Fragrance information processing system, fragrance information processing apparatus, and fragrance information processing method

Abstract

Provided are a fragrance information processing system, a fragrance information processing device, and a fragrance information processing method for arranging information relating to fragrances using the degree of similarity of the fragrances.　The present technology provides a fragrance information processing system that includes a computer device for computing the degree of similarity of fragrances based on fragrance feature information that indicates the features of the fragrances, the computer device being provided at least with a computation unit that, using the degree of similarity, arranges fragrance identification information for identifying the fragrances into an n-dimensional space with the fragrance feature information used as index.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present technology relates to a fragrance information processing system, a fragrance information processing apparatus, and a fragrance information processing method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a technique for stimulating a user's senses using a scent generating device has been utilized. In particular, a technique in which a computer device and a scent generating device cooperate to stimulate a user's sense of smell has been utilized.

[0003] For example, in Patent Document 1, "a scent generating device that generates a desired scent by computer control, including a plurality of fragrance storage members, a scent classification table, and preset fragrance information regarding the types of fragrances corresponding to the scent items in the scent classification table, their generation amounts, and the change amounts of the generation amounts over time, a scent information registration means for registering the preset fragrance information, a scent information selection and extraction means for selecting a predetermined scent item from the scent classification table and extracting the preset fragrance information corresponding to the predetermined scent item, a scent generation control means for controlling scent generation based on a scent generation program and the scent information, a scent selection means for selecting a specific fragrance storage member from among the fragrance storage members under the control of the scent generation control means, a scent generation means for generating a scent from the specific fragrance storage member based on the scent selection means, a scent generation program storage means for storing the scent generation program, and an image display means, characterized by comprising a scent generating device" is disclosed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, when a user selects a fragrance to generate a desired scent, there is a problem that it is difficult for the user to recognize the similarity between fragrances.

[0006] Therefore, the main object of the present technology is to provide a fragrance information processing system, a fragrance information processing apparatus, and a fragrance information processing method for arranging information on fragrances using the similarity between fragrances.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The present technology includes a computer device that calculates the similarity between the fragrances based on fragrance characteristic information indicating the characteristics of the fragrances, and the computer device includes at least an arithmetic unit that arranges fragrance identification information for identifying the fragrances in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance characteristic information as an index. The present technology provides a fragrance information processing system. The similarity may include a distance in the n-dimensional space. The similarity may include a correlation in the n-dimensional space. The arithmetic unit may select the fragrance characteristic information recommended according to the similarity. The arithmetic unit may select the fragrance identification information recommended according to the similarity. The arithmetic unit may use operation history information to arrange the fragrance identification information in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance characteristic information as an index. The fragrance information processing system further includes an operation interface unit that displays an icon associated with the fragrance identification information, and the operation interface unit may arrange and display the icon in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance characteristic information as an index. The operation interface unit may prompt the user to select the fragrance characteristic information. The operation interface unit may prompt the user to select a plurality of the fragrance characteristic information. The operation interface unit may prompt the user to specify the priority order of a plurality of the fragrance characteristic information, and the arithmetic unit may weight each of the plurality of fragrance characteristic information according to the priority order. The operation interface unit may change the arrangement of the icons according to the passage of time. The operation interface unit may change the arrangement of the icons according to the user's situation. The fragrance information processing system may further include an information acquisition unit, and the information acquisition unit may acquire fragrance information from a fragrance holding unit that holds the fragrance. The fragrance information processing system may further include a fragrance generation unit, and the fragrance generation unit may generate a fragrance according to the fragrance identification information selected by the user. Furthermore, the present technology provides a fragrance information processing apparatus including at least an arithmetic unit that arranges fragrance identification information for identifying the fragrance in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance characteristic information as an index, based on the similarity between the fragrances based on the fragrance characteristic information indicating the characteristics of the fragrance. Furthermore, the present technology provides a fragrance information processing method including at least the computer device arranging fragrance identification information for identifying the fragrance in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance characteristic information as an index, based on the similarity between the fragrances based on the fragrance characteristic information indicating the characteristics of the fragrance.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments for implementing the present technology will be described. The embodiments described below show an example of a typical embodiment of the present technology, and thus the scope of the present technology should not be construed narrowly. Also, each figure is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily drawn precisely.

[0010] The description of the present technology will be carried out in the following order. 1. First Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 1 of Perfume Information Processing System) (1) Outline of this Embodiment (2) Storage Unit (3) Similarity Calculation Unit (4) Arrangement Calculation Unit (5) Operation Interface Unit (6) Flowchart (7) Hardware Configuration 2. Second Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 2 of Perfume Information Processing System) 3. Third Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 3 of Perfume Information Processing System) 4. Fourth Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 4 of Perfume Information Processing System) 5. Fifth Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 5 of Perfume Information Processing System) 6. Sixth Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 6 of Perfume Information Processing System) 7. Seventh Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 7 of Perfume Information Processing System) 8. Eighth Embodiment of the Present Technology (Perfume Information Processing Apparatus) 9. Ninth Embodiment of the Present Technology (Perfume Information Processing Method)

[0011] [1. First Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 1 of Perfume Information Processing System)] [(1) Outline of this Embodiment] The present technology is a technology in which a computer device and a scent generating device cooperate to stimulate the user's sense of smell. The perfume information processing apparatus included in the perfume information processing system according to an embodiment of the present technology is a computer device, and prompts the user to select a perfume. Then, the perfume information processing apparatus outputs information regarding the selected perfume to the scent generating device. Thereby, the scent generating device can generate the scent desired by the user.

[0012] There are about 600 items of natural fragrances and about 3,000 types of synthetic fragrances. From these, specific fragrances are selected and held in a fragrance holding part (cartridge) etc. provided in the fragrance generating device.

[0013] However, when a user selects a fragrance to generate a desired scent, just by the name of the fragrance, the user may not be able to imagine what kind of scent the fragrance generates. Therefore, there is a problem that it is difficult for the user to recognize the similarity between fragrances. In particular, when a customized fragrance made up of a plurality of fragrances is held in the fragrance holding part, this difficulty becomes prominent.

[0014] In addition, the fragrance generating device includes one or a plurality of fragrance holding parts, but there may be a case where it is difficult for the user to recognize in which fragrance holding part among the plurality of fragrance holding parts the desired fragrance is held.

[0015] The fragrance information processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present technology displays an icon associated with the fragrance held in the fragrance holding part on an operation interface part such as a display screen. By arranging icons regarding similar fragrances in the vicinity, the fragrance information processing can contribute to an improvement in convenience.

[0016] According to the present technology, it becomes easy for the user to select a desired fragrance. Since similar fragrances are arranged in the vicinity, the user can easily imagine the scent.

[0017] According to the present technology, the user can select a desired fragrance without being conscious of the order of the fragrance holding parts. The user does not have to arrange the fragrance holding parts in the order of the proximity of the scents.

[0018] These effects are the same in other embodiments described later. Therefore, in other embodiments described later, the repeated description will be omitted.

[0019] The configuration of the fragrance information processing system according to an embodiment of the present technology will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a fragrance information processing system 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology. As shown in FIG. 1, the fragrance information processing system 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology includes a fragrance generator 10 and a fragrance information processor 20.

[0020] The fragrance generator 10 and the fragrance information processor 20 are connected to each other. The fragrance generator 10 and the fragrance information processor 20 may be connected via, for example, an information processing network (not shown), or may be connected via a cable or the like.

[0021] The fragrance generator 10 can include one or more fragrance holding units 11 that hold fragrances. The fragrance generator 10 can vaporize the fragrance held in the fragrance holding unit 11 to generate a fragrance. For example, the fragrance generator 10 can vaporize a liquid fragrance or a fragrance in a wet state and release the fragrance together with the air supplied from an exhaust fan (not shown).

[0022] The fragrance information processor 20 can include, for example, an operation interface unit 21, a storage unit 22, an arithmetic unit 23, and a control unit 24.

[0023] The operation interface unit 21 prompts the user to operate the fragrance information processor. The operation interface unit 21 can be realized, for example, by using a touch panel or the like. The operation interface unit 21 can obtain information regarding the user's operation by recognizing the user's touch operation.

[0024] The operation interface unit 21 can present a plurality of icons associated with the fragrances to the user and prompt the user to select an icon associated with the desired fragrance from among the plurality of icons.

[0025] The storage unit 22 holds information regarding the fragrances. A detailed description of the storage unit 22 will be given later.

[0026] Based on the similarity between fragrances using the fragrance characteristic information, the calculation unit 23 arranges the fragrance identification information in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance characteristic information as an index. Here, n is an integer of 1 or more.

[0027] The calculation unit 23 can include a similarity calculation unit 231 that calculates the similarity between fragrances, and an arrangement calculation unit 232 that arranges the fragrance identification information in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance characteristic information as an index using the similarity.

[0028] The control unit 24 controls the operations of the operation interface unit 21, the storage unit 22, and the calculation unit 23.

[0029] [(2) Storage Unit] The information held by the storage unit 22 will be described while referring to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is an example of a database held by the storage unit 22 according to the present embodiment.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 2, this database includes, for example, fragrance identification information for identifying fragrances, fragrance characteristic information indicating the characteristics of fragrances, and the like.

[0031] The fragrance characteristic information may include information regarding physicochemical elements, biological elements, and linguistic / psychological elements that the fragrance, which is a compound, has. Note that the fragrance characteristic information only needs to include some of this information.

[0032] The information regarding physicochemical elements may include information regarding, for example, molecular weight, molecular functional groups, molecular shape, molecular vibration, persistence, and / or intensity.

[0033] The information regarding molecular weight includes information regarding the amount of molecules contained in the fragrance.

[0034] The information regarding functional groups includes information regarding the functional groups that the molecules contained in the fragrance have.

[0035] Information on molecular shape includes information on the skeletons of the molecules contained in the fragrance, such as hydrocarbons, aromatic hydrocarbons, and heterocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Alternatively, the information on molecular shape may include information such as structural isomers and stereoisomers.

[0036] Information on molecular vibration includes information on the vibrational levels of the molecules contained in the fragrance, such as symmetric stretching vibration, angular deformation vibration, and asymmetric stretching vibration.

[0037] Information on persistence includes information on the degree to which the fragrance persists. Fragrances can be classified, for example, into top notes with a low degree of persistence, base notes with a high degree of persistence, and middle notes with a degree of persistence intermediate between top notes and base notes.

[0038] Information on intensity includes information on the strength of the fragrance. Information on intensity may include information on the concentration of the fragrance, although the relationship between concentration and intensity is not uniform. For example, thiols are known to have high intensity even at low concentrations.

[0039] Next, information on biological elements may include information on, for example, receptor binding, efficacy, etc.

[0040] Information on receptor binding includes information on the binding of the fragrance to olfactory receptors. When the fragrance binds to these olfactory receptors, emotions such as like or dislike, and behaviors such as attraction or avoidance, caused by the fragrance, are digitized.

[0041] Information on efficacy includes information on the effects or efficacy when the fragrance is attracted. Information on efficacy includes, for example, information on sedative effects, excitatory effects, etc.

[0042] Next, information on linguistic and psychological elements may include information on, for example, categories, image colors, descriptive labels, cultural and regional labels, season labels, era labels, etc.

[0043] The information regarding the category includes information regarding the category to which the scent belongs, such as flower, herb, tree, fruit, putrid smell, smoky smell, soapy smell, and the like.

[0044] The information regarding the image color includes information regarding the color that is associated with the scent. For example, the color associated with the scent of lavender may be purple.

[0045] The information regarding the descriptive label includes information regarding the label that describes the scent, such as fresh, gorgeous, spicy, moldy-smelling, and the like.

[0046] The information regarding the culture / region label includes information regarding the culture or region that is associated with the scent. For example, the region associated with the scent of sandalwood may be Asia. For example, the region associated with the scent of tatami may be Japan.

[0047] The information regarding the season label includes information regarding the season that is associated with the scent. For example, the season associated with the scent of cherry blossoms may be spring. For example, the season associated with the scent of cinnamon may be winter.

[0048] The information regarding the era label includes information regarding the era that is associated with the scent. For example, the era associated with the scent of an oil stove or an insect repellent may be the Showa era.

[0049] In constructing this database, for example, an aroma wheel or the like can be used. An aroma wheel is a circular and layered arrangement of characteristics such as scents, taking into account similarity and expertise. An aroma wheel is mainly used to have a common understanding of scents and tastes. In an aroma wheel, scents with similar characteristics tend to be arranged in the vicinity, so it can be used for calculating similarity.

[0050] [(3) Similarity calculation unit] The similarity calculation unit 231 refers to the information on the fragrance held by the storage unit 22 and calculates the similarity between the fragrances based on the fragrance characteristic information.

[0051] The means for calculating the similarity is not particularly limited, and a conventional clustering analysis method may be used. For example, the similarity calculation unit 231 can derive the similarity by calculating the distance in the n-dimensional space. The closer the distance, the higher the similarity.

[0052] As an example of the distance, the similarity calculation unit 231 may calculate the Euclidean distance, standard Euclidean distance, Mahalanobis distance, Chebyshev distance, Minkowski distance, etc.

[0053] For example, when a database is constructed using an aroma wheel, since scents with similar characteristics tend to be placed in the vicinity on the aroma wheel, the proximity of the items in the database can be used for calculating the similarity. When there is one piece of fragrance characteristic information based on the calculation of the similarity, the similarity includes the distance in the one-dimensional space. When there are n pieces of fragrance characteristic information based on the calculation of the similarity, the similarity includes the distance in the n-dimensional space.

[0054] Alternatively, the similarity may include the correlation relationship in the n-dimensional space. For example, the similarity calculation unit 231 can calculate the cosine similarity using the proximity of the directions of the vectors in the n-dimensional space as an index. The closer the directions of the vectors included in the fragrance information in the n-dimensional space, the higher the similarity the similarity calculation unit 231 can calculate. In addition, as an example of the correlation relationship, the similarity calculation unit 231 may calculate the Pearson correlation coefficient, deviation pattern similarity, etc.

[0055] Alternatively, the similarity may be calculated by combining the distance and the correlation relationship.

[0056] In addition, the similarity calculation unit 231 can perform various cluster analyses such as the k-means method and multidimensional scaling (MDS).

[0057] The fragrance feature information used for calculating the similarity can be selected by the user via the operation interface unit 21. Thereby, the similarity is calculated based on the fragrance feature information desired by the user. Details of the operation interface unit 21 will be described later.

[0058] [(4) Arrangement calculation unit] The arrangement calculation unit 232 arranges the fragrance identification information in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance feature information as an index, based on the similarity calculated by the similarity calculation unit 231. This will be described with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the n-dimensional space calculated by the arrangement calculation unit 232 according to the present embodiment.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 3, a three-dimensional space using intensity, persistence, and efficacy as examples of fragrance feature information is shown. In this three-dimensional space, a plurality of fragrance identification information is arranged. For example, focusing on the axis with persistence as an index, since the similarities of fragrance A, fragrance D, and fragrance E are high, the fragrance identification information regarding fragrance A, the fragrance identification information regarding fragrance D, and the fragrance identification information regarding fragrance E are arranged in the vicinity.

[0060] In addition, since fragrance A and fragrance D are very similar, the fragrance identification information regarding fragrance A and the fragrance identification information regarding fragrance D overlap and the difference is unclear. At this time, the arrangement calculation unit 232 may rearrange the fragrance identification information in a four-dimensional space with, for example, a new index added. Thereby, the difference between fragrance A and fragrance D becomes clear.

[0061] A specific example will be described using data. Assume that as a result of the calculation by the similarity calculation unit 231, the value regarding fragrance A is 1, the value regarding fragrance B is 310, the value regarding fragrance C is 240, the value regarding fragrance D is 28, and the value regarding fragrance E is 3.

[0062] The arrangement calculation unit 232 calculates arrangement information using these values. This arrangement information can be represented by coordinates, for example. The arrangement calculation unit 232 may calculate the arrangement information according to, for example, the proximity of these values.

[0063] When the flavor identification information is arranged in a one-dimensional space, through the calculation by the arrangement calculation unit 232, for example, the value related to flavor A is at coordinate (1), the value related to flavor B is at coordinate (5), the value related to flavor C is at coordinate (4), the value related to flavor D is at coordinate (3), and the value related to flavor E is at coordinate (2). That is, the arrangement calculation unit 232 rearranges the flavor identification information in ascending order of the values calculated by the similarity calculation unit 231. As a result, in the one-dimensional space, the flavor identification information is arranged in the order of flavor A, flavor E, flavor D, flavor C, and flavor B.

[0064] Similarly, when the flavor identification information is arranged in a two-dimensional space, through the calculation by the arrangement calculation unit 232, for example, the value related to flavor A can be indicated as coordinate (1, 1), etc. When the flavor identification information is arranged in a three-dimensional space, through the calculation by the arrangement calculation unit 232, for example, the value related to flavor A can be indicated as coordinate (1, 1, 1), etc.

[0065] Incidentally, in addition to the similarity, the arrangement calculation unit 232 may arrange the flavor identification information in an n-dimensional space using the user's operation history information with the flavor feature information as an index.

[0066] The operation history information may include, for example, the number of times selected by the user. The arrangement calculation unit 232 may arrange the flavor identification information with similar numbers in the vicinity.

[0067] Alternatively, the operation history information may include, for example, the prior probability distribution in Bayesian estimation. Specifically, after flavor A is selected, when the probability that flavor B is selected is 0.6, the probability that flavor C is selected is 0.1, and the probability that flavor D is selected is 0.3, the arrangement calculation unit 232 can arrange the flavor identification information in the order of flavor A, flavor B, flavor D, and flavor C.

[0068] As a result, the fragrance identification information is arranged according to the user's operation, and the convenience of the fragrance information processing apparatus 20 is improved.

[0069] This n-dimensional space may be the space before being presented to the user or the space presented to the user. When it is the latter, the arrangement calculation unit 232 may convert this n-dimensional space into a space of a lower dimension. For example, when intensity is selected by the user as the fragrance feature information, the arrangement calculation unit 232 may convert the three-dimensional space shown in FIG. 3 into a one-dimensional space using the intensity as an index. For this conversion, for example, principal component analysis or the like can be used.

[0070] [(5) Operation interface unit] The operation interface unit 21 will be described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the operation interface unit 21 according to the present embodiment.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 4, the operation interface unit 21 arranges and displays icons in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance feature information as an index. This icon is associated with the fragrance identification information arranged by the arrangement calculation unit 232. In this embodiment, the operation interface unit 21 arranges and displays icons A to E in a one-dimensional space using persistence as an index.

[0072] That is, the operation interface unit 21 updates and displays the fragrance identification information arranged in the n-dimensional space by the arrangement calculation unit 232 according to the fragrance feature information. For example, when the fragrance feature information selected via the operation interface unit 21 is one type of persistence, the operation interface unit 21 updates and displays the fragrance identification information arranged in the three-dimensional space by the arrangement calculation unit 232 in a one-dimensional space using persistence as an index.

[0073] The operation interface unit 21 can prompt the user to select fragrance characteristic information. In this embodiment, the list box 3 prompts the user to select fragrance characteristic information. For example, a user who attaches importance to the persistence of the scent can select persistence as the fragrance characteristic information via the list box 3. The similarity calculation unit 231 can calculate the similarity between fragrances based on persistence.

[0074] The operation interface unit 21 may prompt the user to select a plurality of fragrance characteristic information. This will be described with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the operation interface unit 21 according to this embodiment.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 5, the operation interface unit 21 has a plurality of list boxes 3. Each of the plurality of list boxes 3 prompts the user to select fragrance characteristic information. In this embodiment, the user is selecting persistence and intensity from among a plurality of types of fragrance characteristic information. The operation interface unit 21 arranges icons A to E in a two-dimensional space using each of persistence and intensity as an index. Note that the number of list boxes 3 is not particularly limited.

[0076] When prompting the user to select a plurality of fragrance characteristic information, the plurality of fragrance characteristic information may have mutually contradictory characteristics. Thereby, the user can intentionally mask the scent.

[0077] The operation interface unit 21 may prompt the user to specify the priority order of a plurality of fragrance characteristic information. This will be described with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the operation interface unit 21 according to this embodiment.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 6, the operation interface unit 21 has a plurality of list boxes 3. Each of the plurality of list boxes 3 shows the priority order. In this embodiment, the user selects persistence as the fragrance characteristic information with the highest priority, and then selects intensity as the fragrance characteristic information with the next highest priority.

[0079] At this time, the similarity calculation unit 231 can weight each of the plurality of flavor feature information according to the priority. The similarity calculation unit 231 can calculate the similarity between flavors and further multiply the similarity by a coefficient. As a result, the operation interface unit 21 arranges and displays the icons based on the similarity and the priority.

[0080] Also, one icon may be associated with a plurality of flavor identification information. As a result, when one icon is selected, a plurality of flavor identification information is selected. As a result, a plurality of flavors are automatically blended. As a result, it becomes easier to blend flavors to obtain a desired scent.

[0081] Another embodiment of the operation interface unit 21 will be described with reference to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the operation interface unit 21 according to the present embodiment.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 7, the operation interface unit 21 arranges and displays a plurality of icons in an annular shape in a one-dimensional space using the flavor feature information as an index. The plurality of icons may be arranged at equal intervals or may not be arranged at equal intervals.

[0083] In the left list 1, a plurality of flavor identification information is arranged side by side. Each of the plurality of flavor identification information is associated with each of the plurality of icons 2. As a result, the user can recognize the name of the flavor associated with the icon 2.

[0084] When the user selects a desired icon 2, the size of the icon 2 changes or the like to be highlighted. At the same time, the flavor identification information associated with the selected icon 2 is highlighted, such as being marked in the list 1.

[0085] Furthermore, the operation interface unit 21 may display a list box 3 that prompts the user to select fragrance characteristic information. When the user selects, for example, intensity, the icons 2 are rearranged according to the similarity of intensity.

[0086] Furthermore, the operation interface unit 21 may display a meter 5 associated with the strength of the exhaust fan that releases the fragrance. Thereby, the user can adjust the strength of the exhaust fan by adjusting the position of the meter 5.

[0087] Furthermore, the operation interface unit 21 may display a switch 4 for switching to a blend mode which is a mode of blending a plurality of fragrances. The example of the operation interface unit 21 when it is in the blend mode, that is, when the switch 4 is on, will be described with reference to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the operation interface unit 21 according to the present embodiment.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 8, when the switch 4 is on, a plurality of icons are selectable. The selected icon is highlighted.

[0089] [(6) Flowchart] The processing flow of the fragrance information processing system 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the fragrance information processing system 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 9, first, in step S11, the similarity calculation unit 231 refers to the information on the fragrances held by the storage unit 22 and calculates the similarity between the fragrances based on the fragrance characteristic information.

[0091] Next, in step S12, the placement calculation unit 232 places the fragrance identification information in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance characteristic information as an index, using the similarity calculated by the similarity calculation unit 231.

[0092] Next, in step S13, the operation interface unit 21 prompts the user to select fragrance feature information.

[0093] Finally, in step S14, the operation interface unit 21 arranges and displays an icon in the n-dimensional space using the selected fragrance feature information as an index.

[0094] [(7) Hardware Configuration] The hardware configuration of the fragrance information processing apparatus 20 will be described with reference to FIG. 10. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the fragrance information processing apparatus 20 according to an embodiment of the present technology. As shown in FIG. 10, the fragrance information processing apparatus 20 can include, as components, a CPU 101, a storage 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, a communication interface 104, and a touch panel 105. Each component is connected, for example, by a bus as a data transmission path.

[0095] The CPU 101 is realized, for example, by a microcomputer and controls each component of the fragrance information processing apparatus 20. The CPU 101 can function, for example, as a control unit 24 or an arithmetic unit 23. This arithmetic unit 23 can be realized, for example, by using a program. The CPU 101 functions by loading this program.

[0096] The storage 102 stores control data such as programs and arithmetic parameters used by the CPU 101. The storage 102 can be realized, for example, by using an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The storage 102 can function, for example, as a storage unit 12.

[0097] The RAM 103 temporarily stores, for example, programs executed by the CPU 101.

[0098] The communication interface 104 has a function of communicating via the information communication network 50 by using communication technologies such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth (registered trademark), and LTE (Long Term Evolution).

[0099] The touch panel 105 prompts the user to perform an operation by a touch operation. The touch panel 105 can function as, for example, the operation interface unit 21.

[0100] The fragrance information processing device 20 may be, for example, a smartphone terminal, or a tablet terminal, a mobile phone terminal, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a PC (Personal Computer), a portable music player, a portable game machine, or a wearable terminal (HMD: Head Mounted Display, glasses-type HMD, watch-type terminal, band-type terminal, etc.).

[0101] The program for realizing the arithmetic unit 23 and the like may be stored in another computer device or computer system of the fragrance information processing system 100. In this case, the fragrance information processing system 100 can use a cloud service that provides the functions of this program. Examples of this cloud service include SaaS (Software as a Service), IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service), and PaaS (Platform as a Service).

[0102] Furthermore, this program can be stored using various types of non-transitory computer readable media and supplied to a computer. Non-transitory computer readable media include various types of tangible storage media. Examples of non-transitory computer readable media include magnetic recording media (e.g., flexible disks, magnetic tapes, hard disk drives), magneto-optical recording media (e.g., magneto-optical disks), Compact Disc Read Only Memory (CD-ROM), CD-R, CD-R / W, semiconductor memories (e.g., mask ROM, Programmable ROM (PROM), Erasable PROM (EPROM), flash ROM, Random Access Memory (RAM)). Also, the above program may be supplied to a computer by various types of transitory computer readable media. Examples of transitory computer readable media include electrical signals, optical signals, and electromagnetic waves. The transitory computer readable media can supply the above program to the computer via wired communication channels such as electric wires and optical fibers, or wireless communication channels.

[0103] Note that the technology used in this embodiment can also be used in other embodiments described later. The same applies to other embodiments.

[0104] [2. Second Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 2 of Perfume Information Processing System)] The arithmetic unit 23 may select perfume feature information recommended according to the similarity. This will be described with reference to FIG. 11. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the operation interface unit 21 according to this embodiment.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 11, the operation interface unit 21 displays a message 6 indicating recommended fragrance characteristic information. In this embodiment, an effect and efficacy, which is one of the fragrance characteristic information, is recommended and displayed. When the user selects the effect and efficacy in the list box 3, the operation interface unit 21 rearranges the icons A to E based on the similarity according to the effect and efficacy.

[0106] As a result, the user can recognize the similarity between fragrances that they did not recognize before.

[0107] This fragrance characteristic information can be selected by the calculation unit 23. The calculation unit 23 calculates the similarity between fragrances based on various fragrance characteristic information. Then, the calculation unit 23 selects fragrance characteristic information with a high similarity between the fragrances associated with the icons A to E displayed on the operation interface unit 21.

[0108] [3. Third Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 3 of Fragrance Information Processing System)] The calculation unit 23 may select fragrance identification information recommended according to the similarity. This will be described with reference to FIG. 12. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the operation interface unit 21 according to this embodiment.

[0109] As shown in FIG. 12, the operation interface unit 21 displays a message 6 indicating recommended fragrance identification information. In this embodiment, fragrance identification information regarding fragrance F, which is one of the fragrances, is recommended and displayed. This fragrance F is not displayed as an icon for some reason, such as not being held in the fragrance holding unit 11, for example. When the user stores fragrance F in the fragrance holding unit 11, icon F is displayed.

[0110] As a result, the user can recognize the similarity between fragrances that they did not recognize before.

[0111] This fragrance identification information can be selected by the arithmetic unit 23. The arithmetic unit 23 compares the information on the similarity between the fragrances held by the storage unit 22 and the icons displayed on the operation interface 21, and selects the fragrance identification information associated with the icons not displayed on the operation interface 21 and having a high similarity with the fragrance identification information associated with the displayed icons.

[0112] [4. Fourth Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 4 of the Fragrance Information Processing System)] The operation interface unit 21 may change the arrangement of the icons according to the passage of time. This will be described with reference to FIG. 13. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the screen displayed on the operation interface unit 21 according to this embodiment. FIG. 13A shows the state immediately after the screen is first displayed. FIG. 13B shows the state after, for example, several seconds have elapsed from the state shown in FIG. 13A.

[0113] As shown in FIG. 13A, in the state immediately after the screen is first displayed, the icons related to fragrance A, fragrance E, and fragrance D with the highest similarity are emphasized and displayed. Thereby, the user can recognize that the similarities of fragrance A, fragrance E, and fragrance D are the highest.

[0114] As shown in FIG. 13B, in the state after several seconds have elapsed from the state shown in FIG. 13A, the icon related to fragrance C with the next highest similarity is emphasized and displayed. Thereby, the user can recognize that the similarity of fragrance C is the next highest.

[0115] Note that this highlighting means is not particularly limited. The operation interface unit 21 may, for example, change the size of the icon, change the color of the icon, or blink the icon. The storage unit 22 can store information such as the size and color of the icon.

[0116] In addition, the operation interface unit 21 may change the arrangement of the fragrance identification information according to the time zone in a day. For example, in the morning, the fragrance identification information related to the fragrance with an exciting effect may be arranged, and in the evening, the fragrance identification information related to the fragrance with a calming effect may be arranged.

[0117] [5. The Fifth Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 5 of the Fragrance Information Processing System)] The operation interface unit 21 may change the arrangement of the fragrance identification information according to the situation of the user. Specifically, the operation interface unit 21 can change the arrangement of the fragrance identification information based on the biological information and / or context information related to the user.

[0118] The configuration of the fragrance information processing system according to an embodiment of the present technology will be described with reference to FIG. 14. FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a fragrance information processing system 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology. As shown in FIG. 14, the fragrance information processing system 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology may further include a biological sensor 30 and / or a context sensor 40. The biological sensor 30 and / or the context sensor 40 are connected via an information communication network 50.

[0119] The biological sensor 30 can acquire biological information related to the user. The biological information includes, for example, heart rate, body temperature, blood pressure, blood oxygen concentration, respiration, moisture, blood glucose, electrocardiogram, electroencephalogram, etc.

[0120] The context sensor 40 obtains context information indicating information related to the situation such as the user's posture and presence position. The context information obtains, for example, context information such as whether the user is indoors or outdoors, whether the user is meeting a friend, shopping, walking, running, etc.

[0121] The context sensor can be realized by using, for example, an angular velocity sensor, an acceleration sensor, an inertial sensor (IMU: Inertial Measurement Unit), a GPS (Global Positioning System) positioning unit, a microphone, an ambient light sensor, a schedule management application, etc. For example, by using an angular velocity sensor, an acceleration sensor, an inertial sensor, etc., context information such as whether the user is walking or not can be obtained. For example, by using a GPS positioning unit, a microphone, an ambient light sensor, etc., context information such as whether the user is indoors or outdoors can be obtained. For example, by using a schedule management application, etc., context information such as whether the user is meeting a friend can be obtained.

[0122] The calculation unit 23 can select fragrance characteristic information as an index based on the biological information and / or context information. The operation interface unit 21 arranges an icon in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance characteristic information selected by the calculation unit 23 as an index.

[0123] Thereby, for example, when the user is in an excited state, the operation interface unit 21 can arrange fragrance identification information with a high similarity regarding a calming effect. Also, for example, when the user is staying in Asia, the operation interface unit 21 can arrange fragrance identification information with a high similarity regarding Asia.

[0124] [6. The 6th Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 6 of the Fragrance Information Processing System)] The fragrance information processing apparatus 20 can acquire information regarding the fragrance held by the fragrance holding unit 11. This will be described with reference to FIG. 15. FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a fragrance information processing system 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology. As shown in FIG. 15, the fragrance information processing apparatus 20 can further include an information acquisition unit 25.

[0125] The information acquisition unit 25 acquires information regarding the fragrance held in the fragrance holding unit 11. The acquisition means is not particularly limited. For example, the information acquisition unit 25 may read, for example, a barcode, a two-dimensional code, an IC tag, etc. attached to the surface of the fragrance holding unit 11 to obtain fragrance identification information. The information acquisition unit 25 can acquire information regarding the fragrance by referring to the database held by the storage unit 22 based on this fragrance identification information.

[0126] Alternatively, the information acquisition unit 25 may have a sensor for detecting the components of the fragrance. The information acquisition unit 25 may obtain fragrance identification information based on the detected sensing information. The information acquisition unit 25 can acquire information regarding the fragrance by referring to the database held by the storage unit 22 based on this fragrance identification information.

[0127] Alternatively, the information acquisition unit 25 may identify the components contained in the fragrance based on the detected sensing information without referring to the database. Thereby, the information acquisition unit 25 can obtain, for example, information regarding a fragrance not registered in the database. This information is registered in the database and can be used by the arithmetic unit 23.

[0128] [7. The Seventh Embodiment of the Present Technology (Example 7 of the Fragrance Information Processing System)] The fragrance generating device 10 can further include a fragrance generating unit that generates a fragrance. This will be described with reference to FIG. 16. FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a fragrance information processing system 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology. As shown in FIG. 16, the fragrance generating device 10 can further include a fragrance generating unit 12 that generates a fragrance. The fragrance generating device 10 can generate a fragrance by vaporizing the fragrance held in the fragrance holding unit 11 and releasing it through the fragrance generating unit 12. For example, the fragrance generating device 10 vaporizes a liquid fragrance or a fragrance in a wet state and releases the fragrance through the fragrance generating unit 12 together with the air supplied from an exhaust fan (not shown).

[0129] The fragrance generating device 10 is used, for example, as a device that releases fragrance in a limited space. For example, the fragrance generating device 10 is used for the user to release fragrance once or multiple times near their own face to relax their mood. In this case, since the fragrance generating device 10 releases fragrance with high straightness and is difficult to diffuse the fragrance over a wide range, it is possible to make it difficult for people around to perceive the fragrance. The fragrance generating device 10 may be a portable type that can be carried by the user, or a stationary type.

[0130] The processing flow of the fragrance information processing system 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 17. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the fragrance information processing system 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0131] In FIG. 17, since the contents of steps S21 to S24 are the same as those of steps S11 to S14 in FIG. 9, detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0132] In step S25, the operation interface unit 21 prompts the user to select an icon.

[0133] In step S26, the fragrance generating unit 12 selects a fragrance and generates a fragrance based on the fragrance identification information associated with the selected icon.

[0134] [8. Eighth Embodiment of the Present Technology (Fragrance Information Processing Device)] The configuration of the fragrance information processing device according to the first embodiment of the present technology will be described with reference to FIG. 18. FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the fragrance information processing device 20 according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0135] As shown in FIG. 18, the fragrance information processing device 20 according to an embodiment of the present technology can include, for example, an operation interface unit 21, a storage unit 22, an arithmetic unit 23, and a control unit 24.

[0136] The calculation unit 23 arranges the fragrance identification information for identifying a fragrance in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance feature information as an index, based on the similarity between fragrances indicated by the fragrance feature information indicating the characteristics of the fragrances.

[0137] The fragrance information processing apparatus 20 may utilize the technology related to the above-described fragrance information processing system 100. Therefore, a further description of the operation interface unit 21, the storage unit 22, and the control unit 24 will be omitted.

[0138] [9. Ninth Embodiment of the Present Technology (Fragrance Information Processing Method)] A fragrance information processing method according to an embodiment of the present technology is a method performed using a computer device.

[0139] The procedure of the fragrance information processing method according to an embodiment of the present technology will be described with reference to FIG. 19. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the fragrance information processing method according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0140] As shown in FIG. 19, the fragrance information processing method according to the present embodiment at least includes the computer device arranging the fragrance identification information for identifying the fragrance in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance feature information as an index, based on the similarity between the fragrances indicated by the fragrance feature information indicating the characteristics of the fragrances (step S1).

[0141] The fragrance information processing method according to the present embodiment may utilize the technology related to the other above-described embodiments. Therefore, a further description of the technology described in the above embodiments will be omitted.

[0142] The fragrance information processing method according to the present embodiment can be realized by using software and hardware. Specifically, for example, when a CPU included in the hardware reads a program for realizing the fragrance information processing method according to the present embodiment, the fragrance information processing method according to the present embodiment can be realized.

[0143] In addition, as long as the gist of the present technology is not deviated from, the configurations exemplified in the above embodiments can be selected and combined, or appropriately changed to other configurations.

[0144] Note that the effects described in this specification are merely examples and are not limiting, and there may be other effects.

[0145] Note that the present technology can also have the following configurations. [1] A computer device that calculates the similarity between the perfumes based on perfume feature information indicating the characteristics of the perfumes, A perfume information processing system, wherein the computer device includes at least an arithmetic unit that arranges perfume identification information for identifying the perfumes in an n-dimensional space using the perfume feature information as an index, using the similarity. [2] The similarity includes a distance in the n-dimensional space, The perfume information processing system according to [1]. [3] The similarity includes a correlation relationship in the n-dimensional space, The perfume information processing system according to [1] or [2]. [4] The arithmetic unit selects the perfume feature information recommended according to the similarity, The perfume information processing system according to any one of [1] to [3]. [5] The arithmetic unit selects the perfume identification information recommended according to the similarity, The perfume information processing system according to any one of [1] to [4]. [6] The arithmetic unit arranges the perfume identification information in an n-dimensional space using the perfume feature information as an index, using operation history information, The perfume information processing system according to any one of [1] to [5]. [7] The system further includes an operation interface unit that displays an icon associated with the perfume identification information, The operation interface unit arranges and displays the icon in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance characteristic information as an index. [1]~[6] of the fragrance information processing system according to any one of the above. [8] The operation interface unit prompts the user to select the fragrance characteristic information. [7] of the fragrance information processing system according to the above. [9] The operation interface unit prompts the user to select a plurality of the fragrance characteristic information. [7] or [8] of the fragrance information processing system according to the above.

[10] The operation interface unit prompts the user to specify the priority order of a plurality of the fragrance characteristic information, The calculation unit weights each of the plurality of fragrance characteristic information according to the priority order. [7]~[9] of the fragrance information processing system according to any one of the above.

[11] The operation interface unit changes the arrangement of the icon according to the passage of time. [7]~

[10] of the fragrance information processing system according to any one of the above.

[12] The operation interface unit changes the arrangement of the icon according to the user's situation. [7]~

[11] of the fragrance information processing system according to any one of the above.

[13] Further provided with an information acquisition unit, The information acquisition unit acquires fragrance information from a fragrance holding unit that holds the fragrance. [1]~

[12] of the fragrance information processing system according to any one of the above.

[14] Further provided with a fragrance generation unit, The fragrance generation unit generates a fragrance according to the fragrance identification information selected by the user. [1]~

[13] of the fragrance information processing system according to any one of the above.

[15] A fragrance information processing apparatus comprising at least an arithmetic unit that arranges fragrance identification information for identifying the fragrance in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance characteristic information as an index, based on the similarity between the fragrances indicated by the fragrance characteristic information.

[16] A fragrance information processing method including at least arranging, by a computer device, fragrance identification information for identifying the fragrance in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance characteristic information as an index, based on the similarity between the fragrances indicated by the fragrance characteristic information.

Explanation of Signs

[0146] 100 Fragrance information processing system 10 Scent generator 11 Fragrance holding unit 12 Scent generating unit 20 Fragrance information processing apparatus 21 Operation interface unit 22 Storage unit 23 Arithmetic unit 231 Similarity calculation unit 232 Arrangement calculation unit 24 Control unit 25 Information acquisition unit 30 Biosensor 40 Context sensor 50 Information communication network S1 Arranging in an n-dimensional space

Claims

1. A computer device that calculates the similarity between the fragrances based on fragrance characteristic information indicating the characteristics of the fragrances, wherein the computer device includes at least a calculation unit that arranges fragrance identification information for identifying the fragrances in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance characteristic information as an index, and selects the fragrance characteristic information recommended according to the similarity. A fragrance information processing system.

2. wherein the similarity includes a distance in the n-dimensional space, The fragrance information processing system according to claim 1.

3. wherein the similarity includes a correlation in the n-dimensional space, The fragrance information processing system according to claim 1.

4. wherein the calculation unit selects the fragrance identification information recommended according to the similarity, The fragrance information processing system according to claim 1.

5. wherein the calculation unit arranges the fragrance identification information in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance characteristic information as an index by using operation history information, The fragrance information processing system according to claim 1.

6. further comprising an operation interface unit that displays an icon associated with the fragrance identification information, wherein the operation interface unit arranges and displays the icon in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance characteristic information as an index. The fragrance information processing system according to claim 1.

7. wherein the operation interface unit prompts the user to select the fragrance characteristic information, The fragrance information processing system according to claim 6.

8. wherein the operation interface unit prompts the user to select a plurality of the fragrance characteristic information, The fragrance information processing system according to claim 6.

9. wherein the operation interface unit prompts the user to specify the priority order of a plurality of the fragrance characteristic information, and the calculation unit weights each of the plurality of fragrance characteristic information according to the priority order. The fragrance information processing system according to claim 6.

10. wherein the operation interface unit changes the arrangement of the icon according to the passage of time, The fragrance information processing system according to claim 6.

11. wherein the operation interface unit changes the arrangement of the icon according to the user's situation, The fragrance information processing system according to claim 6.

12. further comprising an information acquisition unit, wherein the information acquisition unit acquires fragrance information from a fragrance holding unit that holds the fragrance. The fragrance information processing system according to claim 1.

13. further comprising a scent generation unit, The fragrance generation unit generates a fragrance according to the fragrance identification information selected by the user. The fragrance information processing system according to claim 1.

14. A fragrance information processing apparatus comprising at least an arithmetic unit that arranges fragrance identification information for identifying the fragrances in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance characteristic information as an index, based on the similarity between the fragrances based on the fragrance characteristic information indicating the characteristics of the fragrances, and selects the fragrance characteristic information recommended according to the similarity.

15. A fragrance information processing method including at least arranging, by a computer device, fragrance identification information for identifying the fragrances in an n-dimensional space using the fragrance characteristic information as an index, based on the similarity between the fragrances based on the fragrance characteristic information indicating the characteristics of the fragrances, and selecting the fragrance characteristic information recommended according to the similarity.

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