Store Availability Selection Using Interior Images and Reservations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face time and effort inefficiencies when searching for available stores as they need to check crowdedness and images of multiple stores, making it cumbersome to find a suitable location.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus that acquires images of store interiors and reservation information, allowing it to select stores with available tables based on real-time analysis and user preferences, thereby streamlining the search process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If users check information on crowdedness and images of multiple stores manually, then they can find available stores, but it takes time and effort
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically acquiring images of store interiors and reservation information before users need this data. The image acquiring unit and reservation-information acquiring unit collect and process store status data in advance, so when users search for available stores, the analysis is already complete and results are immediately available, eliminating the time-consuming manual checking process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an information processing apparatus as an intermediary between users and multiple stores. This apparatus automatically acquires images, analyzes crowdedness levels, checks reservation information, and synthesizes availability data. Users interact only with this intermediary system rather than manually checking each store, significantly reducing search time while maintaining accurate availability information
2Adaptability or versatility
If users check multiple stores to find available tables, then they can locate suitable stores, but the search process becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by automatically performing the store search and availability checking functions that would otherwise require user effort. The image acquiring unit, analyzing unit, and reservation-information acquiring unit work autonomously to gather and process data from multiple stores, then present consolidated results to users. This self-automating approach maintains flexible store selection while eliminating the cumbersome manual search process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple store information sources (images, reservation data, crowdedness indicators) into a single integrated analysis system. Instead of users separately checking each store's image and reservation status, the system combines all these data streams and presents unified availability information, making the search process convenient while preserving adaptability across multiple stores
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus according to the present application includes a use-condition acquiring unit, an image acquiring unit, a reservation-information acquiring unit, and a selecting unit. The use-condition acquiring unit acquires a use condition of the store. The image acquiring unit acquires an image obtained by capturing an inside of the store. The reservation-information acquiring unit acquires reservation information of the store. The selecting unit selects a store estimated to be usable on a date and time indicated in the use condition based on the acquired image of the store and the reservation information of the store.