KR102848175B1 - Method and system for providing a virtual pet care experience based on lifecycle data of companion animals - Google Patents

Abstract

In one embodiment, a device for providing a virtual parenting experience based on life cycle data of a companion animal may be provided, including a transceiver, a memory storing a program for providing a virtual parenting experience based on life cycle data of the companion animal, and a processor controlling the memory and the transceiver. The processor may identify, based on life cycle data of a plurality of selectable companion animals, an average lifespan of a selected companion animal and characteristic information corresponding to a type of the selected companion animal for at least one parenting element. The processor may use the characteristic information to determine a general mission quest and a completion rate of the general mission quest for the at least one parenting element. The processor may determine whether the special mission quest needs to occur based on the occurrence cycle of the special mission quest, the condition score of the selected companion animal, and the characteristic information. The processor may provide feedback information on the parenting experience based on the condition score and the parenting score of the selected companion animal.

Description

Method and system for providing a virtual pet care experience based on life cycle data of companion animals

The following embodiments relate to a method, device, and system for providing a virtual parenting experience, and more specifically, to a method of operating a device for providing a virtual parenting experience based on life cycle data of a companion animal.

Adopting and raising a pet goes beyond simply bringing home an animal; it requires long-term responsibility and commitment. However, current educational systems and programs primarily focus on post-adoption care and training, lacking the skills and programs to fully understand pre-adoption considerations. Many people face unexpected challenges after adopting a pet, including financial burdens, time management, conflicts with family members, and training difficulties. This frequently leads to abandonment or inadequate care of the pets after adoption. These situations impose emotional and financial burdens not only on the pets themselves, but also on the adopters.

Furthermore, existing technologies have limitations in providing sufficient "virtual experiences" before adoption. Most information on pet adoption relies on books, online resources, or short-term counseling programs. However, these resources fail to adequately reflect real-world situations and fail to offer customized solutions that take into account individual lifestyles or financial circumstances. Therefore, there is a growing need for programs that simulate living with a pet before adoption or provide practical parenting experiences.

Prior Document 1: Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2022-0108619 (August 3, 2022) Prior Document 2: Korean Patent No. 10-2271991 (June 28, 2021) Prior Document 3: Korean Patent No. 10-2533143 (May 11, 2023) Prior Document 4: Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2023-0012241 (January 26, 2023)

The examples are intended to provide users with a practical experience of raising a pet.

The examples are intended to provide users with a realistic experience to help them make informed choices when adopting a pet.

The purpose of the examples is to provide users with a way to experience the order in which to raise a pet when adopting it, based on the pet's breed, pedigree, nutritional status, personality, breeder information, etc., rather than simply following a pre-written scenario.

The purpose of the present invention is not limited to the purposes mentioned above, and other purposes not mentioned can be clearly understood from the description below.

In one embodiment, a device for providing a virtual parenting experience based on life cycle data of a companion animal may be provided, including a transceiver, a memory storing a program for providing a virtual parenting experience based on life cycle data of the companion animal, and a processor for controlling the memory and the transceiver.

In one embodiment, the processor may identify, based on life cycle data of a plurality of selectable pets, an average lifespan of the selected pet and characteristic information corresponding to the type of the selected pet for at least one parenting factor. The processor may use the characteristic information to determine a general mission quest and a completion rate of the general mission quest for the at least one parenting factor. The processor may determine whether the special mission quest needs to occur based on the occurrence cycle of the special mission quest, the condition score of the selected pet, and the characteristic information. The processor may provide feedback information on the parenting experience based on the condition score and the parenting score of the selected pet.

In one embodiment, if the processor determines that the occurrence of the special mission quest is necessary, the processor may determine the special mission quest and its success or failure. The processor may update the selected pet's status score based on the success rate of the special mission quest. The processor may determine the user's parenting score based on the general mission quest, the special mission quest, and parenting cost information.

In one embodiment, the processor may use the characteristic information to determine a general mission quest for the at least one parenting element and an achievement condition of the general mission quest. The processor may determine whether the general mission quest has been achieved based on the achievement condition of the general mission quest and the quest performance data. The processor may determine a status score of the selected companion animal based on the achievement rate of the general mission quest. The achievement condition may be identified as a preset condition or based on information input by the user.

In one embodiment, the processor may receive user input regarding at least one detail of the parenting element. Based on the characteristic information and the user input regarding at least one detail of the parenting element, the processor may determine at least one general quest item for the general mission quest.

In one embodiment, the processor may determine the type of achievement condition of the general mission quest. If the type of achievement condition of the general mission quest is the first type, the processor may compare the first condition with the quest performance data to quantify the achievement rate. If the type of achievement condition of the general mission quest is the second type, the processor may quantify the achievement rate based on the presence or absence of the quest performance data.

In one embodiment, a processor may track a user's motion using a sensor. The processor may receive the user's motion as quest performance data. The processor may determine the type of the user's motion and the duration of the user's motion. The processor may determine whether the type of the user's motion and the duration of the user's motion satisfy the achievement conditions of the general mission quest. If the type of the user's motion and the duration of the user's motion satisfy the achievement conditions of the general mission quest, the processor may determine that the general mission quest has been achieved.

In one embodiment, the processor may determine the achievement rate of at least one general quest item for the general mission quest based on the achievement conditions of the general mission quest. The processor may determine the status score of the selected companion animal using the achievement rate of at least one general quest item for the general mission quest.

In one embodiment, the processor can identify the occurrence cycle of the special mission quest. Based on the occurrence cycle of the special mission quest, the processor can determine whether the status score of the selected pet is lower than a reference score. If the status score of the selected pet is determined to be lower than the reference score, the processor can determine that the occurrence of the special mission quest is necessary.

In one embodiment, the processor may use the characteristic information to identify special characteristic information about the selected companion animal. The processor may use the special characteristic information to determine at least one special quest item for the special mission quest and a success condition of the at least one special quest item. The processor may output a message including at least one special quest item for the special mission quest and a success condition of the at least one special quest item. The processor may determine that the success condition of the at least one special quest item may include a cost condition for performing the special quest item and a motion condition of the user.

In one embodiment, a processor may obtain quest performance data. The processor may compare the quest performance data with the user's motion conditions to determine whether the quest performance data satisfies the user's motion conditions. The processor may determine whether an item regarding a cost condition for performing the special quest item is satisfied. If the quest performance data satisfies the user's motion conditions and the item regarding the cost condition for performing the special quest item is satisfied, the processor may determine that the special mission quest is successful.

In one embodiment, the processor may determine a weight for the at least one special quest item based on at least one of the urgency of the at least one special quest item, the risk of the at least one special quest item, or the time taken to complete the at least one special quest item. The processor may update the status score of the selected companion animal based on whether the at least one general quest item has been completed, whether the at least one special quest item has been completed, and the weight for the at least one special quest item.

In one embodiment, the processor may determine the achievement rate of the general mission quest and the success rate of the special mission quest. The processor may compare the parenting cost with a reference value to determine a cost reflection value. The processor may determine the user's parenting score using the cost reflection value, the achievement rate of the general mission quest, and the success rate of the special mission quest.

In one embodiment, the processor may determine the expected lifespan of the pet by considering the average lifespan of the pet, the condition score of the selected pet, and the user's parenting score. The processor may generate comments about the parenting experience based on the condition score and the parenting score. The processor may provide feedback information including the expected lifespan of the pet, the condition score, the parenting score, and comments about the condition score and the parenting experience.

The embodiments may provide users with the effect of practically experiencing raising a pet.

The examples have the effect of providing users with a realistic experience that enables them to make careful choices when adopting a pet.

The examples have the effect of providing users with a way to experience the order in which to raise a pet when adopting it, based on the pet's breed, pedigree, nutritional status, personality, breeder information, etc., rather than simply following a pre-written scenario.

The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly understood from the description below.

Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a system that provides a virtual parenting experience based on life cycle data of a companion animal according to one embodiment.
Figure 2 is an exemplary diagram of the configuration of a device providing a virtual parenting experience according to one embodiment.
Figure 3 is a flowchart for explaining an operation method of a device providing a virtual parenting experience according to an embodiment.
Figure 4 is a flowchart for explaining an operation method of a device providing a virtual parenting experience according to an embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a method for a system according to one embodiment to receive an input for selecting a pet for a virtual parenting experience.
FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining a screen of a device that provides a general quest and virtual parenting experience according to an embodiment.
Figure 7 is a drawing for explaining a special mission quest according to an embodiment.

Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, since various modifications may be made to the embodiments, the scope of rights of the patent application is not limited or restricted by these embodiments. It should be understood that all modifications, equivalents, or substitutes to the embodiments are included in the scope of rights.

Specific structural or functional descriptions of the embodiments are disclosed for illustrative purposes only and may be modified and implemented in various forms. Accordingly, the embodiments are not limited to a specific disclosed form, and the scope of the present disclosure includes modifications, equivalents, or alternatives included in the technical idea.

Although terms such as first or second may be used to describe various components, such terms should be construed only to distinguish one component from another. For example, a first component may be referred to as a second component, and similarly, a second component may also be referred to as a first component.

Additionally, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should not be interpreted ideally or excessively unless explicitly and specifically defined otherwise. In certain cases, terms may be arbitrarily selected by the applicant, in which case their meanings will be described in detail in the relevant description. Therefore, the terms used in this disclosure should be defined based on their meaning and the overall content of this disclosure, rather than simply their names.

When it is said that a component is "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but there may also be other components in between.

The terms used in the examples are for the purpose of explanation only and should not be construed as limiting. The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this specification, the terms "comprise" or "have" and the like are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the specification, but should be understood to not exclude in advance the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

Throughout this specification, when a part is said to “include” a certain component, this does not mean that other components may be included, but rather that other components may be excluded, unless specifically stated otherwise. Furthermore, the singular forms used herein also include plural forms unless specifically stated otherwise in the text. Furthermore, the expression “at least one of b, and c” used throughout this specification can encompass “a alone,” “b alone,” “c alone,” “a and b,” “a and c,” “b and c,” or “all of a, b, and c.”

Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments belong. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted to have a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

In addition, terms such as “unit”, “module”, etc. described in this specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented by hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software. In addition, embodiments of the present disclosure may be represented by functional block configurations and various processing steps. These functional blocks may be implemented by various numbers of hardware or/and software configurations that execute specific functions. For example, embodiments of the present disclosure may employ direct circuit configurations such as memory, processing, logic, look-up tables, etc. that may execute various functions under the control of one or more microprocessors or other control devices.

Each block of the processing flow diagrams attached to this specification and combinations of the flow diagrams can be performed by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be installed in a processor of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing equipment, so that the instructions executed through the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing equipment create a means for performing the functions described in the flow diagram block(s).

These computer program instructions may be stored in a computer-available or computer-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing device to implement a function in a particular manner, and the instructions stored in the computer-available or computer-readable memory may also produce an article of manufacture that includes instruction means for performing the function described in the flowchart block(s).

Since the computer program instructions may be installed on a computer or other programmable data processing device, a series of operational steps may be performed on the computer or other programmable data processing device to create a computer-executable process, and the instructions that cause the computer or other programmable data processing device to perform the steps for performing the functions described in the flowchart block(s) may also provide steps for performing the functions described in the flowchart block(s).

Additionally, each block may represent a module, segment, or portion of code that contains one or more executable instructions for performing a specific logical function(s). Furthermore, in some alternative implementation examples, the functions described in the blocks may occur out of order. For example, two blocks depicted in succession may actually be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on their respective functions.

In addition, when describing with reference to the attached drawings, the same components are given the same reference numerals regardless of the drawing numbers, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted. When describing an embodiment, if it is determined that a specific description of a related known technology may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the embodiment, the detailed description thereof is omitted.

Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a system (10) that provides a virtual parenting experience based on life cycle data of a companion animal according to one embodiment.

A system (10) (hereinafter, “system”) providing a virtual parenting experience based on life cycle data of a companion animal according to the present disclosure may include a device (100) providing a virtual parenting experience and a device (120) collecting and analyzing life cycle data of a companion animal.

A companion animal life cycle data collection and analysis device (120) may include a life cycle data collection unit (130) and a life cycle data analysis unit (140).

The life cycle data collection unit (130) can collect life cycle data for at least one companion animal. In the present disclosure, the life cycle data for multiple selectable companion animals refers to data collected throughout the entire life cycle of the companion animal from birth to death, and includes data on the companion animal's health, behavioral and habitual data, growth data, nutritional and eating habits data, environmental data, social interactions, and reproductive data. For example, health data includes physical data such as vaccination records, disease history, surgical records, weight, height, body temperature, vulnerable disease information, and DNA information, as well as regular checkup results and medication records. Behavioral and habitual data includes activity patterns (walking, play frequency), problem behaviors (barking, aggression), training performance, and socialization (interactions with people and other animals). Nutritional and eating habits data includes feeding times, types of food, meal amounts, allergic reactions, and unusual eating habits. Environmental data includes changes in living space, seasonal living environments, stress factors, and adaptability to environmental changes. Reproductive data includes neutering status, breeding records, hormonal changes, and reproductive health.

The life cycle data analysis unit (140) can analyze life cycle data for at least one collected companion animal.

A device (100) providing a virtual parenting experience can establish a communication channel with a device (120) for collecting and analyzing data on a companion animal's life cycle, and transmit and receive various data. The device (100) providing a virtual parenting experience can transmit and receive related information with the device (120) for collecting and analyzing data on a companion animal's life cycle by performing wired/wireless communication. The communication technologies used by the system (10) (i.e., the device (100) providing a virtual parenting experience and the device (120) for collecting and analyzing data on a companion animal's life cycle) may include, but are not limited to, GSM (Global System for Mobile communication), CDMA (Code Division Multi Access), LTE (Long Term Evolution), 5G, WLAN (Wireless LAN), Wi-Fi (Wireless-Fidelity), Bluetooth (Bluetooth™), RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), ZigBee, NFC (Near Field Communication), etc.

The device (100) providing the virtual parenting experience may include, but is not limited to, a smartphone, a tablet personal computer, a mobile phone, a desktop personal computer, a laptop personal computer, a server, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), a wearable device, etc.

A device (100) providing a virtual parenting experience can provide potential adopters with practical parenting experience before adopting a pet, thereby enabling them to recognize and prepare for potential problems that may arise after adoption. For example, through a program provided by the device (100) providing a virtual parenting experience, a user can experience a dog's 15-year lifespan compressed into a two-month intensive virtual experience, thereby assessing their financial capabilities, time management, and ability to cooperate with family members. The device (100) providing a virtual parenting experience can provide users with sufficient experience before raising a pet, thereby contributing to a qualitative improvement in the pet adoption culture and supporting the right choice.

Figure 2 is an exemplary diagram of the configuration of a device (100) that provides a virtual parenting experience according to one embodiment.

A device (100) providing a virtual parenting experience according to an embodiment includes a processor (210), a transmitter/receiver (220), a memory (230), and a screen (240). The configuration of the device (100) providing a virtual parenting experience is not limited to the configurations described above.

The processor (210) can perform at least one of the methods described below. The memory (230) can store information related to the method according to the present disclosure or store a program implementing the method described above. The memory (230) can be a volatile memory or a non-volatile memory.

The processor (210) can execute a program and control the device (100) that provides a virtual parenting experience. The code of the program executed by the processor (210) can be stored in the memory (230). The processor (210) can be composed of at least one processor. For example, the memory (230) can store a program that provides a virtual parenting experience based on the life cycle data of a companion animal.

A device (100) providing a virtual parenting experience can be connected to an external device (e.g., a personal computer or a network) via an input/output device and exchange data. The input device can generate input data in response to user input of the device (100) providing a golf swing solution. For example, the input device can include a key pad, a dome switch, a physical button, a touch panel, a jog shuttle, and a sensor.

The transceiver (220) can establish a communication channel with an external device (e.g., a companion animal life cycle data collection and analysis device (120)) and transmit and receive various data with the external device. The transceiver (220) can transmit and receive related information by performing wired/wireless communication. The communication technologies used by the transceiver (220) may include, but are not limited to, GSM (Global System for Mobile communication), CDMA (Code Division Multi Access), LTE (Long Term Evolution), 5G, WLAN (Wireless LAN), Wi-Fi (Wireless-Fidelity), Bluetooth™, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), ZigBee, NFC (Near Field Communication), etc.

The screen (240) may include a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, a micro electro mechanical systems (MEMS) display, and an electronic paper display.

A device (100) providing a virtual parenting experience can be connected to an external device (e.g., a personal computer or a network) via an input/output device (not shown in the drawing) and exchange data. The input device can generate input data in response to user input of the device (100) providing a virtual parenting experience. For example, the input device can include a key pad, a dome switch, a physical button, a touch panel, a jog & shuttle, and a sensor. The input device can be implemented as a touch screen by being combined with a screen (240).

In one embodiment, the processor (210) may identify, based on life cycle data of a plurality of selectable pets, the average lifespan of the selected pet and characteristic information corresponding to the type of the selected pet for at least one parenting element. The processor (210) may use the characteristic information to determine the general mission quest and the achievement rate of the general mission quest for at least one parenting element. The processor (210) may determine whether a special mission quest is necessary based on the occurrence cycle of the special mission quest, the condition score of the selected pet, and the characteristic information. The processor (210) may provide feedback information on the parenting experience based on the condition score and the parenting score of the selected pet.

In one embodiment, if the processor (210) determines that a special mission quest is required, it may determine the special mission quest and its success or failure. Based on the success rate of the special mission quest, the processor (210) may update the selected pet's status score. Based on the general mission quest, special mission quest, and fostering cost information, the processor (210) may determine the user's fostering score.

In one embodiment, the processor (210) may use characteristic information to determine a general mission quest and the achievement conditions of the general mission quest for at least one nurturing element. Based on the achievement conditions and quest performance data of the general mission quest, the processor (210) may determine whether the general mission quest has been achieved. Based on the achievement rate of the general mission quest, the processor (210) may determine the status score of the selected companion animal. The achievement conditions may be identified as preset conditions or based on information input by the user.

In one embodiment, the processor (210) may receive user input regarding at least one detail of a parenting element. Based on the characteristic information and the user input regarding at least one detail of a parenting element, the processor (210) may determine at least one general quest item for a general mission quest.

In one embodiment, the processor (210) may determine the type of achievement condition of a general mission quest. If the type of achievement condition of the general mission quest is the first type, the processor (210) may compare the first condition with quest performance data to quantify the achievement rate. If the type of achievement condition of the general mission quest is the second type, the processor (210) may quantify the achievement rate based on the presence or absence of quest performance data.

In one embodiment, the processor (210) may track the user's motion using a sensor. The processor (210) may receive the user's motion as quest performance data. The processor (210) may determine the type of the user's motion and the duration of the user's motion. The processor (210) may determine whether the type of the user's motion and the duration of the user's motion satisfy the achievement conditions of the general mission quest. If the type of the user's motion and the duration of the user's motion satisfy the achievement conditions of the general mission quest, the processor (210) may determine that the general mission quest has been accomplished.

In one embodiment, the processor (210) may determine the achievement rate of at least one general quest item for a general mission quest based on the achievement conditions of the general mission quest. The processor (210) may determine the status score of a selected companion animal using the achievement rate of at least one general quest item for the general mission quest.

In one embodiment, the processor (210) can identify the occurrence cycle of a special mission quest. Based on the occurrence cycle of the special mission quest, the processor (210) can determine whether the status score of the selected pet is lower than a reference score. If the status score of the selected pet is determined to be lower than the reference score, the processor (210) can determine that the occurrence of the special mission quest is necessary.

In one embodiment, the processor (210) may identify special characteristic information for a selected companion animal using the characteristic information. The processor (210) may determine at least one special quest item for a special mission quest and a success condition for the at least one special quest item using the special characteristic information. The processor (210) may output a message including at least one special quest item for the special mission quest and a success condition for the at least one special quest item. The processor (210) may determine that the success condition for the at least one special quest item may include a cost condition for performing the special quest item and a motion condition of the user.

In one embodiment, the processor (210) may obtain quest performance data. The processor (210) may compare the quest performance data with the user's motion conditions to determine whether the quest performance data satisfies the user's motion conditions. The processor (210) may determine whether an item regarding a cost condition for performing a special quest item is satisfied. If the quest performance data satisfies the user's motion conditions and the item regarding the cost condition for performing the special quest item is satisfied, the processor (210) may determine that the special mission quest is successful.

In one embodiment, the processor (210) may determine a weight for at least one special quest item based on at least one of the urgency of the at least one special quest item, the risk of the at least one special quest item, or the time taken to complete the quest for the at least one special quest item. The processor (210) may update the status score of the selected companion animal based on whether the at least one general quest item has been completed, whether the at least one special quest item has been successfully completed, and the weight for the at least one special quest item.

In one embodiment, the processor (210) may determine the achievement rate of a general mission quest and the success rate of a special mission quest. The processor (210) may compare the parenting cost information with a reference value to determine a cost reflection value. The processor (210) may use the cost reflection value, the achievement rate of a general mission quest, and the success rate of a special mission quest to determine the user's parenting score.

In one embodiment, the processor (210) may determine the expected lifespan of a pet by considering the average lifespan of the pet, the selected pet's condition score, and the user's parenting score. The processor (210) may generate comments about the parenting experience based on the condition score and the parenting score. The processor (210) may provide feedback information including the pet's expected lifespan, condition score, parenting score, and comments about the condition score and the parenting experience.

Figure 3 is a flowchart for explaining an operation method of a device (100) that provides a virtual parenting experience according to one embodiment.

In step S310, the processor can identify, based on life cycle data of a plurality of selectable pets, characteristic information corresponding to the average lifespan of the selected pet and the type of the selected pet for at least one parenting factor.

In step S320, the processor may use the characteristic information to determine a general mission quest and an achievement rate of the general mission quest for at least one parenting element.

In step S330, the processor can determine whether a special mission quest needs to be generated based on the occurrence cycle of the special mission quest, the status score of the selected pet, and the characteristic information.

In step S340, the processor may provide feedback information on the parenting experience based on the condition score and parenting score of the selected pet.

A more detailed description of each step is provided using the drawings below.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining an operation method of a device (100) that provides a virtual parenting experience according to an embodiment.

In step S410, the processor may receive a user input for selecting a pet for a virtual parenting experience from among a plurality of selectable pets.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a method for a system according to one embodiment to receive an input for selecting a pet for a virtual parenting experience.

In one embodiment, the processor may display a plurality of selectable pets (510, 520, 530) on the screen. At this time, the processor may display images, icons, comments, descriptions, etc. of each pet. The processor may receive input from a user selecting a pet for a virtual parenting experience from among the plurality of selectable pets (510, 520, 530).

In step S420, the processor can identify, based on life cycle data of a plurality of selectable pets, characteristic information corresponding to the average lifespan of the selected pet and the type of the selected pet for at least one parenting factor.

In one embodiment, the processor may acquire or receive life cycle data of a pet collected from a pet life cycle data collection and analysis device (120). Depending on the type of pet selected, considerations for raising the selected pet may vary. For example, the required amount or type of feed, or essential nutritional supplements, may vary depending on the type of pet selected. Accordingly, the processor may use the pet life cycle data to identify a care method that takes into account the characteristics of the selected pet.

In one embodiment, the processor can identify an average lifespan of a selected pet based on life cycle data of a plurality of selectable pets.

In one embodiment, the parenting elements refer to factors that should be considered when raising a companion animal. Non-limiting examples include at least one parenting element, such as dietary management, sleep environment, exercise and activity, health management, hygiene management, disease management, first aid, psychological stability, safety management, and legal/social responsibility.

In one embodiment, the processor may identify characteristic information corresponding to the type of the selected pet for at least one care element based on life cycle data of multiple selectable pets. The processor may identify the amount of food or feed required for the selected pet, the required feeding frequency, the required type of snacks required, the required amount of snacks supplied, the required amount of water, etc. as characteristic information corresponding to the type of the selected pet for the pet's meal care element. The processor may identify the sleeping environment, temperature, lighting, required amount of sleep, etc. that should be provided to the selected pet as characteristic information corresponding to the type of the selected pet for the sleep environment element. The processor may identify the required amount of exercise, walking frequency, walking time, and walking amount information that should be provided to the selected pet as characteristic information corresponding to the type of the selected pet for the exercise and activity element. The processor may identify regular checkups, vaccinations, deworming and parasite management, etc. that should be provided to the selected pet as characteristic information corresponding to the type of the selected pet for the health care element. The processor can identify the grooming, bathing, nail and dental care, and other hygiene management elements that should be provided to the selected pet, as characteristic information corresponding to the selected pet's type. The processor can identify the disease information to which the selected pet is vulnerable, the treatment methods for treating the disease, and the cost of treatment, as characteristic information corresponding to the selected pet's type, as characteristic information corresponding to the disease management element.

In step S430, the processor may use the characteristic information to determine a general mission quest and an achievement condition of the general mission quest for at least one parenting element.

FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining a screen of a device that provides a general quest and virtual parenting experience according to an embodiment.

In the present disclosure, general mission quests (610) are general tasks that a user must perform to raise a pet (620) selected by the user, and may refer to tasks assigned based on events occurring in daily life according to the raising elements (630, 640). For example, the processor may determine a task requiring the user to handle the amount of feed or food required for the selected pet, the required meal cycle, the type of snack required, the required amount of snack, the snack distribution cycle, the required amount of water, etc., as a general mission quest for the meal management element.

In one embodiment, the processor may output the current age (680) of a pet (620) selected by the user. When the user selects a pet (620), the age of the pet (620) may be set to a specific value (e.g., 1). Additionally, the current age (680) of the pet (620) may be increased by 1 each time a specific condition is satisfied (e.g., when a specific time is satisfied, when a specific quest is satisfied, etc.).

In one embodiment, the processor may output to the screen at least one parenting element (630, 640), a detailed item (632, 634, 642, 644, 646) of at least one parenting element (630, 640), at least one general quest item (632-1, 634-1, 642-1, 644-1, 646-1), a general mission quest achievement condition, a quest achievement rate (650), etc.

In one embodiment, the processor may use the characteristic information to determine a general mission quest for at least one parenting element (630, 640).

In another embodiment, the processor may receive user input regarding details (632, 634, 642, 644, 646) of at least one nurturing element (630, 640). Based on the characteristic information and the user input regarding details (632, 634, 642, 644, 646) of at least one nurturing element, the processor may determine at least one general quest item (632-1, 634-1, 642-1, 644-1, 646-1) for a general mission quest. For example, the processor may receive user input for selecting details of the meal management element, such as the type of feed, the type of snack, etc. Upon receiving the user input for selecting the type of feed, the processor may determine the amount of the selected feed to be provided to the selected pet, the required feeding cycle, and the feed cost considering the type of feed selected by the user. The processor can determine at least one general quest item for a general mission quest, taking into account the ration of the selected food to be provided to the selected pet, the required feeding frequency, and the cost of the food considering the type of food selected by the user.

In one embodiment, the processor may use the characteristic information to determine the achievement conditions of a general mission quest.

For example, the processor can receive user input on the conditions for completing a general mission quest. In another example, the processor can set the conditions for completing a general mission quest to preset conditions.

In one embodiment, the processor may display remaining childcare cost information (670) (hereinafter, "childcare cost information") on the screen. The childcare cost information (670) refers to a given amount that can be used to raise a pet (620) selected by the user. The childcare cost information (670) may be set to a predetermined amount by the processor when the user selects the pet (620). The predetermined amount may be a preset amount or initially set by the user. The childcare cost information (670) may increase or decrease in value depending on whether the general mission quest (610) is completed or the completion rate (650).

In one embodiment, at least one general quest item (632-1, 634-1, 642-1, 644-1, 646-1) may be classified into an income quest that may increase child-rearing cost information (670), a non-expenditure quest that does not change child-rearing cost information (670), and an expense quest that decreases child-rearing cost information (670). The processor may determine the type of at least one general quest item (632-1, 634-1, 642-1, 644-1, 646-1) when the quest of at least one general quest item of the general mission quest is accomplished. The processor may increase or decrease the child-rearing cost information (670) based on the type of at least one general quest item (632-1, 634-1, 642-1, 644-1, 646-1), whether the quest has been accomplished, and/or the quest accomplishment rate.

In one embodiment, the processor may determine an achievement rate (650) of at least one general quest item for a general mission quest based on an achievement condition of the general mission quest.

In one embodiment, the processor can determine whether a general mission quest has been achieved and determine an achievement rate based on the achievement conditions of the general mission quest and quest performance data.

In the present disclosure, quest performance data may include data input by a user into the device (100) to perform a general mission quest or a special mission quest, data collected or received by the processor, etc.

In one embodiment, the processor may determine the type of the achievement condition of the general mission quest. If the type of the achievement condition of the general mission quest is the first type (e.g., target number), the processor may compare the first condition with the quest performance data to quantify the achievement rate (650) (e.g., a percentage value). If the type of the achievement condition of the general mission quest is the second type (e.g., achievement or absence), the processor may quantify the achievement rate (650) (e.g., determine it as a percentage value) based on the presence or absence of quest performance data. For example, in the case of the second type, if the quest performance data exists or if quest performance data that satisfies the achievement condition of the general mission quest is received, the processor may determine the achievement rate (650) of the general mission quest as 100%.

In one embodiment, a processor may track a user's motion using a sensor. The processor may receive the tracked user's motion as quest performance data. The processor may determine the type of the user's motion and the duration of the user's motion. The processor may determine whether the type of the user's motion and the duration of the user's motion satisfy the achievement conditions of a general mission quest. If the type of the user's motion and the duration of the user's motion satisfy the achievement conditions of the general mission quest, the processor may determine that the general mission quest has been achieved and determine an achievement rate (650).

In one embodiment, the achievement rate (650) may be output as a number, percentage, character, etc., or may be output as a bar, circular bar, icon, color, shape, etc.

In step S440, the processor can determine a status score of the selected pet based on the achievement rate of the general mission quest.

In one embodiment, the processor may determine the status score of a selected pet using the completion rate of at least one general quest item for a general mission quest. Referring to FIG. 6, the processor may display the status score (660) of the selected pet (620) on the screen.

In step S450, the processor may determine whether a special mission quest needs to be generated based on at least one of the occurrence cycle of the special mission quest, the status score of the selected pet, and the characteristic information.

In this disclosure, special mission quests are tasks that arise in special situations, such as emergencies, that a user must perform while raising a pet. Special mission quests may refer to tasks that address events that may arise in a selected pet, such as diseases, crises, or emergencies, based on the selected pet's characteristics. For example, the processor may consider information about diseases to which the selected pet is vulnerable and determine a task requiring the user to resolve these events as a special mission quest.

In one embodiment, the processor can identify the occurrence cycle of a special mission quest. The occurrence cycle of the special mission quest may be preset. Furthermore, the occurrence cycle of the special mission quest may be set to a different cycle, and may be changed or updated, based on the characteristics of the selected pet, the selected pet, or the current age of the selected pet. For example, if the selected pet has a high risk or likelihood of developing a special event (e.g., a disease) based on information about the disease to which the selected pet is vulnerable, the occurrence cycle of the special mission quest may be set shorter for the selected pet compared to other selectable pets. Furthermore, even for the same pet, if the probability or risk of developing a disease varies depending on age, the occurrence cycle of the special mission quest may be changed depending on age. The processor can determine whether a special mission quest needs to occur based on the occurrence cycle of the special mission quest.

In one embodiment, the processor may determine whether the selected pet's condition score is lower than a reference score based on the occurrence cycle of the special mission quest. Here, the reference score refers to a reference value that can be used to determine whether the pet's condition is okay. If the pet's condition score is higher than the reference score, the processor may determine that the pet is less likely to experience a disease, crisis, or emergency. The reference score may be pre-set by the system or may be set by the user. Furthermore, the reference score may be set to different values, and may be changed or updated, based on the selected pet's characteristic information, the selected pet's current age, etc. For example, if the selected pet has a high risk, likelihood, or severity of a special event occurring, the reference score for the selected pet may be set lower than that of other selectable pets. Furthermore, even for the same pet, if the risk, likelihood, or severity of a special event occurring varies depending on age, the reference score may be changed based on age.

In one embodiment, the processor may determine that a special mission quest is required if the selected pet's status score is determined to be lower than a reference score.

In step S460, if it is determined that the occurrence of a special mission quest is necessary, the processor may determine the special mission quest and whether the special mission quest is successful.

In one embodiment, the processor can use the characteristic information to identify special characteristic information for the selected companion animal. In the present disclosure, special characteristic information refers to information that must be considered when a special event, emergency event, or the like occurs.

In one embodiment, the processor may use special characteristic information to determine at least one special quest item for a special mission quest and a success condition for the at least one special quest item.

Figure 7 is a drawing for explaining a special mission quest according to an embodiment.

In one embodiment, the processor may output a message including at least one special quest item (722, 724, 726) for a special mission quest (710) and a success condition (732, 734, 736) of the at least one special quest item.

The success conditions (732, 734, 736) of at least one special quest item (722, 724, 726) may include a cost condition for performing the special quest item and a motion condition of the user. That is, this may mean information about how much a cost is required for the special quest item (722) (i.e., a cost condition for performing the special quest item) and what actions, inputs, data, etc. the user must input into the device (100) as quest performance data (i.e., a motion condition of the user).

For example, a special mission quest (710) in which a selected companion animal (740) is susceptible to a disease may be generated and displayed on the screen. For example, a treatment action (e.g., injection, medication, etc.) for the special mission quest (710) in which the selected companion animal (740) is susceptible to a disease may be determined as a special quest item (722). For the special quest item (722), the cost required for the treatment action (e.g., injection, medication, etc.) may be output as a cost condition of the success condition (732) for performing the special quest item. In addition, the processor may output a message requesting a specific motion to the user for the treatment action (e.g., injection, medication, etc.) as a user motion condition of the success condition (732). The sensor may track the user's motion, and the processor may obtain the user's motion tracked by the sensor and use the information as quest performance data. Alternatively, the processor may output a message to the user's motion condition (732) requesting the user to enter specific data for a treatment action (e.g., administering an injection, administering medication, etc.).

In one embodiment, the processor may determine whether a special mission quest (710) is successful based on success conditions (732, 734, 736) of at least one special quest item (722, 724, 726).

In one embodiment, the processor may obtain quest performance data. The processor may compare the quest performance data with the user's motion conditions to determine whether the quest performance data satisfies the user's motion conditions. For example, if the processor determines the nearest veterinary hospital to the user based on the user's location and determines the user's motion of moving to the veterinary hospital as the user's motion condition of the success condition (732), the sensor may track changes in the user's location, movement, vibration of the device (100), etc., to collect the user's motion data. The processor may obtain the collected motion data as quest performance data. The processor may determine whether the obtained quest performance data satisfies the user's motion conditions.

In one embodiment, the processor may determine whether an item for a cost condition for performing a special quest item is satisfied. The processor may output a 'payment button' (772, 774, 776) for the item for the cost condition on the screen. The processor may receive a user's input, such as clicking, dragging, or touching the 'payment button' (772, 774, 776) for the item for the cost condition. When the processor receives the user's input, the processor may compare the size of the cost condition for performing the special quest item with the cost information (770) (i.e., the amount given to the user to use for raising a companion animal (740) at the time the processor receives the user's input). When the cost information (770) at the time the processor receives the user's input is greater than the cost condition for performing the special quest item, the processor may determine that the item for the cost condition for performing the special quest item is satisfied. In addition, the processor may update and output the amount obtained by subtracting the cost condition for performing a special quest item from the child-rearing cost information (770). On the other hand, if the child-rearing cost information (770) at the time the processor receives the user's input is less than the cost condition for performing a special quest item, the processor may determine that the item for the cost condition for performing a special quest item is not satisfied. In addition, the processor may update and output the amount obtained by subtracting the cost condition for performing a special quest item from the child-rearing cost information (770), but may also output "-(minus)" or the like to indicate that the current balance is less than 0.

In one embodiment, the processor may determine that a special mission quest is successful if the quest performance data satisfies the user's motion condition and an item for a cost condition for performing a special quest item is satisfied.

In one embodiment, the processor may determine the actual success rate of the special mission quest (710) by considering the pet's life cycle data and/or characteristic information. For example, while treatment may actually result in a cure, the actual cure rate may vary depending on the specific disease. Therefore, the processor may consider the probabilistic likelihood of treatment to provide the user with a realistic parenting experience. Accordingly, the processor may determine the actual success rate of the special mission quest (710) if the quest performance data satisfies the user's motion conditions and the cost conditions for performing the special mission items are satisfied. Furthermore, the processor may determine whether the special mission quest is successful by considering the actual success rate of the special mission quest (710).

In step S470, the processor may update the status score (760) of the selected pet based on the success rate (750) of the special mission quest (710).

In one embodiment, the processor may determine a weight for the at least one special quest item (722, 724, 726) based on at least one of an urgency of the at least one special quest item (722, 724, 726), a risk of the at least one special quest item (722, 724, 726), or a time taken to complete the quest of the at least one special quest item (722, 724, 726). For example, the processor may determine a high value for the weight for the at least one special quest item (722, 724, 724) when the urgency and risk of the at least one special quest item (722, 724, 724) are high. Additionally, the processor may assign a higher weight to a time taken to complete the quest of the at least one special quest item (722, 724, 724) when the urgency and risk of the at least one special quest item (722, 724, 724) are low.

In one embodiment, the processor may update the status score (760) of the selected companion animal based on whether at least one general quest item (632-1, 634-1, 642-1, 644-1, 646-1) was completed (or, a completion rate (650)) and whether at least one special quest item (722, 724, 726) was successfully completed (or, a success rate (750)) and a weighting factor for the at least one special quest item (722, 724, 726).

In step S480, the processor may determine the user's parenting score (780) based on the general mission quest (610), special mission quest (710) and parenting cost information (770).

In one embodiment, the processor may determine the achievement rate (650) of the general mission quest (610) and the success rate (750) of the special mission quest (710). The processor may compare the child-rearing cost information with a reference value to determine a cost-reflected value. Here, the reference value may be the value of the child-rearing cost expected from the user at that time, and may be, for example, the minimum amount that can handle a mission quest that will occur in the future. The processor may determine the user's child-rearing score (780) using the cost-reflected value, the achievement rate (650) of the general mission quest, and the success rate (750) of the special mission quest.

In one embodiment, if the childcare cost information is greater than a reference value, the processor may determine a first value as the cost-reflecting value. If the childcare cost information is less than the reference value, the processor may determine a second value as the cost-reflecting value. The first value may be greater than the second value.

In step S490, the processor may provide feedback information about the parenting experience based on the condition score and parenting score of the selected pet.

In one embodiment, the current age (790) of the companion animal (740) may be increased until it equals the companion animal's life expectancy value. The processor may determine the companion animal's life expectancy by considering the companion animal's (740) average life expectancy, the selected companion animal's (740) condition score (760), and the user's parenting score (780).

In one embodiment, the processor may generate comments about the parenting experience based on the condition score and parenting score when the current age (790) of the companion animal (740) exceeds the companion animal's expected lifespan. The processor may provide feedback information including the companion animal's expected lifespan, condition score, parenting score, and comments about the condition score and parenting experience.

Some of the steps described above in FIGS. 2 and 3 may be omitted, or some steps may be operated with their order changed. Furthermore, the screen configurations of FIGS. 4 to 7 are merely examples and are not intended to be limiting.

The embodiments described above may be implemented using hardware components, software components, and/or a combination of hardware components and software components. For example, the devices, methods, and components described in the embodiments may be implemented using one or more general-purpose computers or special-purpose computers, such as, for example, a processor, a controller, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic unit (PLU), a microprocessor, or any other device capable of executing instructions and responding to them. The processing device may execute an operating system (OS) and one or more software applications running on the operating system. The processing device may also access, store, manipulate, process, and generate data in response to the execution of the software. For ease of understanding, the processing device is sometimes described as being used alone; however, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the processing device may include multiple processing elements and/or multiple types of processing elements. For example, a processing unit may include multiple processors, or a processor and a controller. Other processing configurations, such as parallel processors, are also possible.

The method according to the embodiment may be implemented in the form of program commands that can be executed through various computer means and recorded on a computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium may include program commands, data files, data structures, etc., alone or in combination. The program commands recorded on the medium may be those specially designed and configured for the embodiment or may be those known and available to those skilled in the art of computer software. Examples of the computer-readable recording medium include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes, optical media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, magneto-optical media such as floptical disks, and hardware devices specially configured to store and execute program commands, such as ROMs, RAMs, and flash memories. Examples of the program commands include not only machine language codes generated by a compiler, but also high-level language codes that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter, etc. The above-mentioned hardware devices may be configured to operate as one or more software modules to perform the operations of the embodiment, and vice versa.

Software may include a computer program, code, instructions, or a combination of one or more of these, which may configure a processing device to perform a desired operation or may, independently or collectively, command the processing device. The software and/or data may be permanently or temporarily embodied in any type of machine, component, physical device, virtual equipment, computer storage medium or device, or transmitted signal wave, for interpretation by the processing device or for providing instructions or data to the processing device. The software may also be distributed over networked computer systems and stored or executed in a distributed manner. The software and data may be stored on one or more computer-readable recording media.

Although the embodiments described above have been described with limited drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various technical modifications and variations can be applied based on the above. For example, appropriate results can still be achieved even if the described techniques are performed in a different order than described, and/or components of the described systems, structures, devices, circuits, etc. are combined or combined in a different manner than described, or are replaced or substituted with other components or equivalents.

Therefore, other implementations, other embodiments, and equivalents to the claims also fall within the scope of the claims described below.

Claims (5)

In a device that provides a virtual parenting experience based on the life cycle data of a pet,
Transmitter and receiver;
A memory storing a program that provides a virtual parenting experience based on the life cycle data of the above companion animal; and
A processor controlling the above memory and transmitter/receiver;
The above processor,
Based on the life cycle data of multiple selectable pets, identifying characteristic information corresponding to the type of the selected pet with respect to the average lifespan of the selected pet and at least one parenting factor,
Using the above characteristic information, determine the general mission quest for the at least one parenting element and the achievement rate of the general mission quest,
Based on whether certain conditions are satisfied, update the current age of the selected pet,
Based on the current age of the selected pet, update the occurrence cycle of special mission quests ,
Based on the occurrence cycle of the special mission quest, the status score of the selected pet, and the characteristic information, it is determined whether the special mission quest needs to occur,
Based on the occurrence cycle of the special mission quest, it is determined whether the status score of the selected pet is lower than the reference score, which is a reference value that can be used to determine whether the pet is in good condition, and - the reference score is a value that is set to a different value for each selected pet according to the characteristic information of the selected pet and changes according to the current age of the selected pet.
If the status score of the selected pet is determined to be lower than the standard score, it is determined that a special mission quest is required.
If it is determined that the occurrence of the above special mission quest is necessary, the special mission quest and the success or failure of the special mission quest are determined based on the above characteristic information,
A device that provides feedback information on the parenting experience based on the condition score and parenting score of the selected pet when the current age of the pet is greater than the expected lifespan of the pet.
In the first paragraph, the processor
If it is determined that the occurrence of the above special mission quest is necessary, the above special mission quest and the success or failure of the special mission quest are determined,
Based on the success rate of the above special mission quest, the status score of the selected pet is updated,
A device for determining a user's parenting score based on the above general mission quest, the above special mission quest, and parenting cost information.
In the first paragraph, the processor uses the characteristic information to determine a general mission quest for the at least one parenting element and an achievement condition of the general mission quest,
Based on the achievement conditions and quest performance data of the above general mission quest, it is determined whether the above general mission quest has been achieved.
Based on the achievement rate of the above general mission quest, the status score of the selected pet is determined,
The above achievement condition is identified as a preset condition or is identified based on information input by the user.
delete In the first paragraph, the processor
Determine a weight for at least one special quest item based on at least one of the urgency of the at least one special quest item, the risk of the at least one special quest item, or the time taken to complete the quest for the at least one special quest item;
A device that updates the status score of the selected companion animal based on whether at least one general quest item has been completed, whether at least one special quest item has been successfully completed, and a weighting factor for at least one special quest item.