fields. Furthermore, a link field 32 is reserved to link the information of each row in each field.

[0101] Figure 7D shows one line of information, namely target user information (211), scene information (249), theme information (221), issue information (207), objective achievement information (209), first information (84), second information (94), and link information (34). However, in reality, there are a vast number of lines.

[0102] The set data is the data at the time a decision is made, with information set in each area 210, 250, 220, 208, 80, and 90. The decision is made by operating a remote controller, mouse, or a decision button (not shown).

[0103] When the data is constructed as described above, numerous combinations of information values ​​(180, 150, 120, 184, 188, 92) will be generated for each column.

[0104] In this system, various combinations of information (or items) are obtained during the idea generation process, resulting in a large number of unprecedented and effective ideas.

[0105] Furthermore, the software used to construct combinations of various pieces of information in this system includes a routine to check whether the combinations of information (items) are acceptable. In other words, a separate database of information that cannot be combined (impossible combinations) may be provided, or it may be stored in a different area of ​​this database 27. Situations in which impossible combinations of information may arise include cases such as combining flammable cleaning solvents in cleaning work at a high-temperature work site. Other examples include combining deep pools in a playground where young children play, or using thin boards when installing guardrails for the purpose of cost reduction.

[0106] According to the system described above, one of the areas 210, 250, 220, 208, 80, and 90 is left blank to serve as a query area. For example, when the help button is operated, suggested information matching the query area is searched from the database and placed in that query area. In this case, multiple suggested information may be displayed in the query area. When the user selects the desired suggested information, for example with a cursor, and operates the accept button, the information from areas 210, 250, 220, 208, 80, and 90 is linked and constructed in database 27.

[0107] Figure 8 illustrates an example in which the previously described verification step S4 (verification 14) constructs a problem-solving idea support system. This problem-solving idea support system consists of the first execution means (sensor device / module) 86, the second execution means (service device / module) 96, and the control device 500.

[0108] Here, as illustrated using Figure 10(a), the first execution means (sensor device / module) 86 and the second execution means (service device / module) 96 may be shared by the same device / module.

[0109] Each execution unit 86 and 96 used in this problem-solving idea generation support system incorporates a communication unit 318-1 / 2 and an interpreter unit 320-1 / 2. Commands received via any communication line, including the Internet communication line 900, are analyzed by the received command analysis unit 324-1 / 2 within the interpreter unit 320-1 / 2. Depending on the analysis, the results are processed within the control unit 314-1 / 2 of the execution unit.

[0110] Furthermore, the status information generated within the control unit 314-1 / 2 of the execution means is converted into a communication protocol format by the transmission status information generation unit 322-1 / 2 within the interpreter unit 320-1 / 2, and transmitted to the outside via the communication means 318-1 / 2.

[0111] Then, the processing control unit 312-1 / 2 of the execution unit, which controls the information collection execution unit 302 in the first execution means (sensor device / module) 86 or the service provision execution unit 304 in the second execution means (service device / module) 96, executes control processing based on instructions from the control unit 314-1 / 2 in the execution means.

[0112] This problem-solving idea generation support system utilizes a variety of execution means 86 and 96. Therefore, the control content on the control device 500 needs to be diverse for each execution means 86 and 96. To flexibly accommodate this control diversity for each execution means 86 and 96, dedicated control programs tailored to each execution means 86 and 96 are prepared in advance. In Figure 8, the dedicated control units 600-1 / 2 for the first / second execution means refer to the dedicated control programs pre-installed in the control device 500. The control commands generated within the dedicated control units 600-1 / 2 for the execution means are then transferred via the communication control unit 508 to the communication means 318-1 / 2 within each execution means 86 and 96 via any communication line, including the Internet communication line 900.

[0113] The data stored in the database 22 of server 400 matches the contents of database 22 as already described in Figure 3. Therefore, server 400 may also be used as the service environment provider (idea sharing server) 100 in Figure 3. In this case, the communication control unit 408 may be shared with the network control unit 112, and a portion of the homepage generation and control area 430 may be used for internet publication (recipe sharing site) 114.

[0114] On the other hand, if a separate server 400 is to be set up in addition to the service environment provision device (idea sharing server) 100, a copy of the data stored in the database 22 will be required.

[0115] Server 400 consists of an endpoint management unit 410 and a data collection service processing area 420. These two may be configured separately in terms of hardware, or they may be separated as program modules.

[0116] The database 22 contains a database 28 of execution means (services / devices / modules), which registers information on all execution means 86, 87, 96, and 97 usable within the problem-solving idea support system. Correspondingly, dedicated control programs 600 tailored to each individual execution means 86, 87, 96, and 97 are pre-prepared. These dedicated control programs 600 are then stored in the dedicated control information registration unit 412 for various execution means of the endpoint management unit 410.

[0117] Therefore, information on the execution means 86 and 96 to be used in the verification 14 is read from the database 26 (Figure 3) of problem-solving proposals (recipes), and a dedicated control program 600 corresponding to this is installed in the control device 500. In other words, the corresponding control program in the dedicated control information registration unit 412 for various execution means in the endpoint management unit 410 is installed as a dedicated control unit 600 for the execution means in the control device 500.

[0118] Furthermore, the rule setting / registration unit (problem solution / recipe) 414 within the endpoint management unit 410 reads the coordination information of the execution means 86 and 96 used in the verification confirmation 14 from the database 26 (Figure 3) of problem solution (recipe), and generates problem solution rule information (details will be described later) written in XML (Extensible Markup Language) format. As already explained, the method of coordination of execution between the first execution means 86 and the second execution means 96 is called a "rule".

[0119] For example, as shown in the example in Figure 6(a), if the first execution means (sensor device / module) 86 has an audio input function, the input sensitivity to the person to be detected (e.g., a resident of a nursing home) will vary significantly depending on the installation location of the first execution means 86. Therefore, it is necessary to optimize the control settings according to the installation location and conditions of the execution means 86 and 96. This control is performed in the optimization setting area 418 for each execution means within the endpoint management unit 410.

[0120] Furthermore, this problem-solving idea generation support system supports the simultaneous use of multiple execution means 86, 87 included in the first execution means group 29-1. Similarly, it supports the simultaneous use of multiple execution means 96, 97 included in the second execution means group 29-2. When multiple execution means 86, 87, 96, 97 are used simultaneously in this way, integrated control is required, such as timing control of the execution start / end order for each execution means 86, 87, 96, 97, and complementary control of the other execution means 86, 87, 96, 97 when an abnormality occurs in a specific execution means. Therefore, when using three or more types of execution means 86, 87, 96, 97 in the problem-solving idea generation support system used in the demonstration verification 14, an integrated control experiment is performed in the integrated control method setting area 16 for each control device in the endpoint management unit 410, and the result information is transferred to the control device 500 in advance.

[0121] In the data acquisition service processing area 420, information collected from each control device 500 via the network is processed. The results of this information processing can then be used to provide new services, and a service fee may be charged.

[0122] Specifically, information collected from each control device 500 is analyzed in the analysis area 426, and data services / service provision fees are collected in the data service area 428. The management and monitoring area 424 constantly manages and monitors the status of all control devices 500 connected to the server 400 and performs appropriate processing in case of abnormalities.

[0123] Furthermore, the information obtained in the data service area 428 and the management / monitoring area 424 is visualized in the visualization area 422 and made publicly available on the internet via the homepage generation / control area 430.

[0124] Figure 9 shows the internal structure of the control device 500 used in the problem-solving idea generation support system. The control device 500 consists of a problem-solving demonstration core area 700, a dedicated control unit (where the control program is installed) 600 for the execution means, an inter-process communication area 504, a process monitor area 800, and a communication control unit 508. Some of these may be independently configured with dedicated hardware (electronic circuits), and some of them may be managed by dividing them into files as a dedicated program. The software architecture within the dedicated control unit (where the control program is installed) 600-2 for the second execution means is basically the same as that of the dedicated control unit (where the control program is installed) 600-1 for the second execution means. This internal software architecture consists of an operating condition setting area Config620, a common library area Library630, a source code processing unit Skeleton640 corresponding to the first execution means, and an external communication control unit 610.

[0125] Both the detection function of the first execution means 86 and the driving function handled by a kind of second execution means 96 basically handle analog signals. In this case, the dynamic range setting, the threshold setting value during binarization processing, and the criteria value for abnormality detection are set within this operating condition setting area Config620.

[0126] Regardless of whether they are the first or second execution means 86, 87, 96, or 97, the software program used in common by all of them is stored in the common library area Library630. The inter-process communication control unit 632 (a control program used for inter-process communication) is also included in this common library area Library630.

[0127] The source code processing unit Skeleton 640, which corresponds to the first execution means, includes a processing area specific to the first execution means (information gathering / service control, etc.) 642, an initialization / termination processing area 644, and a status confirmation area 650.

[0128] Within this first execution means-specific processing area (information gathering / service control, etc.) 642, a control program unique to each execution means 86, 87, 96, and 97 is stored. For example, in the case of the first execution means 86, the program necessary to perform its unique detection function and information gathering function is stored. On the other hand, in the case of the second execution means 96, the program necessary to perform its unique drive function, execution processing function, and service provision function is stored.

[0129] Furthermore, the processing programs required for the initialization or termination of each execution means 86, 87, 96, and 97 are stored in the initialization / termination processing area 644.

[0130] The state of each execution means 86, 87, 96, and 97 changes moment by moment in response to changes in the installation environment and internal state of each execution means 86, 87, 96, and 97. The state confirmation area 650 constantly monitors these state changes and, if necessary, notifies the outside via the external communication control unit 610.

[0131] This status check may include abnormality detection 652, power ON / OFF detection 654, and movement detection 656. For example, if each execution means 86, 87, 96, 97 has a built-in GPS (Global Positioning System) function or beacon-compatible function, information is transmitted via the communication control unit 508 immediately after movement detection 656 occurs in the corresponding execution means 86, 87, 96, 97, and feedback is applied to the aforementioned control optimization setting area 418 for each execution means and the integrated control method setting area 416 for each control device (Figure 8).

[0132] The problem-solving demonstration core area 700 consists of a communication control area (data transmission / rule reception) 720 between the problem-solving rule execution control engine 710 and the server, an integrated control processing unit 740 between the execution means, and a control device setting / management screen generation unit 750.

[0133] For example, information collected by the first control means 86 is transferred to the problem-solving demonstration core area 700 via the inter-process communication area 504. This transferred information is then retransmitted from the server communication control area (data transmission / rule reception) 720 to the data collection service processing area 420 (Figure 8) within the server 400 via the communication control unit 508.

[0134] On the other hand, the XML-formatted rule information created within the server 400's rule setting / registration unit (problem solution / recipe) 414 is transferred to the server's communication control area (data transmission / rule reception) 720 via the communication control unit 508, where rule reception is executed.

[0135] The rule information received here is then transferred from the problem-solving rule execution control unit 718 to the problem-solving rule information (XML format) storage location 712 and stored there.

[0136] The problem-solving rule information stored here is interpreted by the XML interpreter 714 and passed to the execution control area 716 for each execution means. Then, from the execution control area 716 for each execution means, control information is transmitted to each dedicated control unit (where the control program is installed) 600 for the corresponding execution means via the inter-process communication area 504. Here, this series of controls is controlled by the problem-solving rule execution control unit 718.

[0137] On the other hand, the information generated within the integrated control method setting area 416 for each control management within the server 400 is first transferred to the problem-solving rule execution control unit 718 via the communication control area (data transmission / rule reception) 720 with the server. This information is then stored in the integrated control processing unit 740 between the execution means, which is accessed by the problem-solving rule execution control unit 718.

[0138] In this manner, information is communicated between the dedicated control unit (installed control program) 600 for each execution means and the problem-solving demonstration core area 700 via the inter-process communication area 504. The status within this inter-process communication area 504 is then continuously monitored within the process monitor area 800.

[0139] This process monitoring area 800 consists of a process monitoring unit 810, a first means group status monitoring unit (sensor viewer) 820, a second means group status monitoring unit (event viewer) 830, a problem resolution progress monitoring unit (rule viewer) 830, a transfer information monitoring unit (data logger) 850, and an inter-process communication history monitoring unit (log viewer) 860.

[0140] Here, the process monitor unit 810 sequentially monitors the process status within the inter-process communication area 504, and the inter-process communication history is sequentially saved in the inter-process communication history monitor unit (log viewer) 860. In addition, information transferred within the inter-process communication area 504 is sequentially saved in the transfer information monitor unit (data logger) 850.

[0141] Meanwhile, the execution status of the problem-solving demonstration core area 700 is continuously monitored within the problem-solving progress monitoring unit (rule viewer) 840, and in the event of an abnormality, that information is notified to the problem-solving rule execution control unit 718.

[0142] During the operation of the problem-solving ideation support system, abnormal situations may occur, such as unexpected movement of specific execution means 86, 87, 96, and 97, or communication failure. Therefore, the status monitor unit (sensor viewer) 820 of the first execution means group constantly monitors the status of the first execution means 86 and 87. Similarly, the status monitor unit (event viewer) 830 of the second execution means group constantly monitors the status of the second execution means 96 and 97.

[0143] When an abnormal situation is detected here, that information is transmitted to the server 400 via the communication control area (data transmission / rule reception) 720 with the server within the problem-solving demonstration core area 700.

[0144] Based on this information, the server 400 modifies the information in the optimization setting area 418 for each execution means and the integrated control method setting area 416 for each control device as appropriate. The modified information is then transmitted back to the control device 500.

[0145] In this way, whenever an abnormal situation occurs in each execution means 86, 87, 96, and 97, that information is sequentially transmitted to the server 400. This improves the learning effect of the server 400, resulting in improved stability and accuracy of the problem-solving process.

[0146] Figure 10 shows an example of problem-solving rule information written in XML format. For the sake of simplicity, Figure 10(a) shows an example in which the first execution means (sensor device / module) 86 and the second execution means (service device / module) 96 are combined into a single device / module.

[0147] Figure 10(a) shows that a wireless communication function is built in, enabling wireless communication with external devices. An illuminance sensor is used as an example of the sensor function (detection function of "occurrence of predetermined conditions") of the first execution means (sensor device / module) 86. An LED (Light Emitting Diode) is used as an example of the drive / execution function (function that performs "predetermined execution processing / service provision") of the second execution means 96.

[0148] In this case, the first piece of information (conditional clause information) 84 (Figure 3) is specified as "it gets dark." Then, the second piece of information (execution clause information) 94 is specified as "the LED lights up."

[0149] Figure 10(c) shows an example of the problem-solving rule information in XML format in this case. The first and second execution means 86 and 96 are: <device>It is defined by an element (in this specification, "<>" itself is referred to as a "tag," so the entire descriptor is referred to as an "element").

[0150] And the content of this first piece of information (conditional clause information) 84 is, <if>It is described within the element. Similarly, the content of this second piece of information (execution clause information) 94 is <then>It is described within the element. Furthermore, each function corresponding to each piece of information 84 and 94 is... <condition>It is defined within the element. Furthermore, analog information such as illuminance and light output is defined as follows: <property>This is defined by attribute information within the element.

[0151] Figure 10(c) shows an example where the content of the first information (conditional clause information) 84 and the content of the second information (execution clause information) 94 are written in Japanese. However, it is not limited to this. <language>By using elements, the first and second pieces of information 84 and 94 can be specified in any language.

[0152] Figure 11 shows a specific example of the procedure for performing verification 14 using the problem-solving ideation support system described in Figure 8. Initially, as shown in the upper right of Figure 11, the server 400 directly communicates with the execution means 86 and 96 via the network communication line 900 to optimize the control of each execution means and set the integrated control method. After that, the server 400 and the control device 500 are connected via the network communication line 900, and information from the server 400 is transferred.

[0153] Optimizing the control for each execution method and setting the integrated control method is extremely complex. If this processing is left to the control device 500 during the initialization process of the problem-solving idea support system, the load on the control device 500 will increase. As shown in Figure 11, by having the server 400 handle the optimization of the control for each execution method and the setting of the integrated control method, the load on the control device 500 can be significantly reduced.

[0154] The line connection status from step S41 to step S44 in the flowchart shown in Figure 11 is shown in the upper right of Figure 11. The data transfer status from step 51 to step 53 is shown in the lower right of Figure 11.

[0155] When the verification 14 is started (S40), a communication line connection is first established between the server 400 and each execution means 86, 96 via the internet communication line 900 (S41). Then, the server 400 performs control to determine the optimization conditions for the operation of each execution means 86, 96 (S42), and the results are saved in the optimization setting area 418 for the control of each execution means within the server 400.

[0156] For example, when a mobile device such as a tablet or smartphone is used as the control device 500, a display screen 110 is standard equipment within the control device 500. Although not shown in the diagram, it is assumed that the server 400 and the control device 500 are connected via an internet communication line 900. The server 400 controls the display screen 110 within the control device 500 to request various operations from the end user member 42. Then, in accordance with the actions of the end user member 42, detection information obtained from the first execution means (sensor device / module) 86 is acquired, and the corresponding execution / service provision is performed by the second execution means (service device / module) 96. From this series of operations, the optimal control conditions for each execution means 86, 96 are determined.

[0157] Next, the server 400 searches for an integrated control method that combines the operations of all execution means 86, 87, 96, and 97 connected to the target control device 500. The server then saves the result in the integrated control method setting area 416 for each control device.

[0158] Examples of integrated control in this case include: searching for the possibility of other execution means taking over when a specific execution means moves and communication becomes impossible; considering the response process from the entire system when an abnormality occurs in a specific execution means; and considering the response process when the functionality of a specific execution means deteriorates.

[0159] In this case as well, the server 400 uses the display screen 110 within the control device 500 to explore and consider how to respond when various situations occur, with the cooperation of the end-user members 42.

[0160] Once this series of processes is complete, the communication lines between the server 400 and each execution means 86, 96 are disconnected (S44), and the connection is switched to only the communication between the server 400 and the control device 500 (S50).

[0161] In step 51, the information in the rule setting / registration unit (problem solution proposal / recipe) 412 within the endpoint management unit 400 of server 400 is transferred to the problem solution rule information (XML format) storage location 712 within the problem solution demonstration core area 500 of control device 500.

[0162] Similarly, the information in the integrated control method setting area 416 for each control device is transferred to the integrated area processing unit 740 between the execution means, and the information in the control optimization setting area 418 for each execution means is transferred to the operating condition setting area Config 620. This process is then repeated until the implementation verification experiment is finally satisfactory (S60).

[0163] We have described specific examples of the problem-solving support service procedure. However, the service is not limited to this, and any other method or procedure may be used as long as it involves 1. specifying the first information 84 within the first category area 80, 2. specifying the second information 94 within the second category area 90, 3. establishing a link between the first information 84 and the second information 94, 4. creating a database 22 of that information, and 5. conducting verification 14 based on that database 22.

[0164] For example, the method shown in Figure 12 may be adopted as another embodiment of the problem-solving idea generation support method. In the other embodiment shown in Figure 12, the idea sharing server (service environment provider device) 100 also has a data section, and the information is pre-formatted into the database 22 as described in item 4 above.

[0165] Any control device 500 that can use the problem-solving idea generation support application 103 accesses the data section within the idea sharing server (service environment provider device) 100 to obtain the necessary information. As a result, the card information described in Figure 5 is transferred to the theme setting area 206. Then, the problem-solving idea generation support application 103 randomly selects cards and the theme selection 206 is performed.

[0166] Then, from the Pain (problems) and Gain (positive aspects) information 208 accumulated in the past problem-solving proposal process 12, the problem-solving idea generation support application 103 presents relevant ideas.

[0167] Using the information provided by the problem-solving ideation support application 103, each participating member 42, 52, 62, and 72 will be asked to formulate problem-solving proposals 12 (IF-THEN ideas 202) and summarize key points 200.

[0168] The content of the proposed solutions to the problems (IF-THEN idea 202) obtained here will be published on the recipe sharing site (Internet effect) 114 / server 400 via the idea sharing server (service environment provider device) 100. (Note) The claims of the specification immediately preceding the division are included below. (Claim 1) A method for supporting problem-solving ideas using a display device and a control device, The control device controls the display device, The first display area is the target user settings area. The second display area is the scene setting area. The third display area is the theme setting area. The fourth display area is the problem / objective achievement area. The fifth display area is the first category area, Set the second category area as the sixth display area, One or more users, via the control device, can access the first, second, third, and fourth display areas, respectively. The first piece of information includes terms predefined as those used by users who wish to solve a problem. The second piece of information includes terms that have been predefined as scenes (situations) where the aforementioned problem needs to be solved. The third piece of information includes terms that have been predefined as the theme (subject) for solving the aforementioned problem, If a fourth piece of information is entered that includes terms that have been predefined as terms for achieving the challenges / objectives of solving the aforementioned problems, The control device controls the fifth and sixth display areas, A fifth piece of information indicating the type of sensor that will serve as the basis for solving the aforementioned problem, A problem-solving idea generation support method that outputs and displays a sixth piece of information indicating the type of device that responds to the operation of the aforementioned sensor. (Claim 2) The control device takes in information from the user via either a communication means or an operating means, The problem-solving idea generation support method according to claim 1, wherein when the user inputs the first information, the second information, the third information, and the fourth information, and the fifth information and the sixth information, the first information, the second information, the third information, the fourth information, the fifth information and the sixth information are linked and stored in a database. (Claim 3) The problem-solving idea generation support method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a first user among the users inputs the first information, the second information, the third information, and the fourth information, and a second user among the users inputs the fifth information and the sixth information. (Claim 4) The problem-solving idea generation support method according to Claim 1, wherein the user includes at least an end user and a device product member. (Claim 5) The problem-solving idea generation support method according to Claim 2, wherein the linked first information, second information, third information, fourth information, fifth information and sixth information are sent to and stored on a server. (Claim 6) A problem-solving idea support system using a display device, a control device and a communication control unit, The control device is With respect to the aforementioned display device, The first display area is the target user settings area. The second display area is the scene setting area. The third display area is the theme setting area. The fourth display area is the problem / objective achievement area. The fifth display area is the first category area, A setting means for setting a second category setting area as a sixth display area, One or more users, with respect to the first, second, third, and fourth display areas, The first piece of information includes terms predefined as those used by users who wish to solve a problem. The second piece of information includes terms that have been predefined as scenes (situations) where the aforementioned problem needs to be solved. The third piece of information includes terms that have been predefined as the theme (subject) for solving the aforementioned problem, If a fourth piece of information is entered that includes terms that have been predefined as terms for achieving the challenges / objectives of solving the aforementioned problems, The control device controls the fifth and sixth display areas, A fifth piece of information indicating the type of sensor that will serve as the basis for solving the aforementioned problem, The system includes a display means that outputs and displays a sixth piece of information indicating the type of device that responds to the operation of the aforementioned sensor, The communication control unit is equipped with means for connecting the control device to an external server via a network, and is a problem-solving idea support system. (Claim 7) The problem-solving idea support system according to claim 6, wherein the fifth information relating to the sensor and the sixth information relating to the device are combined based on a set rule. (Claim 8) The problem-solving idea support system according to claim 6, wherein the combination rule of the fifth information relating to the sensor and the sixth information relating to the device is information acquired from the server to the control device by the control of the communication control unit. (Claim 9) The problem-solving idea support system according to claim 6, wherein the display device, the control device, and the communication control unit are provided in a mobile terminal. (Claim 10) A problem-solving idea generation support device using a display device, a control device and a communication control unit, The control device is With respect to the aforementioned display device, The first display area is the target user settings area. The second display area is the scene setting area. The third display area is the theme setting area. The fourth display area is the problem / objective achievement area. The fifth display area is the first category area, and A setting means for setting a second category setting area as a sixth display area, One or more users, with respect to the first, second, third, and fourth display areas, The first piece of information includes predefined terms used by users who wish to resolve a problem. The second piece of information includes terms that have been predefined as scenes (situations) where the aforementioned problem needs to be solved. The third piece of information includes terms that have been predefined as the theme (subject) for solving the aforementioned problem, If a fourth piece of information is entered that includes terms that have been predefined as terms for achieving the challenges / objectives of solving the aforementioned problems, The control device controls the fifth and sixth display areas, A fifth piece of information indicating the type of sensor that will serve as the basis for solving the aforementioned problem, The system includes a display means that outputs and displays a sixth piece of information indicating the type of device that responds to the operation of the aforementioned sensor, The communication control unit is a problem-solving idea support device that includes means for connecting the control device to an external server via a network and for installing an application that implements the setting means. (Claim 11) The problem-solving idea generation support device according to claim 10, wherein the fifth information relating to the sensor and the sixth information relating to the device are combined based on a set rule. (Claim 12) The problem-solving idea support device according to claim 10, wherein the display device, the control device, and the communication control unit are provided in a mobile terminal. (Claim 13) The problem-solving idea generation support device according to claim 10, wherein any of the first information, second information, third information, and fourth information, and the fifth information and the sixth information can be selectively input.

[0169] While embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications are permitted without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0170] 2...Problem-solving support service (a place for collaborative work toward problem-solving), 10...Target problem designation, 12...Development of problem-solving proposals, 14...Verification and confirmation, 16...Publication of results, 18...Collection of evaluation information, 20...Standardization, 22...Database, 24...Feedback, 26...Database of problem-solving proposals (recipes), 28...Database of execution means (services / devices / modules), 29-1...Database of first group of execution means = sensor devices / modules, 29-2...Database of second group of execution means = service devices / modules Tabes, 30...Collection of advertising fees or fees for directing users to a designated homepage, 32...Link destination field, 34...Link information, 42...End user members, 44...End user viewers / evaluators, 52...Service provider members, 54...Service provider viewers / evaluators, 62...System integrator members, 64...System integrator viewers / evaluators, 72...Device product members, 74...Device product viewers / evaluators, 80...First category area (condition: IF), 82...First category field (condition: IF) - corresponding to "Key field" -, 84...First information (information section information), 86...First implementation means (sensor device / module), 87-1 / 2...Other implementation means A / B related to sensor device / module, 88 Other information regarding the conditional clause, 90...Second category area (execution:THEN), 92...Second category field (execution:THEN) - corresponding to "Value field" -, 94...Second information (execution clause information), 96...Second execution means (service device / module), 97-1 / 2...Other execution means A / B regarding the service device / module, 98-1 / 2...Other information A / B regarding the execution clause, 100...Service environment providing device (idea sharing server), 102...Control / processing unit, 103...Problem-solving idea support application, 104...Input means, 106...Display means, 108...Display screen generation unit, 110...Display screen, 112...Network connection unit, 114...Network public access (re (ShipiShare Site), 200...Point Summary, 202...Solution Planning and Consideration Area (IF-THEN Thinking), 204...Clarification of Issue Target / Alignment of Member Awareness Area, 206...Theme Selection Area, 208...Definition of Issue (Pain) / Achievement Objective (Gain), 210...Target User Setting Area, 212...Workers, 214...Managers / Operators, 216...Users, 220...Theme Setting Area, 299-1~-4...QR Code, 302...Information Gathering Execution Department, 304...Service Provision Execution Department, 312-1 / 2... Execution unit processing control unit, 314-1 / 2... control unit within the execution means, 316-1 / 2... memory unit, 318-1 / 2... communication means, 320-1 / 2... interpreter unit, 322-1 / 2... received command interpretation unit, 324-1 / 2... transmission status information generation unit, 400... server, 408... communication control unit, 410... endpoint management unit, 412... dedicated control information registration unit for various execution means, 414... rule setting... Registration section (problem solution / recipe), 416... Integrated control method setting area for each control device, 418... Control optimization setting area for each execution means, 420... Data collection service processing area, 430... Homepage generation / control area, 500... Control device, 504... Inter-process communication area, 508... Communication control unit, 600-1 / 2... Dedicated control unit for the 1st / 2nd execution means, 610... External communication control unit, 620... Operating condition setting area Config, 630... Common library areaLibrary, 632... Inter-process communication control unit, 640... Source code processing unit corresponding to the first execution means. Skeleton, 642... First execution means specific processing area, 644... Initialization / termination period processing area, 650... Status confirmation area, 652... Anomaly detection, 654... ON / OFF detection, 656... Movement detection, 700... Problem solving demonstration core area, 710... Problem solving rule execution control engine, 712... Problem solving rule information (XML format) storage location, 714... XML interpretation unit (interpreter), 716 Execution control area for each execution means, 718... Problem solving rule execution control unit, 720... Communication control area with server (data transmission / rule reception), 740... Integrated control processing unit between execution means, 750... Control device setting / management screen generation unit, 800... Process monitor area, 900... Internet communication line.< / language> < / property> < / condition> < / then> < / if> < / device>

Claims

1. A problem-solving idea support system having a database containing data relating to a first execution means and a second execution means, and a control device, The aforementioned database is Conditional clause information (IF) corresponding to the data of the first execution means, The execution section information (THEN) corresponding to the second execution means data, Set data and means of storing it. The set data is a combination of the conditional clause information (IF) and the execution clause information (THEN) through software processing, and this combination is further associated with information on multiple useful situations (target user, scene, theme, conditional clause (IF), execution clause (THEN)), and the software includes a routine to check for cases where the combination is impossible. The aforementioned database can be connected to multiple devices having display screens. The device includes a display screen that displays information for each of the multiple situations (target user, scene, theme, conditional clause (IF), execution clause (TEN)) in their respective corresponding areas, and has means for selectively placing the information in the areas based on user operation, and for storing the placed information as set data in the database based on user operation. The control device is When the user provides the conditional clause information (IF), the execution clause information (THEN) linked to the provided conditional clause information (IF) is identified. Furthermore, the problem-solving idea support system is characterized by having means for presenting information that identifies the first execution means corresponding to the identified conditional clause information (IF) and for presenting information that identifies the second execution means corresponding to the identified execution clause information (THEN) among the first execution means and the second execution means.

2. The database is located on a server, and multiple devices having display screens can be connected to the database via a network. The solution-generating support system according to claim 1, comprising: a display screen that displays information for each of the multiple situations (target user, scene, theme, conditional clause (IF), execution clause (TEN)) in its respective area; a means for selectively arranging the information in the area based on user operation; and further, based on user operation, setting a portion of the area as a query area by leaving it blank, linking it together with the information in the other areas, and transmitting it to the database on the server.

3. A problem-solving idea generation support device having a database containing data relating to a first execution means and a second execution means, and a control device, The aforementioned database is Conditional clause information (IF) corresponding to the data of the first execution means, The execution section information (THEN) corresponding to the second execution means data, Set data and means of storing it. The set data is a combination of the conditional clause information (IF) and the execution clause information (THEN) through software processing, and this combination is further associated with information on multiple useful situations (target user, scene, theme, conditional clause (IF), execution clause (THEN)), and the software includes a routine to check for cases where the combination is impossible. The aforementioned database can be connected to multiple devices having display screens. The device includes a display screen that displays information for each of the multiple situations (target user, scene, theme, conditional clause (IF), execution clause (TEN)) in their respective corresponding areas, and has means for selectively placing the information in the areas based on user operation, and for storing the placed information as set data in the database based on user operation. The control device is When the user provides the conditional clause information (IF), the execution clause information (THEN) linked to the provided conditional clause information (IF) is identified. A problem-solving idea generation support device characterized by further having means for presenting information that identifies the first execution means corresponding to the identified conditional clause information (IF) and for presenting information that identifies the second execution means corresponding to the identified execution clause information (THEN) among the first execution means and the second execution means.

4. A problem-solving idea generation support method using a database containing data relating to a first execution means and a second execution means, The aforementioned database is Conditional clause information (IF) corresponding to the data of the first execution means, The execution section information (THEN) corresponding to the second execution means data, Store the set data, The set data is a combination of the conditional clause information (IF) and the execution clause information (THEN) through software processing, and this combination is further associated with information on multiple useful situations (target user, scene, theme, conditional clause (IF), execution clause (THEN)), and the software includes a routine to check for cases where the combination is impossible. The aforementioned database can be connected to multiple devices having display screens. The device includes a display screen that displays information for each of the multiple situations (target user, scene, theme, conditional clause (IF), execution clause (TEN)) in their respective corresponding areas, and based on user operation, the information is selectively placed in the areas, and based on user operation, the placed information is stored in the database as set data. The control device is When the user provides the conditional clause information (IF), the execution clause information (THEN) linked to the provided conditional clause information (IF) is identified. Furthermore, the problem-solving idea generation support method is characterized by presenting information that identifies the first execution means corresponding to the identified conditional clause information (IF) among the first execution means and the second execution means, and presenting information that identifies the second execution means corresponding to the identified execution clause information (THEN).

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