WO2024110790A1

WO2024110790A1 - A system and method to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary

Info

Publication number: WO2024110790A1
Application number: PCT/IB2023/054280
Authority: WO
Inventors: Siddharth Biswas
Original assignee: Sogani, Jai
Priority date: 2022-11-21
Filing date: 2023-04-26
Publication date: 2024-05-30

Abstract

A system (100) to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary is disclosed. The system includes a processing subsystem (105) that includes a receiving module (120) to receive a plurality of personalized preferences of the user. The processing subsystem includes an analysis module (122) to analyze the user inputs to generate a plurality of places of interest. The processing subsystem includes a mapping module (124) to obtain a plurality of optimal points of interest. The processing subsystem includes an itinerary generation module (126) to generate the travel itinerary. The processing subsystem includes a feedback module (128) to provide the travel itinerary to the user. The processing subsystem includes an itinerary modification module (130) to modify the travel itinerary based on at least one of user preference and a plurality of real time events, thereby optimizing free time of the user by planning the travel itinerary.

Description

A SYSTEM AND METHOD TO OPTIMIZE FREE TIME OF A USER BY PLANNING A

TRAVEL ITINERARY

EARLIEST PRIORITY DATE:

This Application claims priority from a provisional patent application filed in India having Patent Application No. 202211066786, filed on November 21, 2022, and titled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NANO-TIME TRAVEL PLANNING”.

FIELD OF INVENTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the field of travel planner, and more particularly, a system and a method to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary.

BACKGROUND

Travel planning is essential for a smooth trip. Specifically, planning a trip in advance is a great way to save time and ensure a memorable experience. It gives everyone time to thoughtfully consider where to go, how to go, what to see and many more such elements that are involved in travelling.

There are several existing applications that plan itineraries at the level of the micro trip like a weekend. Their planning services include research destinations and activities, organizing reservations, and mapping out a day itinerary with start and end times and the like. Most of these services are geared towards plans that are on the micro level of a weekend getaway, or even longer.

However, if a user wants to optimize their free time for the day on travelling, then preplanning will be a challenging task. The user could be a local looking to explore their own city or a traveler in a city that’s not their own. The coordination and expenditure that is required at the users’ end is more in such a trip. Further, the user must navigate more touch points and expend significantly more resources while planning a trip. It leads to confusion and indecision that often leaves people immobilized until the time they were free has already been spent. This is a universal problem and frequently faced by most travelers. Currently there are no such solutions available in the market that focus on the nano-term or very short-term, such as for an hour.

Further, people will plan the trip according to a budget, most of the time after full planning people will calculate the expenditure that is required for the trip and that can be exceeded their budget, which will make people to a lot of modifications in their planning.

Hence, there is a need for an improved system and method to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary which addresses the aforementioned issue(s).

OBJECTIVE OF THE INVENTION

The objective of the invention is to help users to optimize their free time during a tour by planning out a travel itinerary. It eliminates the need for research and decision making when the users are looking out for things to do, specifically when they have a very limited amount of time to spend.

Another objective of the invention is to allow the users to customize their travel itinerary.

Yet another objective of the invention is to provide users with bookings, reservations, offers and deals so that they can optimize their free time.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a system to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary is provided. The system includes a processing subsystem hosted on a server. The processing subsystem is configured to execute on a network to control bidirectional communications among a plurality of modules. The processing subsystem includes a receiving module. The receiving module is configured to receive a plurality of personalized preferences of the user to generate the travel itinerary to optimize free time of the user for one or more-time frames corresponding to one or more days and a place of interest to explore. The plurality of personalized preferences includes a tour duration, a plurality of user interests, starting location, end location, budget set by the user and number of individuals. The processing subsystem includes an analysis module operatively coupled to the receiving module. The analysis module is configured to analyze the plurality of personalized preferences of the user to generate at least one of a plurality of places of interest between the starting location and the end location wherein, the plurality of places of interest are sorted based on at least one of a nearest distance from the starting location and a plurality of places of interest within a pre-defined threshold radius and a distance between a first location and a second location within the pre-defined threshold radius. The analysis module is also configured to calculate distance and travel time from starting location to the plurality of places of interest thereby obtaining an average time to be spent on the plurality of places of interest. Additionally, the analysis module is configured to analyze a plurality of spots in the place of interest for the user to explore. The processing subsystem includes a mapping module operatively coupled to the analysis module. The mapping module is configured to map the plurality of places of interest to at least one of the tour duration, budget set by the user and the average time to be spent on the plurality of places of interest. The mapping module is also configured to obtain a plurality of optimal points of interest. The plurality of optimal points of interest are destinations that can be covered corresponding to plurality of personalized preferences of the user. The processing subsystem includes an itinerary generation module operatively coupled to the mapping module. The itinerary generation module is configured to generate the travel itinerary based on the mapping. The travel itinerary includes the plurality of optimal points of interest, start time, stay time and description about the plurality of optimal points of interest. Further, the itinerary generation module is configured to generate the travel itinerary for at least one of the plurality of spots in the place of interest, wherein the travel itinerary allows the user to learn about the at least one of the plurality of spots via a corresponding description, one or more images and one or more reviews. The processing subsystem includes a feedback module operatively coupled to the itinerary generation module. The feedback module is configured to provide feedback to the user about the travel itinerary generated. The feedback module further configured to alert the user if the travel itinerary expense reaches the budget set by the user. The feedback module furthermore configured to provide recommendations to the user about the plurality of places of interest excluding the plurality of optimal points of interest on the travel itinerary. The processing subsystem includes an itinerary modification module operatively coupled to the feedback module. The itinerary modification module is configured to modify the travel itinerary generated based on at least one of user preference and a plurality of real time events. The itinerary modification module is also configured to modify the travel itinerary generated based on the alert sent to the user thereby optimizing free time of the user by planning the travel itinerary thereby optimizing free time of the user by planning the travel itinerary. In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary is provided. The method includes receiving, by a receiving module, a plurality of personalized preferences of the user to generate the travel itinerary to optimize free time of the user for one or more-time frames corresponding to one or more days and a place of interest to explore. The plurality of personalized preferences includes a tour duration, a plurality of user interests, starting location, end location, budget set by the user and number of individuals. The method includes analysing, by an analysis module, the plurality of personalized preferences of the user to generate at least one of a plurality of places of interest between the starting location and the end location, wherein the plurality of places of interest are sorted based on the plurality of places of interest are sorted based on at least one of a nearest distance from the starting location and a plurality of places of interest within a pre-defined threshold radius and a distance between a first location and a second location within the pre-defined threshold radius. The method includes calculating, by the analysis module, distance and travel time from starting location to the plurality of places of interest thereby obtaining an average time to be spent on the plurality of places of interest. The method also includes analysing, by the analysis module, a plurality of spots in the place of interest for the user to explore. The method includes mapping, by a mapping module, the plurality of places of interest to at least one of the tour duration, budget set by the user and the average time to be spent on the plurality of places of interest. The method includes obtaining, by the mapping module, a plurality of optimal points of interest. The plurality of optimal points of interest are destinations that can be covered corresponding to plurality of personalized preferences of the user. The method includes generating, by an itinerary generation module, the travel itinerary based on the mapping. The travel itinerary includes the plurality of optimal points of interest, start time, stay time and description about the plurality of optimal points of interest. The method also includes generating, by the itinerary generation module, the travel itinerary for at least one of the plurality of spots in the place of interest, wherein the travel itinerary allows the user to learn about the at least one of the plurality of spots via a corresponding description, one or more images and one or more reviews. The method includes providing, by a feedback module, feedback to the user about the travel itinerary generated. The method includes alerting, by the feedback module, the user if the travel itinerary expense reaches the budget set by the user. The method includes providing, by the feedback module, recommendations to the user about the plurality of places of interest excluding the plurality of optimal points of interest on the travel itinerary. The method includes modifying, by an itinerary modification module, the travel itinerary generated based on at least one of user preference and a plurality of real time events. The method includes modifying, by the itinerary modification module, the travel itinerary based on the alert sent to the user thereby optimizing free time of the user by planning the travel itinerary.

To further clarify the advantages and features of the present disclosure, a more particular description of the disclosure will follow by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended figures. It is to be appreciated that these figures depict only typical embodiments of the disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting in scope. The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the appended figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying figures in which:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram representation of a system to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the system of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a computer or a server in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary screenshot of a master page to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5(a) illustrates an exemplary screenshot to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary within a day of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5(b) illustrates an exemplary screenshot of a planned travel itinerary within a day of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 6(a) illustrates an exemplary screenshot to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary for few days of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6(b) illustrates an exemplary screenshot to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary for few days of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7(a) illustrates a flow chart representing the steps involved in a method to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 7 (b) illustrates continued steps of the method of FIG. 7 (a) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the figures by conventional symbols, and the figures may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the figures with details that will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the figures and specific language will be used to describe them. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the disclosure as would normally occur to those skilled in the art are to be construed as being within the scope of the present disclosure.

The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a nonexclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such a process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or subsystems or elements or structures or components preceded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices, sub-systems, elements, structures, components, additional devices, additional subsystems, additional elements, additional structures or additional components. Appearances of the phrase "in an embodiment", "in another embodiment" and similar language throughout this specification may, but not necessarily do, all refer to the same embodiment.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are only illustrative and not intended to be limiting.

In the following specification and the claims, reference will be made to a number of terms, which shall be defined to have the following meanings. The singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

In the foregoing discussion, it must be noted that the terms ‘tour’, ‘trip’ and ‘journey’ may be used interchangeably.

In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a system to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary is provided. The system includes a processing subsystem hosted on a server. The processing subsystem is configured to execute on a network to control bidirectional communications among a plurality of modules. The processing subsystem includes a receiving module. The receiving module is configured to receive a plurality of personalized preferences of the user to generate the travel itinerary to optimize free time of the user for one or more-time frames corresponding to one or more days and a place of interest to explore. The plurality of personalized preferences includes a tour duration, a plurality of user interests, starting location, end location, budget set by the user and number of individuals. The processing subsystem includes an analysis module operatively coupled to the receiving module. The analysis module is configured to analyze the plurality of personalized preferences of the user to generate at least one of a plurality of places of interest between the starting location and the end location wherein, the plurality of places of interest are sorted based on at least one of a nearest distance from the starting location and a plurality of places of interest within a pre-defined threshold radius and a distance between a first location and a second location within the pre-defined threshold radius. The analysis module is also configured to calculate distance and travel time from starting location to the plurality of places of interest thereby obtaining an average time to be spent on the plurality of places of interest. Additionally, the analysis module is configured to analyze a plurality of spots in the place of interest for the user to explore. The processing subsystem includes a mapping module operatively coupled to the analysis module. The mapping module is configured to map the plurality of places of interest to at least one of the tour duration, budget set by the user and the average time to be spent on the plurality of places of interest. The mapping module is also configured to obtain a plurality of optimal points of interest. The plurality of optimal points of interest are destinations that can be covered corresponding to plurality of personalized preferences of the user. The processing subsystem includes an itinerary generation module operatively coupled to the mapping module. The itinerary generation module is configured to generate the travel itinerary based on the mapping. The travel itinerary includes the plurality of optimal points of interest, start time, stay time and description about the plurality of optimal points of interest. Further, the itinerary generation module is configured to generate the travel itinerary for at least one of the plurality of spots in the place of interest, wherein the travel itinerary allows the user to learn about the at least one of the plurality of spots via a corresponding description, one or more images and one or more reviews. The processing subsystem includes a feedback module operatively coupled to the itinerary generation module. The feedback module is configured to provide feedback to the user about the travel itinerary generated. The feedback module further configured to alert the user if the travel itinerary expense reaches the budget set by the user. The feedback module furthermore configured to provide recommendations to the user about the plurality of places of interest excluding the plurality of optimal points of interest on the travel itinerary. The processing subsystem includes an itinerary modification module operatively coupled to the feedback module. The itinerary modification module is configured to modify the travel itinerary generated based on at least one of user preference and a plurality of real time events. The itinerary modification module is also configured to modify the travel itinerary generated based on the alert sent to the user thereby optimizing free time of the user by planning the travel itinerary thereby optimizing free time of the user by planning the travel itinerary.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system (100) to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system (100) includes a processing subsystem (105) hosted on a server (108). In one embodiment, the server (108) may include a cloud-based server. In another embodiment, parts of the server (108) may be a local server coupled to a user device (114). Examples of the user device (114) includes, but is not limited to, a mobile phone, desktop computer, portable digital assistant (PDA), smart phone, tablet, ultra-book, netbook, laptop, multiprocessor system, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronic system, or any other communication device that a user may use. In some embodiments, the system (100) may comprise a display module (not shown) to display information (for example, in the form of user interfaces). In further embodiments, the system may comprise one or more of touch screens, accelerometers, gyroscopes, cameras, microphones, global positioning system (GPS) devices, and so forth.

The processing subsystem (105) is configured to execute on a network (115) to control bidirectional communications among a plurality of modules. In one example, the network (115) may be a private or public local area network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN), such as the Internet. In another embodiment, the network (115) may include both wired and wireless communications according to one or more standards and/or via one or more transport mediums. In one example, the network (115) may include wireless communications according to one of the 802.11 or Bluetooth specification sets, or another standard or proprietary wireless communication protocol. In yet another embodiment, the network (115) may also include communications over a terrestrial cellular network, including, a global system for mobile communications (GSM), code division multiple access (CDMA), and/or enhanced data for global evolution (EDGE) network.

The processing subsystem (105) includes a receiving module (120). The receiving module (120) is configured to receive a plurality of personalized preferences of a user to generate the travel itinerary to optimize free time of the user for one or more-time frames corresponding to one or more days. The user is an individual looking out to explore a geographical location. It must be noted that the user may be currently situated at the said geographical location or may be travelling to the said geographical location at a later period. Further, the tour duration signifies a duration of a tour scheduled by the user. It must be noted that the tour duration signifies the time period of the journey in hours or days. The plurality of personalized preferences includes a tour duration, a plurality of user interests, starting location, end location, budget set by the user, and number of individuals. Further, the one or more time frames specifies the free time of the user during the tour duration. For instance, consider that the user schedules a tour duration for one day wherein he/ she finds free time for 3 hours post lunch. In such a scenario, the time frame is considered to be ‘3 hours. Likewise, the user may specify one or more time frames in the tour duration.

A user may be interested in specific attraction places/ events such as parks and less interested in religious places and hence would like to spend time accordingly. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the receiving module (120) is configured to receive the plurality of user interests from the user. The plurality of user interests indicates preferred places or events of the user. Further, the plurality of user interests could include but is not limited to, travel, food, lifestyle, sports and adventure, and entertainment.

The starting location of the tour refers to the geographical location from where the user plans to start the tour. The end location of the tour is the geographical location where the user plans to end the tour. The starting location may or may not be at least one of a current location and the end location of the user. In other words, the starting location and end location may be the same indicating that the tour takes place in the current location of the user.

The budget set by the user is the amount of money that the user plans to spend on the tour. The expenses of the tour should be confined to the budget specified by the user for a budget-friendly tour. In one embodiment, the expense is tracked and subsequently alerted to the user when the expense exceeds the budget. The expense during the tour includes, but not be limited to, transportation expenses, food, accommodation, local transport, activities like museum tickets, tours, excursions, souvenirs, and various other expenses on the way.

The processing subsystem (105) includes an analysis module (122) configured to analyze the plurality of personalized preferences of the user. The analysis may happen using any two algorithms as described herein. In a first algorithm, the analysis module (122) analyzes the plurality of personalized preferences of the user to generate a plurality of places of interest between the starting location and the end location. The plurality of places of interest are sorted based on the nearest distance from the starting location. Further, choose a place of interest from the plurality of places of interest. Furthermore, calculate distance and travel time from starting location to the plurality of places of interest thereby obtaining the average time to be spent on the plurality of places of interest based on user input. Moreover, the analysis module (122) repeats the algorithm for the next destination according to the tour duration. In a second algorithm, the analysis module (122) analyzes the plurality of personalized preferences of the user to generate the plurality of places of interest within a pre-defined threshold radius. The plurality of places of interest are sorted based on distance between a first location and a second location within the pre-defined threshold radius. The pre-defined threshold radius is generated based on the tour duration. Further, the analysis module (122) chooses a place of interest from the plurality of places of interest. Furthermore, the analysis module (122) calculates distance and travel time from starting location to the plurality of places of interest thereby obtaining an average time to be spent on each of the plurality of places of interest based on user input. Moreover, repeat the algorithm for next destination according to the tour duration. In an embodiment, distance matrix API is used for calculating distance and travel time from starting location to the plurality of places of interest to sort the plurality of places of interest.

Further, the analysis module (122) is configured to identify one or more modes of travel for the tour. The one or more modes of travel are utilized in generating the travel itinerary. Examples of the modes includes, but is not limited to, airplane, metro, train, rental car, bike, boat, walk and the like.

Consider an example, a user ‘X’, who wants to plan a tour to optimize his/her free time which may be around 2 Hours. The user ‘X’ provides his/her interests, start location, end location, tour duration, and budget, and the like as an input to the system (100). The system (100) will analyze the input and provide a travel itinerary that includes places based on user ‘X’ interest, starting time, stay time and description, image, and google rating about the places they can visit in their free time.

The processing subsystem (105) includes a mapping module (124) configured to map the plurality of places of interest to at least one of the tour duration, budget set by the user and the average time to be spent on the plurality of places of interest. The mapping module (124) is also configured to obtain a plurality of optimal points of interest. The plurality of optimal points of interest are destinations that can be covered corresponding to the plurality of personalized preferences of the user.

The processing subsystem (105) includes an itinerary generation module (126) configured to generate the travel itinerary based on the analysis. The travel itinerary includes the plurality of optimal points of interest, start time, stay time and description about the plurality of optimal points of interest. In one embodiment, the travel itinerary includes a high rated plurality of optimal points of interest based on google ratings and reviews. The travel itinerary also includes an image of the plurality of optimal points of interest.

In one embodiment, there are two modes of itinerary, namely future itinerary and real-time itinerary. In such an embodiment, the user switches to the real-time itinerary after the itinerary is started. Subsequently, the user’s location and time are tracked (using geo-fencing) to ensure that the user reaches his/her destination at the desired time. At the point of initiating the itinerary the following steps are performed:

1. A notification will be sent to the user before the start time of the tour (for instance, 15 minutes before the start).

2. The actual time to reach the destination from the start point is fetched.

3. If the time, upon fetching, is less than the suggested time (original time) then the users get to spend more time at the next point of interest.

4. If the time, upon fetching, is more than the suggested time (original time) then an alert is sent to the user notifying about the delay. In such a scenario, the user may accept the delay in reaching the destination. Alternatively, if the user wants to reach the destination in time, then the future point of interest timings will be updated accordingly. Consequently, a last point of interest may be cancelled to ensure that the user reaches the destination on time.

In one embodiment, the itinerary generation module (126) is configured to display all the travel itineraries pertaining to the user in the past, present and future time periods.

The processing subsystem (105) includes feedback configured to provide feedback to the user about the travel itinerary generated. The feedback module (128) is further configured to alert the user if the travel itinerary expense reaches the budget set by the user and recommends the travel itinerary based on the budget set by the user. The feedback module (128) is furthermore configured to provide recommendations to the user about the plurality of places of interest excluding the plurality of optimal points of interest on the travel itinerary. Consider a user ‘X’ who is allowed to set up a trip budget. The trip budget is set by considering a fare amount for a cab (to travel from one point of interest to another) and a ticket cost (applicable to the user to visit a point of interest including tickets to tourist attractions for instance, museum, amusement park and the like). In such a scenario, a notification is sent to the user ‘X’ when the trip budget is reaching its limit.

Consider the user ‘X’ in another scenario in the same context of setting up a trip budget. The user ‘X’ is allowed to set up a trip budget. In such a scenario, only the location that fits into the trip budget is displayed to the user ‘X’. A list of nearby places is displayed to the user ‘X’ wherein the list is a decreasing order of the ratings. The average cost of a cab to visit the nearby places and the ticket cost at each of the nearby places is retrieved. The pending budget is calculated, and the process repeats until the trip budget reaches its limit.

The processing subsystem (105) includes an itinerary modification module (130) configured to modify the travel itinerary generated based on user preference. The itinerary modification module (130) is also configured to modify the travel itinerary automatically based on a plurality of real time factors, for instance traffic, overcrowding, time spent on each point of interest exceeding a pre-determined limit and the like. The pre-determined limit is the maximum estimated stay time in the plurality of places of interest, thereby optimizing free time of the user by planning the travel itinerary.

In a specific embodiment, the itinerary modification module ( 130) is also configured to generate a modified travel itinerary to schedule the itinerary within the pre-set time, when the time to reach a preferred the plurality of places of interest exceeds the predetermined limit.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the system of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The processing subsystem (105) further includes a description generator module (132) operatively coupled to the itinerary generation module (126). The description generator module (126) is configured to generate an audio description of the plurality of optimal points of interest by converting a textual description of the plurality of optimal points of interest using a speech translator. Examples for audio description of the plurality of optimal points of interest may include details of an artefact in a museum, history of food consumed and the like.

In an embodiment, the user may point a camera at an object using Google’s Vision API, for example an artifact, art piece, and the like. The system in response, uploads a shot image and obtains details corresponding to the image. Further, the description generator module ( 132) uses a text to speech translator (Google Text -to-Speech API) to convert the details into a playable audio.

In one embodiment, a 3D view of a point of interest is displayed to the user. Once the user reaches the point of interest, an indoor navigation is provided to the user to enable his/ her time effectively.

The system (100) moreover includes a ticket purchase module (136). The ticket purchase module (136) is configured to generate an E-Pass to a ticketed optimal point of interest on the travel itinerary.

In a specific embodiment, a 3rd party ticketing API to be integrated with the ticket purchase module to provide cost at each optimal point of interest.

The processing subsystem (105) includes a companion module (138) operatively coupled to the itinerary generation module (126). The companion module (138) configured to establish a communication between multiple users nearby. The companion module is configured to upload the current location of the user and the next destination as per the generated travel itinerary, to a central database (110) on a pre-defined time interval. The companion module (138) is also configured to recommend at least one second user in the vicinity of a first user, with same destination point as the first user to pair up in the tour. A companion mode feature provides environment friendly options like carpooling, cost savings and the like. The companion mode feature requires near-live location tracking of the users. In a specific embodiment, a firebase realtime database is used to achieve the companion mode feature. In such an embodiment, a user’s current location along with his/her next destination is sent to the firebase real-time database recursively for a specific period. Other individuals within the radar of the user can view the user details and subsequently a real-time chat session may be initiated between the user and the other individuals to communicate. The processing subsystem (105) includes a cab aggregation module (140) operatively coupled to the itinerary generation module (126). The cab aggregation module (140) is configured to book a cab for transportation facility to travel between the plurality of optimal points of interest. The cab driver gets notification about the itinerary upon confirmation of booking by the user. Notification may include the user's complete itinerary with timings. In an embodiment, the 3^rd party API is used for booking of the cab.

Further, the processing subsystem (105) includes a navigation module (142) operatively coupled to the itinerary generation module (126). The navigation module (142) is configured to navigate the user inside the plurality of optimal points of interests.

In one embodiment, a navigation bar is displayed to the user through a graphical user interface, to provide a quick overview of a current status in the travel itinerary. The user can view the remaining stops in the travel itinerary, at any given time.

In another embodiment, the user is also allowed to click a Google icon to open the travel itinerary on Google maps. In one embodiment, the various functional components of the system may reside on a single computer, or they may be distributed across several computers in various arrangements. The various components of the system may, furthermore, access one or more databases, and each of the various components of the system may be in communication with one another. Further, while the components of FIG. 1 are discussed in the singular sense, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments multiple instances of the components may be employed.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a computer or a server in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The server (200) includes processor(s) (230), and memory (210) operatively coupled to the bus (220). The processor(s) (230), as used herein, means any type of computational circuit, such as, but not limited to, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a complex instruction set computing microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing microprocessor, a very long instruction word microprocessor, an explicitly parallel instruction computing microprocessor, a digital signal processor, or any other type of processing circuit, or a combination thereof.

The memory (210) includes several subsystems stored in the form of executable program which instructs the processor (230) to perform the method steps illustrated in FIG. 1. The memory (210) includes a processing subsystem (105) of FIG.l. The processing subsystem (105) further has following modules: a receiving module (120), analyzing module (122), mapping module (124), Itinerary generation module (126), feedback module (128) and itinerary modification module (130).

An embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a system to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary is provided. The system includes a processing subsystem (105) hosted on a server. The processing subsystem (105) is configured to execute on a network to control bidirectional communications among a plurality of modules. The processing subsystem (105) includes a receiving module (120). The receiving module (120) is configured to receive a plurality of personalized preferences of a user to generate the travel itinerary to optimize free time of the user for one or more-time frames corresponding to one or more days and a place of interest to explore. The plurality of personalized preferences includes a tour duration, a plurality of user interests, starting location, end location, budget set by the user and number of individuals. The processing subsystem (105) includes an analysis module (122) operatively coupled to the receiving module (120). The analysis module (122) is configured to analyze the plurality of personalized preferences of the user to generate at least one of a plurality of places of interest between the starting location and the end location wherein, the plurality of places of interest are sorted based on the plurality of places of interest are sorted based on at least one of a nearest distance from the starting location and a plurality of places of interest within a pre-defined threshold radius and a distance between a first location and a second location within the pre-defined threshold radius. The analysis module (122) is also configured to calculate distance and travel time from starting location to the plurality of places of interest thereby obtaining an average time to be spent on the plurality of places of interest. Further, the analysis module (122) is configured to analyse a plurality of spots in the place of interest for the user to explore. The processing subsystem (105) includes a mapping module (124) operatively coupled to the analysis module (122). The mapping module (124) is configured to map the plurality of places of interest to at least one of the tour duration, budget set by the user and the average time to be spent on the plurality of places of interest. The mapping module (124) is also configured to obtain a plurality of optimal points of interest. The plurality of optimal points of interest are destinations that can be covered corresponding to plurality of personalized preferences of the user. The processing subsystem (105) includes an itinerary generation module (126) operatively coupled to the mapping module (124). The itinerary generation module (126) is configured to generate the travel itinerary based on the analysis. The travel itinerary includes the plurality of optimal points of interest, start time, stay time and description about the plurality of optimal points of interest. The itinerary generation module (126) is configured to generate the travel itinerary for at least one of the plurality of spots in the place of interest, wherein the travel itinerary allows the user to learn about the at least one of the plurality of spots via a corresponding description, one or more images and one or more reviews. The processing subsystem (105) includes a feedback module (128) operatively coupled to the itinerary generation module (126). The feedback module (128) is configured to provide feedback to the user about the travel itinerary generated. The feedback module (128) is further configured to alert the user if the travel itinerary expense reaches the budget set by the user. The feedback module (128) is furthermore configured to provide recommendations to the user about the plurality of places of interests excluding the plurality of optimal points of interest on the travel itinerary. The processing subsystem (105) includes an itinerary modification module (130) operatively coupled to the feedback module (128). The itinerary modification module (130) is configured to modify the travel itinerary generated based on at least one of user preference and a plurality of real time events. The itinerary modification module is also configured to modify the travel itinerary generated based on the alert sent to the user thereby optimizing free time of the user by planning the travel itinerary thereby optimizing free time of the user by planning the travel itinerary.

The bus (220) as used herein refers to be internal memory channels or computer network that is used to connect computer components and transfer data between them. The bus (220) includes a serial bus or a parallel bus, wherein the serial bus transmits data in bit-serial format and the parallel bus transmits data across multiple wires. The bus (220) as used herein may include but not limited to, a system bus, an internal bus, an external bus, an expansion bus, a frontside bus, a backside bus and the like.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary screenshot of a master page to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Typically, the master page allows a user to select at least one of the options provided namely, ‘Nano tour’, ‘Unbox’ and ‘Vacation Tour’. The ‘Nano Tour’ option provides travel itineraries of short amounts of time to the user. Likewise, the ‘Vacation Tour’ option provides travel itineraries of several days of time to the user. The ‘Unbox’ option allows a user to explore a location of his/her choice by providing a description, reviews and pictures of recommended spots in a desired location.

FIG. 5(a) illustrates an exemplary screenshot to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary within a day of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The user must select nano tour option since the travel itinerary plan is for within a day or few hours. At this point of time, the user is entitled to select ‘Tailor-made’ or ‘your choice’ to create the travel itinerary. The ‘Tailor-made’ option provides a travel itinerary to the user (the system creates the travel itinerary based on details provided by the user). The user must provide user information such as a plurality of user interests, name of current location, starting location and end location, time and date preferences and the like. When the user clicks on the submit button, a page containing the travel itinerary is displayed. Once the travel itinerary is prepared, the user is allowed to edit and delete items as per his/her preference. Alternate places can be substituted based on the user’s preferences.

Alternatively, ‘your choice’ allows the user to create the travel itinerary by himself/herself. In such a scenario, the user enters details pertaining to the start location, end location, date and time, places to visit and the like.

FIG. 5(b) illustrates an exemplary screenshot of a planned travel itinerary within a day of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The planned travel itinerary displays a list of places that the user can visit during the free time.

The feedback module (not shown in FIG. 5b) displays the generated travel itinerary. The travel itinerary includes a plurality of optimal points of interest, start time, stay time and description about the plurality of optimal points of interest. In an embodiment, the travel itinerary includes a high rated plurality of optimal points of interest based on google rating and reviews. The travel itinerary also includes an image of the plurality of optimal points of interest.

FIG.6(a) illustrates an exemplary screenshot to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary for few days of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The user must select vacation option since the travel itinerary plan is for few days. Further, the user must provide user information such as a plurality of user interests, starting location and end location on the corresponding sections. When the user clicks on the submit button, a page containing the travel itinerary is displayed.

FIG. 6(b) illustrates an exemplary screenshot to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary for few days of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The feedback module (not shown in FIG. 6b) displays the generated travel itinerary. The travel itinerary includes a plurality of optimal points of interest, start time, stay time and description about the plurality of optimal points of interest based on the tour duration and date. In an embodiment, the travel itinerary includes a high rated plurality of optimal points of interest based on google rating and reviews. The travel itinerary also includes an image of the plurality of optimal points of interest.

FIG. 7(a) illustrates a flow chart representing the steps involved in a method (300) to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7(b) illustrates continued steps of the method of FIG.7(a) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method (300) includes receiving, by a receiving module, a plurality of personalized preferences of the user to generate the travel itinerary to optimize free time of the user for one or more-time frames corresponding to one or more days and a place of interest to explore. The plurality of personalized preferences includes a tour duration, a plurality of user interests, starting location, end location, budget set by the user and number of individuals in step 310.

The method (300) includes analysing, by an analysis module, the plurality of personalized preferences of the user to generate at least one of a plurality of places of interest between the starting location and the end location, wherein the plurality of places of interest are sorted based on the nearest distance from the starting location and a plurality of places of interest within a predefined threshold radius. The plurality of places of interest are sorted based on distance between a first location and a second location within the pre-defined threshold radius in step 320.

The plurality of user interests indicates a nature of the tour to recommend a location based on the nature, wherein the plurality of user interests comprises one of travel, food, lifestyle, sports and adventure, and entertainment. The method (300) includes calculating, by the analysis module, distance and travel time from starting location to the plurality of places of interest thereby obtaining an average time to be spent on the plurality of places of interest in step 330.

In one embodiment, one or more modes of travel associated with the travel itinerary is identified, wherein one or more modes of travel are utilized in generating the travel itinerary.

The method (300) includes analysing, by the analysis module, a plurality of spots in the place of interest for the user to explore in step 340.

The method (300) includes mapping, by a mapping module, the plurality of places of interest to at least one of the tour duration, budget set by the user and the average time to be spent on the plurality of places of interest in step 350.

The method (300) includes obtaining, by the mapping module, a plurality of optimal points of interest. The plurality of optimal points of interest are destinations that can be covered corresponding to plurality of personalized preferences of the user in step 360.

The method (300) includes generating, by an itinerary generation module, the travel itinerary based on the analysis. The travel itinerary includes the plurality of optimal points of interest, start time, stay time and description about the plurality of optimal points of interest in step 370.

In one embodiment, the current location of the user and the next destination as per the generated travel itinerary is uploaded to a database at a pre-defined time interval. At least one or more end users in the vicinity of the user with a common destination point as the user is recommended to the user thereby pairing up the user and the at least one or more end users in the tour. Subsequently, a communication is established via a network between the user and the one or more end users.

In another embodiment, the user is allowed to book a cab to travel between the plurality of optimal points of interest, wherein the cab driver receives a notification about the by itinerary upon confirmation of booking by the user.

The method (300) includes generating, by an itinerary generation module, the travel itinerary for at least one of the plurality of spots in the place of interest, wherein the travel itinerary allows the user to learn about the at least one of the plurality of spots via a corresponding description, one or more images and one or more reviews in step 380.

The method (300) includes providing, by a feedback module, feedback to the user about the travel itinerary generated in step 390.

The method (300) includes alerting, by the feedback module, the user if the travel itinerary expense reaches the budget set by the user in step 400.

The method (300) includes providing, by the feedback module, recommendations to the user about the plurality of places of interest excluding the plurality of optimal points of interest on the travel itinerary in step 410.

In one embodiment, one or more activities of the user is monitored. Subsequently, the one or more activities are mapped to the travel itinerary to identify if the user arrives at the least one or more point of interests before a stipulated time. A modified average time of the tour is then generated.

The method (300) includes modifying, by an itinerary modification module, the travel itinerary generated based on at least one of user preference and a plurality of real time events in step 420. The plurality of real time events is traffic, overcrowding and time spent on each point of interest exceeds a pre-determined limit.

In one embodiment, an audio description of the plurality of optimal points of interest is generated by converting a textual description of the plurality of optimal points of interest using a speech translator.

In another embodiment, an E-Pass is generated to a ticketed optimal point of interest on the travel itinerary.

The method (300) includes modifying, by the itinerary modification module, the travel itinerary generated based on the alert sent to the user thereby optimizing free time of the user by planning the travel itinerary, thereby optimizing free time of the user by planning the travel itinerary in step 430. It must be noted that the aforementioned method and system may also be termed as ‘nano travel itinerary’ as an itinerary is planned for periods as short as an hour.

Various embodiments of the system and method to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary as described above ensure that the user can manage his/her free time, even if the free time is 1 hour. The generated travel itinerary includes a plurality of optimal points of interest that can be visited by the user, start time, stay time, and description of the plurality of optimal points of interest along with it google rating and image, and all are based on user interests. There'll be no time wasted traveling between places, activities, or accommodations. Even if they spend more time in a particular destination, there will be an alert provided. Further, the user can modify the travel itinerary based on new timings. The travel itinerary generated will be purely based on the budget set by the user and will get an alert in case expenditures exceed the budget. The system also provides features such as a playable audio description, recommendations based on user interest, cab booking services, E-ticket purchase services, a companion feature between multiple users, and the like. These features make sure that everything is in order and ensure a hassle-free vacation even if the user plans the trip on the same day. Therefore, the method and system provides a cohesive travel planning platform.

The techniques described in this disclosure may be implemented, at least in part, in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. For example, various aspects of the described techniques may be implemented within one or more processors, including one or more microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or any other equivalent integrated or discrete logic circuitry, as well as any combinations of such components. The term “processor” or “processing subsystem” may generally refer to any of the foregoing logic circuitry, alone or in combination with other logic circuitry, or any other equivalent circuitry. A control unit including hardware may also perform one or more of the techniques of this disclosure.

Such hardware, software, and firmware may be implemented within the same device or within separate devices to support the various techniques described in this disclosure. In addition, any of the described units, modules, or components may be implemented together or separately as discrete but interoperable logic devices. Depiction of different features as modules or units is intended to highlight different functional aspects and does not necessarily imply that such modules or units must be realized by separate hardware, firmware, or software components. Rather, functionality associated with one or more modules or units may be performed by separate hardware, firmware, or software components, or integrated within common or separate hardware, firmware, or software components.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the disclosure and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person skilled in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.

The figures and the foregoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, the order of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts need to be necessarily performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples.

Claims

CLAIM:

1. A system (100) to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary comprising: a processing subsystem (105) hosted on a server (105), wherein the processing subsystem (105) is configured to execute on a network (115) to control bidirectional communications among a plurality of modules comprising: a receiving module (120) configured to receive a plurality of personalized preferences from a user (112) operating a user device (114) to generate a travel itinerary to optimize free time of the user for one or more-time frames corresponding to one or more days pertaining to a tour and a place of interest to explore, wherein the plurality of personalized preferences comprises a tour duration, a plurality of user interests, starting location, end location, budget set by the user and number of individuals; an analysis module (122) operatively coupled to the receiving module (120), wherein the analysis module (122) is configured to: analyze the plurality of personalized preferences of the user (112) to generate at least one of a plurality of places of interest between the starting location and the end location of the tour, wherein the plurality of places of interest are sorted based on at least one of a nearest distance from the starting location and a plurality of places of interest within a pre-defined threshold radius and a distance between a first location and a second location within the predefined threshold radius; calculate distance and travel time from starting location to the plurality of places of interest thereby obtaining an average time to be spent in the plurality of places of interest; and analyze a plurality of spots in the place of interest for the user to explore; a mapping module (124) operatively coupled to the analysis module (122), wherein the mapping module (124) is configured to: map the plurality of places of interest to at least one of the tour duration, budget set by the user and the average time to be spent on the plurality of places of interest; and obtain a plurality of optimal points of interest, wherein the plurality of optimal points of interest are destinations that is covered corresponding to plurality of personalized preferences of the user; an itinerary generation module (126) operatively coupled to the mapping module (124), wherein the itinerary generation module (126) is configured to: generate the travel itinerary based on the mapping, wherein the travel itinerary comprises the plurality of optimal points of interest, start time, stay time and description about the plurality of optimal points of interest; and generate the travel itinerary for at least one of the plurality of spots in the place of interest, wherein the travel itinerary allows the user to learn about the at least one of the plurality of spots via a corresponding description, one or more images and one or more reviews; a feedback module (128) operatively coupled to the itinerary generation module (126), wherein the feedback module (128) configured to: provide feedback to the user about the travel itinerary generated; alert the user if the travel itinerary expense reaches the budget set by the user and if the time to reach at least one of the plurality of places of interests exceeds a predetermined threshold time value; and provide recommendations to the user about the plurality of places of interests excluding the plurality of optimal points of interest on the travel itinerary; and an itinerary modification module (130) operatively coupled to the feedback module (128), wherein the itinerary modification module (130) is configured to: modify the travel itinerary generated based on at least one of user preference and a plurality of real time events; and modify the travel itinerary generated based on the alert sent to the user thereby optimizing free time of the user by planning the travel itinerary.

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a description generator module (132) operatively coupled to the itinerary generation module (126), wherein the description generator module (132) is configured to generate an audio description of the plurality of optimal points of interest by converting a textual description of the plurality of optimal points of interest using a speech translator.

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a monitoring module (134) operatively coupled to the feedback module (128), wherein the monitoring module (134) is configured to: monitor one or more activities of the user (112); map the one or more activities to the travel itinerary to identify if the user arrives at the least one or more point of interests before a stipulated time; and generate a modified average time of the tour.

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a ticket purchase module (136) operatively coupled to the itinerary generation module (126) wherein the ticket purchase module (136) is configured to generate an E-Pass to a ticketed optimal point of interest on the travel itinerary.

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the travel itinerary is at least one of a future itinerary and a real-time itinerary.

6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the analysis module (122) is configured to identify one or more modes of travel associated with the travel itinerary, wherein one or more modes of travel are utilized in generating the travel itinerary.

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of user interests indicates a nature of the tour to recommend a location based on the nature, wherein the plurality of user interests comprises one of travel, food, lifestyle, sports and adventure, and entertainment.

8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a companion module (138) operatively coupled to the itinerary generation module (126), wherein the companion module (138) configured to: upload the current location of the user (112) and the next destination as per the generated travel itinerary to a database (110) at a pre-defined time interval; recommend at least one or more end users in the vicinity of the user (112) with a common destination point as the user thereby pairing up the user (112) and the at least one or more end users in the tour; and establish a communication between the user (112) and the at least one or more end users through the network (115).

9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises: a cab aggregation module (140) operatively coupled to the itinerary generation module (126) wherein the cab aggregation module (140) is configured to book a cab to travel between the plurality of optimal points on interest, wherein the cab driver receives a notification about the by itinerary upon confirmation of booking by the user; and a navigation module (142) operatively coupled to the itinerary generation module (126) wherein the navigation module (142) is configured to navigate the user inside the plurality of optimal points of interests.

10. A method (300) to optimize free time of a user by planning a travel itinerary comprising: receiving, by a receiving module, a plurality of personalized preferences from a user to generate the travel itinerary to optimize free time of the user for one or more-time frames corresponding to one or more days pertaining to a tour and a place of interest to explore, wherein the plurality of personalized preferences comprises a tour duration, a plurality of user interests, starting location, end location, budget set by the user and number of individuals; (310) analysing, by an analysis module, the plurality of personalized preferences of the user to generate at least one of a plurality of places of interest between the starting location and the end location, wherein the plurality of places of interest are sorted based on at least one of a nearest distance from the starting location and a plurality of places of interest within a pre-defined threshold radius and a distance between a first location and a second location within the pre-defined threshold radius; (320) calculating, by the analysis module, distance and travel time from starting location to the plurality of places of interest thereby obtaining an average time to be spent on the plurality of places of interest; (330) analyse, by the analysis module, a plurality of spots in the place of interest for the user to explore; (340) mapping, by a mapping module, the plurality of places of interest to at least one of the tour duration, budget set by the user and the average time to be spent on the plurality of places of interest; (350) obtaining, by the mapping module, a plurality of optimal points of interest, wherein the plurality of optimal points of interest are destinations that can be covered corresponding to plurality of personalized preferences of the user; (360) generating, by an itinerary generation module, the travel itinerary based on the mapping, wherein the travel itinerary comprises the plurality of optimal points of interest, start time, stay time and description about the plurality of optimal points of interest; (370) generating, by the itinerary generation module, the travel itinerary for at least one of the plurality of spots in the place of interest, wherein the travel itinerary allows the user to learn about the at least one of the plurality of spots via a corresponding description, one or more images and one or more reviews; (380) providing, by a feedback module, feedback to the user about the travel itinerary generated; (390) alerting, by the feedback module, the user if the travel itinerary expense reaches the budget set by the user; (400) providing, by the feedback module, recommendations to the user about the plurality of places of interests excluding the plurality of optimal points of interest on the travel itinerary; (410) modifying, by an itinerary modification module, the travel itinerary generated based on at least one of user preference and a plurality of real time events; and (420) modifying, by the itinerary modification module, the travel itinerary generated based on the alert sent to the user thereby optimizing free time of the user by planning the travel itinerary. (430)