Information processing device, information processing method, and information processing program

Abstract

To provide means for allowing an EC site / application entrepreneur to provide information according to a trend of a life cycle that a user likes.SOLUTION: An information processing device according to the present application comprises an estimation unit which estimates a stage of a life cycle of each of the goods purchased by a user and the user's trend on a life cycle of the goods on the basis of a utilization mode of the goods, and a provision unit which provides the user with information according to the estimated trend. For example, the estimation unit estimates a trend of a life cycle that the user likes. The provision unit provides the goods according to the trend of the life cycle that the user likes.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and an information processing program. [Background technology]

[0002] A technology is disclosed that provides product information in accordance with a user's product purchasing trends in a real store or a virtual store. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-044840 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the above-mentioned conventional technologies only provided product information to users and sold the product, and did not provide any special support beyond the seller (shop) or manufacturer after the product was sold. In other words, users only "bought" the product through shopping. For example, even if a user purchased a washing machine from an online mall, they would then have to deal with the seller or a repair company to troubleshoot and request repairs, and finally have the washing machine collected at a recycling center. If operators of e-commerce sites / apps (malls, shops, auctions, flea markets, etc.) could provide consistent support throughout the product lifecycle, from sales to collection / final disposal, they could identify trends in the product lifecycle preferences of users and contribute to improving user convenience.

[0005] The present application has been made in view of the above, and aims to provide a means for operators of e-commerce sites / apps to provide information according to the life cycle trends preferred by users. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The information processing device according to the present application comprises: Based on information about the condition or usage of each product purchased by a user on a platform where new or used products eligible for maintenance and recycling are listed, machine learning is used to determine the quality of each product purchased by the user. of From purchase to disposal Life cycle each Stages and The user's merchandise Every Usage and and estimate , Each stage of the estimated life cycle and the usage pattern of each product by the user Based on the above, each Product Regarding the life cycle from purchase to disposal, do the users prefer a long or short life cycle? Life Cycle of an estimation unit that estimates a trend; Life cycle tendencies Additionally, support information for each stage of the product's life cycle from purchase to disposal, or product recommendations that match the estimated life cycle trends Providing information to said users We provide consistent support for each product from sales to collection or final disposal in line with the estimated life cycle trends. and a providing unit for providing the same. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to provide a means for an e-commerce site / app operator to provide information according to the life cycle trends preferred by users. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of an information processing method according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of product suggestions according to the tendency of the product life cycle for each user. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a terminal device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a server device according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the user information database. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the history information database. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the product management information database. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, an information processing device, an information processing method, and an information processing program according to the present application (hereinafter referred to as "embodiments") will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the information processing device, the information processing method, and the information processing program according to the present application are not limited to these embodiments. Furthermore, the same components in the following embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted.

[0010] [1. Overview of information processing method] First, an overview of an information processing method performed by an information processing device according to an embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of an information processing method according to an embodiment. Note that Fig. 1 explains an example in which an e-commerce site / app operator provides information according to the life cycle trends preferred by users.

[0011] 1, the information processing system 1 includes a terminal device 10 and a server device 100. The terminal device 10 and the server device 100 are connected to each other via a network N (see FIG. 3) in a wired or wireless manner so as to be able to communicate with each other. In this embodiment, the terminal device 10 cooperates with the server device 100.

[0012] The terminal device 10 is a smart device such as a smartphone or tablet terminal used by a user U, and is a portable terminal device capable of communicating with any server device via a wireless communication network such as 4G (Generation (4G)) or LTE (Long Term Evolution) networks. The terminal device 10 has a screen such as a liquid crystal display with a touch panel function, and accepts various operations on displayed data such as content, such as tapping, sliding, and scrolling, performed by the user U with a finger or a stylus. An operation performed on an area of ​​the screen where content is displayed may be considered an operation on the content. The terminal device 10 may be not only a smart device, but also an information processing device such as a desktop PC (Personal Computer) or a notebook PC.

[0013] The server device 100 is an information processing device that works in conjunction with the terminal device 10 of each user U and provides API (Application Programming Interface) services for various applications (hereinafter referred to as apps) and various data to the terminal device 10 of each user U, and is realized by a computer, a cloud system, etc.

[0014] The server device 100 may also be an information processing device that provides some kind of online web service to the terminal device 10 of each user U. For example, the server device 100 may provide the following web services: internet connection, search service, social networking service (SNS), electronic commerce (EC), electronic payment, online games, online banking, online trading, hotel and ticket reservations, video and music distribution, news, maps, route search, route guidance, line information, operation information, and weather forecast. In practice, the server device 100 may cooperate with various servers that provide the above-mentioned web services and act as an intermediary for the web services or may be responsible for processing the web services.

[0015] The server device 100 can acquire user information about the user U. For example, the server device 100 acquires information about the attributes of the user U, such as the gender, age, and residential area of ​​the user U. The server device 100 then stores and manages the information about the attributes of the user U together with identification information (such as a user ID) that identifies the user U.

[0016] The server device 100 also acquires various types of history information (log data) indicating the behavior of the user U from the terminal device 10 of the user U or from various servers based on the user ID, etc. For example, the server device 100 acquires a location history, which is a history of the user U's location and date and time, from the terminal device 10. The server device 100 also acquires a search history, which is a history of search queries entered by the user U, from a search server (search engine). The server device 100 also acquires a browsing history, which is a history of content viewed by the user U, from a content server. The server device 100 also acquires a purchase history (payment history), which is a history of the user U's product purchases and payment processes, from an e-commerce server or a payment processing server. The server device 100 may also acquire a listing history and a sales history, which are a history of the user U's listings on the marketplace, from the e-commerce server or the payment processing server. The server device 100 also acquires a posting history, which is a history of the user U's posts, from a posting server or SNS server that provides a word-of-mouth posting service. The various servers and the like described above may be the server device 100 itself. That is, the server device 100 may function as the various servers and the like described above.

[0017] [1-1. Notifications according to product life cycle] Products such as home appliances have a "life cycle." When they break down, they are repaired, and instead of being ultimately discarded, they are recycled when traded in by the user. E-commerce sites / apps (malls, shops, auctions, flea markets, etc.) offer a large number of products that require maintenance and are eligible for recycling, such as home appliances.

[0018] For example, as shown in Fig. 1, the server device 100 receives a request (purchase instruction) for purchasing a product through electronic commerce from the terminal device 10 of the user U via the network N (see Fig. 3) (step S1). After the sale of the product is completed, the purchased product is delivered to the user U (e.g., their home, a specified location, etc.).

[0019] In practice, the server device 100 may obtain information regarding the purchase history of products in e-commerce transactions directly or indirectly (via another server device, etc.) from the terminal device 10 of the user U (user), rather than a request for product purchase.

[0020] Next, the server device 100 collects information related to the product purchased by the user U from the terminal device 10 of the user U via the network N (see FIG. 3) (step S2). The information related to the product purchased by the user U is information indicating the condition, usage status, etc. of the product.

[0021] For example, the server device 100 acquires a search query related to the repair and maintenance of the product from the terminal device 10 of the user U. Search queries related to the repair and maintenance of the product include search queries about repair requests and repair companies for the product, and search queries for repair and maintenance methods. The server device 100 may also acquire, from the terminal device 10 of the user U, access history to websites related to the repair and maintenance of the product, repair request history, etc. The server device 100 may also acquire, from the terminal device 10 of the user U, SNS history, etc. that discloses or suggests the user U's daily usage of the product.

[0022] Alternatively, the server device 100 may obtain information about the status of the product directly from the communicable product via the network N (see FIG. 3). The server device 100 may prepare a management page for the product dedicated to the user, and manage the status and usage of the product based on information registered on the management page.

[0023] Next, the server device 100 estimates the usage status of the product by the user U (step S3). For example, the server device 100 estimates the personality, lifestyle, etc. of the user U from the attributes of the user U (which may be a user segment or a user persona), various histories, etc., or the information collected in step S2, and estimates the usage status of the product.

[0024] At this time, the server device 100 may use machine learning to estimate the personality, lifestyle, etc. of the user U from the attributes, various histories, etc. of the user U, or the information collected in step S2, and estimate the product usage status. For example, the server device 100 uses machine learning to generate an estimation model that takes the attributes, various histories, etc. of the user U, or the information collected in step S2 as input data and outputs a determination result of the personality, lifestyle, etc. of the user U. Alternatively, the server device 100 uses machine learning to generate an estimation model that takes as input data a combination of the product purchased by the user U and the attributes, various histories, etc. of the user U, or the information collected in step S2, and outputs a determination result of the personality, lifestyle, etc. of the user U and / or the product usage status.

[0025] The machine learning method may be deep learning, a recurrent neural network (RNN), a long short-term memory (LSTM), etc. Note that these are merely examples and are not intended to be limiting.

[0026] Next, the server device 100 estimates the stage of the life cycle of the product purchased by the user U based on the condition and usage of the product (step S4). For example, the server device 100 estimates the time (timing) when the product will require repair or maintenance, or the time (timing) when there will be a demand for disposal or recycling of the product. Note that even for the same product, the life cycle of the product varies depending on the user.

[0027] At this time, the server device 100 may use machine learning to estimate the stage of the life cycle of the product purchased by the user U from the attributes, various histories, etc. of the user U, or the information collected in step S2. For example, the server device 100 uses, through machine learning, a set of the product purchased by the user U and the attributes, various histories, etc. of the user U, or the information collected in step S2, as input data, and generates an estimation model that outputs an estimation result of the stage of the life cycle of the product purchased by the user U.

[0028] Next, the server device 100 identifies support information for each stage of the product's life cycle (step S5). That is, the server device 100 identifies appropriate support information to be provided at each stage of the product's life cycle. For example, if it is the time when there is a demand for disposal or recycling of the product, the server device 100 identifies information related to repair and maintenance of the product as support information to be proposed (provided).

[0029] Next, the server device 100 provides appropriate support information for the product purchased by the user U for each stage of the product's life cycle via the network N (see FIG. 3) (step S6).

[0030] In this embodiment, after the user U purchases a product, the server device 100 estimates the stage of the life cycle of the product purchased by the user U as needed / periodically / according to the passage of time since the purchase, and provides information corresponding to the estimated stage. The information corresponding to the stage of the product life cycle is, for example, information needed at each stage, information about what would be appreciated (helpful) if done at that stage, etc.

[0031] The server device 100 estimates the stage of the product's life cycle related to product usage. For example, the server device 100 estimates the stage of the product's life cycle from the period (elapsed time) since the user U purchased the product. Alternatively, the server device 100 estimates the stage of the product's life cycle based on the content of a search query or search results related to the product entered by the user U after purchasing the product. Alternatively, the server device 100 estimates the stage of the product's life cycle from other related purchased products purchased by the user U in relation to the product after purchasing the product.

[0032] In addition, the server device 100 may inquire of the user U about the operating status (whether it is normal or not) of the product purchased by the user U, whether parts need to be replaced, whether maintenance is required, whether cleaning is recommended, etc., depending on the stage of the product's life cycle, and estimate the condition of the product itself and its usage.

[0033] Alternatively, the server device 100 may use machine learning or statistical processing that utilizes big data to estimate the product itself purchased by the user U and the state of use of the product. Depending on the frequency of daily use of the product by the user, the care with which the product is handled, the frequency of requests for repairs, etc., even for the same model of home appliance purchased at the same time, the stage of the product's life cycle may differ depending on the attributes and history of the user.

[0034] Then, the server device 100 provides information such as various maintenance information, maintenance products, replacement parts, substitute products, second-hand sales, etc., depending on the estimated stage. For example, the server device 100 provides information on part replacement, maintenance, cleaning, recycling, or purchasing a new product, depending on the stage of the product's life cycle.

[0035] In addition, when a stage in the product's life cycle is reached, the server device 100 may detect the arrival of the stage or estimate the stage by having the user U search for a search query corresponding to the stage.

[0036] This embodiment also contributes to the promotion of the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals). Some businesses are concerned that promoting the SDGs will reduce opportunities for users to purchase products. However, from the user's perspective, some say that if there is follow-up care after purchase, users can make purchases with peace of mind because they do not have to worry about repairs, troubleshooting, recycling, final disposal, etc. It is assumed that such users will want to purchase from businesses that can provide consistent support from sales to collection and final disposal.

[0037] The server device 100 proposes to the user U to purchase a product, and after the product is purchased, estimates or collects information on the product's condition (whether it is broken, etc.) and usage status, and provides product maintenance information and proposes product repairs, etc.

[0038] For example, the server device 100 provides product maintenance information to the user U's terminal device 10 at appropriate times, such as advice or messages such as "It's a good idea to clean it like this" or "It's a good idea to clean the filter every day," or a link to a web page explaining how to clean the product.

[0039] The server device 100 also detects when the warranty period of a product purchased by the user U is about to expire, and recommends maintenance within the expiration date, recycling of the product, or repurchase of the product. The server device 100 may also make recommendations taking into consideration the life cycle of the product's parts, rather than just the product itself. For example, the server device 100 may recommend the purchase or replacement of replacement parts such as gaskets and filters, or maintenance supplies such as brushes for cleaning these. In addition to the replacement of parts, the server device 100 may also recommend the purchase of other products to extend the life of the parts.

[0040] For example, if the product is a watch, the server device 100 may look at the life cycle and issue various notifications at appropriate times, such as "overhaul," "article suggestions" (introductions to related articles, suggestions for posting comments, etc.), and "suggestions for replacing the strap."

[0041] Furthermore, if the product is shoes, the server device 100 may consider the life cycle and suggest shoe polishing at an appropriate time, as well as recommend the purchase or replacement of shoe polish cloths. In this case, if the product purchased in the past by the user includes a T-shirt that is nearing the end of its life cycle, the server device 100 may suggest replacing the T-shirt with a polish cloth and recommend the purchase of a new T-shirt.

[0042] At this time, the server device 100 estimates the state of the product from the time elapsed since the product purchase / previous interaction, the content of the user's search query, etc., and makes a proposal according to the product's life cycle.

[0043] [1-2. Product proposals based on trends in each user's product life cycle] An overview of product proposals according to the trends in product life cycles for each user will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of product proposals according to the trends in product life cycles for each user.

[0044] For example, as shown in Fig. 2, the server device 100 receives a request (purchase instruction) for purchasing a product through e-commerce from the terminal device 10 of the user U via the network N (see Fig. 3) (step S11). Note that in practice, the server device 100 may obtain, directly or indirectly (via another server device, etc.), information on the purchase history of a product through e-commerce from the terminal device 10 of the user U, rather than a request for purchasing a product.

[0045] Next, the server device 100 collects information related to the product purchased by the user U from the terminal device 10 of the user U via the network N (see FIG. 3) (step S12).

[0046] Next, the server device 100 estimates the usage status of the product by the user U (step S13).

[0047] Next, the server device 100 estimates the stage of the life cycle of the product purchased by the user U based on the condition, usage status, etc. of the product (step S14).

[0048] Next, the server device 100 estimates the tendency of the user U regarding the life cycle of the products based on the stage of each product and the usage pattern of each product (step S15).

[0049] For example, the server device 100 estimates the tendency (preference) of the life cycle preferred by the user U. The server device 100 may find a tendency in the preference regarding life cycles, such as whether the user prefers long life cycles or short life cycles, and use this as an element of the recommendation. The server device 100 may determine / estimate whether the user U prefers long life cycles or short life cycles based on the product purchase history of the user U.

[0050] Furthermore, the server device 100 may determine / estimate whether the user U is trying to extend the life cycle of a product (taking actions to extend the life cycle) based on the user U's behavior history. Examples of actions to extend the life cycle include "appropriately purchasing maintenance and replacement parts" and "searching for means / methods to extend the life cycle." Furthermore, if the user U is trying to extend the life cycle of a product, the server device 100 infers that the user U prefers a long life cycle, and if the user is not trying to extend the life cycle of a product, the server device 100 infers that the user U prefers a short life cycle.

[0051] Each user has "products for which they want to extend the life cycle" and "products for which they do not." In other words, the tendency (preference) of the life cycle preferred by the user U may differ depending on the product (type / category). Furthermore, the server device 100 may determine / estimate, from the user U's behavior history, which products the user U is trying to extend the life cycle of and which products the user U is not trying to extend the life cycle of. For example, the server device 100 may estimate, from the user U's behavior history, for each type of product, whether the user U is trying to extend the life cycle, and estimate whether the user U prefers a long life cycle or a short life cycle for each type of product.

[0052] Next, the server device 100 provides information according to the estimated tendency (step S16). In this embodiment, the server device 100 suggests products (for purchase) according to the tendency of the life cycle preferred by the user U.

[0053] For example, if the user U has been using shoes for a long time, the server device 100 may suggest a bag that can be used for a long time as information according to the estimated tendency. In other words, the server device 100 may suggest products with the same life cycle tendency. Alternatively, the server device 100 may suggest products that require maintenance similar to the product currently owned but last longer.

[0054] Alternatively, the server device 100 may provide information for extending the life cycle of the product purchased by the user U, depending on the estimated tendency. For example, the server device 100 may provide information on various maintenance information, maintenance products, replacement parts, and the like.

[0055] [1-3. Product Examples] The products according to this embodiment are not limited to home appliances, but also include personal computers (PCs), smartphones, game consoles, cameras, lenses, drones, and other unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Vehicles), luxury watches, brand name bags and accessories, jewelry and accessories, clothing and shoes, antiques, vintage items, rare items, musical instruments (guitars, basses, amplifiers, drums, pianos, electric pianos, string instruments, wind instruments, brass instruments, etc.), art (paintings, calligraphy, sculptures, crafts, etc.), Western liquor (brandy, whiskey, wine, etc.), sporting goods (golf, surfing, snowboarding, skiing, tennis equipment, etc.), outdoor goods (camping equipment, barbecue equipment, canoes, kayaks, etc.), fishing equipment (rods, reels, lures, etc.), astronomical telescopes and binoculars, bicycles (city bicycles, electric bicycles, road bikes, mountain bikes, folding bicycles, etc.), vehicles (automobiles, motorcycles, etc.), small watercraft (pleasure boats, motorboats, yachts, personal watercraft, jet skis, etc.), and other items for which there is a second-hand market, recycling demand, or aftermarket.

[0056] Products may also include real estate (detached houses, apartment buildings, offices, stores, warehouses, etc.), equipment, large home appliances (refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners, massage chairs, etc.), luxury furniture and imported furniture (sofas, tables, chairs, lamps, lighting, mirrors, ornaments, beds, storage furniture, etc.), office furniture and office equipment, store fixtures, and other items that are in demand for second-hand goods, recycling, repair, cleaning, etc. Equipment includes sanitary equipment (washbasins, showers, baths, toilets, etc.), water supply equipment, drainage equipment, electrical equipment, gas equipment, kitchen equipment (sinks, stoves, etc.), and communication equipment (antennas, communication lines, etc.).

[0057] However, the above are merely examples of products. In reality, the present invention is not limited to these examples. Any product that has a life cycle and can be handled in the same manner as in this embodiment can be a target product.

[0058] [2. Example of information processing system configuration] Next, a configuration of an information processing system 1 including a server device 100 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing system 1 according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 3, the information processing system 1 according to an embodiment includes a terminal device 10 and a server device 100. These various devices are connected to each other via a network N so as to be able to communicate with each other via a wired or wireless connection. The network N is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network) such as the Internet.

[0059] Furthermore, the number of devices included in the information processing system 1 shown in Fig. 3 is not limited to that shown in the figure. For example, in Fig. 3, for the sake of simplicity, only one terminal device 10 is shown, but this is merely an example and is not limiting, and two or more devices may be included.

[0060] The terminal device 10 is an information processing device used by a user U. For example, the terminal device 10 may be a smart device such as a smartphone or tablet terminal, a feature phone, a PC (Personal Computer), a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a game console or AV device with a communication function, a car navigation system, a wearable device such as a smart watch or a head-mounted display, smart glasses, etc. The terminal device 10 may also be a house / building, a car, a home appliance, an electronic device, etc. that is compatible with the Internet of Things (IOT).

[0061] In addition, the terminal device 10 can connect to the network N via a wireless communication network such as LTE (Long Term Evolution), 4G (4th Generation), or 5G (5th Generation: 5th generation mobile communication system), or via short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or wireless LAN (Local Area Network), and communicate with the server device 100.

[0062] The server device 100 is, for example, a computer such as a PC or a blade server, or a mainframe or a workstation, etc. The server device 100 may be realized by cloud computing.

[0063] [3. Example of terminal device configuration] Next, the configuration of the terminal device 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example configuration of the terminal device 10. As shown in Fig. 4, the terminal device 10 includes a communication unit 11, a display unit 12, an input unit 13, a positioning unit 14, a sensor unit 20, a control unit 30 (controller), and a storage unit 40.

[0064] (Communications Department 11) The communication unit 11 is connected to a network N (see FIG. 3) by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from the server device 100 via the network N. For example, the communication unit 11 is realized by a NIC (Network Interface Card), an antenna, etc.

[0065] (Display section 12) Display unit 12 is a display device that displays various information such as position information. For example, display unit 12 is a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic electro-luminescent display (OLED). Display unit 12 is also a touch panel display, but is not limited to this.

[0066] (Input section 13) The input unit 13 is an input device that accepts various operations from the user U. For example, the input unit 13 has buttons for inputting characters, numbers, etc. The input unit 13 may be an input / output port (I / O port), a USB (Universal Serial Bus) port, etc. If the display unit 12 is a touch panel display, a part of the display unit 12 functions as the input unit 13. The input unit 13 may be a microphone that accepts voice input from the user U. The microphone may be wireless.

[0067] (Positioning unit 14) The positioning unit 14 receives signals (radio waves) transmitted from satellites of a GPS (Global Positioning System), and acquires position information (e.g., latitude and longitude) indicating the current position of the terminal device 10, which is the device itself, based on the received signals. That is, the positioning unit 14 positions the position of the terminal device 10. Note that GPS is merely an example of a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System).

[0068] The positioning unit 14 can also measure the position using various methods other than GPS. For example, the positioning unit 14 may measure the position by using various communication functions of the terminal device 10 as an auxiliary positioning means for position correction, etc., as described below.

[0069] (Wi-Fi positioning) For example, the positioning unit 14 uses a Wi-Fi (registered trademark) communication function of the terminal device 10 or a communication network provided by each communication company to measure the position of the terminal device 10. Specifically, the positioning unit 14 performs Wi-Fi communication or the like and measures the distance to a nearby base station or access point, thereby measuring the position of the terminal device 10.

[0070] (Beacon positioning) The positioning unit 14 may also measure the position by using a Bluetooth (registered trademark) function of the terminal device 10. For example, the positioning unit 14 measures the position of the terminal device 10 by connecting to a beacon transmitter connected by the Bluetooth (registered trademark) function.

[0071] (geomagnetic positioning) The positioning unit 14 also measures the position of the terminal device 10 based on a geomagnetic pattern of a structure that has been measured in advance and a geomagnetic sensor that the terminal device 10 has.

[0072] (RFID positioning) Furthermore, for example, if the terminal device 10 has a function of an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag equivalent to a contactless IC card used at station ticket gates, in stores, etc., or has a function of reading an RFID tag, the location where the terminal device 10 was used is recorded together with information on the payment or the like made by the terminal device 10. The positioning unit 14 may obtain such information to determine the location of the terminal device 10. Alternatively, the location may be determined by an optical sensor, an infrared sensor, or the like provided in the terminal device 10.

[0073] The positioning unit 14 may measure the position of the terminal device 10 using one or a combination of the above-mentioned positioning means, as needed.

[0074] (Sensor unit 20) The sensor unit 20 includes various sensors mounted on or connected to the terminal device 10. The connection may be wired or wireless. For example, the sensors may be detection devices other than the terminal device 10, such as wearable devices or wireless devices. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the sensor unit 20 includes an acceleration sensor 21, a gyro sensor 22, a barometric pressure sensor 23, a temperature sensor 24, a sound sensor 25, a light sensor 26, a magnetic sensor 27, and an image sensor (camera) 28.

[0075] The above-described sensors 21 to 28 are merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. That is, the sensor unit 20 may be configured to include some of the sensors 21 to 28, or may include other sensors such as a humidity sensor in addition to or instead of the sensors 21 to 28.

[0076] The acceleration sensor 21 is, for example, a three-axis acceleration sensor, and detects physical movements of the terminal device 10, such as the direction of movement, speed, and acceleration of the terminal device 10. The gyro sensor 22 detects physical movements of the terminal device 10, such as tilt in three axial directions, based on the angular velocity of the terminal device 10. The air pressure sensor 23 detects, for example, the air pressure around the terminal device 10.

[0077] Since the terminal device 10 includes the acceleration sensor 21, the gyro sensor 22, the atmospheric pressure sensor 23, etc., it is possible to measure the position of the terminal device 10 using a technique such as Pedestrian Dead-Reckoning (PDR) that uses these sensors 21 to 23. This makes it possible to obtain indoor position information that is difficult to obtain using a positioning system such as GPS.

[0078] For example, the number of steps, walking speed, and distance walked can be calculated using a pedometer that uses the acceleration sensor 21. In addition, the direction of travel, line of sight, and body tilt of the user U can be determined using the gyro sensor 22. In addition, the altitude and floor on which the terminal device 10 of the user U is located can be determined from the air pressure detected by the air pressure sensor 23.

[0079] The temperature sensor 24 detects, for example, the temperature around the terminal device 10. The sound sensor 25 detects, for example, the sound around the terminal device 10. The light sensor 26 detects the illuminance around the terminal device 10. The magnetic sensor 27 detects, for example, the geomagnetism around the terminal device 10. The image sensor 28 captures an image around the terminal device 10.

[0080] The above-mentioned air pressure sensor 23, temperature sensor 24, sound sensor 25, light sensor 26, and image sensor 28 can detect the air pressure, temperature, sound, and illuminance, respectively, and capture images of the surroundings, thereby detecting the environment and situation around the terminal device 10. Furthermore, the accuracy of the location information of the terminal device 10 can be improved based on the environment and situation around the terminal device 10.

[0081] (control unit 30) The control unit 30 includes, for example, a microcomputer having a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM, input / output ports, etc., and various other circuits. The control unit 30 may also be configured with hardware such as an integrated circuit, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). The control unit 30 includes a transmitting unit 31, a receiving unit 32, and a processing unit 33.

[0082] (Transmitter 31) The transmission unit 31 can transmit, for example, various information input by the user U using the input unit 13, various information detected by each sensor 21 to 28 mounted on or connected to the terminal device 10, and location information of the terminal device 10 measured by the positioning unit 14 to the server device 100 via the communication unit 11.

[0083] (Receiver 32) The receiving unit 32 can receive various types of information provided by the server device 100 and requests for various types of information from the server device 100 via the communication unit 11.

[0084] (Processing unit 33) The processing unit 33 controls the entire terminal device 10, including the display unit 12. For example, the processing unit 33 can output various information transmitted by the transmitting unit 31 and various information received from the server device 100 by the receiving unit 32 to the display unit 12 for display.

[0085] (Storage unit 40) The storage unit 40 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), an optical disk, etc. The storage unit 40 stores various programs, various data, etc.

[0086] [4. Server device configuration example] Next, the configuration of the server device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the server device 100 according to the embodiment. As shown in Fig. 5, the server device 100 includes a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130.

[0087] (Communication unit 110) The communication unit 110 is realized by, for example, a network interface card (NIC), etc. The communication unit 110 is also connected to a network N (see FIG. 3) by wire or wirelessly.

[0088] (Storage unit 120) The storage unit 120 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as an HDD, an SSD, an optical disk, etc. As shown in Fig. 5, the storage unit 120 has a user information database 121, a history information database 122, and a product management information database 123.

[0089] (User Information Database 121) The user information database 121 stores user information about the user U. For example, the user information database 121 stores various information such as the attributes of the user U. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the user information database 121. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the user information database 121 has items such as "User ID (Identifier)," "Age," "Gender," "Home," "Workplace," and "Interests."

[0090] The "user ID" indicates identification information for identifying the user U. The "user ID" may be the contact information of the user U (telephone number, email address, etc.), or may be identification information for identifying the terminal device 10 of the user U.

[0091] Furthermore, "age" indicates the age of user U identified by the user ID. Note that "age" may be information indicating the specific age of user U (e.g., 35 years old), or may be information indicating the generation of user U (e.g., 30s). Alternatively, "age" may be information indicating the date of birth of user U, or may be information indicating the generation of user U (e.g., born in the 1980s). Furthermore, "gender" indicates the gender of user U identified by the user ID.

[0092] Furthermore, "home" indicates the location information of the home of user U identified by the user ID. In the example shown in FIG. 6, "home" is illustrated as an abstract code such as "LC11," but it may also be latitude and longitude information, etc. Furthermore, for example, "home" may also be the name of an area or an address.

[0093] Furthermore, "workplace" indicates location information of the workplace (school in the case of a student) of user U identified by the user ID. In the example shown in FIG. 6, "workplace" is illustrated as an abstract code such as "LC12," but it may also be latitude and longitude information, etc. Furthermore, for example, "workplace" may also be the name of a region or an address.

[0094] Furthermore, "interests" indicate the interests of user U identified by the user ID. In other words, "interests" indicate subjects in which user U identified by the user ID is highly interested. For example, "interests" may be search queries (keywords) that user U input into a search engine. In the example shown in FIG. 6, each user U has one "interest," but there may be multiple "interests."

[0095] For example, in the example shown in FIG. 6, the age of user U identified by user ID "U1" is "20s" and the gender is "male." Furthermore, for example, the home address of user U identified by user ID "U1" is "LC11." Furthermore, for example, the workplace of user U identified by user ID "U1" is "LC12." Furthermore, for example, the user U identified by user ID "U1" is interested in "sports."

[0096] 6, abstract values ​​such as "U1", "LC11", and "LC12" are used for illustration, but "U1", "LC11", and "LC12" are assumed to store information such as specific character strings and numerical values. Below, abstract values ​​may also be illustrated in diagrams relating to other information.

[0097] The user information database 121 may store various types of information depending on the purpose, without being limited to the above. For example, the user information database 121 may store various types of information related to the terminal device 10 of the user U. The user information database 121 may also store information related to the user U's attributes, such as demographic attributes, psychographic attributes, geographic attributes, and behavioral attributes. For example, the user information database 121 may store information such as name, family structure, hometown (hometown), occupation, job title, income, qualifications, type of residence (detached house, apartment, etc.), whether or not the user has a car, commuting time, commuting route, commuter pass area (station, line, etc.), frequently used stations (other than the station nearest to home or workplace), extracurricular activities (location, time zone, etc.), hobbies, interests, lifestyle, etc.

[0098] (History Information Database 122) The history information database 122 stores various information related to history information (log data) that indicates the behavior of the user U. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the history information database 122. In the example shown in Fig. 7, the history information database 122 has items such as "user ID," "location history," "search history," "browsing history," "purchase history," and "posting history."

[0099] "User ID" indicates identification information for identifying user U. "Location history" indicates the location history, which is the history of user U's location and movements. "Search history" indicates the search history, which is the history of search queries entered by user U. "Browsing history" indicates the browsing history, which is the history of content viewed by user U. "Purchase history" indicates the purchase history, which is the history of purchases made by user U. "Posting history" indicates the posting history, which is the history of posts made by user U. "Posting history" may also include questions about user U's possessions.

[0100] For example, in the example shown in Figure 7, user U, identified by user ID "U1," moved as shown in "Location History #1," searched as shown in "Search History #1," viewed content as shown in "Viewing History #1," purchased specific products at specific stores as shown in "Purchase History #1," and posted as shown in "Posting History #1."

[0101] Here, in the example shown in Figure 7, abstract values ​​such as "U1," "Location History #1," "Search History #1," "Browsing History #1," "Purchase History #1," and "Post History #1" are used for the illustration, but "U1," "Location History #1," "Search History #1," "Browsing History #1," "Purchase History #1," and "Post History #1" are assumed to store specific information such as character strings and numbers.

[0102] The history information database 122 is not limited to the above and may store various types of information depending on the purpose. For example, the history information database 122 may store the user U's usage history of a predetermined service. The history information database 122 may also store the user U's store visit history or facility visit history. The history information database 122 may also store the user U's payment history (electronic payment) using the terminal device 10.

[0103] (Product Management Information Database 123) The product management information database 123 stores various information related to the life cycle of products purchased by the user U. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the product management information database 123. In the example shown in Fig. 8, the product management information database 123 has items such as "user ID," "product ID," "category," "purchase date and time," "condition," "stage," and "trend."

[0104] "User ID" indicates identification information for identifying user U. "Product ID" indicates identification information for identifying the product purchased by user U. "Category" indicates the type and category of the product purchased by user U. "Purchase date and time" indicates the date and time when user U purchased the product.

[0105] Furthermore, the "status" indicates the operating state of the product purchased by the user U and the usage status of the product by the user U. Furthermore, the "stage" indicates the stage in the life cycle of the product purchased by the user U. Furthermore, "trend" indicates the tendency (preference) of the life cycle preferred by the user U as a tendency regarding the life cycle of the product of the user U.

[0106] For example, in the example shown in Figure 8, user U, identified by user ID "U1", purchased a product identified by product ID "Product #1" that belongs to the category "Home Appliances" on purchase date and time "2022 / 6 / 15", the condition of the product is "Condition #1", the stage of the product's life cycle is "Stage #1", and the life cycle trend preferred by user U is "Trend #1".

[0107] Here, in the example shown in Figure 8, abstract values ​​such as "U1", "state #1", "stage #1", and "trend #1" are used for the illustration, but "U1", "state #1", "stage #1", and "trend #1" are assumed to store specific information such as character strings and numerical values.

[0108] The product management information database 123 may store various types of information according to the purpose, not limited to the above. For example, the product management information database 123 may store support information for each stage of the product life cycle. Furthermore, the product management information database 123 may store information about products that correspond to the life cycle trends that the user U prefers.

[0109] (control unit 130) 5, the explanation will be continued. The control unit 130 is a controller, and is realized by, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or the like, executing various programs (corresponding to an example of an information processing program) stored in a storage device inside the server device 100 using a storage area such as a RAM as a working area. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 130 has an acquisition unit 131, an estimation unit 132, an identification unit 133, and a provision unit 134.

[0110] (Acquisition part 131) The acquisition unit 131 acquires a search query input by the user U. For example, when the user U inputs a search query into a search engine or the like to perform a keyword search, the acquisition unit 131 acquires the search query via the communication unit 110. That is, the acquisition unit 131 acquires, via the communication unit 110, the keywords input by the user U into the search box of a search engine, website, or app.

[0111] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 131 acquires user information about the user U via the communication unit 110. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires identification information (such as a user ID) indicating the user U, location information of the user U, attribute information of the user U, etc. from the terminal device 10 of the user U. Furthermore, the acquisition unit 131 may acquire the identification information indicating the user U, attribute information of the user U, etc. when registering the user U. Then, the acquisition unit 131 registers the user information in the user information database 121 of the storage unit 120.

[0112] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 131 acquires various types of history information (log data) indicating the behavior of the user U via the communication unit 110. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires various types of history information indicating the behavior of the user U from the terminal device 10 of the user U or from various servers based on the user ID or the like. Then, the acquisition unit 131 registers the various types of history information in the history information database 122 of the storage unit 120.

[0113] In this embodiment, the acquisition unit 131 acquires information about the user U and information about the products purchased by the user U.

[0114] (Estimation part 132) The estimation unit 132 includes a stage estimation unit 132A that estimates the stage of the life cycle of a product purchased by user U, a state estimation unit 132B that estimates the operating state of the product and the usage status of the product by user U, and a trend estimation unit 132C that estimates the trend regarding the life cycle of user U's product.

[0115] (Level Estimation Unit 132A) The stage estimation unit 132A of the estimation unit 132 estimates the stage of the life cycle of the product purchased by the user U based on information about the user U and information about the product purchased by the user U.

[0116] The stage estimation unit 132A of the estimation unit 132 estimates the stage of the product's life cycle from the period since the user U purchased the product. The stage estimation unit 132A of the estimation unit 132 also estimates the stage of the product's life cycle from a search query related to the product entered by the user U. The stage estimation unit 132A of the estimation unit 132 also estimates the stage of the product's life cycle from purchases of related products of the product. The stage estimation unit 132A of the estimation unit 132 also estimates the stage of the product's life cycle from the attributes and history of the user U.

[0117] (State estimation unit 132B) The state estimation unit 132B of the estimation unit 132 estimates the operational state of the product. The state estimation unit 132B of the estimation unit 132 also estimates how the user U is using the product.

[0118] (Trend estimation section 132C) The tendency estimation unit 132C of the estimation unit 132 estimates a tendency regarding the life cycle of the products of the user U based on the stage of the life cycle of each product purchased by the user U and the usage mode of each product. For example, the tendency estimation unit 132C of the estimation unit 132 estimates a tendency of the life cycle preferred by the user U.

[0119] Furthermore, the tendency estimation unit 132C of the estimation unit 132 estimates whether the user U prefers a long life cycle or a short life cycle.

[0120] For example, the tendency estimation unit 132C of the estimation unit 132 estimates from the behavioral history of the user U whether the user U is trying to extend the life cycle of the product, and if the user U is trying to extend the life cycle of the product, it estimates that the user U prefers a long life cycle, and if the user U is not trying to extend the life cycle of the product, it estimates that the user U prefers a short life cycle.

[0121] In addition, the tendency estimation unit 132C of the estimation unit 132 estimates, from the behavioral history of the user U, whether the user U is trying to extend the life cycle for each type and category of product, and estimates whether the user U prefers a long life cycle or a short life cycle for each type and category of product.

[0122] Alternatively, the tendency estimation unit 132C of the estimation unit 132 estimates, from the behavioral history of the user U, the products for which the user U is trying to extend the life cycle and the products for which the user U is not trying to extend the life cycle.

[0123] (Specific part) The specifying unit 133 specifies support information for each stage of the product life cycle. For example, the specifying unit 133 specifies appropriate support information to be provided for each stage of the product life cycle.

[0124] Furthermore, when the tendency regarding the life cycle of the product of the user U is estimated, the identification unit 133 identifies information according to the estimated tendency regarding the life cycle of the product of the user U. For example, the identification unit 133 identifies a product according to the tendency of the life cycle that the user U prefers.

[0125] (Provider 134) The providing unit 134 provides the user U with information according to the stage of the estimated product life cycle, from purchase to disposal of the product.

[0126] The providing unit 134 provides information on part replacement, maintenance, cleaning, recycling, or purchasing a new product, depending on the stage of the product's life cycle.

[0127] The providing unit 134 provides the user U with information according to the estimated tendency regarding the life cycle of the products of the user U. For example, the providing unit 134 suggests products according to the tendency of the life cycle that the user U likes.

[0128] In addition, the providing unit 134 proposes products that have the same or similar life cycle trends as the products purchased by the user U.

[0129] In addition, the providing unit 134 provides the user U with information for extending the life cycle of the product purchased by the user U.

[0130] [5. Processing Procedure] Next, a processing procedure by the server device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure according to the embodiment. Note that the processing procedure shown below is repeatedly executed by the control unit 130 of the server device 100.

[0131] For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the acquisition unit 131 of the server device 100 receives a request (purchase instruction) for purchasing a product through e-commerce from the terminal device 10 of the user U via the communication unit 110 (step S101).

[0132] Next, the acquisition unit 131 of the server device 100 collects information related to the product purchased by the user U from the terminal device 10 of the user U via the communication unit 110 (step S102).

[0133] Next, the estimation unit 132 of the server device 100 estimates the usage status of the product by the user U (step S103).

[0134] Next, the estimation unit 132 of the server device 100 estimates the stage of the life cycle of the product purchased by the user U based on the condition, usage status, etc. of the product (step S104).

[0135] Next, the identifying unit 133 of the server device 100 identifies support information for each stage of the product's life cycle (step S105).

[0136] Next, the providing unit 134 of the server device 100 provides appropriate support information for the product purchased by the user U to the terminal device 10 of the user U via the communication unit 110 for each stage of the product's life cycle (step S106).

[0137] Next, the estimation unit 132 of the server device 100 estimates a tendency regarding the life cycle of the products of the user U based on the stage of each product and the usage pattern of each product (step S107).

[0138] Next, the identifying unit 133 of the server device 100 identifies products according to the estimated tendency of the user U regarding the product life cycle (step S108).

[0139] Next, the providing unit 134 of the server device 100 proposes products according to the estimated tendency of the user U regarding the product life cycle (step S109).

[0140] [6. Modifications] The terminal device 10 and the server device 100 described above may be implemented in various different forms other than the above embodiment. Therefore, modifications of the embodiment will be described below.

[0141] In the above embodiment, some or all of the processing executed by the server device 100 may actually be executed by the terminal device 10. For example, the processing may be completed in a stand-alone manner (by the terminal device 10 alone). In this case, the terminal device 10 is assumed to have the functions of the server device 100 in the above embodiment. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the terminal device 10 is linked to the server device 100, and therefore, from the perspective of the user U, it appears that the processing of the server device 100 is also being executed by the terminal device 10. In other words, from another perspective, the terminal device 10 can also be said to be equipped with the server device 100.

[0142] [7. Effects] As described above, the information processing device (terminal device 10 and server device 100) according to the present application includes an acquisition unit 131 that acquires information about user U and information about products purchased by user U, an estimation unit 132 that estimates the stage of the life cycle of the products purchased by user U based on the information about user U and information about the products purchased by user U, and a provision unit 134 that provides user U with information corresponding to the estimated stage of the product's life cycle, from purchase to disposal of the product.

[0143] The estimation unit 132 estimates the stage of the product's life cycle from the period since the user U purchased the product.

[0144] The estimation unit 132 estimates the stage of the product's life cycle from a search query related to the product entered by the user U.

[0145] The estimation unit 132 estimates the stage of the product's life cycle from the purchase of related products of the product.

[0146] The estimation unit 132 estimates the stage of the product's life cycle from the attributes and history of the user U.

[0147] The estimation unit 132 estimates the operational state of the product.

[0148] The estimation unit 132 estimates how the user U uses the product.

[0149] The providing unit 134 provides information on part replacement, maintenance, cleaning, recycling, or purchasing a new product, depending on the stage of the product's life cycle.

[0150] In addition, the information processing device of the present application includes an estimation unit 132 that estimates trends regarding the life cycle of products purchased by user U based on the stage of the life cycle of each product purchased by user U and the usage pattern of each product, and a provision unit 134 that provides user U with information according to the estimated trends.

[0151] The estimation unit 132 estimates the life cycle tendency preferred by the user U. The provision unit 134 proposes products according to the life cycle tendency preferred by the user U.

[0152] The estimation unit 132 estimates whether the user U prefers a long life cycle or a short life cycle.

[0153] The estimation unit 132 estimates whether the user U is trying to extend the life cycle of the product from the behavior history of the user U, and if the user U is trying to extend the life cycle of the product, estimates that the user U prefers a long life cycle, and if the user U is not trying to extend the life cycle of the product, estimates that the user U prefers a short life cycle.

[0154] The estimation unit 132 estimates, from the behavioral history of the user U, whether the user U is trying to extend the life cycle for each type and category of product, and estimates whether the user U prefers a long life cycle or a short life cycle for each type and category of product.

[0155] The estimation unit 132 estimates, from the behavior history of the user U, products for which the user U is trying to extend the life cycle and products for which the user U is not trying to extend the life cycle.

[0156] The providing unit 134 proposes products that have the same or similar life cycle trends as the products purchased by the user U.

[0157] The providing unit 134 provides the user U with information for extending the life cycle of the product purchased by the user U.

[0158] By performing any one or a combination of the above-described processes, the information processing device according to the present application can provide a means for e-commerce site / app operators to provide information according to users' preferred life cycle trends.

[0159] [8. Hardware Configuration] The terminal device 10 and the server device 100 according to the above-described embodiments are realized by a computer 1000 having a configuration as shown in Fig. 10, for example. The following description will be given taking the server device 100 as an example. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration. The computer 1000 is connected to an output device 1010 and an input device 1020, and has a configuration in which a calculation device 1030, a primary storage device 1040, a secondary storage device 1050, an output I / F (Interface) 1060, an input I / F 1070, and a network I / F 1080 are connected via a bus 1090.

[0160] The arithmetic device 1030 operates based on programs stored in the primary storage device 1040 and the secondary storage device 1050, programs read from the input device 1020, and the like, and executes various processes. The arithmetic device 1030 is realized by, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or the like.

[0161] The primary storage device 1040 is a memory device such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores data used by the arithmetic device 1030 for various calculations. The secondary storage device 1050 is a storage device in which data used by the arithmetic device 1030 for various calculations and various databases are registered, and is realized by a ROM (Read Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), a flash memory, or the like. The secondary storage device 1050 may be an internal storage device or an external storage device. The secondary storage device 1050 may also be a removable storage medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory or an SD (Secure Digital) memory card. The secondary storage device 1050 may also be cloud storage (online storage), a NAS (Network Attached Storage), a file server, or the like.

[0162] The output I / F 1060 is an interface for transmitting information to be output to an output device 1010 that outputs various types of information, such as a display, a projector, a printer, etc., and is realized by a connector conforming to a standard such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), DVI (Digital Visual Interface), or HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface), etc. The input I / F 1070 is an interface for receiving information from various input devices 1020, such as a mouse, a keyboard, a keypad, a button, a scanner, etc., and is realized by a USB, etc.

[0163] Furthermore, the output I / F 1060 and the input I / F 1070 may be wirelessly connected to the output device 1010 and the input device 1020, respectively. That is, the output device 1010 and the input device 1020 may be wireless devices.

[0164] The output device 1010 and the input device 1020 may be integrated into one device, such as a touch panel. In this case, the output I / F 1060 and the input I / F 1070 may also be integrated into one device as an input / output I / F.

[0165] The input device 1020 may be a device that reads information from, for example, an optical recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), or a PD (Phase Change Rewritable Disk), a magneto-optical recording medium such as an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), a tape medium, a magnetic recording medium, or a semiconductor memory.

[0166] The network I / F 1080 receives data from other devices via the network N and sends it to the arithmetic device 1030, and also transmits data generated by the arithmetic device 1030 to other devices via the network N.

[0167] The arithmetic unit 1030 controls the output device 1010 and the input device 1020 via the output I / F 1060 and the input I / F 1070. For example, the arithmetic unit 1030 loads a program from the input device 1020 or the secondary storage device 1050 onto the primary storage device 1040 and executes the loaded program.

[0168] For example, when the computer 1000 functions as the server device 100, the arithmetic unit 1030 of the computer 1000 executes a program loaded onto the primary storage device 1040 to realize the functions of the control unit 130. The arithmetic unit 1030 of the computer 1000 may also load a program acquired from another device via the network I / F 1080 onto the primary storage device 1040 and execute the loaded program. The arithmetic unit 1030 of the computer 1000 may also cooperate with the other device via the network I / F 1080 to call and use the functions and data of a program from another program of the other device.

[0169] [9. Other] Although the embodiments of the present application have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the contents of these embodiments. Furthermore, the above-described components include those that can be easily imagined by a person skilled in the art, those that are substantially the same, and those that are within the scope of so-called equivalents. Furthermore, the above-described components can be combined as appropriate. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, or modifications of the components can be made without departing from the spirit of the above-described embodiments.

[0170] Furthermore, among the processes described in the above embodiments, all or part of the processes described as being performed automatically can be performed manually, or all or part of the processes described as being performed manually can be performed automatically using a known method. In addition, the information including the processing procedures, specific names, various data, and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be changed as desired unless otherwise specified. For example, the various information shown in each drawing is not limited to the information shown in the drawings.

[0171] Furthermore, the components of each device shown in the figure are conceptual functional components and do not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown in the figure. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown in the figure, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit depending on various loads, usage conditions, etc.

[0172] For example, the above-mentioned server device 100 may be realized by multiple server computers, and depending on the function, the configuration can be flexibly changed, such as by calling an external platform using an API (Application Programming Interface) or network computing.

[0173] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments and modifications can be combined as appropriate within the scope of not causing any contradiction in the processing content.

[0174] Furthermore, the above-mentioned "section, module, unit" can be read as "means" or "circuit," etc. For example, an acquisition unit can be read as an acquisition means or an acquisition circuit. [Explanation of symbols]

[0175] 1. Information Processing Systems 10 Terminal Equipment 100 Server device 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 121 User Information Database 122 Historical Information Database 123 Product Management Information Database 130 Control Unit 131 Acquisition Department 132 Estimation Department 132A Estimation Section 132B Estimation part 132C Estimation Section 133 Specific part 134 Provision Department

Claims

1. An estimation unit that uses machine learning to estimate each stage of the life cycle from purchase to disposal of each product purchased by a user and the user's usage pattern for each product, based on information regarding the condition or usage status of each product purchased by a user on a platform where new or used products eligible for maintenance and recycling are listed, and that estimates the user's tendency to prefer a long or short life cycle for the life cycle from purchase to disposal of each product, based on the estimated stages of the life cycle and the user's usage pattern for each product; a provision unit that provides the user with support information for each stage of the product's life cycle from purchase to disposal in accordance with the estimated life cycle trend, or product recommendation information that matches the estimated life cycle trend, and provides consistent support for each product from sale to collection or final disposal in accordance with the estimated life cycle trend; An information processing device comprising:

2. The estimation unit estimates whether the user is trying to extend the life cycle of a product from the user's behavior history, and if the user is trying to extend the life cycle of the product, estimates that the user prefers a long life cycle, and if the user is not trying to extend the life cycle of the product, estimates that the user prefers a short life cycle.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

3. The estimation unit estimates, from the user's behavior history, whether the user is trying to extend the life cycle for each type of product, and estimates whether the user prefers a long life cycle or a short life cycle for each type of product.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

4. The estimation unit estimates, from the user's behavior history, products for which the user is trying to extend the life cycle and products for which the user is not trying to extend the life cycle.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

5. The provision unit proposes products that have the same or similar life cycle trends as the products purchased by the user.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

6. The providing unit provides the user with information for extending the life cycle of the product purchased by the user.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

7. The estimation unit further estimates, from the user's product purchase history, a tendency of the user's preferred life cycle, i.e., whether the user prefers a long life cycle or a short life cycle, with respect to the life cycle from purchase to disposal of the product purchased by the user, and estimates a time in the estimated life cycle tendency when repair or maintenance of the product will be required, or when a demand for disposal or recycling of the product will arise.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

8. The provision unit proposes products having the same or similar life cycle trends according to the estimated life cycle trends.

8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 7,

9. An information processing method executed by an information processing device, an estimation process for estimating, by machine learning, each stage of the life cycle of each product purchased by a user from purchase to disposal and the user's usage pattern for each product, based on information regarding the condition or usage status of each product purchased by the user on a platform where new or used products eligible for maintenance and recycling are listed, and estimating, based on the estimated stages of the life cycle and the user's usage pattern for each product, whether the user prefers a long life cycle or a short life cycle, with respect to the life cycle from purchase to disposal of each product; a provision step of providing the user with support information for each stage of the product's life cycle from purchase to disposal in accordance with the estimated life cycle trend, or product recommendation information in accordance with the estimated life cycle trend, thereby providing consistent support for each product from sale to collection or final disposal in accordance with the estimated life cycle trend; An information processing method comprising:

10. An estimation procedure that uses machine learning to estimate each stage of the life cycle from purchase to disposal of each product purchased by a user on a platform where new or used products eligible for maintenance and recycling are listed, and the user's usage pattern for each product, based on information regarding the condition or usage status of each product purchased by the user on the platform where new or used products eligible for maintenance and recycling are listed, and estimates the user's tendency to prefer a long or short life cycle for the life cycle from purchase to disposal of each product based on the estimated stages of the life cycle and the user's usage pattern for each product; a provision procedure for providing the user with support information for each stage of the product's life cycle from purchase to disposal in accordance with the estimated life cycle trend, or product recommendation information in accordance with the estimated life cycle trend, and providing consistent support for each product from sale to collection or final disposal in accordance with the estimated life cycle trend; An information processing program characterized by causing a computer to execute the above.

Images