Information provision system, information provision method, and information provision program

Abstract

Providing sports suggestions based on an individual's left and right limb motor abilities. [Solution] An information provision system for outputting suggested information about sports based on the motor abilities of an individual's left and right limbs is provided. The information provision system includes an input unit that acquires input information (300) including one or more evaluation indexes for the dexterity of a user's left and right limbs, a memory unit that stores multiple pieces of suggested information (312) linked to one or more conditions defined using the one or more evaluation indexes, a selection unit that references the memory unit and selects, from the multiple pieces of suggested information (312), one or more pieces of suggested information (320) linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information, and an output unit that outputs the selected one or more pieces of suggested information (320).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a technique for outputting proposal information related to sports based on the movement abilities of an individual's left and right hands and feet.

Background Art

[0002] Generally, a person's dominant hand and foot are defined by the hands and feet that are frequently used in daily life. Such a dominant hand and foot (i.e., the movement abilities of the left and right hands and feet) may have a great influence on the play style for each sport and the sports equipment used. As an example, a player may use sports equipment (such as a golf club and a baseball glove, etc.) that is significantly different in characteristics depending on the left or right of the dominant hand. As another example, a player may select a play style or a position in a sport such as soccer depending on the left or right of the dominant foot. However, the dominant hand is not necessarily the hand that is frequently used in daily life. Also, it is considered that there are individual differences in the balance of dexterity between the left and right hands. The same applies to the feet.

[0003] Regarding the technique for measuring the dexterity of the left and right hands and feet, for example, International Publication No. 2022 / 230097 (Patent Document 1) discloses a measuring device equipped with a sensor. The measuring device is "a motion data acquisition unit that acquires motion data, which is data measured by the measuring device when a subject holds and moves the measuring device equipped with a sensor with each of the right hand and the left hand, and a motion ability estimation unit that acquires time-series data of the motions of the right hand and the left hand from the motion data and normalizes the time-series data to evaluate the motion ability of each of the right hand and the left hand" (see [Summary]).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, it may be possible to evaluate the motor skills of an individual's right and left hands. However, the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 does not disclose how to utilize the information on the motor skills of an individual's left and right limbs. Therefore, there is a need for technology that can make sports-related suggestions based on an individual's motor skills of their left and right limbs.

[0006] This disclosure is made in light of the above-mentioned background, and in one aspect, its purpose is to provide a technology for making sports-related suggestions based on an individual's motor skills in their left and right limbs. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one embodiment, an information provision system is provided for outputting sports-related suggestion information based on an individual's motor skills of their left and right limbs. The information provision system includes an input unit that acquires input information including one or more evaluation indicators of the dexterity of the user's left and right limbs; a storage unit that stores a plurality of suggestion pieces linked to one or more conditions defined using one or more evaluation indicators; a selection unit that refers to the storage unit and selects one or more suggestion pieces from the plurality of suggestion pieces linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information; and an output unit that outputs the selected one or more suggestion pieces.

[0008] In a given scenario, multiple proposed pieces of information may include information on sports equipment. Selecting one or more proposed pieces of information from among multiple proposed pieces of information that are linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information includes selecting one or more pieces of sports equipment information from among multiple pieces of sports equipment information as one or more proposed pieces of information.

[0009] In a given scenario, multiple proposals include information on customizing sports equipment. Selecting one or more proposals from among multiple proposals that are linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information includes selecting one or more sports equipment customization information from among multiple sports equipment customization information as one or more proposals.

[0010] In a given situation, multiple proposed pieces of information include multiple pieces of sports information. Selecting one or more proposed pieces of information from among multiple proposed pieces of information that are linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information includes selecting one or more pieces of sports information from among multiple pieces of sports information as one or more proposed pieces of information.

[0011] In a given scenario, multiple suggested pieces of information include at least one of multiple play style information and multiple training method information for each sport. Selecting one or more suggested pieces of information from among the multiple suggested pieces of information that are linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information includes at least one of the following: selecting one or more play style information from among the multiple play style information as one or more suggested pieces of information, and selecting one or more training method information from among the multiple training method information as one or more suggested pieces of information.

[0012] In another embodiment, a computer-based information provision method is provided for outputting sports-related suggestion information based on the motor skills of an individual's left and right limbs. The information provision method includes obtaining one or more evaluation indicators of the dexterity of the user's left and right limbs, selecting one or more suggestion pieces of information from a plurality of suggestion pieces linked to one or more conditions defined using one or more pre-prepared evaluation indicators, which are linked to conditions that one or more evaluation indicators satisfy, and outputting the selected one or more suggestion pieces of information.

[0013] In another embodiment, an information provision program is provided for outputting sports-related suggestion information based on the motor skills of an individual's left and right limbs. The information provision program causes a computer to perform the following actions: obtain one or more evaluation indicators of the dexterity of the user's left and right limbs; select one or more suggestion pieces of information from among multiple suggestion pieces linked to one or more conditions defined using one or more pre-prepared evaluation indicators, which are linked to the conditions that one or more evaluation indicators satisfy; and output the selected one or more suggestion pieces of information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to one embodiment, a technology can be provided for making sports-related suggestions based on an individual's motor skills in their left and right arms and legs.

[0015] The above and other purposes, features, aspects and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description of this disclosure, which will be understood in conjunction with the attached drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the functional configuration of system 100 according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the hardware configuration of System 100. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the first proposed function provided by System 100. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of a second proposed function provided by System 100. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of a third proposed function provided by System 100. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of the fourth proposed function provided by System 100. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of the measurement results for 700 baseball players who have switched from right-handed to left-handed batting, or who have attempted to do so, regarding the difference in dexterity between their left and right hands and feet. [Figure 8]It is a diagram showing an example of a series of processing procedures until proposal information in system 100 is output.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] Hereinafter, embodiments of the technical idea according to the present disclosure will be described while referring to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated. Also, each embodiment, each modification example, each software configuration, each hardware configuration, each function, and each process, etc. may be selectively combined as appropriate.

[0018] <A. System Configuration> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of system 100 according to the present embodiment. System 100 provides a user with proposals related to sports based on evaluation indexes of the dexterity of the left and right hands and feet of a user (or an individual) who uses system 100. The dexterity of the left and right hands and feet may also be called the motor ability of the left and right hands and feet. Proposals related to sports include sports equipment suitable for the user, a method of customizing sports equipment, sports, and a play style or practice method in sports, etc. As an example, a user who wants to start a certain sport can know a sport suitable for his / her characteristics by using system 100. As another example, a user who wants to improve the performance of a sport that he / she is currently continuing can know sports equipment suitable for his / her characteristics, a method of customizing sports equipment, a play style or a practice method by using system 100.

[0019] System 100 mainly includes an input unit 102, a selection unit 104, a storage unit 106, and an output unit 108. Also, system 100 is configured to be communicable with terminal 110 via a wired network or a wireless network.

[0020] In some cases, each component of system 100 may be implemented as a program. In this case, the functions of each component of system 100 are realized by the execution of the program on the hardware configuration shown in Figure 2. In other cases, some of the components of system 100 may be implemented as hardware.

[0021] In some contexts, system 100 may be implemented as a server device, a cloud service, a server-client system, or a standalone device. In other contexts, system 100 may be implemented as a server program, virtual machine, node, instance, or container operating on a server device or cloud environment. When system 100 is configured as a single device or a group of devices, system 100 may be referred to as a device.

[0022] The input unit 102 is configured to acquire input information that includes at least one of the evaluation indices for the dexterity of the user's left and right hands and the evaluation indices for the dexterity of their left and right feet. The input unit 102 may also be configured to accept input of the evaluation indices for the dexterity of the left and right hands and feet. Hereafter, the evaluation indices for the dexterity of the left and right hands and feet may simply be referred to as "evaluation indices". The input unit 102 outputs the input information to the selection unit 104.

[0023] The "dexterity evaluation index for left and right hands" includes the evaluation index for left-hand dexterity, the evaluation index for right-hand dexterity, and the evaluation index for overall left and right-hand dexterity (sometimes simply called hand dexterity). The hand dexterity evaluation index is calculated from the evaluation index for left-hand dexterity and the evaluation index for right-hand dexterity. As an example, the hand dexterity evaluation index may be the average or sum of the evaluation index for left-hand dexterity and right-hand dexterity.

[0024] The "Evaluation Index for Left and Right Foot Dexterity" includes the evaluation index for left foot dexterity, the evaluation index for right foot dexterity, and the evaluation index for left and right foot dexterity (sometimes simply called foot dexterity). The foot dexterity evaluation index is calculated from the evaluation index for left foot dexterity and the evaluation index for right foot dexterity. As an example, the foot dexterity evaluation index may be the average or sum of the evaluation index for left foot dexterity and right foot dexterity.

[0025] The "dexterity evaluation index for left and right hands and feet" includes the evaluation index for the dexterity of the left and right hands and the evaluation index for the dexterity of the left and right feet. Furthermore, the "dexterity evaluation index for left and right hands and feet" includes the evaluation index for the dexterity of the left hand and the evaluation index for the dexterity of the right hand and the evaluation index for the dexterity of the right hand and the evaluation index for the dexterity of the right foot. The evaluation index for the dexterity of the left hand and the evaluation index for the dexterity of the left foot are calculated from the evaluation index for the dexterity of the right hand and the evaluation index for the dexterity of the right foot (average or sum).

[0026] In one scenario, each evaluation index may be a value obtained by having each limb perform a specific movement and measuring that movement with a sensor, as shown in Patent Document 1. For example, the user attaches terminals 110 to each limb and repeatedly performs a predetermined movement. The application on terminal 110 can calculate evaluation indices for the left and right limbs by scoring the deviation of the movement pattern (the variation in the value of the periodic signal from the acceleration sensor). In other scenarios, each evaluation index may be calculated using other evaluation methods such as the peg test.

[0027] In some situations, the input unit 102 may receive evaluation indicators from the terminal 110. In other situations, the input unit 102 may receive evaluation indicators from an interface such as a button or touch panel provided on the system 100.

[0028] The memory unit 106 stores multiple pieces of suggested information linked to one or more conditions using one or more evaluation indicators. For example, each of the one or more conditions may be defined by the range, difference, sum, or average of one or more evaluation indicators, such as "left foot dexterity evaluation indicator > 20" or "the difference between the left foot dexterity evaluation indicator and the right foot dexterity evaluation indicator is less than 10". Each of the one or more conditions may also include the value of one of the evaluation indicators itself. The multiple pieces of suggested information may be represented as records in databases 310, 410, 510A, 510B, and 610, as shown in Figures 3 to 6, as an example. Details of databases 310, 410, 510A, 510B, and 610 will be described later.

[0029] In some scenarios, the storage unit 106 may be implemented as a relational database management system. In other scenarios, the storage unit 106 may be implemented as a NoSQL database management system. In yet another scenario, the storage unit 106 may be implemented as a simple storage area.

[0030] The selection unit 104 is configured to refer to the storage unit 106 and select one or more suggestion information corresponding to the evaluation indicators included in the input information from among multiple suggestion information. For example, the suggestion information may include one or more suggestion information for sports equipment suitable for the user, customization information for sports equipment suitable for the user, suggestion information for sports suitable for the user, and suggestion information for a play style or training method suitable for the user. The selection unit 104 outputs the selected suggestion information to the output unit 108.

[0031] In some scenarios, the selection unit 104 may select one or more suggested information. For example, suppose the system 100 suggests running shoes (sports equipment) to the user. In this case, the system 100 may suggest one or more running shoes suitable for the user based on the input information. In other scenarios, the selection unit 104 may select different types of suggested information simultaneously. For example, the system 100 may suggest both running shoes and methods for customizing running shoes to the user.

[0032] The output unit 108 outputs one or more pieces of suggestion information. In one scenario, the output unit 108 may transmit one or more pieces of suggestion information to the terminal 110. In other scenarios, the output unit 108 may output one or more pieces of suggestion information to the display of the system 100.

[0033] Terminal 110 is configured to measure an evaluation index for the dexterity of the left and right hands and feet. Terminal 110 is also configured to transmit the evaluation index for the dexterity of the left and right hands and feet to system 100. Furthermore, terminal 110 is configured to receive one or more suggestion information from system 100 and to display one or more suggestion information on its display. In some cases, terminal 110 may be a smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, personal computer, or any other information processing device.

[0034] As explained with reference to Figure 1, the information provision system (system 100) according to this embodiment includes an input unit 102 that acquires input information including one or more evaluation indicators of the dexterity of the user's left and right hands and feet, a storage unit 106 that stores a plurality of suggestion information linked to one or more conditions defined using one or more evaluation indicators, a selection unit 104 that refers to the storage unit 106 and selects one or more suggestion information from the plurality of suggestion information that is linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information, and an output unit 108 that outputs the selected one or more suggestion information.

[0035] As mentioned earlier in this specification, there are individual differences in the balance of dexterity between the left and right hands and feet, so it is thought that the optimal sports equipment and playing style will differ for each user. Therefore, it has been difficult for users to select the optimal sports equipment and playing style for themselves. To solve this problem, System 100 can provide the user with sports-related suggestions based on an evaluation index of the user's dexterity between their hands and feet. By using System 100, the user can obtain suggestion information from a different perspective regarding sports equipment suitable for them, customization of sports equipment, sports, playing style, and training methods.

[0036] Figure 2 shows an example of the hardware configuration of system 100. In some scenarios, system 100 may not have some of the configuration shown in Figure 2. In other scenarios, system 100 may have configurations not shown in Figure 2. In yet other scenarios, various functions of system 100 can be realized by executing programs on the hardware shown in Figure 2.

[0037] System 100 includes a processor 201, memory 202, storage 203, external device interface 204, input interface 205, output interface 206, and communication interface 207. In some cases, system 100 may have two or more of each component, or it may not have some of the components.

[0038] The processor 201 can execute programs to realize various functions of the system 100. The processor 201 is composed of, for example, at least one integrated circuit. According to one embodiment, the integrated circuit may include at least one CPU (Central Processing Unit), at least one GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), at least one FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), at least one ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), at least one AI (Artificial Intelligence) chip, or a combination thereof.

[0039] Memory 202 functions as a workspace for processor 201. Memory 202 stores programs executed by processor 201 and data referenced by processor 201. In some cases, memory 202 may be implemented as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), etc.

[0040] Storage 203 is non-volatile memory that stores programs executed by processor 201 and data referenced by processor 201. Processor 201 executes programs read from storage 203 into memory 202 and references data read from storage 203 into memory 202. In some cases, storage 203 can be implemented by an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), or flash memory, etc.

[0041] The external device IF204 can be connected to any external device such as a printer, scanner, and external HDD. In a certain aspect, the external device IF204 can be realized by a USB (Universal Serial Bus) terminal or the like.

[0042] The input IF205 can be connected to any input device such as a keyboard, mouse, touch pad, or game pad. In a certain aspect, the input IF205 can be realized by a USB terminal, PS / 2 terminal, and Bluetooth (registered trademark) module or the like.

[0043] The output IF206 can be connected to any output device such as a cathode ray tube display, liquid crystal display, or organic EL display. In a certain aspect, the output IF206 can be realized by a USB terminal, D-sub terminal, DVI (Digital Visual Interface) terminal, HDMI (registered trademark) (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) terminal, and display port terminal or the like.

[0044] The communication IF207 is connected to other devices via a wired network or a wireless network. In a certain aspect, the communication IF207 can be realized by a wired LAN (Local Area Network) port and Wi-Fi (registered trademark) (Wireless Fidelity) module or the like. In other aspects, the communication IF207 can transmit and receive data using communication protocols such as TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) and UDP (User Datagram Protocol).

[0045] <B. Type of Proposal> Figure 3 shows an example of the first suggestion function provided by system 100. The first suggestion function is a function that suggests sports equipment suitable for each individual. System 100 receives input information 300 and refers to the database 310 in the storage unit 106. Next, system 100 selects information on one or more sports equipment corresponding to the input information 300 as suggestion information. Next, system 100 outputs output information 320 containing the suggestion information. As an example, system 100 may output suggestion information for tennis rackets, bats, golf clubs, apparel, shoes, or any other sports equipment.

[0046] The input unit 102 receives the input information 300 and outputs the input information 300 to the selection unit 104. The input unit 102 may also register the input information 300 in the storage unit 106. In this case, past input information 300 is accumulated in the storage unit 106. The input information 300 may include one or more evaluation indicators. More specifically, the input information 300 may include an evaluation indicator for left-hand dexterity, an evaluation indicator for right-hand dexterity, an evaluation indicator for left-foot dexterity, and an evaluation indicator for right-foot dexterity. Furthermore, the input information 300 may include an evaluation indicator for hand dexterity (dexterity of both hands), an evaluation indicator for foot dexterity (dexterity of both feet), an evaluation indicator for left-hand and left-foot dexterity, and an evaluation indicator for right-hand and right-foot dexterity.

[0047] In certain situations, depending on the type of sports equipment proposed, the input information 300 may omit some evaluation indices. For example, if the proposed sports equipment is a product operated by hand, such as a tennis racket, the input information 300 may only include evaluation indices for left-hand dexterity, right-hand dexterity, and overall hand dexterity (dexterity of both hands). As another example, if the proposed sports equipment is soccer shoes, the input information 300 may only include evaluation indices for left-foot dexterity, right-foot dexterity, and overall foot dexterity (dexterity of both feet). These also apply to Figures 4 to 6.

[0048] In certain situations, the input information 300 may include information specifying the desired suggestion information in addition to each evaluation indicator. For example, if the user wants suggestions for sports equipment, they may add information specifying "suggestions for sports equipment" to the input information.

[0049] In the example in Figure 3, each evaluation index shows a score linked to the standard deviation of the degree of variability, with the average variability for the same age group set to "100". As an example, this variability can be obtained by calculating the similarity of time-series data of acceleration signals of continuous periodic movements using DTW (Dynamic Time Warping) or similar methods when the hands and feet perform continuous periodic movements, and then calculating the average of these similarities. In other words, a score higher than "100" indicates that the user is more dexterous than the average for their age group. Conversely, a score lower than "100" indicates that the user is less dexterous than the average for their age group. To explain using input information 300 as an example, the evaluation index for the right hand dexterity of the user who entered input information 300 is "85", which is lower than the average of "100" for the same age group. Therefore, it can be said that the user has low right-hand dexterity. Conversely, the evaluation index for the left foot dexterity of the same user is "130", which is higher than the average of "100" for the same age group. Therefore, it can be said that the user has high left-foot dexterity. The evaluation indicators for the left and right limbs shown in Figures 3 to 6 are just examples; the evaluation indicators can be expressed in any format.

[0050] When the selection unit 104 proposes sports equipment, it refers to the database 310 of sports equipment registered in the storage unit 106. The database 310 contains multiple sets of correspondences between conditions 311 and proposed information 312. That is, the database 310 contains multiple pieces of proposed information. Condition 311 is defined using one or more evaluation indicators. Condition 311 may also include evaluation indicators included in the input information 300. In the example in Figure 3, condition 311 indicates the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands. Proposed information 312 includes information on sports equipment linked to condition 311. In the example in Figure 3, proposed information 312 shows bats (sports equipment) or methods for customizing grips based on the thickness of the left and right hand grips. As another example, proposed information 312 may show bats based on the friction of the left and right hand grips. In some cases, each condition 311 may be linked to multiple pieces of proposed information 312. In other situations, each condition 311 of the database 310 may be updated based on the input information 300 stored in the system 100.

[0051] The operation of the selection unit 104 will be explained in more detail using Figure 3 as an example. First, the selection unit 104 retrieves condition 311 from the database 310. Next, the selection unit 104 refers to condition 311 and determines whether there is a condition that satisfies one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information 300. The condition that satisfies one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information 300 is condition 311, "10 or more and less than 20". The selection unit 104 retrieves the suggested information 312, "left hand + 1cm", which is associated with condition 311, "10 or more and less than 20", from the database 310. The selection unit 104 outputs the obtained suggested information 312, "left hand + 1cm", to the output unit 108.

[0052] In a given situation, the selection unit 104 may calculate one or more values ​​for comparison with condition 311. These one or more values ​​may include any values ​​such as the difference in dexterity between both feet and both hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands and feet, the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right feet, or the absolute values ​​of the dexterity of the left and right hands and feet. In the example in Figure 3, the selection unit 104 may calculate the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands as one or more values. The result of calculating one or more values ​​is "15" (evaluation index for left hand dexterity "100" - evaluation index for right hand dexterity "85"). If one or more values ​​are calculated, the selection unit 104 may use these one or more values ​​instead of the one or more evaluation indexes included in the input information 300 to perform the aforementioned processing.

[0053] The output unit 108 outputs the suggested information 312 "left hand + 1cm" as output information 320. In a given situation, the output unit 108 may generate text to provide to the user from the suggested information 312 and output the generated text as output information 320. For example, the output unit 108 may generate and output text such as, "We recommend a bat in which the left hand grip is 1cm thicker than the right hand grip."

[0054] As explained with reference to Figure 3, the multiple suggestion information 312 includes multiple sports equipment information. Selecting one or more suggestion information from the multiple suggestion information 312 that is linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information 300 includes selecting one or more sports equipment information from the multiple sports equipment information as one or more suggestion information. As a result, the system 100 can provide the user with suggestion information for sports equipment based on evaluation indicators for the left and right hands and feet. The user can use the suggestion information as a reference to select sports equipment that suits them from a wide range of products. Furthermore, companies that sell sports equipment can use the system 100 to suggest sports equipment that is suitable for their customers.

[0055] Figure 4 shows an example of a second suggestion function provided by system 100. The second suggestion function is a function that suggests a method for customizing sports equipment to suit each individual. System 100 receives input information 400 and refers to the database 410 in the storage unit 106. Next, system 100 selects one or more sports equipment customization information corresponding to the input information 400 as suggestion information. Next, system 100 outputs output information 420 containing the suggestion information.

[0056] The input unit 102 receives the input information 400 and outputs the input information 400 to the selection unit 104. The input unit 102 may also register the input information 400 in the storage unit 106. The input information 400 is the same information as the input information 300, and its explanation will not be repeated. In some cases, depending on the type of sports equipment customization proposed, the input information 400 may not include some evaluation indicators. In other cases, the input information 400 may include information specifying desired proposed information in addition to each evaluation indicator.

[0057] When the selection unit 104 proposes a method for customizing sports equipment, it refers to the database 410 registered in the storage unit 106 regarding the customization of sports equipment. The database 410 contains multiple sets of correspondences between conditions 411 and proposed information 412. That is, the database 410 contains multiple pieces of proposed information. Condition 411 is defined using one or more evaluation indicators. Condition 411 may also include evaluation indicators included in the input information 400. In the example in Figure 4, condition 411 indicates the difference in dexterity between the left and right feet. Proposed information 412 includes information on a method for customizing sports equipment linked to condition 411. In the example in Figure 4, proposed information 412 shows a method for adjusting the weight of the left and right shoes. As another example, proposed information 412 may show a method for selecting materials for the shoe's upper, insole, midsole, and outsole. In some cases, each condition 411 may be linked to multiple pieces of proposed information 412. In other situations, each condition 411 of the database 410 may be updated based on the input information 400 stored in the system 100.

[0058] The operation of the selection unit 104 will be explained in more detail using Figure 4 as an example. First, the selection unit 104 retrieves condition 411 from the database 410. Next, the selection unit 104 refers to condition 411 and determines whether there is a condition that satisfies one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information 400. The condition that satisfies one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information 400 is condition 411 "10 or more and less than 20". The selection unit 104 retrieves suggestion information 412 "left foot +10g" associated with condition 411 "10 or more and less than 20" from the database 410. The selection unit 104 outputs the obtained suggestion information 412 "left foot +10g" to the output unit 108.

[0059] In a given situation, the selection unit 104 may calculate one or more values ​​for comparison with condition 411. These one or more values ​​may include any values ​​such as the difference in dexterity between both feet and both hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands and feet, the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right feet, or the absolute values ​​of the dexterity of the left and right hands and feet. In the example in Figure 4, the selection unit 104 calculates the difference in dexterity between the left and right feet as one or more values. The result of calculating one or more values ​​is "15" (evaluation index for left foot dexterity "130" - evaluation index for right foot dexterity "115"). If one or more values ​​are calculated, the selection unit 104 may use these one or more values ​​instead of the one or more evaluation indices included in the input information 400 to perform the aforementioned processing.

[0060] The output unit 108 outputs the suggestion information 412 "Left foot +10g" as output information 420. In a given situation, the output unit 108 may generate text to provide to the user from the suggestion information 412 and output the generated text as output information 420. For example, the output unit 108 may generate and output text such as, "We recommend making your left shoe 10g heavier than your right shoe."

[0061] In certain situations, system 100 may have multiple databases to accommodate various customizations. For example, system 100 may have a database 430 related to shoe stiffness adjustment. Database 430 contains multiple sets of correspondences between conditions 431 and suggested information 432. By referring to database 430, system 100 can present the user with suggestions for adjusting the stiffness of the left and right shoes. As another example, system 100 may have a database 440 related to shoe grip adjustment. Database 440 contains multiple sets of correspondences between conditions 441 and suggested information 442. By referring to database 440, system 100 can present the user with suggestions for adjusting the grip of the left and right shoes. Furthermore, system 100 may combine multiple databases such as databases 410, 420, and 430 to propose comprehensive customization of sports equipment.

[0062] As explained with reference to Figure 4, System 100 can provide users with suggested information on how to customize sports equipment based on evaluation indicators for the left and right limbs. Users can then customize their sports equipment to make it easier to use by referring to the suggested information. Furthermore, companies that sell sports equipment can use System 100 to propose customized sports equipment services or customized goods that are suitable for their customers.

[0063] As explained with reference to Figure 4, the multiple proposal information 412, 432, and 442 include customization information for multiple sports equipment. Selecting one or more proposal information from among the multiple proposal information 412, 432, and 442 that is linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information 400 includes selecting one or more sports equipment customization information from among the multiple sports equipment customization information as one or more proposal information.

[0064] Figure 5 shows an example of a third suggestion function provided by system 100. The third suggestion function is a function that suggests a sport suitable for each individual. System 100 receives input information (input information 500A, 500B, etc.) and refers to the database (database 510A, 510B, etc.) in the storage unit 106. Next, system 100 selects one or more sport information corresponding to the input information as suggestion information. Next, system 100 outputs output information (output information 520A, 520B, etc.) that includes the suggestion information.

[0065] The input unit 102 receives input information (input information 500A, 500B, etc.) and outputs the input information to the selection unit 104. The input unit 102 may also register the input information in the storage unit 106. The input information is the same as input information 300 and 400, and its explanation will not be repeated. In some situations, depending on the type of sport being proposed, the input information may not include some evaluation indicators. In other situations, the input information may include information specifying desired proposed information in addition to each evaluation indicator.

[0066] When the selection unit 104 suggests a sport, it refers to the sports database registered in the storage unit 106. In some cases, the system 100 may have a database for each type of sport. In the example in Figure 5, the system 100 has a database 510A for track and field and a database 510B for ball games. The system 100 may also have databases for any other sport. Furthermore, the system 100 may combine these databases to suggest a sport suitable for the user from among various sports. Moreover, the sports database does not have to be separated by sport. In this case, the system 100 can refer to the sports database to suggest a sport suitable for the user from among various sports.

[0067] Database 510A contains multiple sets of correspondences between condition 511A and proposed information 513A. Similarly, database 510B contains multiple sets of correspondences between conditions 511B and 512B and proposed information 513B. Like database 510B, databases provided by system 100 may contain multiple conditions. Each of conditions 511A, 511B, and 512B is defined using one or more evaluation indicators. Conditions 511A, 511B, and 512B may also include evaluation indicators contained in the input information. In the example in Figure 5, condition 511A indicates characteristics estimated to be suitable for each sport (track and field). Similarly, the combination of conditions 511B and 512B indicates characteristics estimated to be suitable for each sport (ball game). Proposed information 513A contains information on the sport (track and field) linked to condition 511A. Suggestion information 513B includes information on sports (ball games) linked to the combination of conditions 511B and 512B. In the example in Figure 5, the suggestion information 513A and 513B in the sports database include track and field, throwing events, soccer, racket sports, and basketball, but this is just one example. The sports database may include any sport as suggestion information. In some cases, multiple conditions may be linked to multiple pieces of suggestion information. In other cases, each condition in databases 510A and 510B may be updated based on input information 500A and 500B stored in system 100.

[0068] The operation of the selection unit 104 will be explained in more detail using Figure 5 as an example. When proposing track and field events, first the selection unit 104 retrieves condition 511A from the database 510A. Next, the selection unit 104 refers to 511A and determines whether there is a condition that satisfies one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information 500A. The condition that satisfies one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information 500A is condition 511A "foot >= hand". The selection unit 104 retrieves proposal information 513A "track and field events" from the database 510A, which is associated with condition 511A "foot >= hand". The selection unit 104 outputs the obtained proposal information 513A "track and field events" to the output unit 108.

[0069] When proposing a ball game, the selection unit 104 first retrieves conditions 511B and 512B from the database 510B. Next, the selection unit 104 refers to 511B and conditions 512B to determine whether there is a combination of conditions that satisfies one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information 500B. The combinations of conditions that satisfy one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information 500B are the combination of condition 511B "hand > foot" and condition 512B "left hand or right hand > 100", and the combination of condition 511B "hand > foot" and condition 512B "|left hand - right hand| < 10". The selection unit 104 retrieves proposal information 513B "racket sports, basketball" from the database 510B, which is associated with these combinations of conditions. The selection unit 104 outputs the obtained proposal information 513B "racket sports, basketball" to the output unit 108.

[0070] In a given situation, the selection unit 104 may calculate one or more values ​​for comparison with each of the conditions 511A, 511B, and 512B. These one or more values ​​may include any values ​​such as the difference in dexterity between both feet and both hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands and feet, the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right feet, or the absolute values ​​of the dexterity of the left and right hands and feet. Furthermore, these one or more values ​​may include one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information 500A and 500B. If one or more values ​​are calculated, the selection unit 104 may use these one or more values ​​instead of the one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information 500A and 500B to perform the aforementioned processing.

[0071] When making a suggestion about track and field, the output unit 108 outputs suggestion information 513A "Track and Field" as output information 520A. When making a suggestion about ball games, the output unit 108 outputs suggestion information 513B "Racquet Sports, Basketball" as output information 520B. In certain situations, the output unit 108 may generate text to provide to the user from the suggestion information 513A, 513B, etc., and output the generated text as output information. For example, the output unit 108 may generate and output text such as, "Since your feet are more dexterous than your hands, we recommend track and field."

[0072] As explained with reference to Figure 5, the multiple suggestion information 513A and 513B each contain multiple sports information. Selecting one or more suggestion information from the multiple suggestion information 513A and 513B that is linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information 500A and 500B includes selecting one or more sports information from multiple sports information as one or more suggestion information. As a result, the system 100 can provide the user with sports suggestion information based on the evaluation indicators of the left and right limbs. The user can then use the suggestion information to try a sport that is suitable for the motor skills of their left and right limbs. Furthermore, a company that sells sports equipment can use the system 100 to suggest sports equipment suitable for a customer who is starting a new sport.

[0073] Figure 6 shows an example of a fourth suggestion function provided by system 100. The fourth suggestion function is a function that suggests a sports playing style suitable for each individual. System 100 receives input information 600 and refers to the database 610 in the storage unit 106. Next, system 100 selects one or more sports playing styles corresponding to the input information 600 as suggestion information. Next, system 100 outputs output information 620 containing the suggestion information. In some situations, system 100 may also suggest a practice method suitable for that playing style. In other situations, system 100 may suggest either a playing style or a practice method suitable for the user.

[0074] The input unit 102 receives the input information 600 and outputs the input information 600 to the selection unit 104. The input unit 102 may also register the input information 600 in the storage unit 106. The input information 600 is the same information as the input information 300, 400, 500A, and 500B, and its explanation will not be repeated. In some cases, depending on the type of sport play style being proposed, the input information 600 may not include some evaluation indicators. In other cases, in addition to each evaluation indicator, the input information 600 may include information specifying the desired proposed information.

[0075] When the selection unit 104 proposes a play style, it refers to the database 610 of play styles registered in the storage unit 106. The database 610 contains multiple sets of correspondences between conditions 611 and proposed information 612. That is, the database 610 contains multiple pieces of proposed information. Conditions 611 are defined using one or more evaluation indicators. Conditions 611 may also include evaluation indicators included in the input information 600. In the example in Figure 6, condition 611 shows combinations of characteristics that are estimated to be suitable for each play style.

[0076] The suggested information 612 includes information on playing styles linked to conditions 611. In the example in Figure 6, the suggested information 612 includes baseball playing styles (more specifically, suitability for switching to left-handed batting), but this is just one example. The suggested information 612 may include various playing styles for multiple types of sports. In some cases, each condition 611 may be linked to multiple pieces of suggested information 612. In other cases, the suggested information 612 may further include training methods suitable for the playing style. Also in other cases, the suggested information 612 may include training methods instead of playing styles. In yet another case, each condition 611 in the database 610 may be updated based on input information 600 stored in the system 100.

[0077] The operation of the selection unit 104 will be explained in more detail using Figure 6 as an example. First, the selection unit 104 obtains condition 611 from the database 610. Next, the selection unit 104 refers to condition 611 and determines whether there is a condition that satisfies one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information 600. The condition that satisfies one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information 600 is condition 611 "-5 or higher". The selection unit 104 obtains suggestion information 612 "(suitability for switching to left-handed batting) is high" from the database 610, which is associated with condition 611 "-5 or higher". The selection unit 104 outputs the obtained suggestion information 612 "high" to the output unit 108. The selection unit 104 may also output practice methods suitable for the obtained suggestion information 612 "high" to the output unit 108.

[0078] In a given situation, the selection unit 104 may calculate one or more values ​​for comparison with condition 611. These one or more values ​​may include any values ​​such as the difference in dexterity between both feet and both hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands and feet, the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right feet, or the absolute values ​​of the dexterity of the left and right hands and feet. These one or more values ​​may also include one or more evaluation indices included in the input information 600. In the example in Figure 6, the selection unit 104 calculates the difference between the dexterity of the left hand and foot and the dexterity of the right hand and foot as one or more values. The calculation result of one or more values ​​is "15" (evaluation index for left hand and foot dexterity "115" - evaluation index for right hand and foot dexterity "100"). If one or more values ​​are calculated, the selection unit 104 may use these one or more values ​​in place of one or more evaluation indices included in the input information 600 to perform the aforementioned processing.

[0079] The output unit 108 outputs the suggestion information 612 "high" as output information 620. In a given situation, the output unit 108 may generate text to provide to the user from the suggestion information 612 and output the generated text as output information 620. For example, the output unit 108 may generate and output text such as "Your aptitude for switching to left-handed batting is high" and "Training to operate the bat with your left hand is recommended." In a given situation, the system 100 may suggest only one of either a playing style or a training method.

[0080] As explained with reference to Figure 6, System 100 can provide users with suggested sports playing styles and training methods based on evaluation indicators for the left and right limbs. Users can use this suggested information to select playing styles and training methods that are suitable for the motor skills of their left and right limbs. Furthermore, companies that sell sports equipment can use System 100 to suggest sports equipment that is suitable for their customers' playing styles and training methods.

[0081] As explained with reference to Figure 6, the multiple suggestion information 612 includes at least one of multiple play style information and multiple training method information for each sport. Selecting one or more suggestion information from the multiple suggestion information 612 that is linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information 600 includes at least one of selecting one or more play style information from the multiple play style information as one or more suggestion information, and selecting one or more training method information from the multiple training method information as one or more suggestion information.

[0082] Furthermore, as explained with reference to Figures 3-6, each of the one or more conditions 311, 411, 431, 441, 511A, 511B, 512B, and 611 is defined by the value, range, difference, sum, mean, or combination thereof of one or more evaluation indicators.

[0083] In some scenarios, each database may store combinations of multiple conditions linked to combinations of multiple suggested information. For example, database 310 may contain three conditions and suggested information on one or more sports equipment linked to those three conditions. In other scenarios, system 100 may provide users with a combination of the suggestions shown in Figures 3 to 6. For example, system 100 may suggest sports and playing styles to a user who wants to start playing a sport. Furthermore, along with these suggestions, the system may also suggest sports equipment suitable for starting the suggested sport and methods for customizing it.

[0084] Furthermore, in certain situations, System 100 may be used in stores such as sports equipment shops, and may be linked with online shopping. For example, an online shop linked with System 100 may accept input from users of an evaluation index for the dexterity of both hands and feet. In this case, the online shop may suggest sports equipment suitable for the user, methods for customizing sports equipment, sports, playing styles, and combinations thereof, based on the evaluation index.

[0085] Figure 7 shows an example of measurement results 700 of the difference in left and right hand and foot dexterity for baseball players who have switched from right-handed to left-handed batting or who have attempted to switch. Record 710 is data for players who successfully switched to left-handed batting. Record 720 is data for players who failed to switch to left-handed batting. Column 730 shows the difference between the dexterity of each player's left hand and foot and the dexterity of their right hand and foot (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "left-right difference"). According to measurement results 700, players who successfully switched to left-handed batting have relatively lower right hand and foot dexterity compared to players who failed to switch. From this, it can be seen that the dexterity of the left and right hands and feet and their balance may affect sports, playing style, and training methods. Furthermore, if there is an imbalance in left and right hand and foot dexterity, balancing the dexterity of the left and right hands and feet with sports equipment may have a positive impact on sports performance. System 100 can provide users with suggestions based on the above findings. In certain situations, the system 100 may be configured to accept data such as measurement results 700 as training data or analysis data. For example, when the system 100 receives measurement results 700 as input, it may generate a database 610 based on the analysis results of the measurement results 700. Alternatively, each database may be pre-prepared.

[0086] For example, when operating a tool that is held with both hands, a user may overuse their more dexterous hand if there is a significant difference in dexterity between their left and right hands. In this regard, system 100 can propose sports equipment that allows for balanced use of both hands by adjusting the thickness or friction of the grip held by the more dexterous hand, as illustrated in Figure 3.

[0087] As another example, if there is an imbalance in the dexterity of the two feet, the user's running may be unstable. In this regard, System 100 may propose a method of customizing sports equipment to stabilize the user's running, such as making the shoe of the more dexterous foot heavier or adjusting the friction of the sole, as illustrated in Figure 4.

[0088] Also, as another example, since the dexterity differences between the left and right hands and feet vary from person to person, suitable sports, play styles, etc. also differ for each individual. Regarding this, as illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the system 100 can propose sports, play styles, or training methods according to the movement abilities (dexterity differences between the left and right hands and feet) of the user's left and right hands and feet.

[0089] <C. Operation of the System> FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a series of processing procedures until proposal information is output in the system 100. In a certain aspect, the processor 201 may read a program for performing the processing of FIG. 8 from the storage 203 into the memory 202 and execute the program. In other aspects, part or all of the processing may also be realized as a combination of circuit elements configured to execute the processing. Further, in other aspects, the following steps may be executed in a different order.

[0090] In step S810, the system 100 acquires evaluation indices of the dexterity of both hands and feet as input information. The system 100 may not acquire some evaluation indices according to the information to be proposed. For example, when the system 100 proposes a method for customizing shoes, it may acquire evaluation information on the dexterity of the left and right feet and may not receive evaluation indices of the dexterity of the left and right hands.

[0091] In step S820, the system 100 acquires information specifying the desired proposal information. As an example, the system 100 may acquire information specifying sports equipment, a method for customizing sports equipment, sports, play styles, training methods, or a combination thereof.

[0092] In step S830, the system 100 determines the database to be referred to. As an example, the system 100 may determine the database to be referred to based on the information specifying the desired proposal information. As another example, the system 100 may refer to a predetermined database.

[0093] In step S840, the system 100 compares the input information with the database information. More specifically, the system 100 compares one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information with one or more conditions included in the database. The system 100 then searches the database for conditions that one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information satisfy. In step S850, the system 100 selects or generates suggestion information. More specifically, the system 100 selects suggestion information associated with conditions that one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information satisfy. The system 100 may also generate a document containing this suggestion information. The processes in steps S840 and S850 correspond to the process of selecting suggestion information and the process of the output unit 108 generating a document, as explained with reference to Figures 3 to 6.

[0094] In step S860, the system 100 outputs proposal information or a document containing proposal information. In one scenario, the system 100 may output the proposal information or a document containing proposal information to the system 100's display. In another scenario, the system 100 may transmit the proposal information or a document containing proposal information to the terminal 110.

[0095] As explained with reference to Figure 8, an information provision program may be provided to output suggestion information about sports based on the motor skills of an individual's left and right limbs. The information provision program causes a computer (system 100) to perform the following actions: obtain one or more evaluation indicators of the dexterity of the user's left and right limbs; select one or more suggestion pieces of information from among multiple suggestion pieces linked to one or more conditions defined using one or more pre-prepared evaluation indicators, which are linked to the conditions that one or more evaluation indicators satisfy; and output the one or more selected suggestion pieces of information.

[0096] <D.まとめ> As described above, the system 100 according to this embodiment can make suggestions related to sports, such as sports equipment suitable for each user, methods for customizing sports equipment, sports, playing styles, training methods, or combinations thereof, based on the dexterity characteristics of each user's hands and feet. By using the system 100, users can obtain suggestion information from a different perspective regarding sports equipment suitable for them, sports equipment customization, sports, playing styles, and training methods.

[0097] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of this disclosure is indicated by the claims rather than the foregoing description, and all modifications are intended to be equivalent to the claims. Furthermore, the disclosures described in the embodiments and each variation are intended to be implemented, as far as possible, individually or in combination. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 100 System, 102 Input Unit, 104 Selection Unit, 106 Memory Unit, 108 Output Unit, 110 Terminal, 201 Processor, 202 Memory, 203 Storage, 204 External Device IF, 205 Input IF, 206 Output IF, 207 Communication IF, 300, 400, 500, 600 Input Information, 310, 410, 430, 440, 510A, 510B, 610 Database, 311, 411, 421, 431, 511A, 511B, 512B, 611 Conditions, 312, 412, 432, 442, 513A, 513B, 612 Proposal Information, 320, 420, 520A, 520B, 620 Output Information, 700 Measurement Results, 710, 720 Records, 730 columns.

Claims

1. An input unit that acquires input information including one or more evaluation indicators of the user's left and right hand and foot dexterity, A storage unit that stores multiple pieces of proposed information linked to one or more conditions defined using the one or more evaluation indicators, A selection unit that refers to the storage unit and selects one or more proposal pieces of information from the plurality of proposal pieces of information that are linked to the conditions that one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information satisfy, The system includes an output unit that outputs one or more selected pieces of suggested information, The one or more evaluation indicators are calculated by scoring the deviations in the movement patterns of each of the user's left and right arms and legs. An information provision system in which the one or more suggested pieces of information correspond to at least one of the following: the difference in dexterity between the user's feet and hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands and feet, the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right feet, and the absolute values ​​of the dexterity between the left and right hands and feet.

2. The aforementioned multiple pieces of proposed information include multiple pieces of sports equipment information, The information provision system according to claim 1, wherein selecting one or more suggested pieces of information from among the plurality of suggested pieces of information that are linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information includes selecting one or more sports equipment pieces of information from among the plurality of sports equipment pieces of information as the one or more suggested pieces of information.

3. The aforementioned multiple proposal information includes customization information for multiple sports equipment, The information provision system according to claim 1, wherein selecting one or more suggested pieces of information from among the plurality of suggested pieces of information that are linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information includes selecting one or more customized pieces of sports equipment from among the plurality of customized pieces of sports equipment information as the one or more suggested pieces of information.

4. The aforementioned multiple proposals include multiple sports information, The information provision system according to claim 1, wherein selecting one or more suggested pieces of information from among the plurality of suggested pieces of information that are linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information includes selecting one or more sports information from among the plurality of sports information as the one or more suggested pieces of information.

5. The aforementioned multiple pieces of proposed information include at least one of multiple pieces of play style information and multiple pieces of practice method information for each sport. Selecting one or more proposals from among the aforementioned multiple proposals that are linked to conditions satisfied by one or more evaluation indicators included in the input information is: Selecting one or more play style information from the aforementioned multiple play style information as one or more suggested information, The information provision system according to claim 1, further comprising at least one of the following: selecting one or more practice method information from the plurality of practice method information as one or more suggested information.

6. Obtain one or more evaluation metrics for the dexterity of the user's left and right hands and feet, From among multiple proposals linked to one or more conditions defined using one or more pre-prepared evaluation indicators, select one or more proposals linked to conditions that satisfy one or more evaluation indicators. This includes outputting one or more selected pieces of suggested information, The one or more evaluation indicators are calculated by scoring the deviations in the movement patterns of each of the user's left and right arms and legs. A method for providing information in which the one or more suggested pieces of information correspond to at least one of the following: the difference in dexterity between the user's feet and hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands and feet, the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right feet, and the absolute values ​​of the dexterity between the left and right hands and feet.

7. Obtain one or more evaluation metrics for the dexterity of the user's left and right hands and feet, From among multiple proposals linked to one or more conditions defined using one or more pre-prepared evaluation indicators, select one or more proposals linked to conditions that satisfy one or more evaluation indicators. The computer is instructed to output one or more of the selected suggested information. The one or more evaluation indicators are calculated by scoring the deviations in the movement patterns of each of the user's left and right arms and legs. An information provision program in which the one or more suggested pieces of information are suggested pieces of information corresponding to at least one of the following: the difference in dexterity between the user's feet and hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands and feet, the difference in dexterity between the left and right hands, the difference in dexterity between the left and right feet, and the absolute values ​​of the dexterity between the left and right hands and feet.

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