Information providing system, analysis server, information providing method, and program

Abstract

Provided is an information providing system that contributes to improving convenience for a user who receives provision of information. This information providing system includes an exchange server, an authentication server, and an analysis server. The exchange server realizes exchange of a message between users. The authentication server performs biometric authentication. The analysis server analyzes data generated in the system. The analysis server generates providing information to be provided to a user on the basis of first data acquired from the exchange server and second data generated in accordance with success in biometric authentication by the authentication server. The analysis server transmits the generated providing information to the exchange server. The exchange server transfers the generated providing information to a terminal held by the user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information providing system, an analysis server, an information providing method, and a storage medium.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, with the development of communication technology and information processing technology, users are in a situation where they can enjoy various services. For example, there are services that provide travel-related information to users who own smartphones.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes providing a travel information providing method and a travel information providing system that provide travel information desired by a user according to the user's request. The travel information providing server system of Patent Document 1 prompts a terminal operated by a person who wishes to create a travel plan to input information for creating a travel plan, and creates a travel plan based on the input information. The travel information providing server system stores the information of the created travel plan in association with the user ID. The travel information providing server system prompts a mobile terminal operated by a person who wishes to send a travel plan to input an ID issued in advance to the sender, and searches for and transmits information such as the travel plan information associated with the input ID. The mobile terminal displays travel plan and tourist destination information based on the transmitted information, and displays the current location measured by a GPS (Global Positioning System) unit on a map.

[0004] Patent Document 2 describes a travel information providing system and a recording medium that enable easy reservation of travel and acquisition of tickets, and also enable acquisition of travel-related information as needed at the travel destination. The travel information providing server of Patent Document 2 opens a HP (Home Page) on the Web, accepts tour travel from a mobile terminal on this HP, and transmits travel information including ticket information. The travel information providing server transmits travel information to a transportation terminal and an accommodation facility terminal. When a traveler uses various services, the mobile terminal transmits travel information to each terminal. Each terminal identifies the traveler by collating the travel information transmitted from the travel information providing server with the travel information transmitted from the mobile terminal, and provides each service. When an instruction for support information request is received from the mobile terminal, the travel information providing server provides various support information related to travel while confirming the current position of the mobile terminal with a position detection server.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] As described above, with the development of communication technology and information processing technology, the situation is ripe for providing useful information to users. However, in order to obtain such useful information, the interfaces between users and systems often differ for each system, and users often hesitate to start using the system.

[0007] The main object of the present invention is to provide an information providing system, an analysis server, an information providing method, and a storage medium that contribute to improving the convenience of users who receive information.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information providing system including an exchange server that realizes message exchange between users, an authentication server that performs biometric authentication, and an analysis server that analyzes data generated in the system. The analysis server generates provision information to be provided to a user based on first data acquired from the exchange server and second data generated in response to the authentication server's successful biometric authentication, and transmits the generated provision information to the exchange server. The exchange server transfers the generated provision information to a terminal possessed by the user.

[0009] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an analysis server including a generation unit that generates provision information to be provided to a user based on first data acquired from an exchange server that realizes message exchange between users and second data generated in response to the authentication server's successful biometric authentication, and a transmission unit that transmits the generated provision information to the exchange server.

[0010] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information providing method in which, in an analysis server, provision information to be provided to a user is generated based on first data acquired from an exchange server that realizes message exchange between users and second data generated in response to the authentication server's successful biometric authentication, and the generated provision information is transmitted to the exchange server.

[0011] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer mounted on an analysis server to execute a process of generating provision information to be provided to a user based on first data acquired from an exchange server that realizes message exchange between users and second data generated in response to the authentication server's successful biometric authentication, and a process of transmitting the generated provision information to the exchange server.

Effects of the Invention

[0012] According to each aspect of the present invention, an information providing system, an analysis server, an information providing method, and a storage medium are provided, which contribute to improving the convenience of users who receive information. Note that the effects of the present invention are not limited to the above. Instead of, or together with, the above effects, other effects may be achieved by the present invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013]

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MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0014] First, an overview of an embodiment will be described. Note that the reference numerals in the drawings appended to this overview are for convenience and are appended to each element as an example to assist understanding, and the description of this overview is not intended to be limiting in any way. Also, unless otherwise specified, the blocks described in each drawing represent a configuration of functional units rather than a configuration of hardware units. The connection lines between the blocks in each figure include both bidirectional and unidirectional ones. The one-way arrow schematically shows the flow of the main signal (data) and does not exclude bidirectionality. In this specification and the drawings, for elements that can be similarly described, duplicate description may be omitted by assigning the same reference numerals.

[0015] An information providing system according to an embodiment includes an exchange server 101, an authentication server 102, and an analysis server 103 (see FIG. 1). The exchange server 101 realizes message exchange between users. The authentication server 102 performs biometric authentication. The analysis server 103 analyzes the data generated in the system. The analysis server 103 generates provided information to be provided to the user based on the first data obtained from the exchange server 101 and the second data generated in response to the authentication server 102 successfully performing biometric authentication. The analysis server 103 transmits the generated provided information to the exchange server 101. The exchange server 101 transfers the generated provided information to the terminal possessed by the user.

[0016] The above information providing system provides the provided information (information beneficial to the user; for example, information regarding tourist destinations, etc.) generated by the analysis server 103 to the user via the exchange server 101. The exchange server 101 is a server that provides the SNS (Social Networking Service) that the user uses daily. The user can obtain beneficial information without being aware of the existence of the authentication server 102 that generates the source of information provision (second data) or the analysis server 103 that analyzes the data generated in the system. That is, since the user can access beneficial information via the SNS that they are familiar with in daily life, the convenience of the user is improved.

[0017] Hereinafter, specific embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0018] [First Embodiment] The first embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0019] [Configuration of the System] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the information providing system according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the information providing system includes a communication infrastructure, a biometric authentication infrastructure, and a data analysis infrastructure.

[0020] The communication infrastructure is a system that provides connections with others to users. The communication infrastructure realizes a so-called SNS (Social Networking Service).

[0021] Users send and receive messages (text), photos, videos, etc. with others via the communication infrastructure. In addition, users receive information provided from organizations such as companies and local governments via the communication infrastructure.

[0022] The communication infrastructure includes an exchange server 10. The exchange server 10 realizes the main functions of the above communication infrastructure. The exchange server 10 realizes message exchange between users.

[0023] The biometric authentication infrastructure is a system that provides biometric authentication services to service providers (retail stores, hotels, etc.). For service providers in tourist areas and the like, for example, authentication terminals and signage are installed. The authentication terminals and the like acquire biometric information (for example, face images) of users and transmit the acquired biometric information to the biometric authentication infrastructure. The biometric authentication infrastructure performs biometric authentication using the acquired biometric information.

[0024] Service providers participating in the information provision system provide services using biometric authentication. Examples of services provided by service providers include payment settlement services at retail stores and accommodation services at hotels. Alternatively, the services provided by service providers may be immigration inspections at airports and ports. The service providers disclosed in the present application may provide any service that can be provided using biometric authentication.

[0025] The biometric authentication infrastructure includes an authentication server 20. The authentication server 20 is a server that performs biometric authentication. The authentication server 20 realizes the main functions of the biometric authentication infrastructure.

[0026] Examples of the biometric information of the user include data (feature quantities) calculated from personal unique physical characteristics such as face, fingerprint, voiceprint, vein, retina, and iris pattern of the pupil. Alternatively, the biometric information of the user may be image data such as a face image or a fingerprint image. The biometric information of the user may be anything that includes the user's physical characteristics as information. In the first embodiment, the biometric information is a human face image or a feature quantity generated from the face image.

[0027] The data analysis infrastructure is a system that analyzes information generated in the information provision system. The data analysis infrastructure analyzes data (messages, photos, etc.) exchanged between friends and data generated by biometric authentication. By analyzing the data, the data analysis infrastructure generates useful information for the user. The data analysis infrastructure provides the generated useful information to the user via the communication infrastructure.

[0028] The data analysis infrastructure includes an analysis server 30. The analysis server 30 is a server that analyzes data generated in the system. The analysis server 30 realizes the main functions of the data analysis infrastructure.

[0029] Among the above three bases, the communication base functions as a front-end that provides the user with the interface of the entire system. The biometric authentication base and the data analysis base function as back-ends that process the data obtained from the communication base and the like. That is, the user can obtain useful information through the communication base without being aware of the existence of the biometric authentication base and the data analysis base.

[0030] The servers (switching server 10, authentication server 20, analysis server 30) included in each base shown in FIG. 2 are configured to be able to communicate with each other via a network. For example, the switching server 10 and the authentication server 20 are connected by wired or wireless communication means and are configured to be able to communicate with each other.

[0031] FIG. 2 is an illustration and is not intended to limit the configuration of the information providing system disclosed in the present application. For example, the communication base may include two or more switching servers 10. In addition, each base is illustrated only with respect to the main configuration server devices (switching server 10, authentication server 20, analysis server 30), and descriptions of other configurations (for example, database servers, etc.) necessary to realize the functions of each base are omitted.

[0032] [Operation Outline] Subsequently, the general operation of the information providing system according to the first embodiment will be described. Here, the operation of the information providing system will be described by taking as an example the provision of information when a user travels to a tourist destination. More specifically, the operation of the entire information providing system will be described along the schedule from when a tourist visits a tourist destination, tours the tourist destination, and returns home.

[0033] Explanation of the preparations for users to use the communication infrastructure (SNS) alone etc. is omitted. User IDs (Identifiers) are assigned to users of the communication infrastructure. For example, user ID "ID01" is assigned to user A, and user ID "ID02" is assigned to user B. Each terminal owned by each user stores the user ID of the owner and the user IDs of others (e.g., friends). Also, the exchange server 10 stores, in association, the user ID and the contact information (e.g., phone number, email address, etc.) of the terminal owned by the user corresponding to the user ID.

[0034] The data analysis infrastructure (analysis server 30) provides various information to users based on a pre-prepared "scenario". A scenario is composed of a combination of a condition that serves as an opportunity (trigger) for information provision and the content (action) to be executed when the condition is satisfied.

[0035] For example, "When arriving at tourist destination A, guide tourist spot B" corresponds to a scenario. In this case, "Arriving at tourist destination A" is the trigger, and "Guide tourist spot B" corresponds to the action.

[0036] <Before the trip> Users who use the information provision system need to register with the system (user registration) in advance. Specifically, users need to register information such as the travel destination with the system. In other words, by registering travel destination information etc. with the system, users can obtain useful information in each process (before the trip, after the trip, during the trip) of the trip.

[0037] For example, a user (traveler) inputs their biometric information (e.g., face image), personal information (e.g., name, age, gender, address, credit card information, etc.), and travel information (e.g., name of the hotel for accommodation, accommodation period, etc.) into the communication infrastructure before the trip. More specifically, the user uses the terminal 40 they own to input biometric information, personal information, travel information, etc. into the communication infrastructure (see Figure 3).

[0038] The exchange server 10 transmits the user ID and various types of information (biometric information, personal information, travel information) obtained from the user's terminal 40 to the authentication server 20. More specifically, the exchange server 10 transmits a "user registration request" including the user ID and various types of information to the authentication server 20.

[0039] Upon receiving the user registration request, the authentication server 20 of the biometric authentication infrastructure stores the obtained user ID, biometric information, personal information, travel information, etc. in association with each other. Further, the authentication server 20 generates feature amounts from the face image as necessary, and stores the generated feature amounts in association with the user ID and the like.

[0040] In this way, the exchange server 10 acquires at least the biometric information of the user, and transmits a "user registration request" including the acquired biometric information to the authentication server 20. The authentication server 20 stores the biometric information (face image or feature amount) included in the user registration request.

[0041] Furthermore, the exchange server 10 transmits the user ID and the acquired information (biometric information, personal information, travel information) to the analysis server 30. More specifically, the exchange server 10 transmits a "user registration notification" including the user ID, personal information, and travel information to the analysis server 30 (see FIG. 4). That is, the exchange server 10 transmits a user registration notification including the personal information and the like of the user to the analysis server 30 in response to transmitting the user registration request to the authentication server 20.

[0042] Upon receiving the user registration notification, the analysis server 30 acquires the personal information and travel information of the user who is planning a trip.

[0043] Upon receiving the user registration notification, the analysis server 30 of the data analysis infrastructure starts managing the action history of the user. Specifically, the analysis server 30 adds a new entry to the action history database. Details of the action history database will be described later.

[0044] When receiving the user registration notice, the analysis server 30 generates "pre-trip information" based on the acquired travel information and the like. In this case, the analysis server 30 generates pre-trip information based on the above scenario.

[0045] The pre-trip information includes information beneficial to the user before the trip. For example, the analysis server 30 identifies the tourist destinations of the sightseeing plan from the travel information, and generates information about tourist spots and the like of the identified tourist destinations as "pre-trip information". Alternatively, the analysis server 30 may generate pre-trip information including information related to the movement to the tourist destination (for example, transfer guidance, etc.). In the above example, "when user registration is performed, provide information about tourist spots at the travel destination" and "when user registration is performed, provide transfer guidance to the tourist destination" correspond to the scenario.

[0046] The analysis server 30 transmits the generated pre-trip information (for example, information about tourist spots and the like) to the communication infrastructure together with the user ID.

[0047] The exchange server 10 identifies the user (the user's terminal 40) based on the user ID, and transmits (transfers) the pre-trip information to the terminal 40 of the identified user.

[0048] The user checks the pre-trip information provided from the data analysis infrastructure on the communication infrastructure (SNS).

[0049] <During the trip> The user (tourist) posts a message or the like on the communication infrastructure at tourist destinations, tourist spots, etc. Specifically, the user operates the terminal 40 to convey impressions of visiting a tourist destination to friends, or transmits photos, videos, etc. of tourist spots to friends. At that time, the terminal 40 transmits a message (text), a photo, etc. to the communication infrastructure together with the user ID of its own terminal and the user ID of the other terminal (the terminal 40 of a friend, etc.) (see Fig. 5).

[0050] The communication infrastructure's exchange server 10 transmits the received user ID (the user ID of the message sender), message, photo, etc. to the data analysis infrastructure.

[0051] The analysis server 30 of the data analysis infrastructure analyzes the received message, photo, etc. By analyzing the message, etc., the analysis server 30 estimates the actions, situation, etc. of the user (message sender). For example, when the analysis server 30 receives a message to the effect that the user has boarded a means of transportation such as an airplane or train, it determines that the user's situation is "in transit".

[0052] Alternatively, when the analysis server 30 receives a message indicating that the user has arrived at a tourist destination or tourist spot, it determines that the user "has arrived at the tourist destination (tourist spot)".

[0053] The analysis server 30 stores the estimated actions and situation of the user in the action history database.

[0054] In addition, the analysis server 30 may generate "travel information" useful for users during travel upon receiving a message or the like.

[0055] For example, according to the user's latest actions (the latest information registered in the action history database), if it is determined that the user has arrived at a tourist destination, the analysis server 30 generates information about tourist spots in the tourist destination. Alternatively, the analysis server 30 may generate travel information including a message welcoming the visit to the tourist destination and the history of the tourist destination. The analysis server 30 transmits the generated travel information together with the user ID to the communication infrastructure.

[0056] The exchange server 10 transmits the travel information to the terminal 40 corresponding to the user ID.

[0057] Here, a user may receive a service provided using biometric authentication at a tourist destination (see Fig. 6). More specifically, the user receives a service based on biometric authentication by using an authentication terminal 50 installed at the storefront of a service provider operating at a tourist attraction or in the lobby of a hotel at the tourist destination.

[0058] The authentication terminal 50 acquires biometric information of the user (tourist; the person to be authenticated). The authentication terminal 50 transmits an authentication request including the biometric information to the authentication server 20.

[0059] The authentication server 20 performs biometric authentication using the acquired biometric information and the pre-registered biometric information, and transmits the authentication result to the authentication terminal 50.

[0060] The authentication terminal 50 performs processing according to the authentication result. If the authentication is successful, the authentication terminal 50 performs check-in procedures or the like. For example, while displaying a message welcoming the visitor of the person to be authenticated together with the name of the person to be authenticated, the authentication terminal 50 performs the check-in procedure. If the authentication fails, the authentication terminal 50 notifies the user to that effect.

[0061] When the biometric authentication is successful, the biometric authentication infrastructure (authentication server 20) transmits an "authentication success notification" to the data analysis infrastructure. The authentication success notification includes the user ID of the authentication successful person (the user determined to have succeeded in authentication) and details regarding the biometric authentication. Details regarding the biometric authentication (authentication detailed information) include information such as the installation location of the authentication terminal 50 and the provided service. For example, if the user performs a check-in procedure using the authentication terminal 50 installed in a hotel, the authentication detailed information stating that fact is transmitted to the analysis server 30.

[0062] Upon receiving the authentication success notification, the analysis server 30 estimates the actions, situation, etc. of the user (the person to be authenticated) by analyzing the authentication detailed information. For example, in the above example, the analysis server 30 determines that the user has arrived at the hotel. The analysis server 30 stores the actions of the user in the action history database.

[0063] The analysis server 30 may generate in-trip information upon receiving a successful authentication notification. In the above example, the analysis server 30 may generate recommendation information for tourist spots around the hotel or recommendation information regarding meals. That is, the in-trip information may be generated according to a scenario consisting of the condition (trigger) "arrived at the hotel" and the content (action) "providing recommendation information for tourist spots around the hotel".

[0064] In this way, the authentication server 20 receives an authentication request including the biometric information of the person to be authenticated from the authentication terminal 50, and performs biometric authentication using the biometric information included in the authentication request and the stored biometric information. When the biometric authentication is successful, the authentication server 20 sends an authentication success notification including details regarding the successful biometric authentication to the analysis server 30.

[0065] <After the trip> When the analysis server 30 determines that the user has ended the trip based on the information obtained from the communication infrastructure (such as messages sent to friends) or the information obtained from the biometric authentication infrastructure (authentication success notification), the analysis server 30 generates post-trip information. The post-trip information is information beneficial to the user after the trip.

[0066] For example, when the analysis server 30 analyzes the message obtained from the communication infrastructure and determines that the user has returned home, the analysis server 30 stores this fact in the action history database. Furthermore, the analysis server 30 generates post-trip information.

[0067] For example, the analysis server 30 may generate post-trip information regarding the next travel destination, or may generate information for reflecting on the current trip (such as an album compiling the photos taken during the trip) as post-trip information.

[0068] Note that the post-trip information is also generated based on a "scenario". In the above example, the post-trip information is generated according to a scenario consisting of the condition "the user has returned home" and the content "providing information regarding the next travel destination".

[0069] The analysis server 30 transmits the generated post-trip information to the user's terminal 40 via the communication infrastructure (see FIG. 7).

[0070] As described above, the analysis server 30 generates the provided information to be provided to the user based on the first data (messages, photos, videos, etc. sent to friends) obtained from the exchange server 10 and / or the second data (authentication success notification) generated by the authentication server 20. The analysis server 30 transmits the generated provided information (pre-trip information, in-trip information, post-trip information) to the exchange server 10. The exchange server 10 transfers the provided information generated by the analysis server 30 to the terminal 40 owned by the user. When generating the provided information, the analysis server 30 estimates the user's actions by analyzing the first data and / or the second data. When the estimated actions match the conditions of the scenario, the analysis server 30 executes the content of the corresponding scenario.

[0071] Subsequently, details of each device included in the information providing system according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0072] [Exchange Server] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the processing configuration (processing modules) of the exchange server 10 according to the first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 8, the exchange server 10 includes a communication control unit 201, a user registration unit 202, a message exchange unit 203, an information transfer unit 204, and a storage unit 205.

[0073] The communication control unit 201 is means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, the communication control unit 201 receives data (packets) from the analysis server 30. Also, the communication control unit 201 transmits data to the analysis server 30. The communication control unit 201 delivers the data received from other devices to other processing modules. The communication control unit 201 transmits the data obtained from other processing modules to other devices. In this way, other processing modules perform data transmission and reception with other devices via the communication control unit 201.

[0074] The user registration unit 202 is a means for realizing the above-mentioned user registration. When the user presses a specific button or the like displayed on the terminal 40, the user registration unit 202 displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for user registration on the terminal 40.

[0075] For example, the user registration unit 202 displays a GUI as shown in FIG. 9 on the terminal 40.

[0076] The user operates the terminal 40 to input biometric information (e.g., face image), personal information (e.g., name, age, gender, address, credit card information, etc.), and travel information (e.g., name of the hotel for accommodation, accommodation period, etc.).

[0077] The user registration unit 202 obtains the user ID of the user from the terminal 40 together with the above-mentioned biometric information, etc.

[0078] The user registration unit 202 transmits the obtained user ID, biometric information, etc. to the biometric authentication infrastructure and the data analysis infrastructure. More specifically, the user registration unit 202 transmits a user registration request including the user ID, biometric information, personal information, and travel information to the authentication server 20. The user registration unit 202 transmits a user registration notification including the user ID, personal information, and travel information to the analysis server 30.

[0079] The message exchange unit 203 is a means for realizing message exchange between users. The message exchange unit 203 receives the user ID of the message sender, the user ID of the message destination, and a message (including photos, videos, etc.) from the terminal 40.

[0080] The message exchange unit 203 refers to the contact information database constructed in the storage unit 205 to identify the contact (e.g., the email address of the message destination) corresponding to the user ID of the message destination. The message exchange unit 203 transmits the user ID of the message sender, the message, photos, videos, etc. to the identified contact.

[0081] Furthermore, the message exchange unit 203 transmits the user ID of the message sender and messages, photos, videos, etc. to the data analysis platform (analysis server 30).

[0082] The information transfer unit 204 is a means for transferring the provided information (pre-trip information, in-trip information, post-trip information) received from the data analysis platform to the user's terminal 40.

[0083] Upon receiving the provided information (information provided by the system to the user; pre-trip information, etc.), the information transfer unit 204 refers to the contact information database and identifies the contact (such as an email address) corresponding to the user ID that is sent together with the provided information. The information transfer unit 204 transmits (transfers) the provided information to the identified contact.

[0084] The storage unit 205 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the exchange server 10. A contact information database is constructed in the storage unit 205. As shown in FIG. 10, the contact information database stores the user ID and the contact (phone number, email address, etc. of the terminal 40) in association with each other.

[0085] [Authentication Server] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the processing configuration (processing modules) of the authentication server 20 according to the first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 11, the authentication server 20 includes a communication control unit 301, an authenticatee management unit 302, an authentication unit 303, and a storage unit 304.

[0086] The communication control unit 301 is a means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, the communication control unit 301 receives data (packets) from the exchange server 10. Also, the communication control unit 301 transmits data to the exchange server 10. The communication control unit 301 delivers the data received from other devices to other processing modules. The communication control unit 301 transmits the data acquired from other processing modules to other devices. In this way, other processing modules perform data transmission and reception with other devices via the communication control unit 301.

[0087] The authenticated person management unit 302 is a means for managing user information (user ID, biometric information, personal information, travel information) obtained from the communication infrastructure.

[0088] The authenticated person management unit 302 generates feature quantities (feature vectors composed of a plurality of feature quantities) from a face image (biometric information).

[0089] Regarding the generation process of the feature quantities, existing technologies can be used, so detailed descriptions thereof are omitted. For example, the authenticated person management unit 302 extracts eyes, nose, mouth, etc. as feature points from the face image. Thereafter, the authenticated person management unit 302 calculates the positions of the respective feature points and the distances between the feature points as feature quantities, and generates a feature vector (vector information characterizing the face image) composed of a plurality of feature quantities.

[0090] The authenticated person management unit 302 associates the user ID obtained from the communication infrastructure, the above-generated feature quantities (biometric information), personal information, and travel information, and stores them in the authenticated person information database (see FIG. 12).

[0091] The authenticated person information database shown in FIG. 12 is an example and is not intended to limit the items to be stored. For example, "face image" may be registered in the authenticated person information database as biometric information.

[0092] The authentication unit 303 is a means for processing an authentication request from the authentication terminal 50.

[0093] Upon receiving the authentication request, the authentication unit 303 sets the biometric information (feature quantity) included in the authentication request as the collation target, and performs a collation process with the biometric information registered in the authenticated person information database. More specifically, the authentication unit 303 sets the feature quantity extracted from the authentication request as the collation target, and executes a one-to-N collation (N is a positive integer, the same hereinafter) with a plurality of feature quantities registered in the authenticated person information database.

[0094] The authentication unit 303 calculates the similarity between the feature amount (feature vector) to be collated and each of the plurality of feature amounts on the registration side. For the similarity, the chi-square distance, Euclidean distance, etc. can be used. Note that the greater the distance, the lower the similarity, and the closer the distance, the higher the similarity.

[0095] If the feature amount with a similarity equal to or greater than a predetermined value is not registered in the authenticated person information database, the authentication unit 303 sets the authentication result to "authentication failed". In the case of authentication failure, the authentication unit 303 transmits a negative response indicating that to the authentication terminal 50.

[0096] If the feature amount with a similarity equal to or greater than a predetermined value is registered in the authenticated person information database, the authentication unit 303 sets the authentication result to "authentication successful". In the case of authentication success, the authentication unit 303 performs processing according to the type of the authentication terminal 50 that is the transmission source of the authentication request.

[0097] For example, if the authentication terminal 50 is a check-in terminal installed in a hotel, the authentication unit 303 transmits an affirmative response including the travel information of the entry having the biometric information with the highest similarity to the collation target among the entries in the authenticated person information database to the authentication terminal 50.

[0098] Alternatively, if the authentication terminal 50 is a payment terminal installed in a retail store, the authentication unit 303 transmits an affirmative response including the credit card information of the entry having the biometric information with the highest similarity to the collation target among the entries in the authenticated person information database to the authentication terminal 50.

[0099] Also, in the case of authentication success, the authentication unit 303 transmits the authentication detailed information to the analysis server 30 together with the user ID of the entry identified by the collation process. For example, the authentication detailed information including the installation location of the authentication terminal 50 where biometric authentication was performed (for example, hotel name, retail store name), the purpose of biometric authentication (for example, check-in procedure, product payment), etc. is transmitted to the analysis server 30.

[0100] The storage unit 304 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the authentication server 20. A database of information on the person to be authenticated is constructed in the storage unit 304.

[0101] [Analysis Server] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the processing configuration (processing modules) of the analysis server 30 according to the first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 13, the analysis server 30 includes a communication control unit 401, a user information management unit 402, an analysis unit 403, an information providing unit 404, and a storage unit 405.

[0102] The communication control unit 401 is a means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, the communication control unit 401 receives data (packets) from the switching server 10. Also, the communication control unit 401 transmits data to the switching server 10. The communication control unit 401 delivers the data received from other devices to other processing modules. The communication control unit 401 transmits the data acquired from other processing modules to other devices. In this way, other processing modules perform data transmission and reception with other devices via the communication control unit 401. The communication control unit 401 has the function of a receiving unit that receives data generated in the system and the function of a transmitting unit that transmits the generated provided information to the terminal 40 held by the user.

[0103] The user information management unit 402 is a means for managing information on users (user ID, personal information, travel information) acquired from the communication infrastructure. The user information management unit 402 associates the user ID, personal information, and travel information acquired from the communication infrastructure and stores them in the user information database (see FIG. 14).

[0104] The analysis unit 403 is a means for analyzing data acquired from the communication infrastructure and the biometric authentication infrastructure. The analysis unit 403 analyzes the data generated in the system and estimates the behavior of the user. More specifically, the analysis unit 403 analyzes the data (at least one of messages, photos, and videos) acquired from the communication infrastructure and estimates the behavior and state of the user.

[0105] When the analysis unit 403 receives a "user registration notice" from the exchange server 10, it adds a new entry to the action history database. Further, the analysis unit 403 sets "user registration completed" in the action history field of the added entry (see the uppermost and lowermost parts in FIG. 15). As shown in FIG. 15, the action history database stores the user ID, the date and time (the date and time when a message or the like is analyzed), and the action history in association with each other.

[0106] The analysis unit 403 acquires messages, photos, videos, etc. transmitted and received between the user and friends from the exchange server 10. The analysis unit 403 estimates the actions and situations of the user from the acquired messages and the like. Specifically, the analysis unit 403 estimates the actions and situations of the user by referring to the table information that associates the text (sentence) included in the message with the actions and situations estimated from the text (see FIG. 16).

[0107] Alternatively, the analysis unit 403 may estimate the actions and situations of the user using a pre-prepared learning model. A system administrator or the like prepares a large amount of teacher data with labels (user actions and situations) attached to messages and the like. The administrator or the like performs machine learning using the teacher data to generate a classification model (learning model). Any algorithm such as a support vector machine, boosting, or a neural network can be used for generating the learning model. Since algorithms such as the support vector machine use known technologies, the description thereof is omitted.

[0108] The generated learning model is implemented in the analysis server 30. The analysis unit 403 inputs messages and the like to the learning model to acquire the actions and situations of the user estimated from the messages.

[0109] The analysis unit 403 may estimate the actions and situations of the user based on the "authentication success notification" obtained from the authentication server 20. For example, if the analysis unit 403 receives an authentication success notification including information indicating that the check-in procedure has been performed at the authentication terminal 50, it estimates the user's action as "arrival at the hotel".

[0110] The analysis unit 403 registers the estimated actions and situations of the user in the action history database. As shown in FIG. 15, the actions and situations of the user are managed and stored in chronological order in the action history database.

[0111] When the analysis unit 403 adds an entry to the action history database or adds an action history, it notifies the information providing unit 404 to that effect. The analysis unit 403 sends a notification of the update of the action history database to the information providing unit 404.

[0112] The information providing unit 404 is a means for providing information to the user. The information providing unit 404 generates provided information (pre-trip information, in-trip information, post-trip information) to be provided to the user according to a pre-prepared "scenario". The information providing unit 404 functions as a generation unit that generates provided information to be provided to the user according to the actions of the user.

[0113] Note that the scenario is prepared by a system administrator or the like and input to the analysis server 30 in advance. Alternatively, the analysis server 30 may access other external servers or database servers to obtain the scenario.

[0114] As described above, the scenario is composed of a combination of a condition that serves as an opportunity (trigger) for information provision and the content (action) to be taken when the condition is satisfied. When the information providing unit 404 receives a notification of the update of the action history database from the analysis unit 403, it refers to the scenario database storing the scenario (see FIG. 17).

[0115] The information providing unit 404 refers to the scenario database and, if the actions and situations of the user match the conditions (triggers) described in the database, executes the corresponding content (actions).

[0116] Hereinafter, specific examples of information provision in each process before, during, and after the trip will be described. The information providing unit 404 determines whether the actions of the user correspond to any of the actions before the trip, during the trip, or after the trip, and generates the provided information according to each process. In other words, in the scenario, the actions of the user performed in each process of the trip (before the trip, during the trip, after the trip) are described as "conditions", and when the conditions are met, information assumed to be beneficial to the user in each process is generated as the provided information.

[0117] Note that the information providing unit 404 can obtain the user's travel destination, address, etc. by searching the user information database using the user ID in the action history database. In addition, information necessary for information provision, such as a list of tourist spots included in the tourist destination, is stored in the storage unit 405.

[0118] <Specific examples of pre-trip information> For example, if the action of the user is "completion of user registration", the information providing unit 404 generates guidance on the tourist destination the user plans to visit as "pre-trip information". For example, if the information providing unit 404 knows from the travel information obtained from the communication infrastructure that the user will visit tourist destination A, it generates a list of tourist spots included in tourist destination A as pre-trip information.

[0119] The generated pre-trip information is transmitted to the user's terminal 40 via the communication infrastructure. In this case, the user's terminal 40 displays a message as shown in FIG. 18.

[0120] Alternatively, the information providing unit 404 may generate route guidance, fares, etc. to the travel destination as pre-trip information based on the user's address and travel destination.

[0121] Alternatively, the information providing unit 404 may generate pre-trip information for enabling a specific function in the communication infrastructure. For example, the information providing unit 404 may generate pre-trip information for setting the travel schedule in a calendar or pre-trip information for reminding a few days before the travel.

[0122] <Specific examples of in-trip information> For example, when the user arrives at a tourist destination, the information providing unit 404 may generate guidance on the most popular tourist spots at the tourist destination as in-trip information. The generated in-trip information is transmitted to the user's terminal 40 via the communication infrastructure. In this case, the user's terminal 40 displays a message as shown in FIG. 19. Note that, as shown in FIG. 19, illustrations of tourist spots and the like may be included in the in-trip information.

[0123] Alternatively, when the user arrives at a tourist destination, the information providing unit 404 may generate information on local specialties, famous dishes, etc. of the tourist destination and information on events (e.g., traditional events such as festivals) as in-trip information.

[0124] Alternatively, when the user arrives at a tourist destination (station, airport), the information providing unit 404 may generate information on taxis for the user to move (contact information of taxi companies, etc.) as in-trip information.

[0125] Alternatively, when the user arrives at the reserved hotel, the information providing unit 404 may generate guidance on the hotel and guidance on restaurants and the like around the hotel as in-trip information.

[0126] <Specific examples of post-trip information> For example, when the user returns home, the information providing unit 404 generates guidance on the next trip as post-trip information. The generated post-trip information is transmitted to the user's terminal 40 via the communication infrastructure. In this case, the user's terminal 40 displays a message as shown in FIG. 20.

[0127] Alternatively, when the user returns home, the information providing unit 404 generates information for reflecting on the current trip as post-trip information. For example, the information providing unit 404 refers to the action history database and generates an "album" as post-trip information by gathering the photos taken during the trip.

[0128] Alternatively, if settlement information (the amount of money spent at the travel destination) is described in the action history database, the information providing unit 404 may generate the expenses incurred for the trip as post-trip information.

[0129] In this way, when the user's action is estimated to be a pre-trip action, the information providing unit 404 generates pre-trip information beneficial to the user before the trip. When the user's action is estimated to be an in-trip action, the information providing unit 404 generates in-trip information beneficial to the user during the trip. When the user's action is estimated to be a post-trip action, the information providing unit 404 generates post-trip information beneficial to the user after the trip.

[0130] <Information provision using attribute information> The information providing unit 404 may generate provided information (pre-trip information, in-trip information, post-trip information) based on attribute information such as the user's age and gender. For example, the information providing unit 404 may change the tourist spots recommended during the trip or the tourist destinations recommended after the trip according to the user's age and gender.

[0131] In this case, scenarios such as "When a man in his 30s arrives at tourist destination A, provide guidance on tourist spot B" or "When a woman in her 20s arrives at tourist destination A, provide guidance on tourist spot C" are registered in the scenario database. That is, conditions finer than the conditions shown in FIG. 17 may be set in the scenario database.

[0132] <Information provision using time zone> The information providing unit 404 may generate provided information based on the time (time zone) at the time of generating the provided information. For example, the information providing unit 404 may change the tourist spots recommended during the trip according to the time zone.

[0133] In this case, scenarios such as "If arriving at tourist destination A in the morning, provide guidance to tourist attraction B" and "If arriving at tourist destination A in the afternoon, provide guidance to tourist attraction C" are registered in the scenario database.

[0134] <Information provision using weather information> The information provision unit 404 may generate the provided information based on the weather (weather forecast) at the time of generating the provided information. For example, the information provision unit 404 may change the tourist attractions recommended during the trip according to the weather. Note that the information provision unit 404 can obtain weather information by accessing an external server or the like.

[0135] In this case, scenarios such as "If it is sunny when arriving at tourist destination A, provide guidance to tourist attraction B" and "If it is rainy when arriving at tourist destination A, provide guidance to tourist attraction C" are registered in the scenario database.

[0136] <Information provision using action history> The information provision unit 404 may generate the information provided to the user based on the user's action history. For example, the information provision unit 404 may change the restaurants recommended for dinner according to the category of the user's lunch (Japanese cuisine, Chinese cuisine, etc.).

[0137] In this case, scenarios such as "If lunch is Japanese cuisine, provide guidance to restaurant B" and "If lunch is Chinese cuisine, provide guidance to restaurant C" are registered in the scenario database.

[0138] The storage unit 405 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the analysis server 30. In the storage unit 405, a user information database, an action history database, a scenario database, etc. are constructed.

[0139] [Terminal] Since the configuration and functions of the terminal 40 are obvious to those skilled in the art, the description thereof will be omitted. The terminal 40 only needs to provide information to the user using the SNS provided by the communication infrastructure. Examples of the terminal 40 include portable terminal devices such as smartphones, mobile phones, game machines, tablets, and computers (personal computers, notebook computers).

[0140] [Authentication Terminal] Since the configuration and functions of the authentication terminal 50 are obvious to those skilled in the art, the description thereof will be omitted. The authentication terminal 50 acquires the biometric information of the person to be authenticated and transmits the biometric information (for example, a face image) to the authentication server 20. The authentication terminal 50 performs necessary processing according to the information received from the authentication server 20 (for example, travel information, credit card information, etc.). For example, the authentication terminal 50 performs check-in procedures using travel information or processes the payment for goods using credit card information.

[0141] [Operation of the System] Subsequently, the operation of the information providing system according to the first embodiment will be described. Note that the description of the operation related to user registration will be omitted.

[0142] FIG. 21 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the information providing system according to the first embodiment. With reference to FIG. 21, the case where the data analysis infrastructure (analysis server 30) provides information based on the message acquired from the communication infrastructure (exchange server 10) will be described.

[0143] When the exchange server 10 receives a message transmitted and received between users, it transmits the message to the analysis server 30 (step S01).

[0144] The analysis server 30 analyzes the received message and estimates the actions and situations of the users (step S02). The analysis server 30 analyzes at least one of the messages, photos, and videos exchanged between users and estimates the actions and situations of the users.

[0145] The analysis server 30 refers to the scenario DB (Data Base) and determines whether the actions of the user etc. match the conditions of a pre-determined scenario (step S03).

[0146] If the scenario database contains a scenario that matches the actions of the user, the analysis server 30 executes the actions of the said scenario and generates the provision information to be provided to the user (step S04).

[0147] The analysis server 30 transmits the generated provision information (such as in-trip information) to the exchange server 10 together with the user ID of the user (the user ID of the user who sent the message to the communication infrastructure) (step S05).

[0148] The exchange server 10 transfers the provision information acquired from the analysis server 30 to the terminal 40 corresponding to the user ID (step S06).

[0149] FIG. 22 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the information provision system according to the first embodiment. With reference to FIG. 22, the case where the data analysis infrastructure (analysis server 30) provides information based on the authentication success notification acquired from the biometric authentication infrastructure (authentication server 20) will be described.

[0150] The authentication server 20 performs biometric authentication in response to an authentication request from the authentication terminal 50 (step S11).

[0151] In the case of authentication success, the authentication server 20 transmits an authentication success notification to the analysis server 30 (step S12).

[0152] The analysis server 30 analyzes the received authentication success notification and estimates the actions and situation of the user (step S13). The analysis server 30 targets for analysis the data (authentication success notification) generated by biometric authentication with the user as the authenticated person.

[0153] The analysis server 30 refers to the scenario database and determines whether the actions of the user etc. match the conditions of a pre-determined scenario (step S14).

[0154] If the scenario database contains a scenario that matches the actions of the user, the analysis server 30 executes the actions of the said scenario and generates the provision information to be provided to the user (step S15).

[0155] The analysis server 30 transmits the generated provision information (such as in-trip information) together with the user ID of the user (the user ID of the user who sent the message to the communication infrastructure) to the exchange server 10 (step S16).

[0156] The exchange server 10 transfers the provision information obtained from the analysis server 30 towards the terminal 40 corresponding to the user ID (step S17).

[0157] As described above, the information provision system according to the first embodiment analyzes the data generated in the system (data sent to friends, data generated as a result of biometric authentication), etc., and generates provision information (for example, pre-trip information, in-trip information, post-trip information) that is beneficial to the user. The generated provision information is provided to the user via the SNS (message exchange type) that the user uses daily. That is, the user can access the provision information through a familiar interface and does not need to use an interface for obtaining the above-mentioned provision information. Since the user can access useful information via the SNS that they are familiar with daily, the convenience of the said user is improved.

[0158] In addition, the analysis server 30 according to the first embodiment determines whether the user corresponds to "before travel", "during travel", or "after travel" according to the user's behavior. The analysis server 30 generates and provides information beneficial to the user in each process according to the determined situation. That is, the information providing system according to the first embodiment provides useful information (information required by the user) at an appropriate timing according to the situation of the user (traveler). As a result, a safe and comfortable trip can be realized.

[0159] Subsequently, the hardware of each device constituting the information providing system will be described. FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the analysis server 30.

[0160] The analysis server 30 can be configured by an information processing device (so-called computer) and has the configuration exemplified in FIG. 23. For example, the analysis server 30 includes a processor 311, a memory 312, an input / output interface 313, a communication interface 314, and the like. The components such as the processor 311 are connected by an internal bus or the like and are configured to communicate with each other.

[0161] However, the configuration shown in FIG. 23 is not intended to limit the hardware configuration of the analysis server 30. The analysis server 30 may include hardware not shown, or may not include the input / output interface 313 as necessary. Also, the number of processors 311 and the like included in the analysis server 30 is not intended to be limited to the example shown in FIG. 23. For example, a plurality of processors 311 may be included in the analysis server 30.

[0162] The processor 311 is a programmable device such as, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), etc. Alternatively, the processor 311 may be a device such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), etc. The processor 311 executes various programs including an operating system (OS; Operating System).

[0163] The memory 312 is a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), etc. The memory 312 stores an OS program, an application program, and various data.

[0164] The input / output interface 313 is an interface for a display device and an input device (not shown). The display device is, for example, a liquid crystal display, etc. The input device is a device that receives user operations such as, for example, a keyboard and a mouse.

[0165] The communication interface 314 is a circuit, a module, etc. that communicates with other devices. For example, the communication interface 314 includes a NIC (Network Interface Card), etc.

[0166] The functions of the analysis server 30 are realized by various processing modules. The processing modules are realized, for example, by the processor 311 executing a program stored in the memory 312. Further, the program can be recorded on a computer-readable storage medium. The storage medium can be non-transitory such as a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, a magnetic recording medium, an optical recording medium, etc. That is, the present invention can also be embodied as a computer program product. Further, the above program can be downloaded via a network or updated using a storage medium storing the program. Furthermore, the above processing module may be realized by a semiconductor chip.

[0167] Note that the exchange server 10 and the authentication server 20 can also be configured by an information processing apparatus in the same manner as the analysis server 30, and the basic hardware configuration is the same as that of the analysis server 30, so the description thereof is omitted.

[0168] The analysis server 30, which is an information processing apparatus, is equipped with a computer, and the functions of the analysis server 30 can be realized by causing the computer to execute a program. Further, the analysis server 30 executes an information providing method according to the program.

[0169] [Modification Example] Note that the configuration, operation, etc. of the information providing system described in the above embodiment are examples, and are not intended to limit the configuration of the system.

[0170] In the above embodiment, the case of providing information to a user via a message exchange type SNS has been described. However, information may be provided by other types of SNS, for example, a photo posting type, a message diffusion type, a diary type, etc.

[0171] In the above-described embodiment, it has been explained that the user ID used in the communication infrastructure is also used in other infrastructures (biometric authentication infrastructure, data analysis infrastructure). However, in other infrastructures, if an ID has been assigned to the user, the ID of the communication infrastructure and the ID of the other infrastructure may be linked. Specifically, at the time of user registration, the ID of the other infrastructure may be input to the exchange server 10, and the exchange server 10 may notify the authentication server 20 and the analysis server 30 of the ID of the other infrastructure and the user ID.

[0172] In the above-described embodiment, the case of providing information to users who are planning a trip has been explained. However, the target recipients of the information provision are not limited to users who are planning a trip. For example, company employees who need to commute may be the target recipients of the information provision. In this case, the information provision system may provide users with information beneficial to company employees before commuting, during work, and after returning home, respectively, via the communication infrastructure.

[0173] In the above-described embodiment, the case of generating the provided information based on a scenario has been explained. However, the generation of the provided information may be performed based on other methods or systems. For example, the analysis server 30 may input the user's behavior into a learning model obtained by machine learning (AI; Artificial Intelligence), and acquire provided information (information recommended and guided to the user) from the learning model.

[0174] In the above-described embodiment, it has been explained that the messages posted by the user and the results of biometric authentication are used as data for estimating the user's actions and situation when providing information. However, other data may be used to estimate the user's actions and the like. For example, when the user's location information (the location information of the terminal 40) is obtained via the communication infrastructure, the user's actions and situation may be estimated based on the location information. The terminal 40 may generate location information based on a GPS (Global Positioning System) signal or the like. Alternatively, the data analysis infrastructure (analysis server 30) may analyze the message recipient and its content, and estimate the user's actions and the like. That is, as the first data, analysis may be performed based on the location information obtained from GPS or the like, the message recipient, and its content (to whom what content was transmitted).

[0175] The user's actions that serve as an opportunity (trigger) for information provision may be performed on the terminal 40. For example, a scenario such as "when an email is opened, provide guidance on tourist destination A" may be prepared.

[0176] The exchange server 10 may confirm the identity of the user at the time of user registration. Specifically, the exchange server 10 acquires an identity confirmation document (for example, a passport) on which biometric information is described, together with the user's biometric information, personal information, and the like. The exchange server 10 performs a one-to-one comparison using the biometric information in the identity confirmation document and the biometric information obtained from the user. The exchange server 10 may perform user registration when the comparison is successful.

[0177] In the above-described embodiment, the case of providing positive information such as information on recommended tourist spots to the user has been explained. However, negative information may be notified to the user. For example, closing information, regular holiday information, etc. of amusement parks and the like may be provided to the user.

[0178] In the above-described embodiment, the case where the data analysis infrastructure (analysis server 30) stores the personal information and travel information of the user has been described. However, the analysis server 30 does not necessarily have to store these pieces of information. The analysis server 30 may obtain the information from the biometric authentication infrastructure (authentication server 20) when these pieces of information are required. In this case, the analysis server 30 (analysis unit 403) transmits an "information provision request" including the user ID of the user who needs personal information, etc. to the authentication server 20. The authentication server 20 (authenticated person management unit 302) that has received the information provision request reads out the personal information and travel information corresponding to the obtained user ID from the authenticated person information database, and transmits the read personal information, etc. to the analysis server 30. The authentication server 20 transmits the personal information, etc. to the analysis server 30 as a response to the information provision request.

[0179] In the above-described embodiment, the case where the feature amount generated from the face image is stored in the authenticated person information database has been described, but the feature amount does not necessarily have to be stored in the database. Instead of the feature amount, the face image may be registered in the authenticated person information database, and the authentication server 20 may generate the feature amount from the registered face image every time it processes an authentication request.

[0180] In the above-described embodiment, it has been explained that before the trip, the user inputs the travel information to the communication infrastructure (exchange server 10). The exchange server 10 may obtain the travel information in the form of a questionnaire. For example, the exchange server 10 may display a questionnaire (pre-trip questionnaire) as shown in FIG. 24 on the user's terminal 40. In this case, when the "pre-trip information" button shown in FIG. 9 is pressed, the user registration unit 202 of the exchange server 10 may display a questionnaire (information input form) as shown in FIG. 24.

[0181] The user may notify the communication infrastructure (exchange server 10) of the fact of arriving at a tourist destination or the like. In response to receiving the notification, the exchange server 10 may display on the terminal 40 a questionnaire or the like for inquiring about the place where the user has arrived. For example, the terminal 40 displays a menu screen as shown in FIG. 25. The user who has arrived at a tourist destination or the like presses the "Arrival" button. The terminal 40 transmits a "Tourist Destination Arrival Notification" to the communication infrastructure (exchange server 10) in response to the pressing of the button. When the exchange server 10 receives the notification, it displays a questionnaire asking the user where they have arrived. For example, the exchange server 10 displays a questionnaire screen as shown in FIG. 26 on the terminal 40. The exchange server 10 transmits the information obtained from the questionnaire screen (such as the name of the tourist destination where the user has arrived) to the analysis server 30. In this way, the analysis server 30 may collect information about the tourist destinations and tourist spots where the user has arrived through the questionnaire by the communication infrastructure.

[0182] Alternatively, the user may transmit their impressions during the trip or the like to the communication infrastructure (exchange server 10). For example, the user presses the "Impressions" button on the menu screen shown in FIG. 25. The terminal 40 notifies the communication infrastructure (exchange server 10) that the button has been pressed. In response to the notification, the exchange server 10 displays on the terminal 40 a questionnaire screen for the user to enter their impressions. For example, the exchange server 10 displays a questionnaire screen as shown in FIG. 27 on the terminal 40. The exchange server 10 transmits the information obtained from the questionnaire screen (such as impressions of the tourist destination) to the analysis server 30. In this way, the analysis server 30 may collect the user's impressions regarding tourist destinations and tourist spots through the questionnaire by the communication infrastructure.

[0183] When providing information to the user, the data analysis platform (analysis server 30) may obtain the user's preferences and provide information according to those preferences. For example, the analysis server 30 may present the user with a plurality of plans (travel-related plans) that can be provided via the communication platform. For example, the analysis server 30 may present the user with options such as a "family plan for a fun family trip", a "solo travel plan for a solo adventure", and a "travel plan not featured in travel magazines". The analysis server 30 may provide information according to the option selected by the user. In this way, when providing information to the user, the analysis server 30 may present the user with a plurality of options and provide information according to the selection result.

[0184] The form of data transmission and reception between each device (switching server 10, authentication server 20, analysis server 30) is not particularly limited, but the data transmitted and received between these devices may be encrypted. Between these devices, biometric information, photos, etc. are transmitted and received, and in order to appropriately protect this information, it is desirable that encrypted data be transmitted and received.

[0185] In the flowcharts (flowcharts, sequence diagrams) used in the above description, a plurality of steps (processes) are described in order, but the execution order of the steps executed in the embodiment is not limited to the described order. In the embodiment, for example, each process can be executed in parallel, and the order of the illustrated steps can be changed within a range that does not interfere with the content.

[0186] The above embodiments have been described in detail for ease of understanding of the present disclosure, and it is not intended that all the configurations described above are necessary. Also, when a plurality of embodiments are described, each embodiment may be used alone or in combination. For example, it is also possible to replace a part of the configuration of one embodiment with the configuration of another embodiment, or to add the configuration of another embodiment to the configuration of one embodiment. Furthermore, it is possible to add, delete, or replace other configurations for a part of the configuration of the embodiment.

[0187] From the above description, the industrial applicability of the present invention is clear, and the present invention can be suitably applied to an information providing system that provides various information to users and the like.

[0188] Some or all of the above embodiments may be described as follows in the appended claims, but are not limited thereto. [Appended Claim 1] An exchange server that realizes message exchange between users, and An authentication server that performs biometric authentication, and An analysis server that analyzes data generated in the system, and including The analysis server generates provision information to be provided to the user based on first data obtained from the exchange server and second data generated in response to the authentication server successfully performing the biometric authentication, and transmits the generated provision information to the exchange server. The exchange server transfers the generated provision information to a terminal possessed by the user, an information providing system. [Appended Claim 2] The analysis server according to Appended Claim 1, wherein the analysis server generates the provision information based on a scenario including a combination of a condition that triggers information provision and content to be executed when the condition is satisfied. [Appended Claim 3] The analysis server according to Appended Claim 2, wherein the analysis server estimates the behavior of the user by analyzing the first data and the second data, and when the estimated behavior matches the conditions of the scenario, executes the corresponding content of the scenario. [Appended Claim 4] The exchange server acquires at least biometric information of the user, and transmits a user registration request including the acquired biometric information to the authentication server. The authentication server according to any one of Appended Claims 1 to 3, wherein the authentication server stores the biometric information included in the user registration request. [Appended Claim 5] The authentication server receives an authentication request including the biometric information of the person to be authenticated from the authentication terminal, and executes the biometric authentication using the biometric information included in the authentication request and the stored biometric information. The information providing system according to Supplementary Note 4. [Supplementary Note 6] When the biometric authentication is successful, the authentication server transmits an authentication success notification including details regarding the successful biometric authentication to the analysis server. The information providing system according to Supplementary Note 5. [Supplementary Note 7] Details regarding the biometric authentication include the location where the authentication terminal is installed and the purpose of the biometric authentication. The information providing system according to Supplementary Note 6. [Supplementary Note 8] In response to having transmitted the user registration request, the exchange server transmits a user registration notification including the personal information of the user to the analysis server. The information providing system according to any one of Supplementary Notes 4 to 7. [Supplementary Note 9] The user registration notification includes a user ID for realizing the message exchange. The analysis server transmits the provided information to the exchange server together with the user ID. The information providing system according to Supplementary Note 8. [Supplementary Note 10] The first data is at least one of a message, a photograph, and a video. The information providing system according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 9. [Supplementary Note 11] A generation unit that generates provided information to be provided to a user based on first data obtained from an exchange server that realizes message exchange between users and second data generated by an authentication server that performs biometric authentication in response to the biometric authentication being successful; A transmission unit that transmits the generated provided information to the exchange server; An analysis server comprising the above. [Supplementary Note 12] In the analysis server, Based on first data obtained from an exchange server that realizes message exchange between users and second data generated by an authentication server that performs biometric authentication in response to the biometric authentication being successful, provided information to be provided to the user is generated. An information providing method for transmitting the generated provided information to the exchange server. [Appendix 13] On a computer installed in an analysis server, Based on the first data obtained from an exchange server that realizes message exchange between users, and the second data generated in response to the authentication server successfully performing biometric authentication, a process of generating provided information to be provided to the user, A process of transmitting the generated provided information to the exchange server, A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for executing the above.

[0189] It should be noted that each disclosure of the above-cited prior art documents is incorporated herein by reference. As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that these embodiments are merely illustrative, and that various modifications can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. That is, the present invention naturally includes all various modifications and corrections that can be made by those skilled in the art in accordance with the entire disclosure, including the claims, and the technical idea.

Explanation of Signs

[0190] 10, 101 Exchange server 20, 102 Authentication server 30, 103 Analysis server 40 Terminal 50 Authentication terminal 201, 301, 401 Communication control unit 202 User registration unit 203 Message exchange unit 204 Information transfer unit 205, 304, 405 Storage unit 302 Authenticated person management unit 303 Authentication unit 311 Processor 312 Memory 313 Input / output interface 314 Communication Interface 402 User Information Management Department 403 Analysis Department 404 Information Provision Department

Claims

1. An exchange server that enables message exchange between users, An authentication server that performs biometric authentication, An analysis server that analyzes data generated in the system, comprising: Based on the first data obtained from the exchange server and the second data generated in response to the authentication server successfully performing the biometric authentication, the analysis server generates provision information to be provided to the user, and transmits the generated provision information to the exchange server. The exchange server transfers the generated provision information to the terminal possessed by the user. The analysis server generates the provision information based on a scenario consisting of a combination of conditions that trigger information provision and the content to be executed when the conditions are met. An information provision system.

2. The analysis server estimates the behavior of the user by analyzing the first data and the second data, and when the estimated behavior matches the conditions of the scenario, executes the content of the corresponding scenario. The information provision system according to Claim 1.

3. The exchange server acquires at least biometric information of the user, and transmits a user registration request including the acquired biometric information to the authentication server. The authentication server stores the biometric information included in the user registration request. The information provision system according to Claim 1 or 2.

4. The authentication server receives an authentication request including biometric information of the person to be authenticated from an authentication terminal, and performs the biometric authentication using the biometric information included in the authentication request and the stored biometric information. The information provision system according to Claim 3.

5. When the biometric authentication is successful, the authentication server transmits an authentication success notification including details regarding the successful biometric authentication to the analysis server. The information provision system according to Claim 4.

6. The details regarding the biometric authentication include the location where the authentication terminal is installed and the purpose of the biometric authentication. The information provision system according to Claim 5.

7. A generation unit that generates provision information to be provided to a user based on the first data obtained from an exchange server that enables message exchange between users and the second data generated in response to an authentication server that performs biometric authentication successfully performing the biometric authentication. A transmission unit that transmits the generated provision information to the exchange server. comprising The generation unit is an analysis server that generates the provided information based on a scenario consisting of a combination of conditions that trigger information provision and the content to be executed when the conditions are met.

8. In an analysis server, generate the provided information to be provided to the user based on the first data obtained from an exchange server that enables message exchange between users and the second data generated when an authentication server that performs biometric authentication succeeds in the biometric authentication, and transmit the generated provided information to the exchange server, which is an information provision method, An information provision method for generating the provided information based on a scenario consisting of a combination of conditions that trigger information provision and the content to be executed when the conditions are met.

9. On a computer installed in an analysis server, a process of generating the provided information to be provided to the user based on the first data obtained from an exchange server that enables message exchange between users and the second data generated when an authentication server that performs biometric authentication succeeds in the biometric authentication, and a process of transmitting the generated provided information to the exchange server, which is a program for causing the execution, and for causing the computer, a program for causing the execution of a process of generating the provided information based on a scenario consisting of a combination of conditions that trigger information provision and the content to be executed when the conditions are met.

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