system
The system addresses instability in welfare appliance selection by integrating user information, past usage history, and real-time inventory checks to provide stable care plans.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-09-19
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-27
AI Technical Summary
Existing systems face confusion and quality variations in selecting welfare appliances, leading to unstable care plans due to inadequate consideration of user information, past usage history, and real-time inventory checks.
A system that inputs user information, references past usage records, and links with inventory status to suggest appropriate welfare appliances, ensuring stability and accuracy in selection.
Reduces confusion and quality variations, enabling the creation of stable care plans by accurately proposing suitable welfare appliances based on user-specific needs and real-time inventory availability.
Smart Images

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Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The technology of the present disclosure relates to a system.
Background Art
[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a method for controlling a persona chatbot, which is performed by at least one processor, including steps of receiving a user utterance, adding the user utterance to a prompt including an instruction sentence related to an explanation of the chatbot's character, encoding the prompt, and inputting the encoded prompt into a language model to generate a chatbot utterance in response to the user utterance.
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0003]
Patent Document 1
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0004] There are problems that there are confusion and quality variations in the selection of welfare appliances, and as a result, the creation of care plans is not stable.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0005] A system has been developed that proposes welfare appliances suitable for a user by inputting the user's information. Further, by referring to the past usage records of similar users and linking with the inventory status, more appropriate proposals are made. Thereby, confusion and quality variations in the selection of welfare appliances are reduced, and the creation of stable care plans is supported.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0006] [Figure 1]This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the essential functions of a data processing device and a smart device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the main functions of a data processing device and smart glasses according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the main functions of a data processing device and a headset-type terminal according to the third embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a data processing system according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the main functions of a data processing device and a robot according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] This shows an emotion map where multiple emotions are mapped. [Figure 10] This shows an emotion map where multiple emotions are mapped. [Figure 11] This is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow of the data processing system in Embodiment 1 of Example 1. [Figure 12] This is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow of the data processing system in Application Example 1 of Form Example 1. [Figure 13] This is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow of the data processing system in Example 2 of Embodiment 2. [Figure 14] This is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow of the data processing system in Application Example 2 of Form Example 2. [Figure 15] This is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow of the data processing system in Embodiment 3 of Example 3. [Figure 16] This is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow of the data processing system in Application Example 3 of Form Example 3. [Figure 17] This is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow of the data processing system in Example 1 of the Form 1 when an emotion engine is combined. [Figure 18] This is a sequence diagram showing the processing flow of the data processing system in Application Example 1 of Form Example 1 when an emotion engine is combined. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0007] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the system relating to the technology of this disclosure will be described with reference to the attached drawings.
[0008] First, let's explain the terminology used in the following explanation.
[0009] In the following embodiments, the signed processor (hereinafter simply referred to as "processor") may be a single arithmetic unit or a combination of multiple arithmetic units. Furthermore, the processor may be a single type of arithmetic unit or a combination of multiple types of arithmetic units. Examples of arithmetic units include CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), GPGPU (General-Purpose computing on Graphics Processing Units), APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), or TPU (TENSOR PROCESSING UNIT®).
[0010] In the following embodiments, signed RAM (Random Access Memory) is a memory that temporarily stores information and is used as work memory by the processor.
[0011] In the following embodiments, the tagged storage is one or more non-volatile storage devices that store various programs, various parameters, and the like. Examples of non-volatile storage devices include flash memory (SSD (Solid State Drive)), magnetic disks (e.g., hard disks), or magnetic tapes.
[0012] In the following embodiments, the tagged communication I / F (Interface) is an interface including a communication processor and
[0013] an antenna and the like. The communication I / F controls communication between a plurality of computers. Examples of communication standards applied to the communication I / F include wireless communication standards including 5G (5th Generation Mobile Communication System), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), or Bluetooth (registered trademark).
[0014] In the following embodiments, "A and / or B" is synonymous with "at least one of A and B". That is, "A and / or B" means that it may be only A, only B, or a combination of A and B. Also, in this specification, when expressing three or more matters connected by "and / or", the same concept as "A and / or B" is applied.
[0015] [First Embodiment]
[0016] FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a data processing system 10 according to the first embodiment.
[0017] As shown in FIG. 1, the data processing system 10 includes a data processing device 12 and a smart device 14. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.
[0018] The data processing device 12 comprises a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication interface 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" related to the technology of this disclosure. The computer 22 comprises a processor 28, RAM 30, and storage 32. The processor 28, RAM 30, and storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication interface 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication interface 26 is connected to a network 54. An example of the network 54 is a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).
[0019] The smart device 14 comprises a computer 36, a reception device 38, an output device 40, a camera 42, and a communication interface 44. The computer 36 comprises a processor 46, RAM 48, and storage 50. The processor 46, RAM 48, and storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The reception device 38, output device 40, and camera 42 are also connected to the bus 52.
[0020] The reception device 38 is equipped with a touch panel 38A and a microphone 38B, etc., and receives user input. The touch panel 38A receives user input by detecting contact with an object (e.g., a pen or finger). The microphone 38B receives user input by detecting the user's voice. The control unit 46A transmits data indicating the user input received by the touch panel 38A and microphone 38B to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the data indicating the user input.
[0021] The output device 40 includes a display 40A and a speaker 40B, and presents data to the user 20 by outputting data in a form perceptible to the user 20 (e.g., audio and / or text). The display 40A displays visible information such as text and images according to instructions from the processor 46. The speaker 40B outputs audio according to instructions from the processor 46. The camera 42 is a small digital camera equipped with an optical system such as a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an image sensor such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor. It's a camera.
[0022] Communication interface 44 is connected to network 54. Communication interfaces 44 and 26 are responsible for the exchange of various types of information between processor 46 and processor 28 via network 54.
[0023] Figure 2 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart device 14.
[0024] As shown in Figure 2, in the data processing device 12, a specific processing is performed by the processor 28. A specific processing program 56 is stored in the storage 32. The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" related to the technology of this disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific processing is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 according to the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.
[0025] The storage 32 stores the data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.
[0026] In the smart device 14, the processor 46 performs the reception output processing. The storage 50 stores the reception output program 60. The reception output program 60 is used in conjunction with a specific processing program 56 by the data processing system 10. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output processing is realized by the processor 46 operating as a control unit 46A according to the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.
[0027] Next, the identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 will be described.
[0028] "Example of form 1"
[0029] The system of the present invention includes an interface for inputting user information. This interface may include fields for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition. The system also has a function to suggest appropriate assistive devices based on the input information. This function can, for example, search a database of assistive devices suitable for the user's physical condition and present the results to the user. Furthermore, the system has a function to refer to the past usage history of similar users. This function can, for example, search a database of past users to refer to what assistive devices were used by users with similar conditions. The system also has a function to link with inventory status. This function can, for example, check the inventory status of suggested assistive devices in real time and suggest only assistive devices that are in stock. These functions can reduce confusion and variations in quality when selecting assistive devices and support the creation of stable care plans.
[0030] "Example of form 2"
[0031] The system of the present invention includes an interface for inputting user information. This interface may include fields for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition. The system also has a function to suggest appropriate assistive devices based on the input information. This function can, for example, search a database of assistive devices suitable for the user's physical condition and present the results to the user. Furthermore, the system has a function to refer to the past usage history of similar users. This function can, for example, search a database of past users to refer to what assistive devices were used by users with similar conditions. The system also has a function to link with inventory status. This function can, for example, check the inventory status of suggested assistive devices in real time and suggest only assistive devices that are in stock. These functions can reduce confusion and variations in quality when selecting assistive devices and support the creation of stable care plans.
[0032] The following describes the processing flow for each example of the form.
[0033] "Example of form 1"
[0034] Step 1: Enter the user's information into the system interface. This information includes, for example, the user's age, gender, and physical condition.
[0035] Step 2: The system suggests appropriate assistive devices based on the entered information. Specifically, the system searches a database of assistive devices suitable for the user's physical condition and presents the results to the user.
[0036] Step 3: The system refers to the past usage history of similar users. Specifically, the system searches a database of past users and refers to what kinds of assistive devices users with similar conditions have used.
[0037] Step 4: The system is linked to inventory status. Specifically, the system checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time and only proposes assistive devices that are in stock.
[0038] "Example of form 2"
[0039] Step 1: Enter the user's information into the system interface. This information includes, for example, the user's age, gender, and physical condition.
[0040] Step 2: The system suggests appropriate assistive devices based on the entered information. Specifically, the system searches a database of assistive devices suitable for the user's physical condition and presents the results to the user.
[0041] Step 3: The system refers to the past usage history of similar users. Specifically, the system searches a database of past users and refers to what kinds of assistive devices users with similar conditions have used.
[0042] Step 4: The system is linked to inventory status. Specifically, the system checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time and only proposes assistive devices that are in stock.
[0043] (Example 1)
[0044] Next, we will describe Example 1 of Form Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the smart device 14 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[0045] In selecting assistive devices, it is necessary to consider the user's individual physical condition and past usage history, while also checking inventory status in real time and proposing appropriate assistive devices. However, conventional systems have made it difficult to manage and propose these elements in an integrated manner, making it challenging to quickly and accurately select the most suitable assistive devices for users. This has led to inconsistencies and ambiguity in the selection of assistive devices, hindering the creation of stable care plans.
[0046] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[0047] In this invention, the server includes means for transmitting user information to the server, means for the server to search a database for appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for the server to search a database of past users and refer to the past usage history of similar users, means for the server to cooperate with an inventory management system to check the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment, and means for presenting only welfare equipment that is in stock to the user. This makes it possible to check the inventory status in real time while taking into account the user's individual physical condition and past usage history, and to quickly and accurately propose the most suitable welfare equipment.
[0048] "User information" refers to individual attribute information of the user, such as age, gender, and physical condition.
[0049] A "server" refers to a computer system that receives user information and performs processing such as database searches and inventory checks.
[0050] A "database" refers to an information system that stores and makes searchable data such as information on welfare equipment and past user records.
[0051] The "past user database" refers to a database that stores information about users who have previously used welfare equipment and their usage records.
[0052] An "inventory management system" refers to a system that manages the inventory status of welfare equipment in real time.
[0053] "Suggested welfare equipment" refers to welfare equipment that the server searches for based on the user's information and determines to be appropriate.
[0054] "Stock availability" refers to information indicating whether the proposed assistive device is currently available.
[0055] "Presenting to the user" means that the server sends search results and inventory information to the user's device, making it available for the user to review.
[0056] This invention relates to a system that takes user information as input and suggests appropriate assistive devices. A specific embodiment of this system is described below.
[0057] Entering user information
[0058] Users access the system's web interface using devices such as personal computers and smartphones. The interface is implemented using HTML and JavaScript (registered trademark) and provides forms for users to input information such as their age, gender, and physical condition. Users enter this information into the forms and click the submit button.
[0059] Sending and receiving information
[0060] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server as an HTTP request. The server processes the received information using a backend system implemented in Python®.
[0061] Proposal for welfare equipment
[0062] The server accesses a MySQL® database based on the received user information to search for appropriate assistive devices. The search algorithm selects the most suitable assistive devices based on the user's physical condition, age, gender, and other conditions. The search results are generated in JSON format and sent to the terminal as an HTTP response. The terminal parses the received JSON data and displays the search results to the user.
[0063] Reference for past usage history
[0064] The server accesses the PostgreSQL database to search for past user data. The server retrieves data from past users with similar characteristics to the current user, using it as a reference to see what kinds of assistive devices were used. This information is also generated in JSON format and sent to the terminal as an HTTP response. The terminal parses the received JSON data and displays the past usage history to the user.
[0065] Checking stock availability
[0066] The server sends an API request to the ERP system to check the inventory status of the proposed assistive devices. The server selects only the assistive devices that are in stock and generates a JSON file. This information is also sent to the terminal as an HTTP response. The terminal parses the received JSON data and displays the assistive devices that are in stock to the user.
[0067] Specific example
[0068] For example, if a user enters "70 years old, male, difficulty walking," the server will suggest assistive devices such as walking aids and wheelchairs. It will also search a database of past users and generate a list of assistive devices used under similar conditions. Furthermore, it will integrate with an inventory management system to present only assistive devices that are in stock to the user.
[0069] Example of a prompt
[0070] The following are examples of prompts to input into the generative AI model.
[0071] "Please suggest assistive devices suitable for a 70-year-old male user with difficulty walking. Please also consider past usage history and current inventory."
[0072] By using this prompt, the generated AI model provides information to suggest the most suitable assistive devices for the user.
[0073] The flow of the specific processing in Example 1 will be explained using Figure 11.
[0074] Step 1:
[0075] Users access the system's web interface using devices such as personal computers or smartphones. They enter information such as age, gender, and physical condition into forms on the interface and click the submit button. The entered information is sent from the device to the server as an HTTP request.
[0076] Step 2:
[0077] The server receives HTTP requests sent by users. The received information is stored in a temporary data store on the server. The server uses a backend system implemented in Python to parse the received information and generate appropriate database queries.
[0078] Step 3:
[0079] The server accesses the MySQL database using the generated database query. The server searches for appropriate assistive devices based on the user's age, gender, and physical condition. The search results are generated in JSON format and stored in a temporary data store.
[0080] Step 4:
[0081] The server accesses the PostgreSQL database to search for past user data. The server retrieves data from past users with similar characteristics to the current user, using it as a reference to see what assistive devices were used. This information is also generated in JSON format and stored in a temporary data store.
[0082] Step 5:
[0083] The server sends an API request to the ERP system to check the inventory status of the proposed assistive devices. The server then selects only the assistive devices that are in stock and generates a JSON file. This information is also stored in a temporary data store.
[0084] Step 6:
[0085] The server integrates search results, past usage history, and inventory information stored in the temporary data store to generate a final suggestion list. The generated suggestion list is sent to the terminal as an HTTP response.
[0086] Step 7:
[0087] The terminal analyzes the received HTTP response and displays a list of suggested assistive devices to the user. The user can then review the displayed list and select the most suitable assistive device.
[0088] (Application Example 1)
[0089] Next, we will describe Application Example 1 of Form Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server," and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."
[0090] Conventional assistive device selection systems had several drawbacks: the process of users inputting their information and receiving recommendations for appropriate assistive devices was cumbersome, and real-time inventory checks were not possible, resulting in lengthy selection times. Furthermore, the system lacked sufficient functionality to refer to past usage data, making it difficult to recommend the most suitable assistive devices to users. This led to inconsistencies in the quality of assistive devices selected, making it difficult to create consistent care plans.
[0091] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[0092] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referencing past usage records of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, means for inputting user information via smartphone and receiving suggestions for the most suitable welfare equipment, and means for checking the inventory status of the suggested welfare equipment in real time. As a result, users can easily input their own information, receive suggestions for the most suitable welfare equipment, and check inventory status in real time, thereby shortening the time required for selection, reducing hesitation and variations in quality in the selection of welfare equipment, and enabling the creation of stable care plans.
[0093] "Means for inputting user information" refers to a device or software that provides an interface for users to input information such as their age, gender, and physical condition.
[0094] "Means for proposing appropriate welfare equipment based on the user's information" refers to algorithms or systems for selecting and proposing the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user's information entered.
[0095] "A method that refers to the past usage history of similar users" refers to a function that refers to data on assistive devices used by users with similar conditions in the past and suggests assistive devices that are suitable for the current user.
[0096] The "means of linking with inventory status" refer to a system that checks the inventory information of proposed welfare equipment in real time and proposes only those items that are in stock.
[0097] "A means of inputting user information via smartphone and receiving suggestions for the most suitable welfare equipment" refers to a function that allows users to input their own information using a smartphone application and receive suggestions for the most suitable welfare equipment based on that information.
[0098] "A means of checking the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time" refers to a system that acquires inventory information of proposed welfare equipment in real time and presents it to the user.
[0099] The system for carrying out this invention consists of a smartphone application and a server. A specific embodiment is described below.
[0100] System Configuration
[0101] hardware
[0102] Smartphone: A device used by users to input information.
[0103] Server: A central processing unit for managing the database and proposing assistive devices.
[0104] software
[0105] Smartphone application: Provides an interface for users to input their information and receive suggestions for assistive devices.
[0106] Flask: A web framework that runs on the server side. It handles database interaction and user information processing.
[0107] Database: Data storage for managing information on welfare equipment, users' past usage history, and inventory status.
[0108] Data processing and data calculation
[0109] User information entry
[0110] Users enter information such as their age, gender, and physical condition through a smartphone application. This information is sent to a server and stored in a database.
[0111] Proposal for welfare equipment
[0112] The server searches the database for appropriate assistive devices based on the user's input information. The search results are generated using an algorithm that filters assistive devices to match the user's age range, gender, and physical condition.
[0113] Reference for past usage history
[0114] The server references past user data in the database to retrieve information on assistive devices used by users with similar conditions. This information is also taken into consideration when making suggestions.
[0115] Checking stock availability
[0116] The server connects to a database to check the real-time inventory status of proposed assistive devices. Only assistive devices that are in stock are suggested to the user.
[0117] Display of proposal results
[0118] The smartphone application displays the suggested results received from the server to the user. The user can check detailed information and inventory status of the suggested assistive devices.
[0119] Specific example
[0120] For example, if a 65-year-old male user is looking for assistive devices related to "mobility," he would enter the following information into the smartphone application.
[0121] Age: 65
[0122] Gender: Male
[0123] Physical condition: Eli
[0124] This information is sent to the server, which searches the database and suggests appropriate assistive devices (e.g., wheelchairs, walkers). The inventory status of the suggested assistive devices is also checked in real time, and only those in stock are displayed.
[0125] Example of a prompt
[0126] "Please enter the user's age, gender, and physical condition. Example: Age: 65, Gender: Male, Physical condition: Mobility"
[0127] In this way, users can easily select the most suitable assistive devices for themselves, reducing the time required for selection and enabling the creation of high-quality care plans.
[0128] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 1 will be explained using Figure 12.
[0129] Step 1:
[0130] The user launches a smartphone application and enters information such as age, gender, and physical condition. The entered information is sent to the server by the smartphone application. The input data is sent in JSON format and received on the server side.
[0131] Step 2:
[0132] The server analyzes the received user information and stores it in the database. Specifically, it extracts fields such as age, gender, and physical condition and stores them in the corresponding tables in the database. During this process, it verifies the integrity of the data and checks for any invalid data.
[0133] Step 3:
[0134] The server searches the database for assistive devices that match the user's criteria. Age range, gender, and physical condition are used as search criteria. The search results are retrieved as a list of assistive devices that match the criteria.
[0135] Step 4:
[0136] The server references past user data to retrieve information on assistive devices used by users with similar conditions. This improves the accuracy of the recommendations. Past usage data is filtered by similar conditions, and the results are retrieved.
[0137] Step 5:
[0138] The server checks the inventory status of the proposed assistive devices in real time. It refers to the inventory table in the database and lists only the assistive devices that are in stock. The inventory information is configured to be updated periodically.
[0139] Step 6:
[0140] The server generates the final proposal results and sends them to the smartphone application. The proposal results include detailed information and inventory status of the assistive devices. The data is sent in JSON format and displayed on the smartphone application.
[0141] Step 7:
[0142] Users review a list of suggested assistive devices on a smartphone application. They can view detailed information and availability for each device and select the most suitable one. Users can also enter additional information as needed to receive further suggestions.
[0143] (Example 2)
[0144] Next, we will describe Example 2 of Form Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the smart device 14 as the "terminal".
[0145] Conventional assistive device selection systems have difficulty adequately considering the individual physical condition and past usage history of users, making it challenging to propose appropriate assistive devices. Furthermore, they lacked the ability to check inventory status in real time, making it unclear whether proposed assistive devices were actually available. This led to inconsistencies and ambiguity in the selection of assistive devices, making it difficult to create consistent care plans.
[0146] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means.
[0147] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for transmitting the user information to the server, means for searching a welfare equipment database based on the information, means for searching a past user database and referring to the usage history of users with similar conditions, means for checking the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in conjunction with an inventory management system, means for proposing only welfare equipment that is in stock, and means for presenting the proposed content to the user. This makes it possible to propose appropriate welfare equipment that takes into account the user's individual physical condition and past usage history, and by checking the inventory status in real time, it is possible to propose only welfare equipment that is actually available. This reduces confusion and variations in quality in the selection of welfare equipment, and enables the creation of stable care plans.
[0148] "Means for inputting user information" refers to a device or software that provides an interface for users to input information such as age, gender, and physical condition.
[0149] "Means for transmitting the user's information to the server" refers to communication means for transmitting the entered user information to the server.
[0150] "Means for searching the welfare equipment database based on said information" refers to an algorithm or program for searching the welfare equipment database based on the user information received by the server.
[0151] "Means of searching a past user database and referring to the usage history of users with similar conditions" refers to an algorithm or program that searches a past user database and refers to the usage history of past users with similar conditions.
[0152] "Means for checking the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in conjunction with an inventory management system" refers to a communication method for linking with an inventory management system in order to check the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time.
[0153] "A method for proposing only welfare equipment that is in stock" refers to an algorithm or program that includes only welfare equipment whose availability has been confirmed as being in stock in the final proposal list.
[0154] "Means for presenting proposals to users" refers to a device or software that provides an interface for displaying the final list of proposals to users.
[0155] This invention relates to a system that takes user information as input and suggests appropriate assistive devices. A specific embodiment of this system is described below.
[0156] Entering user information
[0157] Users access the system interface using a terminal. The interface is provided through a web browser or a dedicated application. Users enter information such as age, gender, and physical condition into fields on the interface. For example, a user might enter "Age: 70, Gender: Male, Physical condition: Difficulty walking."
[0158] Information transmission
[0159] The terminal sends the entered information to the server. This information is sent as an HTTP request.
[0160] Searching Databases
[0161] The server searches the welfare equipment database based on the information it receives. The database contains the application conditions and characteristics of each welfare device. For example, the server searches for a walking aid suitable for a "70-year-old male with difficulty walking."
[0162] Reference for past usage history
[0163] The server searches the past user database to see what kinds of assistive devices other users with similar conditions used. For example, the server searches for "assistive devices previously used by a 70-year-old man with difficulty walking."
[0164] Proposal generation
[0165] The server generates a list of appropriate assistive devices based on the search results. This list includes detailed information about each assistive device and why it is suitable for the user's needs.
[0166] Checking stock availability
[0167] The server integrates with an inventory management system to check the real-time availability of proposed assistive devices. For example, the server checks whether "proposed walking aid A is in stock."
[0168] Inventory check results will be reflected.
[0169] The server will only include assistive devices that are in stock in the final proposal list. For example, if "Walking aid A" is out of stock, it will be removed from the list.
[0170] Presentation of proposal
[0171] The server sends the final list of suggestions to the terminal. This information is sent as an HTTP response. The terminal displays the received list of suggestions to the user. The user can view detailed information about the suggested assistive devices on the interface.
[0172] Specific example
[0173] When a user enters "Age: 70, Gender: Male, Physical condition: Difficulty walking," the server searches the database and suggests "Walking aid A" based on past usage data. At the same time, it checks the availability of "Walking aid A" in conjunction with the inventory management system before suggesting it to the user.
[0174] Example of a prompt
[0175] "Please suggest assistive devices suitable for a 70-year-old male user who has difficulty walking. Please only suggest items that are in stock."
[0176] This system enables the suggestion of appropriate assistive devices that take into account the user's individual physical condition and past usage history. By checking inventory status in real time, it can suggest only assistive devices that are actually available. This reduces uncertainty and variations in quality when selecting assistive devices, enabling the creation of stable care plans.
[0177] The flow of the specific processing in Example 2 will be explained using Figure 13.
[0178] Step 1:
[0179] Users access the system interface using a terminal. The interface is provided through a web browser or a dedicated application. Users enter information such as age, gender, and physical condition into fields on the interface. The entered information is temporarily stored on the terminal.
[0180] Step 2:
[0181] The terminal sends the entered user information to the server. This information is sent as an HTTP request. Specifically, the terminal converts the entered data, such as age, gender, and physical condition, into JSON format and sends it to the server.
[0182] Step 3:
[0183] The server analyzes the received user information and searches the welfare equipment database. Input data includes the user's age, gender, and physical condition, and output is a list of relevant welfare equipment. The server uses SQL queries to search the database and extract welfare equipment that matches the specified criteria.
[0184] Step 4:
[0185] The server searches a database of past users to see what assistive devices similar to those used. Input data includes the user's age, gender, and physical condition, and output is a list of recommended assistive devices based on past usage. The server then performs statistical analysis based on this historical data to select the most suitable assistive device.
[0186] Step 5:
[0187] The server generates a list of appropriate assistive devices based on the search results. Inputs include search results from an assistive device database and historical usage data; the output is a final list of suggestions. The server integrates this data to list the most suitable assistive devices for the user.
[0188] Step 6:
[0189] The server integrates with an inventory management system to check the real-time inventory status of proposed assistive devices. The input is a list of proposed devices, and the output is a list of assistive devices whose inventory has been confirmed. The server sends an API request to the inventory management system to check the inventory status.
[0190] Step 7:
[0191] The server includes only assistive devices that are in stock in the final proposal list. The input is the stock check result, and the output is the final proposal list with confirmed stock. The server removes assistive devices that are out of stock from the list, leaving only those that are in stock.
[0192] Step 8:
[0193] The server sends the final proposal list to the terminal. This information is sent as an HTTP response. The input is the final proposal list, and the output is the proposal list displayed on the terminal. The server converts the final proposal list to JSON format and sends it to the terminal.
[0194] Step 9:
[0195] The terminal displays the received list of suggestions to the user. The input is the final suggestion list received from the server, and the output is displayed on the interface in a format that the user can review. The user can view detailed information about the suggested assistive devices on the interface.
[0196] (Application Example 2)
[0197] Next, we will describe Application Example 2 of Form Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server," and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."
[0198] Conventional welfare equipment selection systems often failed to adequately consider past usage history and inventory levels when proposing appropriate welfare equipment based on user information. This made it difficult to quickly and accurately recommend the most suitable welfare equipment to users, leading to indecision and inconsistent quality in selections. Furthermore, there was a lack of smartphone-based systems to improve user convenience in physical stores. Addressing these challenges is essential.
[0199] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means.
[0200] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referring to the past usage history of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, means for inputting user information using a smartphone and suggesting appropriate welfare equipment, means for acquiring welfare equipment data from an external database, and means for checking inventory status in real time. This makes it possible to quickly and accurately suggest the most suitable welfare equipment to the user, reducing confusion and variations in quality during selection, and improving convenience for users in physical stores.
[0201] "Means for inputting user information" refers to an interface for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition.
[0202] "Means of proposing appropriate welfare equipment based on the user's information" refers to algorithms or systems that select and propose the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user's information entered.
[0203] "Methods for referencing past usage data of similar users" refers to a function that allows users to refer to data on assistive devices used by users with similar conditions in the past and incorporate that information into their recommendations.
[0204] "Methods for linking with inventory status" refers to a system that checks the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time and proposes only those items that are in stock.
[0205] "A means of inputting user information using a smartphone and suggesting appropriate welfare equipment" refers to an application that uses a smartphone to input user information and then suggests the most suitable welfare equipment based on that information.
[0206] "Means of obtaining data on welfare equipment from external databases" refers to a system for obtaining information about welfare equipment from external databases via the internet.
[0207] "A means of checking inventory status in real time" refers to a function that allows users to instantly check and provide information on the current inventory status.
[0208] This invention is a system that takes user information as input and suggests appropriate assistive devices. The following describes a specific implementation of this system.
[0209] System Configuration
[0210] The system consists of the following main components:
[0211] 1. User Information Input Interface
[0212] The user enters information such as their age, gender, and physical condition using a smartphone application.
[0213] This interface is designed to be intuitive for users to operate.
[0214] 2. Database Integration Module
[0215] Retrieve data on welfare equipment from an external database.
[0216] The database includes detailed information on welfare equipment, past usage records, and inventory status.
[0217] 3. Proposed Algorithm
[0218] An algorithm will be implemented to select the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user information entered.
[0219] We check inventory status in real time by referring to past user data.
[0220] 4. Inventory Check Module
[0221] The system checks the real-time inventory status of proposed welfare equipment and only proposes items that are in stock.
[0222] Program processing
[0223] The server performs the following actions:
[0224] 1. Enter user information
[0225] Users input information such as age, gender, and physical condition through a smartphone application.
[0226] Example: A 70-year-old female user who uses a wheelchair enters the information.
[0227] 2. Retrieving data from the database
[0228] The server retrieves detailed information about welfare equipment, past usage records, and inventory status from an external database.
[0229] Software used: Python, API request library
[0230] 3. Execution of the proposed algorithm
[0231] The server selects the most suitable assistive device based on the entered user information.
[0232] We will refer to past user data and consider inventory levels.
[0233] 4. Check stock availability
[0234] The server checks the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time and only suggests items that are in stock.
[0235] Software used: Real-time database management system
[0236] Specific example
[0237] For example, if a 70-year-old woman who uses a wheelchair uses the app, the following assistive devices may be suggested.
[0238] Name: Lightweight wheelchair, Stock: 5
[0239] Name: Electric wheelchair, Stock: 2
[0240] Example of a prompt
[0241] The following are examples of prompts to input into the generative AI model.
[0242] Please suggest the most suitable assistive devices for a 70-year-old woman who uses a wheelchair. The user's information is as follows:
[0243] Age: 70
[0244] Gender: Female
[0245] Physical condition: Wheelchair
[0246] In this way, the system can quickly and accurately propose the most suitable assistive devices to users.
[0247] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 2 will be explained using Figure 14.
[0248] Step 1:
[0249] The user launches a smartphone application and enters information such as age, gender, and physical condition.
[0250] Input: User's age, gender, physical condition
[0251] Output: Entered user information
[0252] Specific operation: The user enters the required information into the application form and clicks the "Submit" button. The application sends the entered information to the server.
[0253] Step 2:
[0254] Based on the user information received by the server, data on welfare equipment is retrieved from an external database.
[0255] Input: User information
[0256] Output: Detailed information on welfare equipment, past usage history, and inventory status.
[0257] Specific operation: The server sends an API request to retrieve detailed information about welfare equipment, past usage history, and inventory status from an external database. The retrieved data is temporarily stored on the server.
[0258] Step 3:
[0259] Based on the data acquired by the server, the system selects welfare equipment that is suitable for the user's information.
[0260] Input: User information, detailed information on welfare equipment, past usage history
[0261] Output: List of appropriate assistive devices
[0262] Specific operation: The server executes an algorithm that cross-references user information with detailed information on assistive devices and past usage history. This generates a list of assistive devices best suited to the user.
[0263] Step 4:
[0264] The inventory status is checked in real time based on a list of welfare equipment generated by the server.
[0265] Input: List of suitable assistive devices, availability
[0266] Output: List of welfare equipment whose stock has been confirmed.
[0267] Specific operation: The server uses an inventory check module to check the real-time inventory status of the proposed assistive devices. Only items that are in stock remain in the list.
[0268] Step 5:
[0269] The server presents the user with a list of welfare equipment whose availability has been confirmed.
[0270] Input: List of welfare equipment whose stock has been confirmed
[0271] Output: A list of assistive devices presented to the user.
[0272] Specific operation: The server sends a list of available assistive devices to the smartphone application. The user can then view details of the suggested assistive devices through the application.
[0273] Step 6:
[0274] Users select from the suggested welfare equipment and purchase or reserve it.
[0275] Input: List of proposed assistive devices
[0276] Output: Purchase or reservation confirmation information
[0277] Specific operation: The user selects desired assistive devices from the suggested options through the application and makes a purchase or reservation. The application sends this information to the server and receives confirmation of the purchase or reservation.
[0278] Furthermore, an emotion engine for estimating the user's emotion may be combined. That is, the specific processing unit 290 may estimate the user's emotion using the emotion identification model 59 and perform specific processing using the user's emotion.
[0279] "Form Example 1"
[0280] As an embodiment of the present invention, a system combined with an emotion engine is provided. This system includes means for inputting user information, means for proposing appropriate welfare appliances based on the user's information, means for referring to the past usage records of similar users, means for linking with the inventory status, and an emotion engine for recognizing the user's emotional state. The emotion engine recognizes the emotional state from the tone of the user's voice, expression, choice of words, etc. Specifically, when the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine conveys that information to the system, and the system proposes welfare appliances for stress reduction. For example, a massage chair or a music player that plays relaxation music may be proposed. Also, when the user is feeling happy, the emotion engine conveys that information to the system, and the system proposes welfare appliances for amplifying that happiness. For example, a TV that provides fun games or entertainment may be proposed. Thus, the system combined with the emotion engine can propose appropriate welfare appliances according to the user's emotional state, contributing to the improvement of the user's QOL.
[0281] "Form Example 2"
[0282] As one embodiment of the present invention, a system combined with an emotion engine is provided. This system includes means for inputting user information, means for proposing appropriate welfare equipment based on the user's information, means for referring to the past usage records of similar users, means for linking with the inventory status, and an emotion engine for recognizing the user's emotional state. The emotion engine recognizes the emotional state from the tone of the user's voice, expression, choice of words, etc. Specifically, when the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine conveys that information to the system, and the system proposes welfare equipment for stress reduction. For example, a massage chair or a music player that plays relaxation music may be proposed. Also, when the user is feeling happy, the emotion engine conveys that information to the system, and the system proposes welfare equipment for amplifying that happiness. For example, a TV that provides fun games or entertainment may be proposed. Thus, the system combined with the emotion engine can propose appropriate welfare equipment according to the user's emotional state, contributing to the improvement of the user's QOL.
[0283] The processing flow of each exemplary form will be described below.
[0284] "Exemplary Form 1"
[0285] Step 1: First, the care manager or the user himself / herself inputs the user's information into the system. This information includes the user's age, gender, physical condition, living environment, etc.
[0286] Step 2: Next, the system proposes appropriate welfare equipment based on the input information. This proposal is made considering the usage records of past similar users and the inventory status.
[0287] Step 3: At the same time, the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotional state. The emotion engine determines the emotional state from the tone of the user's voice, expression, choice of words, etc.
[0288] Step 4: Based on the information from the emotion engine, the system suggests additional assistive devices that are appropriate for the user's emotional state. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the system will suggest assistive devices to alleviate stress.
[0289] Step 5: Finally, the system presents the care manager or user with a list of suggested assistive devices. This allows for the selection of appropriate assistive devices based on the user's emotional state.
[0290] "Example of form 2"
[0291] Step 1: First, the care manager or the user themselves enters the user's information into the system. This information includes the user's age, gender, physical condition, and living environment.
[0292] Step 2: Next, the system suggests appropriate assistive devices based on the entered information. This suggestion takes into account the usage history of similar users in the past and the availability of those devices.
[0293] Step 3: Simultaneously, the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotional state. The emotion engine determines the user's emotional state based on factors such as the tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice.
[0294] Step 4: Based on the information from the emotion engine, the system provides welfare services appropriate to the user's emotional state. The system will suggest additional equipment. For example, if a user is experiencing stress, the system will suggest assistive devices to reduce that stress.
[0295] Step 5: Finally, the system presents the care manager or user with a list of suggested assistive devices. This allows for the selection of appropriate assistive devices based on the user's emotional state.
[0296] (Example 1)
[0297] Next, we will describe Example 1 of Form Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the smart device 14 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[0298] Conventional welfare equipment recommendation systems have problems such as insufficient recommendations based on the user's individual physical condition and past usage history, and difficulty in reflecting inventory status in real time. Furthermore, because recommendations do not take into account the user's emotional state, improvements in user satisfaction and QOL (quality of life) have not been sufficiently achieved. There is a need to solve these problems.
[0299] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[0300] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referencing past usage records of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, means for recognizing the user's emotional state, and means for suggesting welfare equipment based on the emotional state. This makes it possible to suggest appropriate welfare equipment that meets the individual needs of the user and to make suggestions that reflect inventory status in real time. Furthermore, by making suggestions that take into account the user's emotional state, it is possible to improve the user's satisfaction and quality of life.
[0301] "Means for inputting user information" refers to a device or software that provides an interface for users to input information such as their age, gender, and physical condition.
[0302] "Means for proposing appropriate welfare equipment" refers to an algorithm or system that selects and proposes the most suitable welfare equipment for a user based on the user's input information.
[0303] "Methods for referencing the past usage history of similar users" refer to a database and search function that allows users to refer to data on welfare equipment used by users with similar conditions in the past and make appropriate suggestions to the current user.
[0304] The means for linking with the inventory status is a system or function for checking the inventory status of the proposed welfare equipment in real time and proposing only the welfare equipment with available inventory.
[0305] The means for recognizing the emotional state of the user are sensors and analysis algorithms for recognizing the emotional state from the tone of the user's voice, expression, choice of words, etc.
[0306] The means for proposing welfare equipment based on the emotional state is a system or algorithm for selecting and proposing welfare equipment for reducing the user's stress or amplifying joy based on the recognized emotional state of the user.
[0307] This invention is a system including means for inputting user information, means for proposing appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referring to the past usage records of similar users, means for linking with the inventory status, means for recognizing the emotional state of the user, and means for proposing welfare equipment based on the emotional state.
[0308] Means for inputting user information
[0309] Subject: User
[0310] The user inputs their information using the interface of the terminal. For example, information such as age, gender, physical condition, etc. is input into the input fields. The terminal temporarily stores this information.
[0311] Means for proposing appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information
[0312] Subject: Server
[0313] The server searches the database of welfare equipment based on the received user information. For example, it searches for welfare equipment suitable for low back pain (e.g., a cushion for low back pain) and presents the results to the user.
[0314] A method of referring to the past usage history of similar users.
[0315] Subject: Server
[0316] The server searches a database of past users, referencing what kinds of assistive devices were used by users with similar conditions. This improves the accuracy of the recommendations.
[0317] A means of linking with inventory status
[0318] Subject: Server
[0319] The server checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time. Only assistive devices that are in stock are included in the proposal list.
[0320] Means for recognizing the emotional state of users
[0321] Subject: terminal
[0322] The device uses an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotional state. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine transmits that information to the server.
[0323] Means for proposing welfare equipment based on the emotional state
[0324] Subject: Server
[0325] Based on information received from the emotion engine, the server suggests assistive devices to reduce stress (e.g., a massage chair). If the user is experiencing joy, it also suggests assistive devices to amplify that joy (e.g., a television offering fun games or entertainment).
[0326] Specific examples and prompt statements
[0327] Specific example
[0328] 1. Enter user information:
[0329] The user uses their device to enter their age (65), gender (female), and physical condition (suffers from lower back pain).
[0330] The server receives this information and suggests assistive devices suitable for back pain (e.g., back support cushions).
[0331] 2. Utilizing the Emotion Engine:
[0332] When a user speaks into the device, the emotion engine recognizes from the tone of the user's voice that they are experiencing stress.
[0333] The server receives this information and suggests assistive devices to reduce stress (e.g., massage chairs).
[0334] Example of a prompt
[0335] 1. Enter user information:
[0336] The user entered information that they are 65 years old, female, and suffer from lower back pain. Please suggest appropriate assistive devices.
[0337] 2. Utilizing the Emotion Engine:
[0338] The emotion engine has detected that the user is experiencing stress. Please suggest assistive devices to help reduce this stress.
[0339] The flow of the specific processing in Example 1 will be explained using Figure 15.
[0340] Step 1:
[0341] Entering user information
[0342] Subject: User
[0343] The user enters their information using the device's interface. Specifically, they enter information such as age, gender, and physical condition into input fields. The entered information is temporarily stored on the device.
[0344] Input: User's age, gender, physical condition
[0345] Output: User information stored on the device
[0346] Step 2:
[0347] Submitting the entered information
[0348] Subject: terminal
[0349] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server. Specifically, it converts the input information into JSON format and sends it to the server using an HTTP request.
[0350] Input: User information stored on the device
[0351] Output: User information sent to the server
[0352] Step 3:
[0353] Database Search
[0354] Subject: Server
[0355] The server searches the database of assistive devices based on the user information it receives. Specifically, it executes an SQL query to retrieve a list of relevant assistive devices from the database.
[0356] Input: User information sent to the server
[0357] Output: List of applicable assistive devices
[0358] Step 4:
[0359] Reference to past usage history
[0360] Subject: Server
[0361] The server searches a database of past users to see what kinds of assistive devices were used by users with similar conditions. Specifically, it filters past user data to obtain a list of assistive devices used by users with similar conditions.
[0362] Input: User information sent to the server
[0363] Output: List of assistive devices used by users with similar conditions
[0364] Step 5:
[0365] Checking stock availability
[0366] Subject: Server
[0367] The server checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time. Specifically, it sends API requests to the inventory management system to check the inventory status.
[0368] Input: List of applicable assistive devices
[0369] Output: List of available assistive devices
[0370] Step 6:
[0371] Display of proposal results
[0372] Subject: terminal
[0373] The terminal displays the suggested results received from the server to the user. Specifically, it analyzes the data received from the server and displays it on the screen in a user-friendly format.
[0374] Input: List of available assistive devices
[0375] Output: Suggestion results displayed to the user
[0376] Step 7:
[0377] Using an Emotion Engine
[0378] Subject: terminal
[0379] The device uses an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotional state. Specifically, it analyzes the user's voice tone and facial expressions, and executes an algorithm to determine their emotional state. The results are then sent to the server.
[0380] Input: User's voice tone, facial expression
[0381] Output: Emotional state data
[0382] Step 8:
[0383] Proposals for assistive devices based on emotional state
[0384] Subject: Server
[0385] Based on information received from the emotion engine, the server suggests assistive devices to reduce stress and devices to amplify joy. Specifically, it searches a database of assistive devices corresponding to emotional states and makes appropriate suggestions.
[0386] Input: Emotional state data
[0387] Output: Results of proposed assistive devices based on emotional state
[0388] (Application Example 1)
[0389] Next, we will describe Application Example 1 of Form Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server," and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."
[0390] Conventional welfare equipment recommendation systems can suggest appropriate equipment based on the user's physical condition and past usage history, but they cannot consider the user's emotional state, resulting in a lack of adequate support for user psychological satisfaction and stress reduction. Furthermore, there are difficulties in checking inventory status in real time and making appropriate recommendations.
[0391] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[0392] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referencing past usage records of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, means for recognizing the user's emotional state, and means for suggesting welfare equipment based on the emotional state. This makes it possible to suggest appropriate welfare equipment that takes into account not only the user's physical condition but also their emotional state, thereby addressing the user's psychological satisfaction and stress reduction. Furthermore, by checking inventory status in real time and suggesting only welfare equipment that is in stock, the accuracy and reliability of the suggestions can be improved.
[0393] "Means for inputting user information" refers to an interface for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition.
[0394] "Means of suggesting appropriate welfare equipment" refers to a function that searches a database for and suggests the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user's information entered.
[0395] "Methods for referencing the past usage history of similar users" refers to a function that searches the database of past users and refers to information on welfare equipment used by users with similar conditions.
[0396] "Methods for linking with inventory status" refers to a function that checks the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time and proposes only those items that are in stock.
[0397] "Means of recognizing the user's emotional state" refers to the function of recognizing the user's emotional state from their tone of voice, facial expressions, word choice, etc.
[0398] "Means of proposing assistive devices based on the emotional state" refers to a function that proposes assistive devices to reduce stress or to amplify joy, according to the recognized emotional state.
[0399] A system for carrying out this invention includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment, means for referring to the past usage history of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, means for recognizing the user's emotional state, and means for suggesting welfare equipment based on said emotional state.
[0400] System program
[0401] The system program uses the following hardware and software:
[0402] Hardware: Smart glasses, camera
[0403] Software: OpenCV (camera image processing), emotion recognition software, assistive device database, inventory check software
[0404] Program Processing Description
[0405] The server inputs user information through smart glasses. Specifically, it provides an interface for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition. Next, the server searches the welfare equipment database based on the input information and suggests appropriate welfare equipment. In this process, it also searches the past user database to refer to the usage history of similar users.
[0406] Furthermore, the server checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time and only suggests items that are in stock. This improves the accuracy and reliability of the suggestions.
[0407] To recognize the user's emotional state, a camera is used to analyze the user's tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice. Emotion recognition software is used to determine whether the user is feeling stressed or happy. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the server suggests relaxation items; if they are feeling happy, it suggests entertainment items.
[0408] Specific example
[0409] For example, if a 65-year-old male customer with back pain visits the store, he will input his age, gender, and physical condition through smart glasses. The system will suggest support chairs and massage chairs for back pain, but will check inventory and only suggest support chairs that are in stock. It will also use a camera to recognize the customer's emotional state and, if they are feeling stressed, will suggest a relaxation music player.
[0410] Example of a prompt
[0411] Please suggest appropriate assistive devices for a 65-year-old male user who suffers from lower back pain. If the user is experiencing stress, suggest relaxation devices; if they are experiencing joy, suggest entertainment devices.
[0412] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 1 will be explained using Figure 16.
[0413] Step 1:
[0414] The user wears smart glasses and enters information such as age, gender, and physical condition. The entered information is sent to the server. The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[0415] Step 2:
[0416] The server searches the welfare equipment database based on the user information it receives. Specifically, it extracts welfare equipment suitable for the user's age, gender, and physical condition. A list of appropriate welfare equipment is generated as a search result.
[0417] Step 3:
[0418] The server searches the past user database to refer to the usage history of similar users. It extracts data on assistive devices used by past users with similar conditions to the current user's information and updates the list of assistive devices suitable for the current user.
[0419] Step 4:
[0420] The server checks the inventory status of the proposed assistive devices in real time. Specifically, it integrates with the inventory management system and keeps only assistive devices that are in stock in the list. This generates a list of assistive devices whose inventory has been confirmed.
[0421] Step 5:
[0422] The device (smart glasses) uses a camera to capture the user's face and sends the video data to a server. The server analyzes the received video data and uses emotion recognition software to recognize the user's emotional state. Based on the recognition results, it is determined whether the user is feeling stressed or happy.
[0423] Step 6:
[0424] The server suggests assistive devices based on the recognized emotional state. Specifically, if the user is feeling stressed, relaxation devices are added to the list; if they are feeling joyful, entertainment devices are added. A final list of suggestions is then generated.
[0425] Step 7:
[0426] The server sends the final list of suggested devices to the terminal (smart glasses). The terminal displays the list of suggested assistive devices to the user. The user can select the appropriate assistive device from the displayed list.
[0427] (Example 2)
[0428] Next, we will describe Example 2 of Form Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the smart device 14 as the "terminal".
[0429] Conventional assistive device recommendation systems failed to adequately consider the individual physical and emotional conditions of users, sometimes leading to hesitation and inconsistencies in the selection of appropriate assistive devices. Furthermore, they lacked the ability to check inventory status in real time, meaning that recommended assistive devices were sometimes unavailable immediately. Additionally, the insufficient ability to refer to past usage data made it difficult to create stable care plans.
[0430] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means.
[0431] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referring to the past usage history of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, and means for recognizing the user's emotional state. This makes it possible to suggest appropriate welfare equipment that takes into account the user's individual physical condition and emotional state, reducing hesitation and variations in quality during selection, and enabling the creation of stable care plans. In addition, by checking inventory status in real time, the suggested welfare equipment can be used immediately.
[0432] "Means for inputting user information" refers to the interface through which users input information such as their age, gender, and physical condition into the system.
[0433] "Means of proposing appropriate welfare equipment" refers to algorithms and database search functions that select and propose the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user's input information.
[0434] "Methods that refer to the past usage history of similar users" refers to a function that searches for data of users with similar conditions in the past and makes suggestions based on that usage history.
[0435] "Methods for linking with inventory status" refers to a function that allows users to check the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time and propose only those items that are in stock.
[0436] "Means for recognizing the user's emotional state" refers to an emotion recognition engine that recognizes the user's emotional state from factors such as tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice, and transmits that information to the system.
[0437] This invention is a system that takes user information as input and suggests appropriate assistive devices based on that information. The system includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate assistive devices, means for referring to the past usage history of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, and means for recognizing the user's emotional state.
[0438] Entering user information
[0439] The user accesses the system interface using a terminal and enters information such as their age, gender, and physical condition. The interface provides fields for entering this information. For example, if a 70-year-old man is complaining of knee pain, he would enter "70" in the age field, "male" in the gender field, and "knee pain" in the physical condition field.
[0440] Information transmission
[0441] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server. In doing so, the terminal converts the input data into JSON format and sends it to the server using an HTTP POST request.
[0442] Database Search
[0443] The server analyzes the received information and searches a database of assistive devices. For example, it searches for assistive devices related to knee pain (such as knee braces or specific exercise equipment).
[0444] Reference to past usage history
[0445] The server searches a database of past users with similar conditions to see what kinds of assistive devices were used. For example, it retrieves information on the assistive devices used by a 70-year-old man who previously complained of knee pain.
[0446] Checking stock availability
[0447] The server checks the inventory status of the proposed assistive devices in real time. For example, it checks whether knee braces are in stock and only proposes them if they are.
[0448] Using an Emotion Engine
[0449] The device recognizes the user's emotional state based on their tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine sends that information to the server.
[0450] final proposal
[0451] The server uses all the information to suggest the most suitable assistive devices to the user. For example, for a 70-year-old man complaining of knee pain, it would suggest a knee brace and a music player that plays relaxation music.
[0452] Specific example
[0453] For example, suppose a 70-year-old male user accesses the system and complains of knee pain. The user uses a terminal to input their age, gender, and physical condition (knee pain). The terminal sends this information to the server. The server searches its database based on this information and suggests assistive devices to alleviate knee pain (e.g., knee braces or specific exercise equipment). It also refers to information on assistive devices used by users with similar symptoms in the past. Furthermore, it checks the inventory status of the suggested assistive devices and only suggests those that are in stock. If the emotion engine detects the user's stress, it also suggests a music player that plays relaxation music.
[0454] Example of a prompt
[0455] "A 70-year-old man is complaining of knee pain. Please suggest appropriate assistive devices."
[0456] In this way, this system proposes appropriate welfare equipment based on user information, contributing to improving the user's quality of life (QOL).
[0457] The flow of the specific processing in Example 2 will be explained using Figure 17.
[0458] Step 1:
[0459] Users access the system interface using a terminal and enter information such as their age, gender, and physical condition. The entered information is stored in the age field, gender field, and physical condition field, respectively. For example, if a 70-year-old man is complaining of knee pain, he would enter "70" in the age field, "male" in the gender field, and "knee pain" in the physical condition field. The input data is converted into JSON format.
[0460] Step 2:
[0461] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server. Specifically, the terminal converts the input data into JSON format and sends it to the server using an HTTP POST request. The input data includes information such as age, gender, and physical condition. The server parses the received data and extracts the necessary information.
[0462] Step 3:
[0463] The server searches a database of assistive devices based on the information it receives. Specifically, the server generates a database query to search for assistive devices related to knee pain (such as knee braces or specific exercise equipment). The search results generate a list of appropriate assistive devices.
[0464] Step 4:
[0465] The server searches a database of past users with similar conditions to see what kinds of assistive devices were used. Specifically, the server queries the database of past users to retrieve information on the assistive devices used by a 70-year-old man who complained of knee pain. The retrieved information is then integrated into the current search results.
[0466] Step 5:
[0467] The server checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time. Specifically, the server sends an API request to the inventory management system to check if the knee brace is in stock. Only if it is in stock is the assistive device added to the proposal list.
[0468] Step 6:
[0469] The device recognizes the user's emotional state based on their tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice. Specifically, an emotion recognition engine built into the device performs voice and image analysis to determine whether the user is experiencing stress. The emotional state data is then sent to a server.
[0470] Step 7:
[0471] The server suggests the most suitable assistive devices to the user based on all the information. Specifically, the server integrates search results, past usage history, inventory status, and emotional state data to select the most appropriate assistive devices. For example, for a 70-year-old man complaining of knee pain, it might suggest a knee brace and a music player that plays relaxation music. The suggestions are displayed to the user through their device.
[0472] (Application Example 2)
[0473] Next, we will describe Application Example 2 of Form Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as a "server," and the smart device 14 will be referred to as a "terminal."
[0474] Conventional assistive device recommendation systems can suggest appropriate assistive devices based on user information, but they cannot take into account the user's emotional state, thus failing to adequately improve user satisfaction and quality of life (QOL). Furthermore, when selecting assistive devices in physical stores, there is a lack of means to check inventory status in real time, making it difficult for users to make a purchase decision on the spot.
[0475] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means.
[0476] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referencing past usage records of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, an emotion engine for recognizing the user's emotional state, means for suggesting welfare equipment based on the emotional state, and means including an application installed on a smartphone. This makes it possible to suggest appropriate welfare equipment that takes the user's emotional state into consideration, and allows users to check inventory status in real time when selecting welfare equipment in a physical store, enabling them to make a purchase decision on the spot.
[0477] "Means for inputting user information" refers to an interface for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition.
[0478] "Means of proposing appropriate welfare equipment" refers to a function that selects and proposes the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user information entered.
[0479] "Methods for referencing the past usage history of similar users" refers to a function that searches the database of past users and refers to information on welfare equipment used by users with similar conditions.
[0480] "Methods for linking with inventory status" refers to a function that checks the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time and proposes only those items that are in stock.
[0481] An "emotional engine" refers to a system that recognizes a user's emotional state based on their tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice.
[0482] "A means of suggesting assistive devices based on emotional state" refers to a function that suggests assistive devices to reduce stress or amplify joy, according to the user's emotional state as recognized by the emotional engine.
[0483] "Applications installed on smartphones" refers to software that runs on a smartphone and provides functions such as user information input, emotional state analysis, suggestions for assistive devices, and inventory checks.
[0484] A system for implementing this invention includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate assistive devices, means for referencing past usage records of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, an emotion engine, means for suggesting assistive devices based on emotional state, and an application installed on a smartphone.
[0485] Hardware and software to use
[0486] Hardware: Smartphone (microphone, camera)
[0487] Software: EmotionEngine (emotion recognition engine), welfare equipment database, inventory check API
[0488] Data processing and calculations
[0489] User information entry
[0490] Users input information such as their age, gender, and physical condition through a smartphone application. This allows the system to obtain the user's basic information.
[0491] Emotion analysis
[0492] The smartphone's microphone and camera are used to collect the user's voice tone and facial expressions. This data is sent to the EmotionEngine, where the emotional state is analyzed. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the EmotionEngine relays that information to the system.
[0493] Proposal for welfare equipment
[0494] The system searches for the most suitable assistive device from its database based on the user's entered information and emotional state. For example, a massage chair or relaxation music player might be suggested to a user experiencing stress.
[0495] Check stock availability
[0496] The availability of proposed welfare equipment can be checked in real time via an inventory check API. This allows users to make a purchase decision on the spot.
[0497] Specific example
[0498] User Information
[0499] Age: 70
[0500] Gender: Male
[0501] Physical condition: Arthritis
[0502] Emotional state
[0503] I am feeling stressed
[0504] Proposed welfare equipment
[0505] Massage chair
[0506] Relaxation Music Player
[0507] Example of a prompt
[0508] Please enter your user information.
[0509] Age: 70
[0510] Gender: Male
[0511] Physical condition: Arthritis
[0512] Analyzing emotional state...
[0513] Emotional state: Stress
[0514] Proposed assistive devices:
[0515] 1. Massage chair
[0516] 2. Relaxation Music Player
[0517] Checking stock availability...
[0518] Massage chair: In stock
[0519] Relaxation music player: Out of stock
[0520] In this way, using a smartphone application makes it possible to suggest the most suitable assistive devices based on the user's information and emotional state, and since inventory status can be checked in real time, users can make purchase decisions on the spot.
[0521] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 2 will be explained using Figure 18.
[0522] Step 1:
[0523] The user launches a smartphone application and enters information such as age, gender, and physical condition.
[0524] Input: Age, gender, physical condition
[0525] Output: User's basic information data
[0526] Specific operation: The user enters information into the application's input fields and presses the submit button. The server receives this information and saves it to the database.
[0527] Step 2:
[0528] The user uses their smartphone's microphone and camera to collect voice tone and facial expressions.
[0529] Input: Audio data, image data
[0530] Output: Emotional state data
[0531] Specific operation: The user records voice and takes a picture of their face with the camera. The device sends this data to EmotionEngine, which analyzes the emotional state. The analysis results are sent to the server.
[0532] Step 3:
[0533] The server searches for the most suitable assistive device from the assistive device database based on the user's basic information and emotional state.
[0534] Input: User's basic information data, emotional state data
[0535] Output: Proposed list of assistive devices
[0536] Specific operation: The server executes a database query to search for assistive devices that match the user's criteria. The search results are generated as a suggestion list and sent to the terminal.
[0537] Step 4:
[0538] The server checks the inventory status of the proposed welfare equipment via an inventory check API.
[0539] Input: Proposed list of assistive devices
[0540] Output: Inventory status data
[0541] Specific operation: The server calls the inventory check API to check the inventory status of each welfare device. The retrieved inventory information is added to the suggestion list and sent to the terminal.
[0542] Step 5:
[0543] The terminal displays suggested assistive devices and their availability to the user.
[0544] Input: Proposed list of assistive devices, inventory status data
[0545] Output: Content displayed to the user
[0546] Specific operation: The terminal displays a list of suggestions and inventory status in a user-friendly format. Based on this information, the user can decide on the selection and purchase of assistive devices.
[0547] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the smart device 14. In the smart device 14, the control unit 46A causes the output device 40 to output the result of the specific processing. The microphone 38B acquires audio indicating user input for the result of the specific processing. The control unit 46A transmits the audio data indicating user input acquired by the microphone 38B to the data processing device 12. In the data processing device 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the audio data.
[0548] Data generation model 58 is a form of so-called generative AI (Artificial Intelligence). An example of data generation model 58 is ChatGPT (registered trademark) (Internet search).<URL: https: / / openai.com / blog / chatgpt> Examples of generative AI include the following. The data generation model 58 is obtained by performing deep learning on a neural network. The data generation model 58 is input with prompts containing instructions, and with inference data such as audio data representing speech, text data representing text, and image data representing images. The data generation model 58 infers from the input inference data according to the instructions indicated by the prompts, and outputs the inference results in data formats such as audio data and text data. Here, inference refers to, for example, analysis, classification, prediction, and / or summarization.
[0549] Other examples of generative AI include Gemini® (registered trademark) (Internet search). <url: https: gemini.google.com ?hl="ja">) are some examples.
[0550] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which specific processing is performed by the data processing device 12, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the specific processing may also be performed by the smart device 14.
[0551] [Second Embodiment]
[0552] Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of the data processing system 210 according to the second embodiment.
[0553] As shown in Figure 3, the data processing system 210 includes a data processing device 12 and smart glasses 214. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.
[0554] The data processing device 12 comprises a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication interface 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" related to the technology of this disclosure. The computer 22 comprises a processor 28, RAM 30, and storage 32. The processor 28, RAM 30, and storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication interface 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication interface 26 is connected to a network 54. An example of the network 54 is a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).
[0555] The smart glasses 214 include a computer 36, a microphone 238, a speaker 240, a camera 42, and a communication interface 44. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, RAM 48, and storage 50. The processor 46, RAM 48, and storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The microphone 238, speaker 240, and camera 42 are also connected to the bus 52.
[0556] The microphone 238 receives voice signals from the user 20 and receives instructions from the user 20. The microphone 238 captures the voice signals from the user 20, converts the captured voice into audio data, and outputs it to the processor 46. The speaker 240 outputs audio according to the instructions from the processor 46.
[0557] Camera 42 is a small digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an image sensor such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, and captures images of the area around the user 20 (for example, an imaging range defined by a field of view equivalent to the width of a typical healthy person's field of vision).
[0558] Communication interface 44 is connected to network 54. Communication interfaces 44 and 26 are responsible for the exchange of various information between processor 46 and processor 28 via network 54. The exchange of various information between processor 46 and processor 28 using communication interfaces 44 and 26 is performed in a secure manner.
[0559] Figure 4 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the smart glasses 214. As shown in Figure 4, the data processing device 12 performs specific processing using the processor 28. The storage 32 stores the specific processing program 56.
[0560] The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" relating to the technology of this disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific processing is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.
[0561] The storage 32 stores the data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.
[0562] In the smart glasses 214, the processor 46 performs the reception output processing. The storage 50 stores the reception output program 60. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output processing is realized by the processor 46 operating as a control unit 46A according to the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.
[0563] Next, the identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 will be described.
[0564] "Example of form 1"
[0565] The system of the present invention includes an interface for inputting user information. This interface may include fields for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition. The system also has a function to suggest appropriate assistive devices based on the input information. This function can, for example, search a database of assistive devices suitable for the user's physical condition and present the results to the user. Furthermore, the system has a function to refer to the past usage history of similar users. This function can, for example, search a database of past users to refer to what assistive devices were used by users with similar conditions. The system also has a function to link with inventory status. This function can, for example, check the inventory status of suggested assistive devices in real time and suggest only assistive devices that are in stock. These functions can reduce confusion and variations in quality when selecting assistive devices and support the creation of stable care plans.
[0566] "Example of form 2"
[0567] The system of the present invention includes an interface for inputting user information. This interface may include fields for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition. The system also has a function to suggest appropriate assistive devices based on the input information. This function can, for example, search a database of assistive devices suitable for the user's physical condition and present the results to the user. Furthermore, the system has a function to refer to the past usage history of similar users. This function can, for example, search a database of past users to refer to what assistive devices were used by users with similar conditions. The system also has a function to link with inventory status. This function can, for example, check the inventory status of suggested assistive devices in real time and suggest only assistive devices that are in stock. These functions can reduce confusion and variations in quality when selecting assistive devices and support the creation of stable care plans.
[0568] The following describes the processing flow for each example of the form.
[0569] "Example of form 1"
[0570] Step 1: Enter the user's information into the system interface. This information includes, for example, the user's age, gender, and physical condition.
[0571] Step 2: The system suggests appropriate assistive devices based on the entered information. Specifically, the system searches a database of assistive devices suitable for the user's physical condition and presents the results to the user.
[0572] Step 3: The system refers to the past usage history of similar users. Specifically, the system searches a database of past users and refers to what kinds of assistive devices users with similar conditions have used.
[0573] Step 4: The system is linked to inventory status. Specifically, the system checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time and only proposes assistive devices that are in stock.
[0574] "Example of form 2"
[0575] Step 1: Enter the user's information into the system interface. This information includes, for example, the user's age, gender, and physical condition.
[0576] Step 2: The system suggests appropriate assistive devices based on the entered information. Specifically, the system searches a database of assistive devices suitable for the user's physical condition and presents the results to the user.
[0577] Step 3: The system refers to the past usage history of similar users. Specifically, the system searches a database of past users and refers to what kinds of assistive devices users with similar conditions have used.
[0578] Step 4: The system is linked to inventory status. Specifically, the system checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time and only proposes assistive devices that are in stock.
[0579] (Example 1)
[0580] Next, we will describe Example 1 of Form Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as the "terminal".
[0581] In selecting assistive devices, it is necessary to consider the user's individual physical condition and past usage history, while also checking inventory status in real time and proposing appropriate assistive devices. However, conventional systems have made it difficult to manage and propose these elements in an integrated manner, making it challenging to quickly and accurately select the most suitable assistive devices for users. This has led to inconsistencies and ambiguity in the selection of assistive devices, hindering the creation of stable care plans.
[0582] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[0583] In this invention, the server includes means for transmitting user information to the server, means for the server to search a database for appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for the server to search a database of past users and refer to the past usage history of similar users, means for the server to cooperate with an inventory management system to check the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment, and means for presenting only welfare equipment that is in stock to the user. This makes it possible to check the inventory status in real time while taking into account the user's individual physical condition and past usage history, and to quickly and accurately propose the most suitable welfare equipment.
[0584] "User information" refers to individual attribute information of the user, such as age, gender, and physical condition.
[0585] A "server" refers to a computer system that receives user information and performs processing such as database searches and inventory checks.
[0586] A "database" refers to an information system that stores and makes searchable data such as information on welfare equipment and past user records.
[0587] The "past user database" refers to a database that stores information about users who have previously used welfare equipment and their usage records.
[0588] An "inventory management system" refers to a system that manages the inventory status of welfare equipment in real time.
[0589] "Suggested welfare equipment" refers to welfare equipment that the server searches for based on the user's information and determines to be appropriate.
[0590] "Stock availability" refers to information indicating whether the proposed assistive device is currently available.
[0591] "Presenting to the user" means that the server sends search results and inventory information to the user's device, making it available for the user to review.
[0592] This invention relates to a system that takes user information as input and suggests appropriate assistive devices. A specific embodiment of this system is described below.
[0593] Entering user information
[0594] Users access the system's web interface using devices such as personal computers or smartphones. The interface is implemented using HTML and JavaScript and provides forms for users to input information such as their age, gender, and physical condition. Users enter this information into the forms and click the submit button.
[0595] Sending and receiving information
[0596] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server as an HTTP request. The server processes the received information using a backend system implemented in Python.
[0597] Proposal for welfare equipment
[0598] The server accesses a MySQL database based on the received user information to search for appropriate assistive devices. The search algorithm selects the most suitable assistive devices based on the user's physical condition, age, gender, and other criteria. The search results are generated in JSON format and sent to the terminal as an HTTP response. The terminal parses the received JSON data and displays the search results to the user.
[0599] Reference for past usage history
[0600] The server accesses the PostgreSQL database to search for past user data. The server retrieves data from past users with similar characteristics to the current user, using it as a reference to see what kinds of assistive devices were used. This information is also generated in JSON format and sent to the terminal as an HTTP response. The terminal parses the received JSON data and displays the past usage history to the user.
[0601] Checking stock availability
[0602] The server sends an API request to the ERP system to check the inventory status of the proposed assistive devices. The server selects only the assistive devices that are in stock and generates a JSON file. This information is also sent to the terminal as an HTTP response. The terminal parses the received JSON data and displays the assistive devices that are in stock to the user.
[0603] Specific example
[0604] For example, if a user enters "70 years old, male, difficulty walking," the server will suggest assistive devices such as walking aids and wheelchairs. It will also search a database of past users and generate a list of assistive devices used under similar conditions. Furthermore, it will integrate with an inventory management system to present only assistive devices that are in stock to the user.
[0605] Example of a prompt
[0606] The following are examples of prompts to input into the generative AI model.
[0607] "Please suggest assistive devices suitable for a 70-year-old male user with difficulty walking. Please also consider past usage history and current inventory."
[0608] By using this prompt, the generated AI model provides information to suggest the most suitable assistive devices for the user.
[0609] The flow of the specific processing in Example 1 will be explained using Figure 11.
[0610] Step 1:
[0611] Users access the system's web interface using devices such as personal computers or smartphones. They enter information such as age, gender, and physical condition into forms on the interface and click the submit button. The entered information is sent from the device to the server as an HTTP request.
[0612] Step 2:
[0613] The server receives HTTP requests sent by users. The received information is stored in a temporary data store on the server. The server uses a backend system implemented in Python to parse the received information and generate appropriate database queries.
[0614] Step 3:
[0615] The server accesses the MySQL database using the generated database query. The server searches for appropriate assistive devices based on the user's age, gender, and physical condition. The search results are generated in JSON format and stored in a temporary data store.
[0616] Step 4:
[0617] The server accesses the PostgreSQL database to search for past user data. The server retrieves data from past users with similar characteristics to the current user, using it as a reference to see what assistive devices were used. This information is also generated in JSON format and stored in a temporary data store.
[0618] Step 5:
[0619] The server sends an API request to the ERP system to check the inventory status of the proposed assistive devices. The server then selects only the assistive devices that are in stock and generates a JSON file. This information is also stored in a temporary data store.
[0620] Step 6:
[0621] The server integrates search results, past usage history, and inventory information stored in the temporary data store to generate a final suggestion list. The generated suggestion list is sent to the terminal as an HTTP response.
[0622] Step 7:
[0623] The terminal analyzes the received HTTP response and displays a list of suggested assistive devices to the user. The user can then review the displayed list and select the most suitable assistive device.
[0624] (Application Example 1)
[0625] Next, we will describe Application Example 1 of Form Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[0626] Conventional assistive device selection systems had several drawbacks: the process of users inputting their information and receiving recommendations for appropriate assistive devices was cumbersome, and real-time inventory checks were not possible, resulting in lengthy selection times. Furthermore, the system lacked sufficient functionality to refer to past usage data, making it difficult to recommend the most suitable assistive devices to users. This led to inconsistencies in the quality of assistive devices selected, making it difficult to create consistent care plans.
[0627] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[0628] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referencing past usage records of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, means for inputting user information via smartphone and receiving suggestions for the most suitable welfare equipment, and means for checking the inventory status of the suggested welfare equipment in real time. As a result, users can easily input their own information, receive suggestions for the most suitable welfare equipment, and check inventory status in real time, thereby shortening the time required for selection, reducing hesitation and variations in quality in the selection of welfare equipment, and enabling the creation of stable care plans.
[0629] "Means for inputting user information" refers to a device or software that provides an interface for users to input information such as their age, gender, and physical condition.
[0630] "Means for proposing appropriate welfare equipment based on the user's information" refers to algorithms or systems for selecting and proposing the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user's information entered.
[0631] "A method that refers to the past usage history of similar users" refers to a function that refers to data on assistive devices used by users with similar conditions in the past and suggests assistive devices that are suitable for the current user.
[0632] The "means of linking with inventory status" refer to a system that checks the inventory information of proposed welfare equipment in real time and proposes only those items that are in stock.
[0633] "A means of inputting user information via smartphone and receiving suggestions for the most suitable welfare equipment" refers to a function that allows users to input their own information using a smartphone application and receive suggestions for the most suitable welfare equipment based on that information.
[0634] "A means of checking the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time" refers to a system that acquires inventory information of proposed welfare equipment in real time and presents it to the user.
[0635] The system for carrying out this invention consists of a smartphone application and a server. A specific embodiment is described below.
[0636] System Configuration
[0637] hardware
[0638] Smartphone: A device used by users to input information.
[0639] Server: A central processing unit for managing the database and proposing assistive devices.
[0640] software
[0641] Smartphone application: Provides an interface for users to input their information and receive suggestions for assistive devices.
[0642] Flask: A web framework that runs on the server side. It handles database interaction and user information processing.
[0643] Database: Data storage for managing information on welfare equipment, users' past usage history, and inventory status.
[0644] Data processing and data calculation
[0645] User information entry
[0646] Users enter information such as their age, gender, and physical condition through a smartphone application. This information is sent to a server and stored in a database.
[0647] Proposal for welfare equipment
[0648] The server searches the database for appropriate assistive devices based on the user's input information. The search results are generated using an algorithm that filters assistive devices to match the user's age range, gender, and physical condition.
[0649] Reference for past usage history
[0650] The server references past user data in the database to retrieve information on assistive devices used by users with similar conditions. This information is also taken into consideration when making suggestions.
[0651] Checking stock availability
[0652] The server connects to a database to check the real-time inventory status of proposed assistive devices. Only assistive devices that are in stock are suggested to the user.
[0653] Display of proposal results
[0654] The smartphone application displays the suggested results received from the server to the user. The user can check detailed information and inventory status of the suggested assistive devices.
[0655] Specific example
[0656] For example, if a 65-year-old male user is looking for assistive devices related to "mobility," he would enter the following information into the smartphone application.
[0657] Age: 65
[0658] Gender: Male
[0659] Physical condition: Eli
[0660] This information is sent to the server, which searches the database and suggests appropriate assistive devices (e.g., wheelchairs, walkers). The inventory status of the suggested assistive devices is also checked in real time, and only those in stock are displayed.
[0661] Example of a prompt
[0662] "Please enter the user's age, gender, and physical condition. Example: Age: 65, Gender: Male, Physical condition: Mobility"
[0663] In this way, users can easily select the most suitable assistive devices for themselves, reducing the time required for selection and enabling the creation of high-quality care plans.
[0664] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 1 will be explained using Figure 12.
[0665] Step 1:
[0666] The user launches a smartphone application and enters information such as age, gender, and physical condition. The entered information is sent to the server by the smartphone application. The input data is sent in JSON format and received on the server side.
[0667] Step 2:
[0668] The server analyzes the received user information and stores it in the database. Specifically, it extracts fields such as age, gender, and physical condition and stores them in the corresponding tables in the database. During this process, it verifies the integrity of the data and checks for any invalid data.
[0669] Step 3:
[0670] The server searches the database for assistive devices that match the user's criteria. Age range, gender, and physical condition are used as search criteria. The search results are retrieved as a list of assistive devices that match the criteria.
[0671] Step 4:
[0672] The server references past user data to retrieve information on assistive devices used by users with similar conditions. This improves the accuracy of the recommendations. Past usage data is filtered by similar conditions, and the results are retrieved.
[0673] Step 5:
[0674] The server checks the inventory status of the proposed assistive devices in real time. It refers to the inventory table in the database and lists only the assistive devices that are in stock. The inventory information is configured to be updated periodically.
[0675] Step 6:
[0676] The server generates the final proposal results and sends them to the smartphone application. The proposal results include detailed information and inventory status of the assistive devices. The data is sent in JSON format and displayed on the smartphone application.
[0677] Step 7:
[0678] Users review a list of suggested assistive devices on a smartphone application. They can view detailed information and availability for each device and select the most suitable one. Users can also enter additional information as needed to receive further suggestions.
[0679] (Example 2)
[0680] Next, we will describe Example 2 of Form Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as the "terminal".
[0681] Conventional assistive device selection systems have difficulty adequately considering the individual physical condition and past usage history of users, making it challenging to propose appropriate assistive devices. Furthermore, they lacked the ability to check inventory status in real time, making it unclear whether proposed assistive devices were actually available. This led to inconsistencies and ambiguity in the selection of assistive devices, making it difficult to create consistent care plans.
[0682] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means.
[0683] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for transmitting the user information to the server, means for searching a welfare equipment database based on the information, means for searching a past user database and referring to the usage history of users with similar conditions, means for checking the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in conjunction with an inventory management system, means for proposing only welfare equipment that is in stock, and means for presenting the proposed content to the user. This makes it possible to propose appropriate welfare equipment that takes into account the user's individual physical condition and past usage history, and by checking the inventory status in real time, it is possible to propose only welfare equipment that is actually available. This reduces confusion and variations in quality in the selection of welfare equipment, and enables the creation of stable care plans.
[0684] "Means for inputting user information" refers to a device or software that provides an interface for users to input information such as age, gender, and physical condition.
[0685] "Means for transmitting the user's information to the server" refers to communication means for transmitting the entered user information to the server.
[0686] "Means for searching the welfare equipment database based on said information" refers to an algorithm or program for searching the welfare equipment database based on the user information received by the server.
[0687] "Means of searching a past user database and referring to the usage history of users with similar conditions" refers to an algorithm or program that searches a past user database and refers to the usage history of past users with similar conditions.
[0688] "Means for checking the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in conjunction with an inventory management system" refers to a communication method for linking with an inventory management system in order to check the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time.
[0689] "A method for proposing only welfare equipment that is in stock" refers to an algorithm or program that includes only welfare equipment whose availability has been confirmed as being in stock in the final proposal list.
[0690] "Means for presenting proposals to users" refers to a device or software that provides an interface for displaying the final list of proposals to users.
[0691] This invention relates to a system that takes user information as input and suggests appropriate assistive devices. A specific embodiment of this system is described below.
[0692] Entering user information
[0693] Users access the system interface using a terminal. The interface is provided through a web browser or a dedicated application. Users enter information such as age, gender, and physical condition into fields on the interface. For example, a user might enter "Age: 70, Gender: Male, Physical condition: Difficulty walking."
[0694] Information transmission
[0695] The terminal sends the entered information to the server. This information is sent as an HTTP request.
[0696] Searching Databases
[0697] The server searches the welfare equipment database based on the information it receives. The database contains the application conditions and characteristics of each welfare device. For example, the server searches for a walking aid suitable for a "70-year-old male with difficulty walking."
[0698] Reference for past usage history
[0699] The server searches the past user database to see what kinds of assistive devices other users with similar conditions used. For example, the server searches for "assistive devices previously used by a 70-year-old man with difficulty walking."
[0700] Proposal generation
[0701] The server generates a list of appropriate assistive devices based on the search results. This list includes detailed information about each assistive device and why it is suitable for the user's needs.
[0702] Checking stock availability
[0703] The server integrates with an inventory management system to check the real-time availability of proposed assistive devices. For example, the server checks whether "proposed walking aid A is in stock."
[0704] Inventory check results will be reflected.
[0705] The server will only include assistive devices that are in stock in the final proposal list. For example, if "Walking aid A" is out of stock, it will be removed from the list.
[0706] Presentation of proposal
[0707] The server sends the final list of suggestions to the terminal. This information is sent as an HTTP response. The terminal displays the received list of suggestions to the user. The user can view detailed information about the suggested assistive devices on the interface.
[0708] Specific example
[0709] When a user enters "Age: 70, Gender: Male, Physical condition: Difficulty walking," the server searches the database and suggests "Walking aid A" based on past usage data. At the same time, it checks the availability of "Walking aid A" in conjunction with the inventory management system before suggesting it to the user.
[0710] Example of a prompt
[0711] "Please suggest assistive devices suitable for a 70-year-old male user who has difficulty walking. Please only suggest items that are in stock."
[0712] This system enables the suggestion of appropriate assistive devices that take into account the user's individual physical condition and past usage history. By checking inventory status in real time, it can suggest only assistive devices that are actually available. This reduces uncertainty and variations in quality when selecting assistive devices, enabling the creation of stable care plans.
[0713] The flow of the specific processing in Example 2 will be explained using Figure 13.
[0714] Step 1:
[0715] Users access the system interface using a terminal. The interface is provided through a web browser or a dedicated application. Users enter information such as age, gender, and physical condition into fields on the interface. The entered information is temporarily stored on the terminal.
[0716] Step 2:
[0717] The terminal sends the entered user information to the server. This information is sent as an HTTP request. Specifically, the terminal converts the entered data, such as age, gender, and physical condition, into JSON format and sends it to the server.
[0718] Step 3:
[0719] The server analyzes the received user information and searches the welfare equipment database. Input data includes the user's age, gender, and physical condition, and output is a list of relevant welfare equipment. The server uses SQL queries to search the database and extract welfare equipment that matches the specified criteria.
[0720] Step 4:
[0721] The server searches a database of past users to see what assistive devices similar to those used. Input data includes the user's age, gender, and physical condition, and output is a list of recommended assistive devices based on past usage. The server then performs statistical analysis based on this historical data to select the most suitable assistive device.
[0722] Step 5:
[0723] The server generates a list of appropriate assistive devices based on the search results. Inputs include search results from an assistive device database and historical usage data; the output is a final list of suggestions. The server integrates this data to list the most suitable assistive devices for the user.
[0724] Step 6:
[0725] The server integrates with an inventory management system to check the real-time inventory status of proposed assistive devices. The input is a list of proposed devices, and the output is a list of assistive devices whose inventory has been confirmed. The server sends an API request to the inventory management system to check the inventory status.
[0726] Step 7:
[0727] The server includes only assistive devices that are in stock in the final proposal list. The input is the stock check result, and the output is the final proposal list with confirmed stock. The server removes assistive devices that are out of stock from the list, leaving only those that are in stock.
[0728] Step 8:
[0729] The server sends the final proposal list to the terminal. This information is sent as an HTTP response. The input is the final proposal list, and the output is the proposal list displayed on the terminal. The server converts the final proposal list to JSON format and sends it to the terminal.
[0730] Step 9:
[0731] The terminal displays the received list of suggestions to the user. The input is the final suggestion list received from the server, and the output is displayed on the interface in a format that the user can review. The user can view detailed information about the suggested assistive devices on the interface.
[0732] (Application Example 2)
[0733] Next, we will describe application example 2 of form example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the smart glasses 214 as the "terminal".
[0734] Conventional welfare equipment selection systems often failed to adequately consider past usage history and inventory levels when proposing appropriate welfare equipment based on user information. This made it difficult to quickly and accurately recommend the most suitable welfare equipment to users, leading to indecision and inconsistent quality in selections. Furthermore, there was a lack of smartphone-based systems to improve user convenience in physical stores. Addressing these challenges is essential.
[0735] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means.
[0736] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referring to the past usage history of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, means for inputting user information using a smartphone and suggesting appropriate welfare equipment, means for acquiring welfare equipment data from an external database, and means for checking inventory status in real time. This makes it possible to quickly and accurately suggest the most suitable welfare equipment to the user, reducing confusion and variations in quality during selection, and improving convenience for users in physical stores.
[0737] "Means for inputting user information" refers to an interface for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition.
[0738] "Means of proposing appropriate welfare equipment based on the user's information" refers to algorithms or systems that select and propose the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user's information entered.
[0739] "Methods for referencing past usage data of similar users" refers to a function that allows users to refer to data on assistive devices used by users with similar conditions in the past and incorporate that information into their recommendations.
[0740] "Methods for linking with inventory status" refers to a system that checks the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time and proposes only those items that are in stock.
[0741] "A means of inputting user information using a smartphone and suggesting appropriate welfare equipment" refers to an application that uses a smartphone to input user information and then suggests the most suitable welfare equipment based on that information.
[0742] "Means of obtaining data on welfare equipment from external databases" refers to a system for obtaining information about welfare equipment from external databases via the internet.
[0743] "A means of checking inventory status in real time" refers to a function that allows users to instantly check and provide information on the current inventory status.
[0744] This invention is a system that takes user information as input and suggests appropriate assistive devices. The following describes a specific implementation of this system.
[0745] System Configuration
[0746] The system consists of the following main components:
[0747] 1. User Information Input Interface
[0748] The user enters information such as their age, gender, and physical condition using a smartphone application.
[0749] This interface is designed to be intuitive for users to operate.
[0750] 2. Database Integration Module
[0751] Retrieve data on welfare equipment from an external database.
[0752] The database includes detailed information on welfare equipment, past usage records, and inventory status.
[0753] 3. Proposed Algorithm
[0754] An algorithm will be implemented to select the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user information entered.
[0755] We check inventory status in real time by referring to past user data.
[0756] 4. Inventory Check Module
[0757] The system checks the real-time inventory status of proposed welfare equipment and only proposes items that are in stock.
[0758] Program processing
[0759] The server performs the following actions:
[0760] 1. Enter user information
[0761] Users input information such as age, gender, and physical condition through a smartphone application.
[0762] Example: A 70-year-old female user who uses a wheelchair enters the information.
[0763] 2. Retrieving data from the database
[0764] The server retrieves detailed information about welfare equipment, past usage records, and inventory status from an external database.
[0765] Software used: Python, API request library
[0766] 3. Execution of the proposed algorithm
[0767] The server selects the most suitable assistive device based on the entered user information.
[0768] We will refer to past user data and consider inventory levels.
[0769] 4. Check stock availability
[0770] The server checks the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time and only suggests items that are in stock.
[0771] Software used: Real-time database management system
[0772] Specific example
[0773] For example, if a 70-year-old woman who uses a wheelchair uses the app, the following assistive devices may be suggested.
[0774] Name: Lightweight wheelchair, Stock: 5
[0775] Name: Electric wheelchair, Stock: 2
[0776] Example of a prompt
[0777] The following are examples of prompts to input into the generative AI model.
[0778] Please suggest the most suitable assistive devices for a 70-year-old woman who uses a wheelchair. The user's information is as follows:
[0779] Age: 70
[0780] Gender: Female
[0781] Physical condition: Wheelchair
[0782] In this way, the system can quickly and accurately propose the most suitable assistive devices to users.
[0783] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 2 will be explained using Figure 14.
[0784] Step 1:
[0785] The user launches a smartphone application and enters information such as age, gender, and physical condition.
[0786] Input: User's age, gender, physical condition
[0787] Output: Entered user information
[0788] Specific operation: The user enters the required information into the application form and clicks the "Submit" button. The application sends the entered information to the server.
[0789] Step 2:
[0790] Based on the user information received by the server, data on welfare equipment is retrieved from an external database.
[0791] Input: User information
[0792] Output: Detailed information on welfare equipment, past usage history, and inventory status.
[0793] Specific operation: The server sends an API request to retrieve detailed information about welfare equipment, past usage history, and inventory status from an external database. The retrieved data is temporarily stored on the server.
[0794] Step 3:
[0795] Based on the data acquired by the server, the system selects welfare equipment that is suitable for the user's information.
[0796] Input: User information, detailed information on welfare equipment, past usage history
[0797] Output: List of appropriate assistive devices
[0798] Specific operation: The server executes an algorithm that cross-references user information with detailed information on assistive devices and past usage history. This generates a list of assistive devices best suited to the user.
[0799] Step 4:
[0800] The inventory status is checked in real time based on a list of welfare equipment generated by the server.
[0801] Input: List of suitable assistive devices, availability
[0802] Output: List of welfare equipment whose stock has been confirmed.
[0803] Specific operation: The server uses an inventory check module to check the real-time inventory status of the proposed assistive devices. Only items that are in stock remain in the list.
[0804] Step 5:
[0805] The server presents the user with a list of welfare equipment whose availability has been confirmed.
[0806] Input: List of welfare equipment whose stock has been confirmed
[0807] Output: A list of assistive devices presented to the user.
[0808] Specific operation: The server sends a list of available assistive devices to the smartphone application. The user can then view details of the suggested assistive devices through the application.
[0809] Step 6:
[0810] Users select from the suggested welfare equipment and purchase or reserve it.
[0811] Input: List of proposed assistive devices
[0812] Output: Purchase or reservation confirmation information
[0813] Specific operation: The user selects desired assistive devices from the suggested options through the application and makes a purchase or reservation. The application sends this information to the server and receives confirmation of the purchase or reservation.
[0814] Furthermore, an emotion engine that estimates the user's emotions may be incorporated. That is, the identification processing unit 290 may use the emotion identification model 59 to estimate the user's emotions and perform identification processing using the user's emotions.
[0815] "Example of form 1"
[0816] One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that combines an emotion engine. This system includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referring to the past usage history of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, and an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotional state. The emotion engine recognizes the emotional state from the user's tone of voice, facial expressions, word choice, etc. Specifically, if the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine conveys that information to the system, and the system suggests welfare equipment to alleviate the stress. For example, a massage chair or a music player that plays relaxation music may be suggested. Also, if the user is feeling joy, the emotion engine conveys that information to the system, and the system suggests welfare equipment to amplify that joy. For example, a television that provides fun games or entertainment may be suggested. In this way, a system that combines an emotion engine can suggest appropriate welfare equipment according to the user's emotional state, contributing to an improvement in the user's quality of life (QOL).
[0817] "Example of form 2"
[0818] One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that combines an emotion engine. This system includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referring to the past usage history of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, and an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotional state. The emotion engine recognizes the emotional state from the user's tone of voice, facial expressions, word choice, etc. Specifically, if the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine conveys that information to the system, and the system suggests welfare equipment to alleviate the stress. For example, a massage chair or a music player that plays relaxation music may be suggested. Also, if the user is feeling joy, the emotion engine conveys that information to the system, and the system suggests welfare equipment to amplify that joy. For example, a television that provides fun games or entertainment may be suggested. In this way, a system that combines an emotion engine can suggest appropriate welfare equipment according to the user's emotional state, contributing to an improvement in the user's quality of life (QOL).
[0819] The following describes the processing flow for each example of the form.
[0820] "Example of form 1"
[0821] Step 1: First, the care manager or the user themselves enters the user's information into the system. This information includes the user's age, gender, physical condition, and living environment.
[0822] Step 2: Next, the system suggests appropriate assistive devices based on the entered information. This suggestion takes into account the usage history of similar users in the past and the availability of those devices.
[0823] Step 3: Simultaneously, the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotional state. The emotion engine determines the user's emotional state based on factors such as the tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice.
[0824] Step 4: Based on the information from the emotion engine, the system suggests additional assistive devices that are appropriate for the user's emotional state. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the system will suggest assistive devices to alleviate stress.
[0825] Step 5: Finally, the system presents the care manager or user with a list of suggested assistive devices. This allows for the selection of appropriate assistive devices based on the user's emotional state.
[0826] "Example of form 2"
[0827] Step 1: First, the care manager or the user themselves enters the user's information into the system. This information includes the user's age, gender, physical condition, and living environment.
[0828] Step 2: Next, the system suggests appropriate assistive devices based on the entered information. This suggestion takes into account the usage history of similar users in the past and the availability of those devices.
[0829] Step 3: Simultaneously, the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotional state. The emotion engine determines the user's emotional state based on factors such as the tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice.
[0830] Step 4: Based on the information from the emotion engine, the system suggests additional assistive devices that are appropriate for the user's emotional state. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the system will suggest assistive devices to alleviate stress.
[0831] Step 5: Finally, the system presents the care manager or user with a list of suggested assistive devices. This allows for the selection of appropriate assistive devices based on the user's emotional state.
[0832] (Example 1)
[0833] Next, we will describe Example 1 of Form Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as the "terminal".
[0834] Conventional welfare equipment recommendation systems have problems such as insufficient recommendations based on the user's individual physical condition and past usage history, and difficulty in reflecting inventory status in real time. Furthermore, because recommendations do not take into account the user's emotional state, improvements in user satisfaction and QOL (quality of life) have not been sufficiently achieved. There is a need to solve these problems.
[0835] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[0836] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referencing past usage records of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, means for recognizing the user's emotional state, and means for suggesting welfare equipment based on the emotional state. This makes it possible to suggest appropriate welfare equipment that meets the individual needs of the user and to make suggestions that reflect inventory status in real time. Furthermore, by making suggestions that take into account the user's emotional state, it is possible to improve the user's satisfaction and quality of life.
[0837] "Means for inputting user information" refers to a device or software that provides an interface for users to input information such as their age, gender, and physical condition.
[0838] "Means for proposing appropriate welfare equipment" refers to an algorithm or system that selects and proposes the most suitable welfare equipment for a user based on the user's input information.
[0839] "Methods for referencing the past usage history of similar users" refer to a database and search function that allows users to refer to data on welfare equipment used by users with similar conditions in the past and make appropriate suggestions to the current user.
[0840] "Means of linking with inventory status" refers to a system or function that checks the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time and proposes only welfare equipment that is in stock.
[0841] "Means for recognizing the user's emotional state" refer to sensors and analysis algorithms for recognizing the user's emotional state from their tone of voice, facial expressions, word choice, etc.
[0842] "Means for proposing assistive devices based on the emotional state" refers to a system or algorithm for selecting and proposing assistive devices that reduce the user's stress or amplify their joy, based on the recognized emotional state of the user.
[0843] This invention is a system that includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referring to the past usage history of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, means for recognizing the user's emotional state, and means for suggesting welfare equipment based on the emotional state.
[0844] Means for entering user information
[0845] Subject: User
[0846] The user enters their information using the terminal's interface. For example, they enter information such as age, gender, and physical condition into input fields. The terminal temporarily stores this information.
[0847] A means of proposing appropriate welfare equipment based on the user's information.
[0848] Subject: Server
[0849] The server searches a database of assistive devices based on the user information it receives. For example, it searches for assistive devices suitable for back pain (e.g., back pain cushions) and presents the results to the user.
[0850] A method of referring to the past usage history of similar users.
[0851] Subject: Server
[0852] The server searches a database of past users, referencing what kinds of assistive devices were used by users with similar conditions. This improves the accuracy of the recommendations.
[0853] A means of linking with inventory status
[0854] Subject: Server
[0855] The server checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time. Only assistive devices that are in stock are included in the proposal list.
[0856] Means for recognizing the emotional state of users
[0857] Subject: terminal
[0858] The device uses an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotional state. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine transmits that information to the server.
[0859] Means for proposing welfare equipment based on the emotional state
[0860] Subject: Server
[0861] Based on information received from the emotion engine, the server suggests assistive devices to reduce stress (e.g., a massage chair). If the user is experiencing joy, it also suggests assistive devices to amplify that joy (e.g., a television offering fun games or entertainment).
[0862] Specific examples and prompt statements
[0863] Specific example
[0864] 1. Enter user information:
[0865] The user uses their device to enter their age (65), gender (female), and physical condition (suffers from lower back pain).
[0866] The server receives this information and suggests assistive devices suitable for back pain (e.g., back support cushions).
[0867] 2. Utilizing the Emotion Engine:
[0868] When a user speaks into the device, the emotion engine recognizes from the tone of the user's voice that they are experiencing stress.
[0869] The server receives this information and suggests assistive devices to reduce stress (e.g., massage chairs).
[0870] Example of a prompt
[0871] 1. Enter user information:
[0872] The user entered information that they are 65 years old, female, and suffer from lower back pain. Please suggest appropriate assistive devices.
[0873] 2. Utilizing the Emotion Engine:
[0874] The emotion engine has detected that the user is experiencing stress. Please suggest assistive devices to help reduce this stress.
[0875] The flow of the specific processing in Example 1 will be explained using Figure 15.
[0876] Step 1:
[0877] Entering user information
[0878] Subject: User
[0879] The user enters their information using the device's interface. Specifically, they enter information such as age, gender, and physical condition into input fields. The entered information is temporarily stored on the device.
[0880] Input: User's age, gender, physical condition
[0881] Output: User information stored on the device
[0882] Step 2:
[0883] Submitting the entered information
[0884] Subject: terminal
[0885] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server. Specifically, it converts the input information into JSON format and sends it to the server using an HTTP request.
[0886] Input: User information stored on the device
[0887] Output: User information sent to the server
[0888] Step 3:
[0889] Database Search
[0890] Subject: Server
[0891] The server searches the database of assistive devices based on the user information it receives. Specifically, it executes an SQL query to retrieve a list of relevant assistive devices from the database.
[0892] Input: User information sent to the server
[0893] Output: List of applicable assistive devices
[0894] Step 4:
[0895] Reference to past usage history
[0896] Subject: Server
[0897] The server searches a database of past users to see what kinds of assistive devices were used by users with similar conditions. Specifically, it filters past user data to obtain a list of assistive devices used by users with similar conditions.
[0898] Input: User information sent to the server
[0899] Output: List of assistive devices used by users with similar conditions
[0900] Step 5:
[0901] Checking stock availability
[0902] Subject: Server
[0903] The server checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time. Specifically, it sends API requests to the inventory management system to check the inventory status.
[0904] Input: List of applicable assistive devices
[0905] Output: List of available assistive devices
[0906] Step 6:
[0907] Display of proposal results
[0908] Subject: terminal
[0909] The terminal displays the suggested results received from the server to the user. Specifically, it analyzes the data received from the server and displays it on the screen in a user-friendly format.
[0910] Input: List of available assistive devices
[0911] Output: Suggestion results displayed to the user
[0912] Step 7:
[0913] Using an Emotion Engine
[0914] Subject: terminal
[0915] The device uses an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotional state. Specifically, it analyzes the user's voice tone and facial expressions, and executes an algorithm to determine their emotional state. The results are then sent to the server.
[0916] Input: User's voice tone, facial expression
[0917] Output: Emotional state data
[0918] Step 8:
[0919] Proposals for assistive devices based on emotional state
[0920] Subject: Server
[0921] Based on information received from the emotion engine, the server suggests assistive devices to reduce stress and devices to amplify joy. Specifically, it searches a database of assistive devices corresponding to emotional states and makes appropriate suggestions.
[0922] Input: Emotional state data
[0923] Output: Results of proposed assistive devices based on emotional state
[0924] (Application Example 1)
[0925] Next, we will describe Application Example 1 of Form Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[0926] Conventional welfare equipment recommendation systems can suggest appropriate equipment based on the user's physical condition and past usage history, but they cannot consider the user's emotional state, resulting in a lack of adequate support for user psychological satisfaction and stress reduction. Furthermore, there are difficulties in checking inventory status in real time and making appropriate recommendations.
[0927] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[0928] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referencing past usage records of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, means for recognizing the user's emotional state, and means for suggesting welfare equipment based on the emotional state. This makes it possible to suggest appropriate welfare equipment that takes into account not only the user's physical condition but also their emotional state, thereby addressing the user's psychological satisfaction and stress reduction. Furthermore, by checking inventory status in real time and suggesting only welfare equipment that is in stock, the accuracy and reliability of the suggestions can be improved.
[0929] "Means for inputting user information" refers to an interface for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition.
[0930] "Means of suggesting appropriate welfare equipment" refers to a function that searches a database for and suggests the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user's information entered.
[0931] "Methods for referencing the past usage history of similar users" refers to a function that searches the database of past users and refers to information on welfare equipment used by users with similar conditions.
[0932] "Methods for linking with inventory status" refers to a function that checks the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time and proposes only those items that are in stock.
[0933] "Means of recognizing the user's emotional state" refers to the function of recognizing the user's emotional state from their tone of voice, facial expressions, word choice, etc.
[0934] "Means of proposing assistive devices based on the emotional state" refers to a function that proposes assistive devices to reduce stress or to amplify joy, according to the recognized emotional state.
[0935] A system for carrying out this invention includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment, means for referring to the past usage history of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, means for recognizing the user's emotional state, and means for suggesting welfare equipment based on said emotional state.
[0936] System program
[0937] The system program uses the following hardware and software:
[0938] Hardware: Smart glasses, camera
[0939] Software: OpenCV (camera image processing), emotion recognition software, assistive device database, inventory check software
[0940] Program Processing Description
[0941] The server inputs user information through smart glasses. Specifically, it provides an interface for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition. Next, the server searches the welfare equipment database based on the input information and suggests appropriate welfare equipment. In this process, it also searches the past user database to refer to the usage history of similar users.
[0942] Furthermore, the server checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time and only suggests items that are in stock. This improves the accuracy and reliability of the suggestions.
[0943] To recognize the user's emotional state, a camera is used to analyze the user's tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice. Emotion recognition software is used to determine whether the user is feeling stressed or happy. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the server suggests relaxation items; if they are feeling happy, it suggests entertainment items.
[0944] Specific example
[0945] For example, if a 65-year-old male customer with back pain visits the store, he will input his age, gender, and physical condition through smart glasses. The system will suggest support chairs and massage chairs for back pain, but will check inventory and only suggest support chairs that are in stock. It will also use a camera to recognize the customer's emotional state and, if they are feeling stressed, will suggest a relaxation music player.
[0946] Example of a prompt
[0947] Please suggest appropriate assistive devices for a 65-year-old male user who suffers from lower back pain. If the user is experiencing stress, suggest relaxation devices; if they are experiencing joy, suggest entertainment devices.
[0948] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 1 will be explained using Figure 16.
[0949] Step 1:
[0950] The user wears smart glasses and enters information such as age, gender, and physical condition. The entered information is sent to the server. The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[0951] Step 2:
[0952] The server searches the welfare equipment database based on the user information it receives. Specifically, it extracts welfare equipment suitable for the user's age, gender, and physical condition. A list of appropriate welfare equipment is generated as a search result.
[0953] Step 3:
[0954] The server searches the past user database to refer to the usage history of similar users. It extracts data on assistive devices used by past users with similar conditions to the current user's information and updates the list of assistive devices suitable for the current user.
[0955] Step 4:
[0956] The server checks the inventory status of the proposed assistive devices in real time. Specifically, it integrates with the inventory management system and keeps only assistive devices that are in stock in the list. This generates a list of assistive devices whose inventory has been confirmed.
[0957] Step 5:
[0958] The device (smart glasses) uses a camera to capture the user's face and sends the video data to a server. The server analyzes the received video data and uses emotion recognition software to recognize the user's emotional state. Based on the recognition results, it is determined whether the user is feeling stressed or happy.
[0959] Step 6:
[0960] The server suggests assistive devices based on the recognized emotional state. Specifically, if the user is feeling stressed, relaxation devices are added to the list; if they are feeling joyful, entertainment devices are added. A final list of suggestions is then generated.
[0961] Step 7:
[0962] The server sends the final list of suggested devices to the terminal (smart glasses). The terminal displays the list of suggested assistive devices to the user. The user can select the appropriate assistive device from the displayed list.
[0963] (Example 2)
[0964] Next, we will describe Example 2 of Form Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the smart glasses 214 will be referred to as the "terminal".
[0965] Conventional assistive device recommendation systems failed to adequately consider the individual physical and emotional conditions of users, sometimes leading to hesitation and inconsistencies in the selection of appropriate assistive devices. Furthermore, they lacked the ability to check inventory status in real time, meaning that recommended assistive devices were sometimes unavailable immediately. Additionally, the insufficient ability to refer to past usage data made it difficult to create stable care plans.
[0966] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means.
[0967] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referring to the past usage history of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, and means for recognizing the user's emotional state. This makes it possible to suggest appropriate welfare equipment that takes into account the user's individual physical condition and emotional state, reducing hesitation and variations in quality during selection, and enabling the creation of stable care plans. In addition, by checking inventory status in real time, the suggested welfare equipment can be used immediately.
[0968] "Means for inputting user information" refers to the interface through which users input information such as their age, gender, and physical condition into the system.
[0969] "Means of proposing appropriate welfare equipment" refers to algorithms and database search functions that select and propose the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user's input information.
[0970] "Methods that refer to the past usage history of similar users" refers to a function that searches for data of users with similar conditions in the past and makes suggestions based on that usage history.
[0971] "Methods for linking with inventory status" refers to a function that allows users to check the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time and propose only those items that are in stock.
[0972] "Means for recognizing the user's emotional state" refers to an emotion recognition engine that recognizes the user's emotional state from factors such as tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice, and transmits that information to the system.
[0973] This invention is a system that takes user information as input and suggests appropriate assistive devices based on that information. The system includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate assistive devices, means for referring to the past usage history of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, and means for recognizing the user's emotional state.
[0974] Entering user information
[0975] The user accesses the system interface using a terminal and enters information such as their age, gender, and physical condition. The interface provides fields for entering this information. For example, if a 70-year-old man is complaining of knee pain, he would enter "70" in the age field, "male" in the gender field, and "knee pain" in the physical condition field.
[0976] Information transmission
[0977] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server. In doing so, the terminal converts the input data into JSON format and sends it to the server using an HTTP POST request.
[0978] Database Search
[0979] The server analyzes the received information and searches a database of assistive devices. For example, it searches for assistive devices related to knee pain (such as knee braces or specific exercise equipment).
[0980] Reference to past usage history
[0981] The server searches a database of past users with similar conditions to see what kinds of assistive devices were used. For example, it retrieves information on the assistive devices used by a 70-year-old man who previously complained of knee pain.
[0982] Checking stock availability
[0983] The server checks the inventory status of the proposed assistive devices in real time. For example, it checks whether knee braces are in stock and only proposes them if they are.
[0984] Using an Emotion Engine
[0985] The device recognizes the user's emotional state based on their tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine sends that information to the server.
[0986] final proposal
[0987] The server uses all the information to suggest the most suitable assistive devices to the user. For example, for a 70-year-old man complaining of knee pain, it would suggest a knee brace and a music player that plays relaxation music.
[0988] Specific example
[0989] For example, suppose a 70-year-old male user accesses the system and complains of knee pain. The user uses a terminal to input their age, gender, and physical condition (knee pain). The terminal sends this information to the server. The server searches its database based on this information and suggests assistive devices to alleviate knee pain (e.g., knee braces or specific exercise equipment). It also refers to information on assistive devices used by users with similar symptoms in the past. Furthermore, it checks the inventory status of the suggested assistive devices and only suggests those that are in stock. If the emotion engine detects the user's stress, it also suggests a music player that plays relaxation music.
[0990] Example of a prompt
[0991] "A 70-year-old man is complaining of knee pain. Please suggest appropriate assistive devices."
[0992] In this way, this system proposes appropriate welfare equipment based on user information, contributing to improving the user's quality of life (QOL).
[0993] The flow of the specific processing in Example 2 will be explained using Figure 17.
[0994] Step 1:
[0995] Users access the system interface using a terminal and enter information such as their age, gender, and physical condition. The entered information is stored in the age field, gender field, and physical condition field, respectively. For example, if a 70-year-old man is complaining of knee pain, he would enter "70" in the age field, "male" in the gender field, and "knee pain" in the physical condition field. The input data is converted into JSON format.
[0996] Step 2:
[0997] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server. Specifically, the terminal converts the input data into JSON format and sends it to the server using an HTTP POST request. The input data includes information such as age, gender, and physical condition. The server parses the received data and extracts the necessary information.
[0998] Step 3:
[0999] The server searches a database of assistive devices based on the information it receives. Specifically, the server generates a database query to search for assistive devices related to knee pain (such as knee braces or specific exercise equipment). The search results generate a list of appropriate assistive devices.
[1000] Step 4:
[1001] The server searches a database of past users with similar conditions to see what kinds of assistive devices were used. Specifically, the server queries the database of past users to retrieve information on the assistive devices used by a 70-year-old man who complained of knee pain. The retrieved information is then integrated into the current search results.
[1002] Step 5:
[1003] The server checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time. Specifically, the server sends an API request to the inventory management system to check if the knee brace is in stock. Only if it is in stock is the assistive device added to the proposal list.
[1004] Step 6:
[1005] The device recognizes the user's emotional state based on their tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice. Specifically, an emotion recognition engine built into the device performs voice and image analysis to determine whether the user is experiencing stress. The emotional state data is then sent to a server.
[1006] Step 7:
[1007] The server suggests the most suitable assistive devices to the user based on all the information. Specifically, the server integrates search results, past usage history, inventory status, and emotional state data to select the most appropriate assistive devices. For example, for a 70-year-old man complaining of knee pain, it might suggest a knee brace and a music player that plays relaxation music. The suggestions are displayed to the user through their device.
[1008] (Application Example 2)
[1009] Next, we will describe application example 2 of form example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the smart glasses 214 as the "terminal".
[1010] Conventional assistive device recommendation systems can suggest appropriate assistive devices based on user information, but they cannot take into account the user's emotional state, thus failing to adequately improve user satisfaction and quality of life (QOL). Furthermore, when selecting assistive devices in physical stores, there is a lack of means to check inventory status in real time, making it difficult for users to make a purchase decision on the spot.
[1011] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means.
[1012] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referencing past usage records of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, an emotion engine for recognizing the user's emotional state, means for suggesting welfare equipment based on the emotional state, and means including an application installed on a smartphone. This makes it possible to suggest appropriate welfare equipment that takes the user's emotional state into consideration, and allows users to check inventory status in real time when selecting welfare equipment in a physical store, enabling them to make a purchase decision on the spot.
[1013] "Means for inputting user information" refers to an interface for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition.
[1014] "Means of proposing appropriate welfare equipment" refers to a function that selects and proposes the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user information entered.
[1015] "Methods for referencing the past usage history of similar users" refers to a function that searches the database of past users and refers to information on welfare equipment used by users with similar conditions.
[1016] "Methods for linking with inventory status" refers to a function that checks the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time and proposes only those items that are in stock.
[1017] An "emotional engine" refers to a system that recognizes a user's emotional state based on their tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice.
[1018] "A means of suggesting assistive devices based on emotional state" refers to a function that suggests assistive devices to reduce stress or amplify joy, according to the user's emotional state as recognized by the emotional engine.
[1019] "Applications installed on smartphones" refers to software that runs on a smartphone and provides functions such as user information input, emotional state analysis, suggestions for assistive devices, and inventory checks.
[1020] A system for implementing this invention includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate assistive devices, means for referencing past usage records of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, an emotion engine, means for suggesting assistive devices based on emotional state, and an application installed on a smartphone.
[1021] Hardware and software to use
[1022] Hardware: Smartphone (microphone, camera)
[1023] Software: EmotionEngine (emotion recognition engine), welfare equipment database, inventory check API
[1024] Data processing and calculations
[1025] User information entry
[1026] Users input information such as their age, gender, and physical condition through a smartphone application. This allows the system to obtain the user's basic information.
[1027] Emotion analysis
[1028] The smartphone's microphone and camera are used to collect the user's voice tone and facial expressions. This data is sent to the EmotionEngine, where the emotional state is analyzed. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the EmotionEngine relays that information to the system.
[1029] Proposal for welfare equipment
[1030] The system searches for the most suitable assistive device from its database based on the user's entered information and emotional state. For example, a massage chair or relaxation music player might be suggested to a user experiencing stress.
[1031] Check stock availability
[1032] The availability of proposed welfare equipment can be checked in real time via an inventory check API. This allows users to make a purchase decision on the spot.
[1033] Specific example
[1034] User Information
[1035] Age: 70
[1036] Gender: Male
[1037] Physical condition: Arthritis
[1038] Emotional state
[1039] I am feeling stressed
[1040] Proposed welfare equipment
[1041] Massage chair
[1042] Relaxation Music Player
[1043] Example of a prompt
[1044] Please enter your user information.
[1045] Age: 70
[1046] Gender: Male
[1047] Physical condition: Arthritis
[1048] Analyzing emotional state...
[1049] Emotional state: Stress
[1050] Proposed assistive devices:
[1051] 1. Massage chair
[1052] 2. Relaxation Music Player
[1053] Checking stock availability...
[1054] Massage chair: In stock
[1055] Relaxation music player: Out of stock
[1056] In this way, using a smartphone application makes it possible to suggest the most suitable assistive devices based on the user's information and emotional state, and since inventory status can be checked in real time, users can make purchase decisions on the spot.
[1057] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 2 will be explained using Figure 18.
[1058] Step 1:
[1059] The user launches a smartphone application and enters information such as age, gender, and physical condition.
[1060] Input: Age, gender, physical condition
[1061] Output: User's basic information data
[1062] Specific operation: The user enters information into the application's input fields and presses the submit button. The server receives this information and saves it to the database.
[1063] Step 2:
[1064] The user uses their smartphone's microphone and camera to collect voice tone and facial expressions.
[1065] Input: Audio data, image data
[1066] Output: Emotional state data
[1067] Specific operation: The user records voice and takes a picture of their face with the camera. The device sends this data to EmotionEngine, which analyzes the emotional state. The analysis results are sent to the server.
[1068] Step 3:
[1069] The server searches for the most suitable assistive device from the assistive device database based on the user's basic information and emotional state.
[1070] Input: User's basic information data, emotional state data
[1071] Output: Proposed list of assistive devices
[1072] Specific operation: The server executes a database query to search for assistive devices that match the user's criteria. The search results are generated as a suggestion list and sent to the terminal.
[1073] Step 4:
[1074] The server checks the inventory status of the proposed welfare equipment via an inventory check API.
[1075] Input: Proposed list of assistive devices
[1076] Output: Inventory status data
[1077] Specific operation: The server calls the inventory check API to check the inventory status of each welfare device. The retrieved inventory information is added to the suggestion list and sent to the terminal.
[1078] Step 5:
[1079] The terminal displays suggested assistive devices and their availability to the user.
[1080] Input: Proposed list of assistive devices, inventory status data
[1081] Output: Content displayed to the user
[1082] Specific operation: The terminal displays a list of suggestions and inventory status in a user-friendly format. Based on this information, the user can decide on the selection and purchase of assistive devices.
[1083] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the smart glasses 214.
[1084] In step 214, the control unit 46A causes the speaker 240 to output the result of a specific process. The microphone 238 acquires audio indicating user input for the result of the specific process. The control unit 46A transmits the audio data indicating user input acquired by the microphone 238 to the data processing unit 12. In the data processing unit 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the audio data.
[1085] The data generation model 58 is a form of so-called generative AI (Artificial Intelligence). One example of the data generation model 58 is ChatGPT (Internet Search).<URL: https: / / openai.com / blog / chatgpt> Examples of generative AI include the following. The data generation model 58 is obtained by performing deep learning on a neural network. The data generation model 58 is input with prompts containing instructions, and with inference data such as audio data representing speech, text data representing text, and image data representing images. The data generation model 58 infers from the input inference data according to the instructions indicated by the prompts, and outputs the inference results in data formats such as audio data and text data. Here, inference refers to, for example, analysis, classification, prediction, and / or summarization.
[1086] Other examples of generative AI include Gemini (Internet search <url: https: gemini.google.com ?hl="ja">) are some examples.
[1087] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which specific processing is performed by the data processing device 12, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the specific processing may also be performed by the smart glasses 214.
[1088] [Third Embodiment]
[1089] Figure 5 shows an example of the configuration of the data processing system 310 according to the third embodiment.
[1090] As shown in Figure 5, the data processing system 310 includes a data processing device 12 and a headset terminal 314. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.
[1091] The data processing device 12 comprises a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication interface 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" related to the technology of this disclosure. The computer 22 comprises a processor 28, RAM 30, and storage 32. The processor 28, RAM 30, and storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication interface 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication interface 26 is connected to a network 54. An example of the network 54 is a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).
[1092] The headset terminal 314 includes a computer 36, a microphone 238, a speaker 240, a camera 42, a communication interface 44, and a display 343. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, RAM 48, and storage 50. The processor 46, RAM 48, and storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The microphone 238, speaker 240, camera 42, and display 343 are also connected to the bus 52.
[1093] The microphone 238 receives voice signals from the user 20 and receives instructions from the user 20. The microphone 238 captures the voice signals from the user 20, converts the captured voice into audio data, and outputs it to the processor 46. The speaker 240 outputs audio according to the instructions from the processor 46.
[1094] Camera 42 is a small digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an image sensor such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, and captures images of the area around the user 20 (for example, an imaging range defined by a field of view equivalent to the width of a typical healthy person's field of vision).
[1095] Communication interface 44 is connected to network 54. Communication interfaces 44 and 26 are responsible for the exchange of various information between processor 46 and processor 28 via network 54. The exchange of various information between processor 46 and processor 28 using communication interfaces 44 and 26 is performed in a secure manner.
[1096] Figure 6 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the headset terminal 314. As shown in Figure 6, the data processing device 12 performs specific processing using the processor 28. The storage 32 stores the specific processing program 56.
[1097] The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" relating to the technology of this disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific processing is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.
[1098] The storage 32 stores the data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.
[1099] In the headset terminal 314, the processor 46 performs the reception output processing. The storage 50 stores the reception output program 60. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output processing is realized by the processor 46 operating as a control unit 46A according to the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.
[1100] Next, the identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 will be described.
[1101] "Example of form 1"
[1102] The system of the present invention includes an interface for inputting user information. This interface may include fields for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition. The system also has a function to suggest appropriate assistive devices based on the input information. This function can, for example, search a database of assistive devices suitable for the user's physical condition and present the results to the user. Furthermore, the system has a function to refer to the past usage history of similar users. This function can, for example, search a database of past users to refer to what assistive devices were used by users with similar conditions. The system also has a function to link with inventory status. This function can, for example, check the inventory status of suggested assistive devices in real time and suggest only assistive devices that are in stock. These functions can reduce confusion and variations in quality when selecting assistive devices and support the creation of stable care plans.
[1103] "Example of form 2"
[1104] The system of the present invention includes an interface for inputting user information. This interface may include fields for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition. The system also has a function to suggest appropriate assistive devices based on the input information. This function can, for example, search a database of assistive devices suitable for the user's physical condition and present the results to the user. Furthermore, the system has a function to refer to the past usage history of similar users. This function can, for example, search a database of past users to refer to what assistive devices were used by users with similar conditions. The system also has a function to link with inventory status. This function can, for example, check the inventory status of suggested assistive devices in real time and suggest only assistive devices that are in stock. These functions can reduce confusion and variations in quality when selecting assistive devices and support the creation of stable care plans.
[1105] The following describes the processing flow for each example of the form.
[1106] "Example of form 1"
[1107] Step 1: Enter the user's information into the system interface. This information includes, for example, the user's age, gender, and physical condition.
[1108] Step 2: The system suggests appropriate assistive devices based on the entered information. Specifically, the system searches a database of assistive devices suitable for the user's physical condition and presents the results to the user.
[1109] Step 3: The system refers to the past usage history of similar users. Specifically, the system searches a database of past users and refers to what kinds of assistive devices users with similar conditions have used.
[1110] Step 4: The system is linked to inventory status. Specifically, the system checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time and only proposes assistive devices that are in stock.
[1111] "Example of form 2"
[1112] Step 1: Enter the user's information into the system interface. This information includes, for example, the user's age, gender, and physical condition.
[1113] Step 2: The system suggests appropriate assistive devices based on the entered information. Specifically, the system searches a database of assistive devices suitable for the user's physical condition and presents the results to the user.
[1114] Step 3: The system refers to the past usage history of similar users. Specifically, the system searches a database of past users and refers to what kinds of assistive devices users with similar conditions have used.
[1115] Step 4: The system is linked to inventory status. Specifically, the system checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time and only proposes assistive devices that are in stock.
[1116] (Example 1)
[1117] Next, we will describe Embodiment 1 of Embodiment Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the headset-type terminal 314 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[1118] In selecting assistive devices, it is necessary to consider the user's individual physical condition and past usage history, while also checking inventory status in real time and proposing appropriate assistive devices. However, conventional systems have made it difficult to manage and propose these elements in an integrated manner, making it challenging to quickly and accurately select the most suitable assistive devices for users. This has led to inconsistencies and ambiguity in the selection of assistive devices, hindering the creation of stable care plans.
[1119] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[1120] In this invention, the server includes means for transmitting user information to the server, means for the server to search a database for appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for the server to search a database of past users and refer to the past usage history of similar users, means for the server to cooperate with an inventory management system to check the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment, and means for presenting only welfare equipment that is in stock to the user. This makes it possible to check the inventory status in real time while taking into account the user's individual physical condition and past usage history, and to quickly and accurately propose the most suitable welfare equipment.
[1121] "User information" refers to individual attribute information of the user, such as age, gender, and physical condition.
[1122] A "server" refers to a computer system that receives user information and performs processing such as database searches and inventory checks.
[1123] A "database" refers to an information system that stores and makes searchable data such as information on welfare equipment and past user records.
[1124] The "past user database" refers to a database that stores information about users who have previously used welfare equipment and their usage records.
[1125] An "inventory management system" refers to a system that manages the inventory status of welfare equipment in real time.
[1126] "Suggested welfare equipment" refers to welfare equipment that the server searches for based on the user's information and determines to be appropriate.
[1127] "Stock availability" refers to information indicating whether the proposed assistive device is currently available.
[1128] "Presenting to the user" means that the server sends search results and inventory information to the user's device, making it available for the user to review.
[1129] This invention relates to a system that takes user information as input and suggests appropriate assistive devices. A specific embodiment of this system is described below.
[1130] Entering user information
[1131] Users access the system's web interface using devices such as personal computers or smartphones. The interface is implemented using HTML and JavaScript and provides forms for users to input information such as their age, gender, and physical condition. Users enter this information into the forms and click the submit button.
[1132] Sending and receiving information
[1133] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server as an HTTP request. The server processes the received information using a backend system implemented in Python.
[1134] Proposal for welfare equipment
[1135] The server accesses a MySQL database based on the received user information to search for appropriate assistive devices. The search algorithm selects the most suitable assistive devices based on the user's physical condition, age, gender, and other criteria. The search results are generated in JSON format and sent to the terminal as an HTTP response. The terminal parses the received JSON data and displays the search results to the user.
[1136] Reference for past usage history
[1137] The server accesses the PostgreSQL database to search for past user data. The server retrieves data from past users with similar characteristics to the current user, using it as a reference to see what kinds of assistive devices were used. This information is also generated in JSON format and sent to the terminal as an HTTP response. The terminal parses the received JSON data and displays the past usage history to the user.
[1138] Checking stock availability
[1139] The server sends an API request to the ERP system to check the inventory status of the proposed assistive devices. The server selects only the assistive devices that are in stock and generates a JSON file. This information is also sent to the terminal as an HTTP response. The terminal parses the received JSON data and displays the assistive devices that are in stock to the user.
[1140] Specific example
[1141] For example, if a user enters "70 years old, male, difficulty walking," the server will suggest assistive devices such as walking aids and wheelchairs. It will also search a database of past users and generate a list of assistive devices used under similar conditions. Furthermore, it will integrate with an inventory management system to present only assistive devices that are in stock to the user.
[1142] Example of a prompt
[1143] The following are examples of prompts to input into the generative AI model.
[1144] "Please suggest assistive devices suitable for a 70-year-old male user with difficulty walking. Please also consider past usage history and current inventory."
[1145] By using this prompt, the generated AI model provides information to suggest the most suitable assistive devices for the user.
[1146] The flow of the specific processing in Example 1 will be explained using Figure 11.
[1147] Step 1:
[1148] Users access the system's web interface using devices such as personal computers or smartphones. They enter information such as age, gender, and physical condition into forms on the interface and click the submit button. The entered information is sent from the device to the server as an HTTP request.
[1149] Step 2:
[1150] The server receives HTTP requests sent by users. The received information is stored in a temporary data store on the server. The server uses a backend system implemented in Python to parse the received information and generate appropriate database queries.
[1151] Step 3:
[1152] The server accesses the MySQL database using the generated database query. The server searches for appropriate assistive devices based on the user's age, gender, and physical condition. The search results are generated in JSON format and stored in a temporary data store.
[1153] Step 4:
[1154] The server accesses the PostgreSQL database to search for past user data. The server retrieves data from past users with similar characteristics to the current user, using it as a reference to see what assistive devices were used. This information is also generated in JSON format and stored in a temporary data store.
[1155] Step 5:
[1156] The server sends an API request to the ERP system to check the inventory status of the proposed assistive devices. The server then selects only the assistive devices that are in stock and generates a JSON file. This information is also stored in a temporary data store.
[1157] Step 6:
[1158] The server integrates search results, past usage history, and inventory information stored in the temporary data store to generate a final suggestion list. The generated suggestion list is sent to the terminal as an HTTP response.
[1159] Step 7:
[1160] The terminal analyzes the received HTTP response and displays a list of suggested assistive devices to the user. The user can then review the displayed list and select the most suitable assistive device.
[1161] (Application Example 1)
[1162] Next, we will describe Application Example 1 of Form Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the headset-type terminal 314 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[1163] Conventional assistive device selection systems had several drawbacks: the process of users inputting their information and receiving recommendations for appropriate assistive devices was cumbersome, and real-time inventory checks were not possible, resulting in lengthy selection times. Furthermore, the system lacked sufficient functionality to refer to past usage data, making it difficult to recommend the most suitable assistive devices to users. This led to inconsistencies in the quality of assistive devices selected, making it difficult to create consistent care plans.
[1164] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[1165] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referencing past usage records of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, means for inputting user information via smartphone and receiving suggestions for the most suitable welfare equipment, and means for checking the inventory status of the suggested welfare equipment in real time. As a result, users can easily input their own information, receive suggestions for the most suitable welfare equipment, and check inventory status in real time, thereby shortening the time required for selection, reducing hesitation and variations in quality in the selection of welfare equipment, and enabling the creation of stable care plans.
[1166] "Means for inputting user information" refers to a device or software that provides an interface for users to input information such as their age, gender, and physical condition.
[1167] "Means for proposing appropriate welfare equipment based on the user's information" refers to algorithms or systems for selecting and proposing the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user's information entered.
[1168] "A method that refers to the past usage history of similar users" refers to a function that refers to data on assistive devices used by users with similar conditions in the past and suggests assistive devices that are suitable for the current user.
[1169] The "means of linking with inventory status" refer to a system that checks the inventory information of proposed welfare equipment in real time and proposes only those items that are in stock.
[1170] "A means of inputting user information via smartphone and receiving suggestions for the most suitable welfare equipment" refers to a function that allows users to input their own information using a smartphone application and receive suggestions for the most suitable welfare equipment based on that information.
[1171] "A means of checking the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time" refers to a system that acquires inventory information of proposed welfare equipment in real time and presents it to the user.
[1172] The system for carrying out this invention consists of a smartphone application and a server. A specific embodiment is described below.
[1173] System Configuration
[1174] hardware
[1175] Smartphone: A device used by users to input information.
[1176] Server: A central processing unit for managing the database and proposing assistive devices.
[1177] software
[1178] Smartphone application: Provides an interface for users to input their information and receive suggestions for assistive devices.
[1179] Flask: A web framework that runs on the server side. It handles database interaction and user information processing.
[1180] Database: Data storage for managing information on welfare equipment, users' past usage history, and inventory status.
[1181] Data processing and data calculation
[1182] User information entry
[1183] Users enter information such as their age, gender, and physical condition through a smartphone application. This information is sent to a server and stored in a database.
[1184] Proposal for welfare equipment
[1185] The server searches the database for appropriate assistive devices based on the user's input information. The search results are generated using an algorithm that filters assistive devices to match the user's age range, gender, and physical condition.
[1186] Reference for past usage history
[1187] The server references past user data in the database to retrieve information on assistive devices used by users with similar conditions. This information is also taken into consideration when making suggestions.
[1188] Checking stock availability
[1189] The server connects to a database to check the real-time inventory status of proposed assistive devices. Only assistive devices that are in stock are suggested to the user.
[1190] Display of proposal results
[1191] The smartphone application displays the suggested results received from the server to the user. The user can check detailed information and inventory status of the suggested assistive devices.
[1192] Specific example
[1193] For example, if a 65-year-old male user is looking for assistive devices related to "mobility," he would enter the following information into the smartphone application.
[1194] Age: 65
[1195] Gender: Male
[1196] Physical condition: Eli
[1197] This information is sent to the server, which searches the database and suggests appropriate assistive devices (e.g., wheelchairs, walkers). The inventory status of the suggested assistive devices is also checked in real time, and only those in stock are displayed.
[1198] Example of a prompt
[1199] "Please enter the user's age, gender, and physical condition. Example: Age: 65, Gender: Male, Physical condition: Mobility"
[1200] In this way, users can easily select the most suitable assistive devices for themselves, reducing the time required for selection and enabling the creation of high-quality care plans.
[1201] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 1 will be explained using Figure 12.
[1202] Step 1:
[1203] The user launches a smartphone application and enters information such as age, gender, and physical condition. The entered information is sent to the server by the smartphone application. The input data is sent in JSON format and received on the server side.
[1204] Step 2:
[1205] The server analyzes the received user information and stores it in the database. Specifically, it extracts fields such as age, gender, and physical condition and stores them in the corresponding tables in the database. During this process, it verifies the integrity of the data and checks for any invalid data.
[1206] Step 3:
[1207] The server searches the database for assistive devices that match the user's criteria. Age range, gender, and physical condition are used as search criteria. The search results are retrieved as a list of assistive devices that match the criteria.
[1208] Step 4:
[1209] The server references past user data to retrieve information on assistive devices used by users with similar conditions. This improves the accuracy of the recommendations. Past usage data is filtered by similar conditions, and the results are retrieved.
[1210] Step 5:
[1211] The server checks the inventory status of the proposed assistive devices in real time. It refers to the inventory table in the database and lists only the assistive devices that are in stock. The inventory information is configured to be updated periodically.
[1212] Step 6:
[1213] The server generates the final proposal results and sends them to the smartphone application. The proposal results include detailed information and inventory status of the assistive devices. The data is sent in JSON format and displayed on the smartphone application.
[1214] Step 7:
[1215] Users review a list of suggested assistive devices on a smartphone application. They can view detailed information and availability for each device and select the most suitable one. Users can also enter additional information as needed to receive further suggestions.
[1216] (Example 2)
[1217] Next, we will describe Example 2 of the Form Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the headset-type terminal 314 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[1218] Conventional assistive device selection systems have difficulty adequately considering the individual physical condition and past usage history of users, making it challenging to propose appropriate assistive devices. Furthermore, they lacked the ability to check inventory status in real time, making it unclear whether proposed assistive devices were actually available. This led to inconsistencies and ambiguity in the selection of assistive devices, making it difficult to create consistent care plans.
[1219] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means.
[1220] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for transmitting the user information to the server, means for searching a welfare equipment database based on the information, means for searching a past user database and referring to the usage history of users with similar conditions, means for checking the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in conjunction with an inventory management system, means for proposing only welfare equipment that is in stock, and means for presenting the proposed content to the user. This makes it possible to propose appropriate welfare equipment that takes into account the user's individual physical condition and past usage history, and by checking the inventory status in real time, it is possible to propose only welfare equipment that is actually available. This reduces confusion and variations in quality in the selection of welfare equipment, and enables the creation of stable care plans.
[1221] "Means for inputting user information" refers to a device or software that provides an interface for users to input information such as age, gender, and physical condition.
[1222] "Means for transmitting the user's information to the server" refers to communication means for transmitting the entered user information to the server.
[1223] "Means for searching the welfare equipment database based on said information" refers to an algorithm or program for searching the welfare equipment database based on the user information received by the server.
[1224] "Means of searching a past user database and referring to the usage history of users with similar conditions" refers to an algorithm or program that searches a past user database and refers to the usage history of past users with similar conditions.
[1225] "Means for checking the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in conjunction with an inventory management system" refers to a communication method for linking with an inventory management system in order to check the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time.
[1226] "A method for proposing only welfare equipment that is in stock" refers to an algorithm or program that includes only welfare equipment whose availability has been confirmed as being in stock in the final proposal list.
[1227] "Means for presenting proposals to users" refers to a device or software that provides an interface for displaying the final list of proposals to users.
[1228] This invention relates to a system that takes user information as input and suggests appropriate assistive devices. A specific embodiment of this system is described below.
[1229] Entering user information
[1230] Users access the system interface using a terminal. The interface is provided through a web browser or a dedicated application. Users enter information such as age, gender, and physical condition into fields on the interface. For example, a user might enter "Age: 70, Gender: Male, Physical condition: Difficulty walking."
[1231] Information transmission
[1232] The terminal sends the entered information to the server. This information is sent as an HTTP request.
[1233] Searching Databases
[1234] The server searches the welfare equipment database based on the information it receives. The database contains the application conditions and characteristics of each welfare device. For example, the server searches for a walking aid suitable for a "70-year-old male with difficulty walking."
[1235] Reference for past usage history
[1236] The server searches the past user database to see what kinds of assistive devices other users with similar conditions used. For example, the server searches for "assistive devices previously used by a 70-year-old man with difficulty walking."
[1237] Proposal generation
[1238] The server generates a list of appropriate assistive devices based on the search results. This list includes detailed information about each assistive device and why it is suitable for the user's needs.
[1239] Checking stock availability
[1240] The server integrates with an inventory management system to check the real-time availability of proposed assistive devices. For example, the server checks whether "proposed walking aid A is in stock."
[1241] Inventory check results will be reflected.
[1242] The server will only include assistive devices that are in stock in the final proposal list. For example, if "Walking aid A" is out of stock, it will be removed from the list.
[1243] Presentation of proposal
[1244] The server sends the final list of suggestions to the terminal. This information is sent as an HTTP response. The terminal displays the received list of suggestions to the user. The user can view detailed information about the suggested assistive devices on the interface.
[1245] Specific example
[1246] When a user enters "Age: 70, Gender: Male, Physical condition: Difficulty walking," the server searches the database and suggests "Walking aid A" based on past usage data. At the same time, it checks the availability of "Walking aid A" in conjunction with the inventory management system before suggesting it to the user.
[1247] Example of a prompt
[1248] "Please suggest assistive devices suitable for a 70-year-old male user who has difficulty walking. Please only suggest items that are in stock."
[1249] This system enables the suggestion of appropriate assistive devices that take into account the user's individual physical condition and past usage history. By checking inventory status in real time, it can suggest only assistive devices that are actually available. This reduces uncertainty and variations in quality when selecting assistive devices, enabling the creation of stable care plans.
[1250] The flow of the specific processing in Example 2 will be explained using Figure 13.
[1251] Step 1:
[1252] Users access the system interface using a terminal. The interface is provided through a web browser or a dedicated application. Users enter information such as age, gender, and physical condition into fields on the interface. The entered information is temporarily stored on the terminal.
[1253] Step 2:
[1254] The terminal sends the entered user information to the server. This information is sent as an HTTP request. Specifically, the terminal converts the entered data, such as age, gender, and physical condition, into JSON format and sends it to the server.
[1255] Step 3:
[1256] The server analyzes the received user information and searches the welfare equipment database. Input data includes the user's age, gender, and physical condition, and output is a list of relevant welfare equipment. The server uses SQL queries to search the database and extract welfare equipment that matches the specified criteria.
[1257] Step 4:
[1258] The server searches a database of past users to see what assistive devices similar to those used. Input data includes the user's age, gender, and physical condition, and output is a list of recommended assistive devices based on past usage. The server then performs statistical analysis based on this historical data to select the most suitable assistive device.
[1259] Step 5:
[1260] The server generates a list of appropriate assistive devices based on the search results. Inputs include search results from an assistive device database and historical usage data; the output is a final list of suggestions. The server integrates this data to list the most suitable assistive devices for the user.
[1261] Step 6:
[1262] The server integrates with an inventory management system to check the real-time inventory status of proposed assistive devices. The input is a list of proposed devices, and the output is a list of assistive devices whose inventory has been confirmed. The server sends an API request to the inventory management system to check the inventory status.
[1263] Step 7:
[1264] The server includes only assistive devices that are in stock in the final proposal list. The input is the stock check result, and the output is the final proposal list with confirmed stock. The server removes assistive devices that are out of stock from the list, leaving only those that are in stock.
[1265] Step 8:
[1266] The server sends the final proposal list to the terminal. This information is sent as an HTTP response. The input is the final proposal list, and the output is the proposal list displayed on the terminal. The server converts the final proposal list to JSON format and sends it to the terminal.
[1267] Step 9:
[1268] The terminal displays the received list of suggestions to the user. The input is the final suggestion list received from the server, and the output is displayed on the interface in a format that the user can review. The user can view detailed information about the suggested assistive devices on the interface.
[1269] (Application Example 2)
[1270] Next, we will describe application example 2 of form example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the headset-type terminal 314 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[1271] Conventional welfare equipment selection systems often failed to adequately consider past usage history and inventory levels when proposing appropriate welfare equipment based on user information. This made it difficult to quickly and accurately recommend the most suitable welfare equipment to users, leading to indecision and inconsistent quality in selections. Furthermore, there was a lack of smartphone-based systems to improve user convenience in physical stores. Addressing these challenges is essential.
[1272] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means.
[1273] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referring to the past usage history of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, means for inputting user information using a smartphone and suggesting appropriate welfare equipment, means for acquiring welfare equipment data from an external database, and means for checking inventory status in real time. This makes it possible to quickly and accurately suggest the most suitable welfare equipment to the user, reducing confusion and variations in quality during selection, and improving convenience for users in physical stores.
[1274] "Means for inputting user information" refers to an interface for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition.
[1275] "Means of proposing appropriate welfare equipment based on the user's information" refers to algorithms or systems that select and propose the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user's information entered.
[1276] "Methods for referencing past usage data of similar users" refers to a function that allows users to refer to data on assistive devices used by users with similar conditions in the past and incorporate that information into their recommendations.
[1277] "Methods for linking with inventory status" refers to a system that checks the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time and proposes only those items that are in stock.
[1278] "A means of inputting user information using a smartphone and suggesting appropriate welfare equipment" refers to an application that uses a smartphone to input user information and then suggests the most suitable welfare equipment based on that information.
[1279] "Means of obtaining data on welfare equipment from external databases" refers to a system for obtaining information about welfare equipment from external databases via the internet.
[1280] "A means of checking inventory status in real time" refers to a function that allows users to instantly check and provide information on the current inventory status.
[1281] This invention is a system that takes user information as input and suggests appropriate assistive devices. The following describes a specific implementation of this system.
[1282] System Configuration
[1283] The system consists of the following main components:
[1284] 1. User Information Input Interface
[1285] The user enters information such as their age, gender, and physical condition using a smartphone application.
[1286] This interface is designed to be intuitive for users to operate.
[1287] 2. Database Integration Module
[1288] Retrieve data on welfare equipment from an external database.
[1289] The database includes detailed information on welfare equipment, past usage records, and inventory status.
[1290] 3. Proposed Algorithm
[1291] An algorithm will be implemented to select the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user information entered.
[1292] We check inventory status in real time by referring to past user data.
[1293] 4. Inventory Check Module
[1294] The system checks the real-time inventory status of proposed welfare equipment and only proposes items that are in stock.
[1295] Program processing
[1296] The server performs the following actions:
[1297] 1. Enter user information
[1298] Users input information such as age, gender, and physical condition through a smartphone application.
[1299] Example: A 70-year-old female user who uses a wheelchair enters the information.
[1300] 2. Retrieving data from the database
[1301] The server retrieves detailed information about welfare equipment, past usage records, and inventory status from an external database.
[1302] Software used: Python, API request library
[1303] 3. Execution of the proposed algorithm
[1304] The server selects the most suitable assistive device based on the entered user information.
[1305] We will refer to past user data and consider inventory levels.
[1306] 4. Check stock availability
[1307] The server checks the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time and only suggests items that are in stock.
[1308] Software used: Real-time database management system
[1309] Specific example
[1310] For example, if a 70-year-old woman who uses a wheelchair uses the app, the following assistive devices may be suggested.
[1311] Name: Lightweight wheelchair, Stock: 5
[1312] Name: Electric wheelchair, Stock: 2
[1313] Example of a prompt
[1314] The following are examples of prompts to input into the generative AI model.
[1315] Please suggest the most suitable assistive devices for a 70-year-old woman who uses a wheelchair. The user's information is as follows:
[1316] Age: 70
[1317] Gender: Female
[1318] Physical condition: Wheelchair
[1319] In this way, the system can quickly and accurately propose the most suitable assistive devices to users.
[1320] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 2 will be explained using Figure 14.
[1321] Step 1:
[1322] The user launches a smartphone application and enters information such as age, gender, and physical condition.
[1323] Input: User's age, gender, physical condition
[1324] Output: Entered user information
[1325] Specific operation: The user enters the required information into the application form and clicks the "Submit" button. The application sends the entered information to the server.
[1326] Step 2:
[1327] Based on the user information received by the server, data on welfare equipment is retrieved from an external database.
[1328] Input: User information
[1329] Output: Detailed information on welfare equipment, past usage history, and inventory status.
[1330] Specific operation: The server sends an API request to retrieve detailed information about welfare equipment, past usage history, and inventory status from an external database. The retrieved data is temporarily stored on the server.
[1331] Step 3:
[1332] Based on the data acquired by the server, the system selects welfare equipment that is suitable for the user's information.
[1333] Input: User information, detailed information on welfare equipment, past usage history
[1334] Output: List of appropriate assistive devices
[1335] Specific operation: The server executes an algorithm that cross-references user information with detailed information on assistive devices and past usage history. This generates a list of assistive devices best suited to the user.
[1336] Step 4:
[1337] The inventory status is checked in real time based on a list of welfare equipment generated by the server.
[1338] Input: List of suitable assistive devices, availability
[1339] Output: List of welfare equipment whose stock has been confirmed.
[1340] Specific operation: The server uses an inventory check module to check the real-time inventory status of the proposed assistive devices. Only items that are in stock remain in the list.
[1341] Step 5:
[1342] The server presents the user with a list of welfare equipment whose availability has been confirmed.
[1343] Input: List of welfare equipment whose stock has been confirmed
[1344] Output: A list of assistive devices presented to the user.
[1345] Specific operation: The server sends a list of available assistive devices to the smartphone application. The user can then view details of the suggested assistive devices through the application.
[1346] Step 6:
[1347] Users select from the suggested welfare equipment and purchase or reserve it.
[1348] Input: List of proposed assistive devices
[1349] Output: Purchase or reservation confirmation information
[1350] Specific operation: The user selects desired assistive devices from the suggested options through the application and makes a purchase or reservation. The application sends this information to the server and receives confirmation of the purchase or reservation.
[1351] Furthermore, an emotion engine that estimates the user's emotions may be incorporated. That is, the identification processing unit 290 may use the emotion identification model 59 to estimate the user's emotions and perform identification processing using the user's emotions.
[1352] "Example of form 1"
[1353] One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that combines an emotion engine. This system includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referring to the past usage history of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, and an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotional state. The emotion engine recognizes the emotional state from the user's tone of voice, facial expressions, word choice, etc. Specifically, if the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine conveys that information to the system, and the system suggests welfare equipment to alleviate the stress. For example, a massage chair or a music player that plays relaxation music may be suggested. Also, if the user is feeling joy, the emotion engine conveys that information to the system, and the system suggests welfare equipment to amplify that joy. For example, a television that provides fun games or entertainment may be suggested. In this way, a system that combines an emotion engine can suggest appropriate welfare equipment according to the user's emotional state, contributing to an improvement in the user's quality of life (QOL).
[1354] "Example of form 2"
[1355] One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that combines an emotion engine. This system includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referring to the past usage history of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, and an emotion engine that recognizes the user's emotional state. The emotion engine recognizes the emotional state from the user's tone of voice, facial expressions, word choice, etc. Specifically, if the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine conveys that information to the system, and the system suggests welfare equipment to alleviate the stress. For example, a massage chair or a music player that plays relaxation music may be suggested. Also, if the user is feeling joy, the emotion engine conveys that information to the system, and the system suggests welfare equipment to amplify that joy. For example, a television that provides fun games or entertainment may be suggested. In this way, a system that combines an emotion engine can suggest appropriate welfare equipment according to the user's emotional state, contributing to an improvement in the user's quality of life (QOL).
[1356] The following describes the processing flow for each example of the form.
[1357] "Example of form 1"
[1358] Step 1: First, the care manager or the user themselves enters the user's information into the system. This information includes the user's age, gender, physical condition, and living environment.
[1359] Step 2: Next, the system suggests appropriate assistive devices based on the entered information. This suggestion takes into account the usage history of similar users in the past and the availability of those devices.
[1360] Step 3: Simultaneously, the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotional state. The emotion engine determines the user's emotional state based on factors such as the tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice.
[1361] Step 4: Based on the information from the emotion engine, the system suggests additional assistive devices that are appropriate for the user's emotional state. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the system will suggest assistive devices to alleviate stress.
[1362] Step 5: Finally, the system presents the care manager or user with a list of suggested assistive devices. This allows for the selection of appropriate assistive devices based on the user's emotional state.
[1363] "Example of form 2"
[1364] Step 1: First, the care manager or the user themselves enters the user's information into the system. This information includes the user's age, gender, physical condition, and living environment.
[1365] Step 2: Next, the system suggests appropriate assistive devices based on the entered information. This suggestion takes into account the usage history of similar users in the past and the availability of those devices.
[1366] Step 3: Simultaneously, the emotion engine recognizes the user's emotional state. The emotion engine determines the user's emotional state based on factors such as the tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice.
[1367] Step 4: Based on the information from the emotion engine, the system suggests additional assistive devices that are appropriate for the user's emotional state. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the system will suggest assistive devices to alleviate stress.
[1368] Step 5: Finally, the system presents the care manager or user with a list of suggested assistive devices. This allows for the selection of appropriate assistive devices based on the user's emotional state.
[1369] (Example 1)
[1370] Next, we will describe Embodiment 1 of Embodiment Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the headset-type terminal 314 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[1371] Conventional welfare equipment recommendation systems have problems such as insufficient recommendations based on the user's individual physical condition and past usage history, and difficulty in reflecting inventory status in real time. Furthermore, because recommendations do not take into account the user's emotional state, improvements in user satisfaction and QOL (quality of life) have not been sufficiently achieved. There is a need to solve these problems.
[1372] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[1373] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referencing past usage records of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, means for recognizing the user's emotional state, and means for suggesting welfare equipment based on the emotional state. This makes it possible to suggest appropriate welfare equipment that meets the individual needs of the user and to make suggestions that reflect inventory status in real time. Furthermore, by making suggestions that take into account the user's emotional state, it is possible to improve the user's satisfaction and quality of life.
[1374] "Means for inputting user information" refers to a device or software that provides an interface for users to input information such as their age, gender, and physical condition.
[1375] "Means for proposing appropriate welfare equipment" refers to an algorithm or system that selects and proposes the most suitable welfare equipment for a user based on the user's input information.
[1376] "Methods for referencing the past usage history of similar users" refer to a database and search function that allows users to refer to data on welfare equipment used by users with similar conditions in the past and make appropriate suggestions to the current user.
[1377] "Means of linking with inventory status" refers to a system or function that checks the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time and proposes only welfare equipment that is in stock.
[1378] "Means for recognizing the user's emotional state" refer to sensors and analysis algorithms for recognizing the user's emotional state from their tone of voice, facial expressions, word choice, etc.
[1379] "Means for proposing assistive devices based on the emotional state" refers to a system or algorithm for selecting and proposing assistive devices that reduce the user's stress or amplify their joy, based on the recognized emotional state of the user.
[1380] This invention is a system that includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referring to the past usage history of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, means for recognizing the user's emotional state, and means for suggesting welfare equipment based on the emotional state.
[1381] Means for entering user information
[1382] Subject: User
[1383] The user enters their information using the terminal's interface. For example, they enter information such as age, gender, and physical condition into input fields. The terminal temporarily stores this information.
[1384] A means of proposing appropriate welfare equipment based on the user's information.
[1385] Subject: Server
[1386] The server searches a database of assistive devices based on the user information it receives. For example, it searches for assistive devices suitable for back pain (e.g., back pain cushions) and presents the results to the user.
[1387] A method of referring to the past usage history of similar users.
[1388] Subject: Server
[1389] The server searches a database of past users, referencing what kinds of assistive devices were used by users with similar conditions. This improves the accuracy of the recommendations.
[1390] A means of linking with inventory status
[1391] Subject: Server
[1392] The server checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time. Only assistive devices that are in stock are included in the proposal list.
[1393] Means for recognizing the emotional state of users
[1394] Subject: terminal
[1395] The device uses an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotional state. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine transmits that information to the server.
[1396] Means for proposing welfare equipment based on the emotional state
[1397] Subject: Server
[1398] Based on information received from the emotion engine, the server suggests assistive devices to reduce stress (e.g., a massage chair). If the user is experiencing joy, it also suggests assistive devices to amplify that joy (e.g., a television offering fun games or entertainment).
[1399] Specific examples and prompt statements
[1400] Specific example
[1401] 1. Enter user information:
[1402] The user uses their device to enter their age (65), gender (female), and physical condition (suffers from lower back pain).
[1403] The server receives this information and suggests assistive devices suitable for back pain (e.g., back support cushions).
[1404] 2. Utilizing the Emotion Engine:
[1405] When a user speaks into the device, the emotion engine recognizes from the tone of the user's voice that they are experiencing stress.
[1406] The server receives this information and suggests assistive devices to reduce stress (e.g., massage chairs).
[1407] Example of a prompt
[1408] 1. Enter user information:
[1409] The user entered information that they are 65 years old, female, and suffer from lower back pain. Please suggest appropriate assistive devices.
[1410] 2. Utilizing the Emotion Engine:
[1411] The emotion engine has detected that the user is experiencing stress. Please suggest assistive devices to help reduce this stress.
[1412] The flow of the specific processing in Example 1 will be explained using Figure 15.
[1413] Step 1:
[1414] Entering user information
[1415] Subject: User
[1416] The user enters their information using the device's interface. Specifically, they enter information such as age, gender, and physical condition into input fields. The entered information is temporarily stored on the device.
[1417] Input: User's age, gender, physical condition
[1418] Output: User information stored on the device
[1419] Step 2:
[1420] Submitting the entered information
[1421] Subject: terminal
[1422] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server. Specifically, it converts the input information into JSON format and sends it to the server using an HTTP request.
[1423] Input: User information stored on the device
[1424] Output: User information sent to the server
[1425] Step 3:
[1426] Database Search
[1427] Subject: Server
[1428] The server searches the database of assistive devices based on the user information it receives. Specifically, it executes an SQL query to retrieve a list of relevant assistive devices from the database.
[1429] Input: User information sent to the server
[1430] Output: List of applicable assistive devices
[1431] Step 4:
[1432] Reference to past usage history
[1433] Subject: Server
[1434] The server searches a database of past users to see what kinds of assistive devices were used by users with similar conditions. Specifically, it filters past user data to obtain a list of assistive devices used by users with similar conditions.
[1435] Input: User information sent to the server
[1436] Output: List of assistive devices used by users with similar conditions
[1437] Step 5:
[1438] Checking stock availability
[1439] Subject: Server
[1440] The server checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time. Specifically, it sends API requests to the inventory management system to check the inventory status.
[1441] Input: List of applicable assistive devices
[1442] Output: List of available assistive devices
[1443] Step 6:
[1444] Display of proposal results
[1445] Subject: terminal
[1446] The terminal displays the suggested results received from the server to the user. Specifically, it analyzes the data received from the server and displays it on the screen in a user-friendly format.
[1447] Input: List of available assistive devices
[1448] Output: Suggestion results displayed to the user
[1449] Step 7:
[1450] Using an Emotion Engine
[1451] Subject: terminal
[1452] The device uses an emotion engine to recognize the user's emotional state. Specifically, it analyzes the user's voice tone and facial expressions, and executes an algorithm to determine their emotional state. The results are then sent to the server.
[1453] Input: User's voice tone, facial expression
[1454] Output: Emotional state data
[1455] Step 8:
[1456] Proposals for assistive devices based on emotional state
[1457] Subject: Server
[1458] Based on information received from the emotion engine, the server suggests assistive devices to reduce stress and devices to amplify joy. Specifically, it searches a database of assistive devices corresponding to emotional states and makes appropriate suggestions.
[1459] Input: Emotional state data
[1460] Output: Results of proposed assistive devices based on emotional state
[1461] (Application Example 1)
[1462] Next, we will describe Application Example 1 of Form Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the headset-type terminal 314 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[1463] Conventional welfare equipment recommendation systems can suggest appropriate equipment based on the user's physical condition and past usage history, but they cannot consider the user's emotional state, resulting in a lack of adequate support for user psychological satisfaction and stress reduction. Furthermore, there are difficulties in checking inventory status in real time and making appropriate recommendations.
[1464] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[1465] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referencing past usage records of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, means for recognizing the user's emotional state, and means for suggesting welfare equipment based on the emotional state. This makes it possible to suggest appropriate welfare equipment that takes into account not only the user's physical condition but also their emotional state, thereby addressing the user's psychological satisfaction and stress reduction. Furthermore, by checking inventory status in real time and suggesting only welfare equipment that is in stock, the accuracy and reliability of the suggestions can be improved.
[1466] "Means for inputting user information" refers to an interface for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition.
[1467] "Means of suggesting appropriate welfare equipment" refers to a function that searches a database for and suggests the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user's information entered.
[1468] "Methods for referencing the past usage history of similar users" refers to a function that searches the database of past users and refers to information on welfare equipment used by users with similar conditions.
[1469] "Methods for linking with inventory status" refers to a function that checks the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time and proposes only those items that are in stock.
[1470] "Means of recognizing the user's emotional state" refers to the function of recognizing the user's emotional state from their tone of voice, facial expressions, word choice, etc.
[1471] "Means of proposing assistive devices based on the emotional state" refers to a function that proposes assistive devices to reduce stress or to amplify joy, according to the recognized emotional state.
[1472] A system for carrying out this invention includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment, means for referring to the past usage history of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, means for recognizing the user's emotional state, and means for suggesting welfare equipment based on said emotional state.
[1473] System program
[1474] The system program uses the following hardware and software:
[1475] Hardware: Smart glasses, camera
[1476] Software: OpenCV (camera image processing), emotion recognition software, assistive device database, inventory check software
[1477] Program Processing Description
[1478] The server inputs user information through smart glasses. Specifically, it provides an interface for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition. Next, the server searches the welfare equipment database based on the input information and suggests appropriate welfare equipment. In this process, it also searches the past user database to refer to the usage history of similar users.
[1479] Furthermore, the server checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time and only suggests items that are in stock. This improves the accuracy and reliability of the suggestions.
[1480] To recognize the user's emotional state, a camera is used to analyze the user's tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice. Emotion recognition software is used to determine whether the user is feeling stressed or happy. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the server suggests relaxation items; if they are feeling happy, it suggests entertainment items.
[1481] Specific example
[1482] For example, if a 65-year-old male customer with back pain visits the store, he will input his age, gender, and physical condition through smart glasses. The system will suggest support chairs and massage chairs for back pain, but will check inventory and only suggest support chairs that are in stock. It will also use a camera to recognize the customer's emotional state and, if they are feeling stressed, will suggest a relaxation music player.
[1483] Example of a prompt
[1484] Please suggest appropriate assistive devices for a 65-year-old male user who suffers from lower back pain. If the user is experiencing stress, suggest relaxation devices; if they are experiencing joy, suggest entertainment devices.
[1485] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 1 will be explained using Figure 16.
[1486] Step 1:
[1487] The user wears smart glasses and enters information such as age, gender, and physical condition. The entered information is sent to the server. The server receives this information and stores it in a database.
[1488] Step 2:
[1489] The server searches the welfare equipment database based on the user information it receives. Specifically, it extracts welfare equipment suitable for the user's age, gender, and physical condition. A list of appropriate welfare equipment is generated as a search result.
[1490] Step 3:
[1491] The server searches the past user database to refer to the usage history of similar users. It extracts data on assistive devices used by past users with similar conditions to the current user's information and updates the list of assistive devices suitable for the current user.
[1492] Step 4:
[1493] The server checks the inventory status of the proposed assistive devices in real time. Specifically, it integrates with the inventory management system and keeps only assistive devices that are in stock in the list. This generates a list of assistive devices whose inventory has been confirmed.
[1494] Step 5:
[1495] The device (smart glasses) uses a camera to capture the user's face and sends the video data to a server. The server analyzes the received video data and uses emotion recognition software to recognize the user's emotional state. Based on the recognition results, it is determined whether the user is feeling stressed or happy.
[1496] Step 6:
[1497] The server suggests assistive devices based on the recognized emotional state. Specifically, if the user is feeling stressed, relaxation devices are added to the list; if they are feeling joyful, entertainment devices are added. A final list of suggestions is then generated.
[1498] Step 7:
[1499] The server sends the final list of suggested devices to the terminal (smart glasses). The terminal displays the list of suggested assistive devices to the user. The user can select the appropriate assistive device from the displayed list.
[1500] (Example 2)
[1501] Next, we will describe Example 2 of the Form Example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the headset-type terminal 314 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[1502] Conventional assistive device recommendation systems failed to adequately consider the individual physical and emotional conditions of users, sometimes leading to hesitation and inconsistencies in the selection of appropriate assistive devices. Furthermore, they lacked the ability to check inventory status in real time, meaning that recommended assistive devices were sometimes unavailable immediately. Additionally, the insufficient ability to refer to past usage data made it difficult to create stable care plans.
[1503] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means.
[1504] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referring to the past usage history of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, and means for recognizing the user's emotional state. This makes it possible to suggest appropriate welfare equipment that takes into account the user's individual physical condition and emotional state, reducing hesitation and variations in quality during selection, and enabling the creation of stable care plans. In addition, by checking inventory status in real time, the suggested welfare equipment can be used immediately.
[1505] "Means for inputting user information" refers to the interface through which users input information such as their age, gender, and physical condition into the system.
[1506] "Means of proposing appropriate welfare equipment" refers to algorithms and database search functions that select and propose the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user's input information.
[1507] "Methods that refer to the past usage history of similar users" refers to a function that searches for data of users with similar conditions in the past and makes suggestions based on that usage history.
[1508] "Methods for linking with inventory status" refers to a function that allows users to check the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time and propose only those items that are in stock.
[1509] "Means for recognizing the user's emotional state" refers to an emotion recognition engine that recognizes the user's emotional state from factors such as tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice, and transmits that information to the system.
[1510] This invention is a system that takes user information as input and suggests appropriate assistive devices based on that information. The system includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate assistive devices, means for referring to the past usage history of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, and means for recognizing the user's emotional state.
[1511] Entering user information
[1512] The user accesses the system interface using a terminal and enters information such as their age, gender, and physical condition. The interface provides fields for entering this information. For example, if a 70-year-old man is complaining of knee pain, he would enter "70" in the age field, "male" in the gender field, and "knee pain" in the physical condition field.
[1513] Information transmission
[1514] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server. In doing so, the terminal converts the input data into JSON format and sends it to the server using an HTTP POST request.
[1515] Database Search
[1516] The server analyzes the received information and searches a database of assistive devices. For example, it searches for assistive devices related to knee pain (such as knee braces or specific exercise equipment).
[1517] Reference to past usage history
[1518] The server searches a database of past users with similar conditions to see what kinds of assistive devices were used. For example, it retrieves information on the assistive devices used by a 70-year-old man who previously complained of knee pain.
[1519] Checking stock availability
[1520] The server checks the inventory status of the proposed assistive devices in real time. For example, it checks whether knee braces are in stock and only proposes them if they are.
[1521] Using an Emotion Engine
[1522] The device recognizes the user's emotional state based on their tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the emotion engine sends that information to the server.
[1523] final proposal
[1524] The server uses all the information to suggest the most suitable assistive devices to the user. For example, for a 70-year-old man complaining of knee pain, it would suggest a knee brace and a music player that plays relaxation music.
[1525] Specific example
[1526] For example, suppose a 70-year-old male user accesses the system and complains of knee pain. The user uses a terminal to input their age, gender, and physical condition (knee pain). The terminal sends this information to the server. The server searches its database based on this information and suggests assistive devices to alleviate knee pain (e.g., knee braces or specific exercise equipment). It also refers to information on assistive devices used by users with similar symptoms in the past. Furthermore, it checks the inventory status of the suggested assistive devices and only suggests those that are in stock. If the emotion engine detects the user's stress, it also suggests a music player that plays relaxation music.
[1527] Example of a prompt
[1528] "A 70-year-old man is complaining of knee pain. Please suggest appropriate assistive devices."
[1529] In this way, this system proposes appropriate welfare equipment based on user information, contributing to improving the user's quality of life (QOL).
[1530] The flow of the specific processing in Example 2 will be explained using Figure 17.
[1531] Step 1:
[1532] Users access the system interface using a terminal and enter information such as their age, gender, and physical condition. The entered information is stored in the age field, gender field, and physical condition field, respectively. For example, if a 70-year-old man is complaining of knee pain, he would enter "70" in the age field, "male" in the gender field, and "knee pain" in the physical condition field. The input data is converted into JSON format.
[1533] Step 2:
[1534] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server. Specifically, the terminal converts the input data into JSON format and sends it to the server using an HTTP POST request. The input data includes information such as age, gender, and physical condition. The server parses the received data and extracts the necessary information.
[1535] Step 3:
[1536] The server searches a database of assistive devices based on the information it receives. Specifically, the server generates a database query to search for assistive devices related to knee pain (such as knee braces or specific exercise equipment). The search results generate a list of appropriate assistive devices.
[1537] Step 4:
[1538] The server searches a database of past users with similar conditions to see what kinds of assistive devices were used. Specifically, the server queries the database of past users to retrieve information on the assistive devices used by a 70-year-old man who complained of knee pain. The retrieved information is then integrated into the current search results.
[1539] Step 5:
[1540] The server checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time. Specifically, the server sends an API request to the inventory management system to check if the knee brace is in stock. Only if it is in stock is the assistive device added to the proposal list.
[1541] Step 6:
[1542] The device recognizes the user's emotional state based on their tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice. Specifically, an emotion recognition engine built into the device performs voice and image analysis to determine whether the user is experiencing stress. The emotional state data is then sent to a server.
[1543] Step 7:
[1544] The server suggests the most suitable assistive devices to the user based on all the information. Specifically, the server integrates search results, past usage history, inventory status, and emotional state data to select the most appropriate assistive devices. For example, for a 70-year-old man complaining of knee pain, it might suggest a knee brace and a music player that plays relaxation music. The suggestions are displayed to the user through their device.
[1545] (Application Example 2)
[1546] Next, we will describe application example 2 of form example 2. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server," and the headset-type terminal 314 will be referred to as the "terminal."
[1547] Conventional assistive device recommendation systems can suggest appropriate assistive devices based on user information, but they cannot take into account the user's emotional state, thus failing to adequately improve user satisfaction and quality of life (QOL). Furthermore, when selecting assistive devices in physical stores, there is a lack of means to check inventory status in real time, making it difficult for users to make a purchase decision on the spot.
[1548] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 2 is realized by the following means.
[1549] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referencing past usage records of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, an emotion engine for recognizing the user's emotional state, means for suggesting welfare equipment based on the emotional state, and means including an application installed on a smartphone. This makes it possible to suggest appropriate welfare equipment that takes the user's emotional state into consideration, and allows users to check inventory status in real time when selecting welfare equipment in a physical store, enabling them to make a purchase decision on the spot.
[1550] "Means for inputting user information" refers to an interface for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition.
[1551] "Means of proposing appropriate welfare equipment" refers to a function that selects and proposes the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user information entered.
[1552] "Methods for referencing the past usage history of similar users" refers to a function that searches the database of past users and refers to information on welfare equipment used by users with similar conditions.
[1553] "Methods for linking with inventory status" refers to a function that checks the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time and proposes only those items that are in stock.
[1554] An "emotional engine" refers to a system that recognizes a user's emotional state based on their tone of voice, facial expressions, and word choice.
[1555] "A means of suggesting assistive devices based on emotional state" refers to a function that suggests assistive devices to reduce stress or amplify joy, according to the user's emotional state as recognized by the emotional engine.
[1556] "Applications installed on smartphones" refers to software that runs on a smartphone and provides functions such as user information input, emotional state analysis, suggestions for assistive devices, and inventory checks.
[1557] A system for implementing this invention includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate assistive devices, means for referencing past usage records of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, an emotion engine, means for suggesting assistive devices based on emotional state, and an application installed on a smartphone.
[1558] Hardware and software to use
[1559] Hardware: Smartphone (microphone, camera)
[1560] Software: EmotionEngine (emotion recognition engine), welfare equipment database, inventory check API
[1561] Data processing and calculations
[1562] User information entry
[1563] Users input information such as their age, gender, and physical condition through a smartphone application. This allows the system to obtain the user's basic information.
[1564] Emotion analysis
[1565] The smartphone's microphone and camera are used to collect the user's voice tone and facial expressions. This data is sent to the EmotionEngine, where the emotional state is analyzed. For example, if the user is feeling stressed, the EmotionEngine relays that information to the system.
[1566] Proposal for welfare equipment
[1567] The system searches for the most suitable assistive device from its database based on the user's entered information and emotional state. For example, a massage chair or relaxation music player might be suggested to a user experiencing stress.
[1568] Check stock availability
[1569] The availability of proposed welfare equipment can be checked in real time via an inventory check API. This allows users to make a purchase decision on the spot.
[1570] Specific example
[1571] User Information
[1572] Age: 70
[1573] Gender: Male
[1574] Physical condition: Arthritis
[1575] Emotional state
[1576] I am feeling stressed
[1577] Proposed welfare equipment
[1578] Massage chair
[1579] Relaxation Music Player
[1580] Example of a prompt
[1581] Please enter your user information.
[1582] Age: 70
[1583] Gender: Male
[1584] Physical condition: Arthritis
[1585] Analyzing emotional state...
[1586] Emotional state: Stress
[1587] Proposed assistive devices:
[1588] 1. Massage chair
[1589] 2. Relaxation Music Player
[1590] Checking stock availability...
[1591] Massage chair: In stock
[1592] Relaxation music player: Out of stock
[1593] In this way, using a smartphone application makes it possible to suggest the most suitable assistive devices based on the user's information and emotional state, and since inventory status can be checked in real time, users can make purchase decisions on the spot.
[1594] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 2 will be explained using Figure 18.
[1595] Step 1:
[1596] The user launches a smartphone application and enters information such as age, gender, and physical condition.
[1597] Input: Age, gender, physical condition
[1598] Output: User's basic information data
[1599] Specific operation: The user enters information into the application's input fields and presses the submit button. The server receives this information and saves it to the database.
[1600] Step 2:
[1601] The user uses their smartphone's microphone and camera to collect voice tone and facial expressions.
[1602] Input: Audio data, image data
[1603] Output: Emotional state data
[1604] Specific operation: The user records voice and takes a picture of their face with the camera. The device sends this data to EmotionEngine, which analyzes the emotional state. The analysis results are sent to the server.
[1605] Step 3:
[1606] The server searches for the most suitable assistive device from the assistive device database based on the user's basic information and emotional state.
[1607] Input: User's basic information data, emotional state data
[1608] Output: Proposed list of assistive devices
[1609] Specific operation: The server executes a database query to search for assistive devices that match the user's criteria. The search results are generated as a suggestion list and sent to the terminal.
[1610] Step 4:
[1611] The server checks the inventory status of the proposed welfare equipment via an inventory check API.
[1612] Input: Proposed list of assistive devices
[1613] Output: Inventory status data
[1614] Specific operation: The server calls the inventory check API to check the inventory status of each welfare device. The retrieved inventory information is added to the suggestion list and sent to the terminal.
[1615] Step 5:
[1616] The terminal displays suggested assistive devices and their availability to the user.
[1617] Input: Proposed list of assistive devices, inventory status data
[1618] Output: Content displayed to the user
[1619] Specific operation: The terminal displays a list of suggestions and inventory status in a user-friendly format. Based on this information, the user can decide on the selection and purchase of assistive devices.
[1620] The specific processing unit 290 transmits the result of the specific processing to the headset terminal 314. In the headset terminal 314, the control unit 46A causes the speaker 240 and display 343 to output the result of the specific processing. The microphone 238 acquires audio indicating user input for the result of the specific processing. The control unit 46A transmits the audio data indicating user input acquired by the microphone 238 to the data processing unit 12. In the data processing unit 12, the specific processing unit 290 acquires the audio data.
[1621] The data generation model 58 is a form of so-called generative AI (Artificial Intelligence). One example of the data generation model 58 is ChatGPT (Internet Search).<URL: https: / / openai.com / blog / chatgpt> Examples of generative AI include the following. The data generation model 58 is obtained by performing deep learning on a neural network. The data generation model 58 is input with prompts containing instructions, and with inference data such as audio data representing speech, text data representing text, and image data representing images. The data generation model 58 infers from the input inference data according to the instructions indicated by the prompts, and outputs the inference results in data formats such as audio data and text data. Here, inference refers to, for example, analysis, classification, prediction, and / or summarization.
[1622] Other examples of generative AI include Gemini (Internet search <url: https: gemini.google.com ?hl="ja">) are some examples.
[1623] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which specific processing is performed by the data processing device 12, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto, and specific processing may also be performed by the headset terminal 314.
[1624] [Fourth Embodiment]
[1625] Figure 7 shows an example of the configuration of the data processing system 410 according to the fourth embodiment.
[1626] As shown in Figure 7, the data processing system 410 includes a data processing device 12 and a robot 414. An example of the data processing device 12 is a server.
[1627] The data processing device 12 comprises a computer 22, a database 24, and a communication interface 26. The computer 22 is an example of a "computer" related to the technology of this disclosure. The computer 22 comprises a processor 28, RAM 30, and storage 32. The processor 28, RAM 30, and storage 32 are connected to a bus 34. The database 24 and the communication interface 26 are also connected to the bus 34. The communication interface 26 is connected to a network 54. An example of the network 54 is a WAN (Wide Area Network) and / or a LAN (Local Area Network).
[1628] The robot 414 includes a computer 36, a microphone 238, a speaker 240, a camera 42, a communication interface 44, and a controlled object 443. The computer 36 includes a processor 46, RAM 48, and storage 50. The processor 46, RAM 48, and storage 50 are connected to a bus 52. The microphone 238, speaker 240, camera 42, and controlled object 443 are also connected to the bus 52.
[1629] The microphone 238 receives voice signals from the user 20 and receives instructions from the user 20. The microphone 238 captures the voice signals from the user 20, converts the captured voice into audio data, and outputs it to the processor 46. The speaker 240 outputs audio according to the instructions from the processor 46.
[1630] Camera 42 is a small digital camera equipped with an optical system including a lens, aperture, and shutter, and an image sensor such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, and captures images of the area around the user 20 (for example, an imaging range defined by a field of view equivalent to the width of a typical healthy person's field of vision).
[1631] Communication interface 44 is connected to network 54. Communication interfaces 44 and 26 are responsible for the exchange of various information between processor 46 and processor 28 via network 54. The exchange of various information between processor 46 and processor 28 using communication interfaces 44 and 26 is performed in a secure manner.
[1632] The controlled object 443 includes a display device, LEDs in the eyes, and motors that drive the arms, hands, and feet. The posture and gestures of the robot 414 are controlled by controlling the motors of the arms, hands, and feet. Some of the robot 414's emotions can be expressed by controlling these motors. Furthermore, the robot 414's facial expressions can also be expressed by controlling the illumination state of the LEDs in its eyes.
[1633] Figure 8 shows an example of the main functions of the data processing device 12 and the robot 414. As shown in Figure 8, the data processing device 12 performs specific processing using the processor 28. The storage 32 stores the specific processing program 56.
[1634] The specific processing program 56 is an example of a "program" relating to the technology of this disclosure. The processor 28 reads the specific processing program 56 from the storage 32 and executes the read specific processing program 56 on the RAM 30. The specific processing is realized by the processor 28 operating as a specific processing unit 290 in accordance with the specific processing program 56 executed on the RAM 30.
[1635] The storage 32 stores the data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59. The data generation model 58 and the emotion identification model 59 are used by the identification processing unit 290.
[1636] In robot 414, the processor 46 performs the reception output processing. The storage 50 stores the reception output program 60. The processor 46 reads the reception output program 60 from the storage 50 and executes the read reception output program 60 on the RAM 48. The reception output processing is realized by the processor 46 operating as a control unit 46A according to the reception output program 60 executed on the RAM 48.
[1637] Next, the identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 will be described.
[1638] "Example of form 1"
[1639] The system of the present invention includes an interface for inputting user information. This interface may include fields for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition. The system also has a function to suggest appropriate assistive devices based on the input information. This function can, for example, search a database of assistive devices suitable for the user's physical condition and present the results to the user. Furthermore, the system has a function to refer to the past usage history of similar users. This function can, for example, search a database of past users to refer to what assistive devices were used by users with similar conditions. The system also has a function to link with inventory status. This function can, for example, check the inventory status of suggested assistive devices in real time and suggest only assistive devices that are in stock. These functions can reduce confusion and variations in quality when selecting assistive devices and support the creation of stable care plans.
[1640] "Example of form 2"
[1641] The system of the present invention includes an interface for inputting user information. This interface may include fields for inputting information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition. The system also has a function to suggest appropriate assistive devices based on the input information. This function can, for example, search a database of assistive devices suitable for the user's physical condition and present the results to the user. Furthermore, the system has a function to refer to the past usage history of similar users. This function can, for example, search a database of past users to refer to what assistive devices were used by users with similar conditions. The system also has a function to link with inventory status. This function can, for example, check the inventory status of suggested assistive devices in real time and suggest only assistive devices that are in stock. These functions can reduce confusion and variations in quality when selecting assistive devices and support the creation of stable care plans.
[1642] The following describes the processing flow for each example of the form.
[1643] "Example of form 1"
[1644] Step 1: Enter the user's information into the system interface. This information includes, for example, the user's age, gender, and physical condition.
[1645] Step 2: The system suggests appropriate assistive devices based on the entered information. Specifically, the system searches a database of assistive devices suitable for the user's physical condition and presents the results to the user.
[1646] Step 3: The system refers to the past usage history of similar users. Specifically, the system searches a database of past users and refers to what kinds of assistive devices users with similar conditions have used.
[1647] Step 4: The system is linked to inventory status. Specifically, the system checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time and only proposes assistive devices that are in stock.
[1648] "Example of form 2"
[1649] Step 1: Enter the user's information into the system interface. This information includes, for example, the user's age, gender, and physical condition.
[1650] Step 2: The system suggests appropriate assistive devices based on the entered information. Specifically, the system searches a database of assistive devices suitable for the user's physical condition and presents the results to the user.
[1651] Step 3: The system refers to the past usage history of similar users. Specifically, the system searches a database of past users and refers to what kinds of assistive devices users with similar conditions have used.
[1652] Step 4: The system is linked to inventory status. Specifically, the system checks the inventory status of proposed assistive devices in real time and only proposes assistive devices that are in stock.
[1653] (Example 1)
[1654] Next, we will describe Embodiment 1 of Example Form 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the robot 414 as the "terminal".
[1655] In selecting assistive devices, it is necessary to consider the user's individual physical condition and past usage history, while also checking inventory status in real time and proposing appropriate assistive devices. However, conventional systems have made it difficult to manage and propose these elements in an integrated manner, making it challenging to quickly and accurately select the most suitable assistive devices for users. This has led to inconsistencies and ambiguity in the selection of assistive devices, hindering the creation of stable care plans.
[1656] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[1657] In this invention, the server includes means for transmitting user information to the server, means for the server to search a database for appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for the server to search a database of past users and refer to the past usage history of similar users, means for the server to cooperate with an inventory management system to check the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment, and means for presenting only welfare equipment that is in stock to the user. This makes it possible to check the inventory status in real time while taking into account the user's individual physical condition and past usage history, and to quickly and accurately propose the most suitable welfare equipment.
[1658] "User information" refers to individual attribute information of the user, such as age, gender, and physical condition.
[1659] A "server" refers to a computer system that receives user information and performs processing such as database searches and inventory checks.
[1660] A "database" refers to an information system that stores and makes searchable data such as information on welfare equipment and past user records.
[1661] The "past user database" refers to a database that stores information about users who have previously used welfare equipment and their usage records.
[1662] An "inventory management system" refers to a system that manages the inventory status of welfare equipment in real time.
[1663] "Suggested welfare equipment" refers to welfare equipment that the server searches for based on the user's information and determines to be appropriate.
[1664] "Stock availability" refers to information indicating whether the proposed assistive device is currently available.
[1665] "Presenting to the user" means that the server sends search results and inventory information to the user's device, making it available for the user to review.
[1666] This invention relates to a system that takes user information as input and suggests appropriate assistive devices. A specific embodiment of this system is described below.
[1667] Entering user information
[1668] Users access the system's web interface using devices such as personal computers or smartphones. The interface is implemented using HTML and JavaScript and provides forms for users to input information such as their age, gender, and physical condition. Users enter this information into the forms and click the submit button.
[1669] Sending and receiving information
[1670] The terminal sends the information entered by the user to the server as an HTTP request. The server processes the received information using a backend system implemented in Python.
[1671] Proposal for welfare equipment
[1672] The server accesses a MySQL database based on the received user information to search for appropriate assistive devices. The search algorithm selects the most suitable assistive devices based on the user's physical condition, age, gender, and other criteria. The search results are generated in JSON format and sent to the terminal as an HTTP response. The terminal parses the received JSON data and displays the search results to the user.
[1673] Reference for past usage history
[1674] The server accesses the PostgreSQL database to search for past user data. The server retrieves data from past users with similar characteristics to the current user, using it as a reference to see what kinds of assistive devices were used. This information is also generated in JSON format and sent to the terminal as an HTTP response. The terminal parses the received JSON data and displays the past usage history to the user.
[1675] Checking stock availability
[1676] The server sends an API request to the ERP system to check the inventory status of the proposed assistive devices. The server selects only the assistive devices that are in stock and generates a JSON file. This information is also sent to the terminal as an HTTP response. The terminal parses the received JSON data and displays the assistive devices that are in stock to the user.
[1677] Specific example
[1678] For example, if a user enters "70 years old, male, difficulty walking," the server will suggest assistive devices such as walking aids and wheelchairs. It will also search a database of past users and generate a list of assistive devices used under similar conditions. Furthermore, it will integrate with an inventory management system to present only assistive devices that are in stock to the user.
[1679] Example of a prompt
[1680] The following are examples of prompts to input into the generative AI model.
[1681] "Please suggest assistive devices suitable for a 70-year-old male user with difficulty walking. Please also consider past usage history and current inventory."
[1682] By using this prompt, the generated AI model provides information to suggest the most suitable assistive devices for the user.
[1683] The flow of the specific processing in Example 1 will be explained using Figure 11.
[1684] Step 1:
[1685] Users access the system's web interface using devices such as personal computers or smartphones. They enter information such as age, gender, and physical condition into forms on the interface and click the submit button. The entered information is sent from the device to the server as an HTTP request.
[1686] Step 2:
[1687] The server receives HTTP requests sent by users. The received information is stored in a temporary data store on the server. The server uses a backend system implemented in Python to parse the received information and generate appropriate database queries.
[1688] Step 3:
[1689] The server accesses the MySQL database using the generated database query. The server searches for appropriate assistive devices based on the user's age, gender, and physical condition. The search results are generated in JSON format and stored in a temporary data store.
[1690] Step 4:
[1691] The server accesses the PostgreSQL database to search for past user data. The server retrieves data from past users with similar characteristics to the current user, using it as a reference to see what assistive devices were used. This information is also generated in JSON format and stored in a temporary data store.
[1692] Step 5:
[1693] The server sends an API request to the ERP system to check the inventory status of the proposed assistive devices. The server then selects only the assistive devices that are in stock and generates a JSON file. This information is also stored in a temporary data store.
[1694] Step 6:
[1695] The server integrates search results, past usage history, and inventory information stored in the temporary data store to generate a final suggestion list. The generated suggestion list is sent to the terminal as an HTTP response.
[1696] Step 7:
[1697] The terminal analyzes the received HTTP response and displays a list of suggested assistive devices to the user. The user can then review the displayed list and select the most suitable assistive device.
[1698] (Application Example 1)
[1699] Next, we will describe Application Example 1 of Form Example 1. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the robot 414 as the "terminal".
[1700] Conventional assistive device selection systems had several drawbacks: the process of users inputting their information and receiving recommendations for appropriate assistive devices was cumbersome, and real-time inventory checks were not possible, resulting in lengthy selection times. Furthermore, the system lacked sufficient functionality to refer to past usage data, making it difficult to recommend the most suitable assistive devices to users. This led to inconsistencies in the quality of assistive devices selected, making it difficult to create consistent care plans.
[1701] The specific processing performed by the specific processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Application Example 1 is realized by the following means.
[1702] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for suggesting appropriate welfare equipment based on the user information, means for referencing past usage records of similar users, means for linking with inventory status, means for inputting user information via smartphone and receiving suggestions for the most suitable welfare equipment, and means for checking the inventory status of the suggested welfare equipment in real time. As a result, users can easily input their own information, receive suggestions for the most suitable welfare equipment, and check inventory status in real time, thereby shortening the time required for selection, reducing hesitation and variations in quality in the selection of welfare equipment, and enabling the creation of stable care plans.
[1703] "Means for inputting user information" refers to a device or software that provides an interface for users to input information such as their age, gender, and physical condition.
[1704] "Means for proposing appropriate welfare equipment based on the user's information" refers to algorithms or systems for selecting and proposing the most suitable welfare equipment based on the user's information entered.
[1705] "A method that refers to the past usage history of similar users" refers to a function that refers to data on assistive devices used by users with similar conditions in the past and suggests assistive devices that are suitable for the current user.
[1706] The "means of linking with inventory status" refer to a system that checks the inventory information of proposed welfare equipment in real time and proposes only those items that are in stock.
[1707] "A means of inputting user information via smartphone and receiving suggestions for the most suitable welfare equipment" refers to a function that allows users to input their own information using a smartphone application and receive suggestions for the most suitable welfare equipment based on that information.
[1708] "A means of checking the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time" refers to a system that acquires inventory information of proposed welfare equipment in real time and presents it to the user.
[1709] The system for carrying out this invention consists of a smartphone application and a server. A specific embodiment is described below.
[1710] System Configuration
[1711] hardware
[1712] Smartphone: A device used by users to input information.
[1713] Server: A central processing unit for managing the database and proposing assistive devices.
[1714] software
[1715] Smartphone application: Provides an interface for users to input their information and receive suggestions for assistive devices.
[1716] Flask: A web framework that runs on the server side. It handles database interaction and user information processing.
[1717] Database: Data storage for managing information on welfare equipment, users' past usage history, and inventory status.
[1718] Data processing and data calculation
[1719] User information entry
[1720] Users enter information such as their age, gender, and physical condition through a smartphone application. This information is sent to a server and stored in a database.
[1721] Proposal for welfare equipment
[1722] The server searches the database for appropriate assistive devices based on the user's input information. The search results are generated using an algorithm that filters assistive devices to match the user's age range, gender, and physical condition.
[1723] Reference for past usage history
[1724] The server references past user data in the database to retrieve information on assistive devices used by users with similar conditions. This information is also taken into consideration when making suggestions.
[1725] Checking stock availability
[1726] The server connects to a database to check the real-time inventory status of proposed assistive devices. Only assistive devices that are in stock are suggested to the user.
[1727] Display of proposal results
[1728] The smartphone application displays the suggested results received from the server to the user. The user can check detailed information and inventory status of the suggested assistive devices.
[1729] Specific example
[1730] For example, if a 65-year-old male user is looking for assistive devices related to "mobility," he would enter the following information into the smartphone application.
[1731] Age: 65
[1732] Gender: Male
[1733] Physical condition: Eli
[1734] This information is sent to the server, which searches the database and suggests appropriate assistive devices (e.g., wheelchairs, walkers). The inventory status of the suggested assistive devices is also checked in real time, and only those in stock are displayed.
[1735] Example of a prompt
[1736] "Please enter the user's age, gender, and physical condition. Example: Age: 65, Gender: Male, Physical condition: Mobility"
[1737] In this way, users can easily select the most suitable assistive devices for themselves, reducing the time required for selection and enabling the creation of high-quality care plans.
[1738] The flow of a specific process in Application Example 1 will be explained using Figure 12.
[1739] Step 1:
[1740] The user launches a smartphone application and enters information such as age, gender, and physical condition. The entered information is sent to the server by the smartphone application. The input data is sent in JSON format and received on the server side.
[1741] Step 2:
[1742] The server analyzes the received user information and stores it in the database. Specifically, it extracts fields such as age, gender, and physical condition and stores them in the corresponding tables in the database. During this process, it verifies the integrity of the data and checks for any invalid data.
[1743] Step 3:
[1744] The server searches the database for assistive devices that match the user's criteria. Age range, gender, and physical condition are used as search criteria. The search results are retrieved as a list of assistive devices that match the criteria.
[1745] Step 4:
[1746] The server references past user data to retrieve information on assistive devices used by users with similar conditions. This improves the accuracy of the recommendations. Past usage data is filtered by similar conditions, and the results are retrieved.
[1747] Step 5:
[1748] The server checks the inventory status of the proposed assistive devices in real time. It refers to the inventory table in the database and lists only the assistive devices that are in stock. The inventory information is configured to be updated periodically.
[1749] Step 6:
[1750] The server generates the final proposal results and sends them to the smartphone application. The proposal results include detailed information and inventory status of the assistive devices. The data is sent in JSON format and displayed on the smartphone application.
[1751] Step 7:
[1752] Users review a list of suggested assistive devices on a smartphone application. They can view detailed information and availability for each device and select the most suitable one. Users can also enter additional information as needed to receive further suggestions.
[1753] (Example 2)
[1754] Next, we will describe Example 2 of the morphological example. In the following description, the data processing device 12 will be referred to as the "server" and the robot 414 as the "terminal".
[1755] Conventional assistive device selection systems have difficulty adequately considering the individual physical condition and past usage history of users, making it challenging to propose appropriate assistive devices. Furthermore, they lacked the ability to check inventory status in real time, making it unclear whether proposed assistive devices were actually available. This led to inconsistencies and ambiguity in the selection of assistive devices, making it difficult to create consistent care plans.
[1756] The identification process performed by the identification processing unit 290 of the data processing device 12 in Example 2 is realized by the following means.
[1757] In this invention, the server includes means for inputting user information, means for transmitting the user information to the server, means for searching a welfare equipment database based on the information, means for searching a past user database and referring to the usage history of users with similar conditions, means for checking the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in conjunction with an inventory management system, means for proposing only welfare equipment that is in stock, and means for presenting the proposed content to the user. This makes it possible to propose appropriate welfare equipment that takes into account the user's individual physical condition and past usage history, and by checking the inventory status in real time, it is possible to propose only welfare equipment that is actually available. This reduces confusion and variations in quality in the selection of welfare equipment, and enables the creation of stable care plans.
[1758] "Means for inputting user information" refers to a device or software that provides an interface for users to input information such as age, gender, and physical condition.
[1759] "Means for transmitting the user's information to the server" refers to communication means for transmitting the entered user information to the server.
[1760] "Means for searching the welfare equipment database based on said information" refers to an algorithm or program for searching the welfare equipment database based on the user information received by the server.
[1761] "Means of searching a past user database and referring to the usage history of users with similar conditions" refers to an algorithm or program that searches a past user database and refers to the usage history of past users with similar conditions.
[1762] "Means for checking the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in conjunction with an inventory management system" refers to a communication method for linking with an inventory management system in order to check the inventory status of proposed welfare equipment in real time.
[1763] "A method for proposing only welfare equipment that is in stock" refers to an algorithm or program that includes only welfare equipment whose availability has been confirmed as being in stock in the final proposal list.
[1764] "Means for presenting proposals to users" refers to a device or software that provides an interface for displaying the final list of proposals to users.
[1765] This invention relates to a system that takes user information as input and suggests appropriate assistive devices. A specific embodiment of this system is described below.
[1766] Entering user information
[1767] Users access the system interface using a terminal. The interface is provided through a web browser or a dedicated application. Users enter information such as age, gender, and physical condition into fields on the interface. For example, a user might enter "Age: 70, Gender: Male, Physical condition: Difficulty walking."
[1768] Information transmission
[1769] The terminal sends the entered information to the server. This information is sent as an HTTP request.
[1770] Searching Databases
[1771] The server searches the welfare equipment database based on the information it receives. The database contains the application conditions and characteristics of each welfare device. For example, the server searches for a walking aid suitable for a "70-year-old male with difficulty walking."
[1772] Reference for past usage history
[1773] The server searches the past user database to see what kinds of assistive devices other users with similar conditions used. For example, the server searches for "assistive devices previously used by a 70-year-old man with difficulty walking."
[1774] Proposal generation
[1775] The server generates a list of appropriate assistive devices based on the search results. This list includes detailed information about each assistive device and why it is suitable for the user's needs.
[1776] Checking stock availability
[1777] The server integrates with an inventory management system to check the real-time availability of proposed assistive devices. For example, the server checks whether "proposed walking aid A is in stock."
[1778] Inventory check results will be reflected.
[1779] The server will only include assistive devices that are in stock in the final proposal list. For example, if "Walking aid A" is out of stock, it will be removed from the list.
[1780] Presentation of propo...
Claims
1. An interface for inputting attribute information such as the user's age, gender, and physical condition, A means for searching for appropriate welfare equipment from a welfare equipment database based on the input attribute information, Based on the search results, a means of referencing the usage history of the assistive device from a past user database that records assistive devices used by users with similar conditions in the past, A means for obtaining inventory information of the welfare equipment based on the aforementioned usage history from an external inventory management system and filtering to show only the welfare equipment that is in stock, A means for outputting welfare equipment information obtained through the filtering means to a user terminal, A system that includes this.
2. The means for outputting to the user terminal checks the inventory status of the welfare equipment in conjunction with the inventory management system and outputs only the welfare equipment information for the welfare equipment that is in stock. The system according to claim 1.
3. The means for outputting to the user terminal outputs information about the welfare equipment using a generation AI model based on a prompt message corresponding to the user's emotional state detected by the emotion engine. The system according to claim 1.
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