Electronic information system and program thereof

Abstract

To provide an electronic information system and its program capable of making equipment realize a desired function more surely than before even without directly touching the equipment.SOLUTION: The user makes a gesture by holding an object such as a hand so as to pass in front of the second window 32 in which the gesture sensor of the radar detector 10 is disposed. Thus, the radar detector 10 can be operated without touching it. According to the gesture recognition, different sounds are emitted from a speaker of the radar detection device 10 depending on the recognition position, and when a gesture for executing predetermined processing is included, a sound corresponding to the predetermined processing is also output, so that the user can understand the content of the processing by the sound.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic information system and a program therefor. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventional electronic information systems include electronic devices that can acquire driving-related information, such as navigation devices mounted on vehicles such as automobiles and bicycles, and microwave receivers (radar detectors) mounted on automobiles. Electronic information systems that can acquire various types of information used in daily life also include electronic devices such as smartphones and personal computers. In these electronic information systems, users obtain information by pressing input switches attached to the devices, or by actually touching and operating the operating means with their hands, etc. Patent documents 1 and 2 are cited as examples of electronic information systems equipped with such conventional input means and operating means. The electronic device of Patent Document 1 is a drive recorder device that is attached to the windshield inside an automobile with double-sided tape, etc. As shown in Figure 3, the drive recorder device includes a switch unit 20, a display unit 21, and a volume dial 23. The electronic device in Patent Document 2 is a microwave detection device that also functions as a rearview mirror and is attached to the rearview mirror that is installed in automobiles by default. This device displays various information on a display panel 13 located on a part of the mirror surface by touching a touch screen 16 that also serves as the mirror surface and performing input operations. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-105530 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-66640 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the drive recorder device of Patent Document 1, for example, the volume dial 23 serving as an operating means is attached to the housing as a separate component, which adds weight to the volume dial 23 and related components, resulting in an increase in the weight of the device as a whole. This weight increase is undesirable when attaching to the windshield using such an adhesive method. Furthermore, the increased number of components leads to higher costs. On the other hand, in the microwave detection device of Patent Document 2, the touch screen 16, which also serves as the mirror surface, serves as the operating means, reducing the number of operating components and achieving a lighter weight. However, input is only possible by actually touching the mirror surface, which can potentially soil the mirror surface. For these reasons, there has been a demand for a means for obtaining information in an electronic information system that eliminates or reduces the need for operating components for obtaining information and that allows information to be obtained without directly touching the device. To address this need, there are devices that recognize a user's gesture and perform a predetermined process based on the recognition results. However, with such devices, the user can only determine whether their gesture was correct when, for example, they receive a notification indicating whether their gesture was recognized or when the device notifies them that a predetermined process corresponding to the gesture has begun. Therefore, while making a gesture, it is difficult for the user to determine whether their gesture is correct and recognizable by the device. For example, there have been cases where a user repeatedly attempts the same gesture, believing that the device can recognize it, even when the gesture is in a state where it cannot be recognized by the device. For example, there have been notable problems, such as when a gesture is recognized by the device, but the device is unable to recognize it because the user's hand or other recognition target is in a position where the device cannot recognize it. The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and its purpose is to provide an electronic information system and its program that can make a device realize a desired function more reliably than before without directly contacting the device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In order to achieve the above object, it is preferable that the electronic information system that performs predetermined processing based on the recognition result of a gesture by a user as means 1 is provided with a control means that controls the output of sound while the gesture is being recognized. With this configuration, the user can know by the sound that the gesture is being recognized. Therefore, the device can be made to execute the desired process more reliably than before. Therefore, the device can realize the desired function more reliably than before. Furthermore, for example, it is preferable to have at least one of a configuration in which a sound different from that output during gesture recognition when the gesture is not being recognized, or a configuration in which no sound is output. In this way, the user can know by sound whether the gesture is being recognized or not. Furthermore, since a sound is output during gesture recognition, gesture training is possible by making a gesture that causes this sound to be output. Furthermore, it is preferable to output a sound indicating whether the gesture recognition has been successful, and the sound indicating whether the gesture recognition has been successful is different from the sound output during gesture recognition. In this way, the user can more reliably know whether the gesture is being recognized or not and whether the gesture recognition has been successful. Therefore, the user can more reliably know by sound whether the gesture is being recognized or not, and can train their gesture to reliably realize the desired function, for example, by making a gesture that causes the sound indicating gesture recognition to be output, and then practicing to output the sound indicating gesture success.

[0006] Here, "performing a predetermined process based on the gesture recognition result" may refer to, for example, a configuration in which a predetermined process is performed according to the form of the gesture after the gesture is recognized. For example, a configuration in which the predetermined process is realized using a certain gesture as input information. Here, the "predetermined process" may refer to, for example, a configuration in which information is provided from an electronic information system as a result of gesture recognition. More specifically, a predetermined process may be, for example, auditory processing, such as generating a sound or changing the volume. Sound may include, for example, an alarm sound, audio guidance such as "Be careful," or music, regardless of whether it has a musical scale. Furthermore, visual processing may include displaying information on a display screen, erasing displayed information, or changing displayed information. Furthermore, a configuration in which the gesture recognition result drives an actuator to perform mechanical or hydraulic / pneumatic control, such as unlocking or locking a locking device or opening and closing a door, may be used. A configuration in which multiple different gestures are recognized and different functions are realized depending on the recognized gesture. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which a plurality of different gestures are recognized and different processes are performed depending on the recognized gesture. In particular, in a configuration having a function for recognizing a plurality of different gestures and performing different processes depending on the recognized gesture, a configuration may be adopted in which different sounds are output during the recognition of the different gestures. This allows the user to understand which processes may be executed during gesture recognition. In particular, a configuration in which different sounds are output during the recognition of the different gestures may be adopted in which different sounds are output during the process of the different gestures. This allows the user to determine whether the gesture is being correctly recognized until the gesture recognition is completed. Therefore, if an incorrect gesture is recognized, stopping the gesture midway can prevent the gesture from being recognized as an unintended gesture, resulting in the execution of an unintended process and the realization of an unintended function. "During gesture recognition" may refer to, for example, a portion of gesture recognition, a majority of gesture recognition, or the entirety of gesture recognition. In particular, "during gesture recognition" may refer to the period during which a gesture is recognized in the gesture recognition process. In particular, sound may be output continuously while gesture recognition is being performed in the gesture recognition process. In particular, even in a configuration in which sound is changed during recognition, sound may be output continuously without interruption when changing the sound. In this way, when the gesture recognition sound starts, the user knows that gesture recognition has begun, and when the gesture recognition sound stops, the user knows that gesture recognition has stopped. This allows the user to more reliably achieve the desired function, and makes gesture training even easier. An "electronic information system" may be, for example, a system that is mounted in a vehicle, carried by a user, or installed indoors and that the user can access to obtain information. Examples of electronic information systems mounted in a vehicle include electronic devices such as navigation devices, radar detection devices, and drive recorders. Examples of electronic information systems that are carried by a user or installed indoors include smartphones, personal computers, TV devices, and AV devices.

[0007] As means 2, the control means preferably outputs sounds at different timings while recognizing the gesture. By outputting not just one sound but multiple sounds at different timings, the user can more reliably understand that the gesture is being recognized. In particular, the "different timings" may be timings indicating the progress of the gesture recognition process. In this way, the user can understand the progress of the gesture recognition process based on whether or not different sounds are output. Furthermore, for example, the "different timings" may be timings when a change in the position of the object to be recognized is detected. In this way, the user can easily understand from the sounds whether the object is moving to an appropriate position. Furthermore, the sounds output at different timings may be configured to create different sound patterns corresponding to predetermined processes, for example. In this way, the user can easily understand and confirm the content of the predetermined processes from the sound patterns. Furthermore, even if the user does not actually recognize the content of the predetermined processes, the user can understand that various sound patterns are being output in relation to the predetermined processes, providing a more interesting operational experience than when actually touching the operating means. As a third means, it is preferable that the sounds output at different timings include different types of sounds. By outputting different types of sounds at different times in this way, sound patterns can be varied, improving the user's ability to recognize sound patterns. Examples of "different types of sounds" include sounds with different tones (high and low), different sound qualities (timbres), or a mixture of different types of sounds. Even if the tone is the same, changing the sound quality can make the sound recognized as different types of sounds. Furthermore, as with the above, even if the user does not actually recognize the content of a specific process in relation to the sound, the user can understand that different types of sounds are being output in relation to the specific process, providing a new level of operational interest compared to actually touching the operating means. Furthermore, as means 4, it is preferable that the sounds output at different timings include different kinds of sounds according to differences in approach distance to the gesture detection means that recognizes the gesture. By generating different types of sounds according to the approach distance, the user can recognize the degree of proximity to the gesture detection means through the sounds. Furthermore, even if the user is not actually aware of the relationship between the sounds and the degree of proximity, the output of different types of sounds in response to gestures provides a new level of operational interest compared to actually touching the operating means. There are several types of detection devices that serve as "gesture detection means." For example, gesture sensors can include a detection device equipped with a gesture sensor that detects the movement of an object by shining infrared light from an infrared emitting element onto the object and capturing changes in the reflected light with a light receiving element, a detection device equipped with a gesture sensor that uses ultrasonic waves instead of infrared light, or a detection device equipped with a gesture sensor that utilizes changes in capacitance due to gestures. The approach distance is preferably the distance between the object to be recognized and the detection device of the gesture detection means. The object to be recognized can be various objects, such as a stick, but preferably a part of the human body, particularly a hand.

[0008] As means 5, it is preferable that the control means outputs the sound based on a gesture that stops for a certain period of time or more. Such a gesture to stop the sound is very easy for the user to understand and can be easily learned, and therefore may be made a gesture to be performed by the user. The certain period of time for stopping the sound, which is a condition for outputting the sound, should be long enough for the user to understand that the sound has stopped, and may be, for example, several seconds. For example, this period may be changed by changing the settings. Furthermore, the stopping position may be detected anywhere within an area having a certain width, as long as the gesture detection means can detect the action. For example, the gesture may be close or far from the gesture detection means. Furthermore, the same predetermined processing may be performed regardless of the distance to the gesture detection means, but different predetermined processing may be performed depending on the distance to the gesture detection means. When different predetermined processing is performed, different sounds may be output corresponding to the different processing. This allows the user to easily understand, during gesture recognition, which gesture the stop position corresponds to and which processing is expected to be performed. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent the execution of processing unintended by the user as a result of the gesture being recognized as being different from the user's intention. Furthermore, the user can easily understand at which position the gesture will be recognized and which processing will be performed. In addition, as means 6, it is preferable that the control means outputs the sound based on a gesture of stopping for a certain period of time or more after movement. The gesture of stopping the movement for a certain period of time after such movement is also very easy for the user to understand and can be easily learned, so it may be a gesture that the user is to perform. Specifically, for example, it may be a gesture of moving the object across in front of the gesture detection means and stopping it at a position where it can be detected.

[0009] Also, as means 7, it is preferable to associate gesture patterns with sounds to be output. This allows the user to understand the content of a predetermined process by performing a certain gesture and listening to a certain sound pattern. Even if the user does not actually recognize the content of the predetermined process, the user can understand that various sound patterns are being output in relation to the predetermined process. Furthermore, compared to actually touching an operating device, this system provides a new level of operational interest. The "sound" used here may be, for example, a single output of a certain scale sound, a melody output by multiple outputs, or the same scale or melody output in patterns with different sound quality. This allows the user to easily understand which gesture pattern corresponds to which sound and which process is expected to be executed based on that sound during gesture recognition. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent a gesture being recognized as being different from the user's intention, resulting in the execution of a process unintended by the user. Furthermore, as means 8, it is preferable to output a plurality of identical sounds according to the detected distance while the gesture is being recognized, regardless of the gesture pattern. This allows the user to recognize that the device has stopped when, for example, they perform a gesture to stop it at a certain distance by hearing the same sound repeated, making it possible to objectively recognize whether the device has "stopped" even if, for example, their hands are shaking or vibrating and they are unable to stop the device properly. Furthermore, it is preferable that the means 9 outputs different kinds of sounds for different predetermined processes after the gesture is recognized, depending on the difference between the predetermined processes to be executed after the gesture is recognized. This allows the user to understand the content of the predetermined process being executed by listening to the different sounds that are output as a result of executing a certain gesture. Also, even if the user does not actually recognize the content of the predetermined process, he or she can understand that various sounds are being output in relation to the predetermined process. Furthermore, compared to actually touching the operating means, the user can feel a new level of interest in the operation. Here, "sound" may be, for example, a melody that is output by outputting a certain scale sound only once or multiple times, or the same scale or melody may be output in a pattern with different sound quality only.

[0010] As the means 10, it is preferable that the control means generates a sound according to the distance when a gesture of approaching from a distant object is made. Also, as the means 11, it is preferable that the control means generates a sound according to the distance when a gesture of moving the device away from the camera is made. By generating a sound according to the difference in approach distance when making a gesture of approaching from a distance or moving away from a distance, the user can recognize the specified processing to be executed by such a gesture by the sound accompanying the gesture. For example, when approaching from a distance below, a certain sound pattern is output and the volume of the device output is increased, and when moving away from a distance below, a different sound pattern is output and the volume is decreased. The sound corresponding to the difference in approach distance may be one or multiple. Also, different types of sounds may be included. If multiple sounds are used, the number of sound patterns increases, making it easier for the user to understand and confirm the content of the specified processing from the sound. The gesture may be a series of gestures that move closer from a distance and then move away again.

[0011] As the means 12, it is preferable that the control means generates a sound according to the approaching direction when a gesture of approaching from a distant position is made. As the means 13, it is preferable that the control means generates a sound according to the direction of separation when a gesture of separation is made. By generating sounds corresponding to the direction of approach when a gesture is made to move the device closer or further away, the user can recognize the specific processing executed by the gesture through the sound associated with the gesture. For example, when approaching from a distant position below, a certain sound pattern may be output and the volume may be increased, and when approaching from a distant position above, a different sound pattern may be output and the volume may be decreased. Alternatively, when moving away from a distant position below, a certain sound pattern may be output and the light intensity of the display screen may be increased, and when moving away from a distant position above, a different sound pattern may be output and the light intensity of the display screen may be decreased. In other words, different gestures result in different processing, each with its own unique sound, allowing the user to recognize that the processing corresponding to the sound has been executed by listening to the sound. Furthermore, even if the user does not actually recognize the content of the specific processing in relation to the sound, the user can understand that various sounds are being output in relation to the specific processing. Since the sounds differ depending on the direction, the user can experience a new level of interest in operation compared to actually touching an operating tool. As described above, the sound corresponding to the difference in approach distance may be one or more. It may also include different types of sounds.

[0012] The means 14 preferably has a first spatial region where a gesture by the user can be detected and where sound output is controlled. By having such a spatial region, for example, when a user installs equipment related to an electronic information system, it is possible to prevent the presence of a component that may interfere with a gesture or an object that may be mistakenly recognized as a user's gesture movement within this spatial region. The first spatial region is generally recognized as an area that can be detected by the gesture detection means. It is preferable that the approach to the first spatial region be a three-dimensional space that is at an equal distance from the gesture detection means. Furthermore, it is preferable that the means 15 is capable of changing the detectable distance of the first spatial region. With this configuration, it is possible to narrow the first spatial area to take into account situations where there are components that may interfere with the gesture or objects that may be mistakenly recognized as the user's gesture movements, or conversely, to widen the first spatial area so that the gesture is as easy to detect as possible even if the user is far away from the device when making the gesture. This makes it possible to set the first spatial area according to the situation. Furthermore, as means 16, it is preferable that the control means expands the first spatial region to a relatively wide spatial region in a predetermined information mode, and controls the first spatial region to a relatively narrow spatial region in modes other than the predetermined information mode. This configuration contributes to making it easier for the user to make gestures when responding to a predetermined information mode. The predetermined information mode may include, for example, a mode for performing operations with a higher degree of urgency than other information modes. For example, a predetermined information mode may include a "state in which an alarm is being issued while driving a vehicle." Specifically, for example, a radar detection device issues an alarm indicating that some road traffic information (e.g., an N system) has been detected as an electronic device. In this case, after recognizing the alarm, the user may consider canceling the alarm, deeming it unnecessary to continue receiving the alarm. In other words, although the information is necessary, the user has acknowledged it, and any further information provision actions would be excessive and unnecessary. In this case, since the user is driving, it is preferable that the gesture for canceling the alarm be as simple and not as exaggerated as possible. Therefore, even if the first spatial region is normally set to a relatively narrow spatial region so that actions such as carelessly waving one's hand are not recognized as a gesture, by setting the first spatial region to a relatively wide spatial region in response to an alarm, the user can make a gesture without having to reach out as far.

[0013] Also, it is preferable that the means 17 has a second spatial region where the direction of movement of a gesture by the user can be detected and where sound output control is performed. By providing such a spatial region, it becomes possible to recognize, for example, the direction from which the user's hand making a gesture is coming and the direction to which it is going, thereby enabling the selection of different predetermined processes depending on the direction. This allows the user to recognize the predetermined processes in relation to the sounds corresponding to the direction. Even if the user does not actually recognize the content of the predetermined processes in relation to different sounds, they can understand that various sounds are being output in relation to the predetermined processes, providing a new level of operational interest compared to actually touching an operating device. For example, when moving from a distant downward position toward an upward position, a certain sound pattern may be output with an increased volume, and when moving from a distant upward position toward a downward position, a different sound pattern may be output with a decreased volume. The movement direction in the second spatial region may take into account not only the 360-degree direction in a plane but also the three-dimensional direction, which increases the variation in the movement direction. Furthermore, it is preferable that the means 18 is capable of changing the detectable distance of the second spatial region. With this configuration, the user can narrow the second spatial area to take into account situations where there is a component that may interfere with the gesture or an object that may be mistakenly recognized as the user's gesture movement, or conversely, widen the second spatial area so that the gesture is as easy to detect as possible even if the user is far away from the device.This allows the user to set the optimal gesture environment to execute a specified process. Also, as means 19, the second spatial region is preferably located inside the first spatial region. As a result, when a gesture is made, the gesture is first recognized in the first spatial area, and then when the gesture enters the second spatial area, it is determined which side the gesture is approaching from. In this way, since the spatial areas are not separate but overlap, the spatial area in which the user makes gestures does not unnecessarily expand, contributing to compactness of the gesture area. Also, if the second spatial area is outside the first spatial area, entering the first spatial area requires entering the second spatial area, which has a direction of approach, and there is a possibility that the user may enter a predetermined processing mode that is not intended.

[0014] Also, it is preferable that the means 20 changes the volume set as the predetermined process. This is an example of a specific predetermined process. In other words, sound output is controlled while the gesture is being recognized, and the volume is changed when the gesture is recognized. This eliminates the need for the user to search for a volume control and then operate it to change the volume. To give a more specific example of control, a gesture of movement from one direction to another (for example, holding a hand from bottom to top over the gesture detection means; the user could also hold an object whose movement can be recognized other than a hand) would increase the volume by a certain amount, and a gesture of movement from one direction to another (for example, holding a hand from top to bottom) would decrease the volume by a certain amount. Additionally, special gestures may be used to change the volume by a non-fixed amount, such as by changing the speed of a hand movement from one direction to another to increase the volume change, or by pausing the movement to allow the volume to change continuously.

[0015] Also, it is preferable that the means 21 suppresses notification of the information that is currently being notified as the predetermined process. This is also an example of a specific predetermined process. In other words, sound output is controlled while the gesture is being recognized, and the currently notified alarm information is suppressed when the gesture is recognized. This allows the user to cancel the notification of unnecessary information with a simple action. Here, "notification of alarm information" refers to, for example, an alarm sound, audio guidance for the alarm, or a display indicating the alarm on the display screen. "Suppressing the notification" means reducing the volume or silencing the notification in the case of an audio notification, or reducing the brightness or turning off the display screen in the case of a visual notification. Take the example of an alarm while driving a car. For example, when an electronic device issues an alarm from a radar detection device indicating that some road traffic information (such as an N system) has been detected, the user may want to cancel the alarm, since after recognizing the alarm, they no longer need further alarms. In other words, although the information is necessary, since the user has recognized it, any further information is excessive and unnecessary. In this case, it is meaningful to suppress the alarm sound. To give a more specific example of control, the user holds their hand (or other than their hand as described above) over a detectable position (for example, the first spatial region described above) and makes a gesture to stop the detection at that position for a predetermined time. Recognizing this gesture may cause the currently sounded alarm to stop. In this case, for example, if the detectable region set by the user is narrow, the region may be temporarily controlled to be wider to make it easier to detect. This is because a wider region is preferable for quicker operation depending on the situation.

[0016] Also, it is preferable that the means 22 displays information on a display screen as the predetermined processing. This is also an example of a specific predetermined process. In other words, sound output is controlled while the gesture is being recognized, and information is displayed on the display screen when the gesture is recognized. This eliminates the need for the user to search for an operating means to display information on the display screen and then operate it to change the volume. Also, it is preferable that the means 23 changes the information displayed on the display screen as the predetermined processing. This is also an example of a specific predetermined process. In other words, sound output is controlled while the gesture is being recognized, and the information displayed on the display screen is changed when the gesture is recognized. This eliminates the need for the user to search for an operating means to change the information on the display screen and then operate it to change the volume.

[0017] Furthermore, as means 24, it is preferable that the control means displays a first display mode as a starting point on the display screen, changes to another display mode based on the recognition result of a predetermined gesture, and then controls the display screen to display the first display mode again based on the recognition result of the predetermined gesture. This shows a control that returns to the first display mode, which is the initial screen, as a result of performing gestures one after another. With this configuration, the user can easily understand the order of appearance of the display modes that can be changed by gestures based on the order of appearance of the first display mode. This is advantageous when the first display mode has many setting screens. As the means 25, it is preferable that the electronic device for vehicle installation also serves as a rearview mirror, and that the user's gestures are made in front of the rearview mirror. This is because installing an in-vehicle electronic device in the rearview mirror contributes to space saving inside the vehicle and allows operations to be performed without touching the rearview mirror. Furthermore, since the rearview mirror is located close to the driver, it can be used as a rearview mirror, and gestures can be easily made in front of it, eliminating the need to place the electronic device close to the user inside the narrow space of the vehicle. The rearview mirror may be the default rearview mirror installed in the vehicle, or it may be an external rearview mirror.

[0018] Furthermore, it is preferable that the housing provided with the gesture detection means as the means 26 is provided with a collision reduction means for reducing the collision of the recognition object with the housing when making a gesture. In this way, it is possible to reduce the collision of the recognition object with the housing when making a gesture. The collision reduction means may be, for example, a configuration including at least one of a collision prevention means that is a means for preventing a collision, and a shock absorbing means that is a means for absorbing a shock when the recognition object collides with the housing. For example, it is preferable to chamfer at least a part of the edge or protruding corner of the housing provided with the gesture detection means for recognizing a gesture. In this way, by chamfering the protruding edges and corners, even if the object used to make a gesture, such as a user's finger, accidentally hits the housing, the hand is not hurt and the housing is less likely to be damaged. When forming the chamfered edges, it is preferable to use a curved surface with as few discontinuous portions as possible. In addition to this (or alone), the housing may be surrounded by a material with a cushioning effect (e.g., elastic synthetic rubber). In particular, if a configuration including, for example, means 1 and means 28 is used, a sound can be heard to indicate that gesture recognition is in progress, and the collision of the recognition target with the housing during gesture recognition can be reduced. For example, a sound during gesture recognition may make it easier to make a gesture without looking at the housing equipped with the gesture detection unit, which may result in the recognition target hitting the housing. This can reduce this risk. Also, as the means 27, it is preferable to provide a portion where a protective member is removed in at least a part of the gesture detection direction of a housing provided with gesture detection means for recognizing a gesture. A suitable protective member is, for example, a thin, transparent plastic film made of polyethylene or the like. To avoid damaging the device, users often leave such a protective member intact during use. However, over time, the adhesiveness of the protective member to the device may decrease, resulting in partial peeling. In this case, the peeled protective member may swing within the detection range of the gesture detection means, potentially causing an operation that may be mistaken for a gesture. This may result in a malfunction. Therefore, before shipping, for example, removing any portions of the protective member that are likely to peel or any portions that may enter the detection range of the gesture detection means if peeled can prevent the peeled protective member from interfering with the user's gestures and eliminate the user's need to remove the peeled portions. Furthermore, the protective member may be used as a protective member for transporting a housing having a gesture detection means. In particular, an electronic information system may include a component that is viewed by the user during use, and the protective member may serve as a protective member for the component that is viewed during use. For example, the component that is viewed during use may be a mirror or a display unit. This is because components that are closely monitored during use need to be protected especially during transportation. The protective member may be provided across the gesture detection direction of the gesture detection means and the display unit, with a portion removed from the protective member along at least a portion of the gesture detection direction. In a configuration in which the gesture detection direction of the gesture detection means is located not in the center of the protective member but near an edge, the protective member may be removed along at least a portion of the gesture detection direction. This is because the protective member is particularly prone to peeling off near the edge, and the peeled protective member is likely to interfere with the user's gestures.

[0019] Also, it is preferable that the means 28 includes a shielding means for making it difficult to see the gesture detection means from the outside for at least a part of the housing that includes the gesture detection means for recognizing the gesture. From a design perspective, it is desirable for the gesture detection means housed within the housing not to be easily visible from the outside. However, because the gesture detection means may have a window-like opening within the housing for detection operations, there is a possibility that the gesture detection means inside the housing may be visible from the outside. Therefore, by providing a shielding means on the housing to make the gesture detection means less visible, the user will not be able to see the gesture detection means, which will leave a favorable impression on the housing design. The shielding means must not interfere with the detection of the gesture detection means. For example, if the gesture detection means detects using an optical means such as infrared light, it is preferable to provide a transparent body that has properties that allow infrared light to be detected but prevents visible light from being transmitted by, for example, reflecting or absorbing it. In particular, for example, a configuration including the configuration of means 1 and the configuration of means 28 may emit a sound during gesture recognition, which may make the gesture recognition means easier for the user to find than before. This may also lead the user to look at the housing every time a sound is heard, increasing the possibility that the gesture recognition means may be perceived as an eyesore. However, this configuration reduces this possibility. Furthermore, it is preferable that the means 29 include, in the housing, a gesture detection means for recognizing a gesture and a distance shortening means for shortening the distance to an object present in the gesture detection direction of the gesture detection means to a predetermined value or less. For example, if a wall or glass surface of the housing exists as an object in the gesture detection direction of the gesture detection means inside the housing, the gesture detection means outputs a detection medium such as infrared rays or ultrasonic waves, but if the distance to the object is long, detection may be hindered. Therefore, providing a distance shortening means can prevent such problems.

[0020] Furthermore, as the means 30, when an obstruction that hinders gesture detection is present within the detection area of ​​the gesture detection means that recognizes the gesture, the gesture detection means preferably detects the gesture by the user without detecting the obstruction or without using the detection data. This prevents the movement of the obstruction from being mistaken for an active gesture by the user, and allows the user to operate the device using gestures without feeling any operational stress, even when placing an obstruction. For example, if an electronic information system is installed in a rearview mirror near the windshield of a vehicle as a system for the vehicle, when a user operates a sun visor, which is also an obstruction near the windshield, the user can still make a gesture even if the sun visor is operated so that it enters the detection area of ​​the gesture detection means. Furthermore, as the means 31, the gesture detection means for recognizing a gesture may not detect the obstruction based on the obstruction being present and stationary within the detection area for a predetermined period of time, or may detect a gesture by the user without using the detection data. This is a gesture detection method for the presence of a specific obstructing object, in which the presence of the obstructing object within the detection area for a predetermined period of time is set as a condition for determining that the gesture is not intended for a predetermined process. The user simply positions the obstructing object so that it stops for a predetermined period of time, enabling gesture-based operation without stress. In particular, in vehicles, objects within the vehicle are generally fixed in place to ensure safety while driving. Therefore, if there is an object that may enter the gesture recognition area, the object is likely to be fixed after being repositioned. For example, in a rearview mirror-type device equipped with gesture detection means, the sun visor of a vehicle adjacent to the rearview mirror is adjustable, but remains fixed after adjustment. Thus, even if an object is moved within the vehicle, it is common for it to remain stationary in a certain position. Based on this knowledge, it is desirable to have this configuration, especially for devices installed within a vehicle. As the means 32, the control means preferably controls so that the gesture is not recognized when an obstructing object is detected as approaching the gesture detection means by more than a predetermined distance. In this way, since the presence of an obstruction can prevent the gesture area from being secured and the gesture itself from being disabled, it is possible to prevent erroneous operation by not recognizing the gesture. Also, by placing an obstruction in an area where the user cannot input a gesture, the user can actively stop gesture input at their own will. Furthermore, it is preferable that the electronic information system as the means 33 is an electronic device mounted on a vehicle. This is because electronic devices mounted on a vehicle are often operated while driving, and it is advantageous to be able to execute predetermined processing in relation to sounds by gestures. From the viewpoint of simple operation, it is preferable that the device does not have any means other than gesture detection means as a means for inputting operation from the user to the device. It is also advisable to reduce the area of ​​the front of the device (especially the surface of the device that has a display means or a mirror or other means for the user to see) and not provide other operation input means, which will allow functions other than operation input to be performed. Also, as the means 34, it is preferable to provide a display on the housing that enables the user to recognize the directions of a plurality of different gestures that can be detected by the gesture detection means. This allows the user to easily understand the direction of the gesture. The display may be made by printing, or may be three-dimensionally shaped during plastic molding, for example. Also, it is preferable that the means 35 is a program for causing a computer to realize the functions of the control means in the electronic information system. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] According to the present invention, it is possible to obtain information as a result of a predetermined process without directly touching the device. In addition, since gestures are accompanied by sounds, the content of the predetermined process can be understood by the sounds. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a radar detection device according to an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from an oblique front direction; [Figure 2] A perspective view of the same radar detection device with the front plate removed. [Figure 3] Cross-sectional view along line AA in Figure 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the electrical configuration of a radar detection device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an image of a sound output reference area and a movement direction determination area that serve as a basis for calculation when the gesture sensor recognizes a gesture and outputs a sound. [Figure 6] 10A and 10B are explanatory diagrams illustrating the relationship between the position of an object and sound when the object moves within a sound output reference area and a movement direction determination area. [Figure 7] 10A and 10B are explanatory diagrams illustrating the relationship between the position of an object stopped within a sound output reference area and a movement direction determination area and the sound; [Figure 8] 10A and 10B are explanatory diagrams illustrating a gesture of passing the front face of the gesture sensor from below to above; [Figure 9] 10A and 10B are explanatory diagrams illustrating a gesture of passing from bottom to top across the front face of the gesture sensor and stopping; [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are explanatory diagrams illustrating a gesture of passing the front face of the gesture sensor from above to below; [Figure 11] 10A and 10B are explanatory diagrams illustrating a gesture in which a user passes from above to below the front face of the gesture sensor and stops; [Figure 12] 10A and 10B are explanatory diagrams illustrating a gesture of passing in front of the gesture sensor from left to right. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a gesture in which a user passes in front of the gesture sensor from left to right and stops. [Figure 14] 10A and 10B are explanatory diagrams illustrating a gesture of passing in front of the gesture sensor from right to left. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a gesture in which a user passes in front of the gesture sensor from right to left and stops. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a gesture that is stopped in front of the gesture sensor. [Figure 17] FIG. 10A is an explanatory diagram that schematically explains the processing when there is some kind of obstruction within the sound output reference area, and FIG. 10B is an explanatory diagram that schematically explains the processing when there is some kind of obstruction within the sound output reference area after the offset calculation has started. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process for temporarily changing the sensor response range to a default state when an alarm is issued. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion near a gesture sensor of a stationary radar detection device 50 according to another embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a protective sheet for protecting the mirror surface of the radar detection device according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of a radar detection device 10, which is an electronic device that embodies an electronic information system of the present invention, will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a radar detection device 10 that also serves as a vehicle rearview mirror according to this embodiment. In this radar detection device 10, a thin, rectangular parallelepiped housing 13 is composed of a main body case 11 and a front plate 12 attached to the front of the main body case 11. Four corners 13a of the housing 13 are chamfered to form curved surfaces (i.e., rounded corners), and the front corners 13b of the front plate 12 are also chamfered along their entire periphery. A pair of left and right fixing clamps 14 are formed at a predetermined interval on the rear surface of the main body case 11. A power switch (not shown) is provided at the bottom of the main body case 11, and a slot 16 for inserting a microSD card is formed on one side of the main body case 11. As shown in FIG. 2, a control board 17 is provided within the main body case 11. The control board 17 has a horizontally elongated outer shape that roughly corresponds to the front shape of the main body case 11. In this embodiment, the control board 17 is configured as one board, but it may be configured as two or more boards.

[0024] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , a speaker device 20 serving as an alarm device is disposed within the recessed space 19 of the main body case 11. The speaker device 20 is connected to the control board 17 and outputs a predetermined sound (audio) under the control of a control unit 35 (described later). The speaker device 20 is fitted into a storage space 21 formed in the main body case 11, with the oscillation surface 20a (the surface from which sound is output) of the vibrator facing the rear of the main body case 11. A horn 23 extending downward is connected to the storage space 21, and a sound outlet 25 formed at the bottom end of the horn 23 is exposed adjacent to the power switch, i.e., in the lower central position of the main body case 11. The horn 23 creates a sound transmission space with a completely enclosed passage. Therefore, sound (audio) output toward the main body case 11 is reflected by the walls of the main body case 11, amplified within the horn 23, and transmitted to the outside through the sound outlet 25. Since the radar detection device 10 is attached to the rearview mirror that is installed in the vehicle by default, the sound outlet 25 is located at the bottom of the housing 13, so it is close to the ears of the user (the driver), and the sound is amplified, making it very easy for the user to hear. 2, a sensor board 28 having a gesture sensor 27 mounted thereon as a gesture detection means is connected as a separate unit via a BtoB connector (not shown) onto the control board 17. The total thickness of the control board 17, the BtoB connector, the sensor board 28, and the gesture sensor 27 is taken into consideration so that the distance between the front surface of the gesture sensor 27 as a gesture detection means and the rear surface of the mirror section 30 on the front plate 12 side is kept very close within a predetermined range (0.7 mm or less in this embodiment).

[0025] A mirror section 30 is disposed on the front surface of the front plate 12. The mirror section 30 is constructed by forming a reflective film on the surface of a transparent glass substrate by vapor deposition (chrome vapor deposition in this embodiment) and forming a black light-shielding print on the back surface. The radar detection device 10 is attached to the vehicle's interior rearview mirror using a fixing clamp 14, and at this time, the background is projected onto the mirror section 30, allowing the driver to check behind them. A first window section 31 and a second window section 32 are formed in parts of the front plate 12 and the mirror section 30, adjacent to each other near the right end when viewed from the front. The first window section 31 is rectangular in shape to match the outer shape of the display panel 18, and the second window section 32 is smaller than the first window section 31 and has a rounded rectangular shape to correspond to the size of the gesture sensor 27. The first and second windows 31 and 32 are areas on the surface of the substrate where only a reflective film is formed, without the light-shielding print. Therefore, light can pass through the first and second windows 31, 32 to the inside and outside of the housing 13. The display panel 18 is disposed facing the first window 31, and the gesture sensor 27 is disposed facing the second window 32. The second window 32 serves as a path for projecting and receiving infrared light when infrared light emitted from the gesture sensor 27 is reflected by an object and returns. The shapes and positions of these windows 31, 32 can be changed as appropriate. Marks 33 are formed around the second window 32 in the mirror 30 to indicate the gesture direction and alert the user to the position where the gesture should be made. The marks 33 are arranged on all four sides (top, bottom, left, and right) surrounding the second window 32, and are in the shape of mountain-shaped broken lines that bend outward to form convex lines. The four marks 33 are arranged in an orderly manner to resemble a vertically elongated diamond overall. The marks 33 are printed by cutting out portions of the light-blocking print on the back surface of the mirror 30, so that they can be seen as transparent, unprinted areas (although the reflective film on the surface is covered). The front plate 12 is positioned at a slight distance from the mirror 30 near the second window 32 of the mirror 30. Therefore, when the marks 33 are viewed from the front of the mirror 30, the front plate 12 behind them can be seen from a distance through the gaps in the marks 33, giving the user a three-dimensional appearance and making the marks 33 more noticeable than simple printing.

[0026] Next, the electrical configuration inside the main body 11 of the radar detection device 10 will be described with reference to the block diagram of Fig. 4. Note that configurations that are not directly related to the present invention will be omitted, but it is preferable to adopt a configuration similar to that of the conventional one, for example. The control unit 35 as a control means is composed of a CPU, memories such as ROM and RAM connected to the CPU, various peripheral circuits, interfaces, etc. The control unit 35 is connected to the display panel 18, the speaker device 20, the gesture sensor 27, the GPS receiver 37, the microwave receiver 38, the wireless receiver 39, the microSD card reader 40, etc. The ROM of the control unit 35 stores various programs such as a GPS information processing program that processes GPS information received by the GPS receiver 37, a microwave judgment program that judges microwaves (radar waves) received by the microwave detector 38, a radio wave judgment program that judges radio waves received by the radio receiver 39, a gesture judgment program that judges gestures performed by the gesture sensor 27, a gesture-based processing mode transition program that outputs a sound corresponding to the gesture detection result (recognition result) from the speaker device 20 and transitions to a predetermined processing mode corresponding to the gesture judgment result, a standby screen display program that displays a predetermined standby screen on the display unit 17, and an OS (Operating System).

[0027] The control unit 35 executes various basic functions of the radar detection device 10, such as a GPS warning function, a radar wave warning function, and a wireless warning function. The control unit 35 also controls the output of a sound in response to the detection (recognition) of a gesture within the detection range of an object, such as a user's hand held over the object or an object held in the hand, which the gesture sensor 27 recognizes as an object, and also executes the following processes. In this embodiment, recognized gestures include a gesture of linearly moving a hand, object, etc., from right to left, left to right, bottom to top, or top to bottom across the front of the gesture sensor 27. The control unit 35 also recognizes a gesture of stopping for a predetermined time within a predetermined detection range of the gesture sensor 27 (i.e., a predetermined detection state). In this embodiment, the control unit 35 controls the following processes as a result of recognizing a gesture by the gesture sensor 27: 1) changing the volume, 2) changing the standby screen, 3) changing the setting screen, 4) transitioning from the standby screen to the setting screen, and 5) transitioning from the setting screen to the standby screen.

[0028] The gesture sensor 27 in this embodiment is a known gesture sensor that detects two gestures: an approaching state and a moving state of an object (it also functions as a proximity sensor to detect the approaching state). Specifically, the gesture sensor 27 is equipped with an infrared LED and four photosensors. Each photosensor detects light emitted from the infrared LED and reflected off an object, and acquires the change in light intensity as a numerical value for each photosensor. Using these numerical values ​​as parameters, the distance to the object and the direction of movement of the object are calculated based on a predetermined arithmetic formula. The distance to the object can be calculated as the sum of the numerical values ​​of the four photosensors, and the direction of movement of the object can be calculated by obtaining the difference between the numerical values ​​of the photosensors acquired at different times. It is possible to determine the distance to the object and the direction of movement of the object within the detection capability of the gesture sensor 27. However, in this example, a predetermined spatial region is set around the gesture sensor 27 as follows (in practice, this is determined based on the sensor numerical values), and sound output control and predetermined processing are performed based on this region.

[0029] As shown in Fig. 5, the coordinates of z_th (_th represents a threshold) are set at an equal distance from the gesture sensor 27, with the virtual plane p on which the gesture sensor 27 exists as a reference. "Equal distance" means a distance at which it can be determined that the light intensity data (detection values) detected by the gesture sensor 27 are equal. In this embodiment, this z_th serves as a reference for outputting sound. Hereinafter, the hemispherical spatial region surrounded by z_th is referred to as the sound output reference region Z. Additionally, within the sound output reference area Z, an area surrounded by an upside-down truncated pyramid is determined. The area surrounded by the truncated pyramid is the area surrounded by four line segments E1 to E4 connecting the four corners of the upper base on z_th, which are equidistant from plane p, to the four corners of the lower base, which intersect with plane p near gesture sensor 27. The coordinates on each line segment are (+x_th, +y_th) (+x_th, -y_th) (-x_th, +y_th) (-x_th, -y_th). The movement direction of the object is detected based on the x- and y-coordinates calculated in the space inside the truncated pyramid. This area is set to facilitate determining whether the object has passed through the origin, with the position of gesture sensor 27 as the origin, and calculating the movement direction of the object when passing through the origin. Hereinafter, the area surrounded by this truncated pyramid is referred to as movement direction determination area Q. In this embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the housing 13 is defined as the x-axis direction, and the direction perpendicular to this is defined as the y-axis direction. Furthermore, since the area is arbitrarily set, the distance z_th can be changed as appropriate within the detection capability of the gesture sensor 27. In this embodiment, the distance z_th can be changed to 100 mm, 60 mm, or 40 mm. As the distance z_th is changed, the size of the movement direction determination area Q existing inside it also changes. Furthermore, the shape of the image of the movement direction determination area Q (i.e., the area that determines the movement direction and associates it with a predetermined process) is not limited to the above and can be changed. For example, the movement direction determination area Q may be made to coincide with the sound output reference area Z.

[0030] In the electrical configuration described above, an example of a specific process that the control unit 35 executes based on the result of detecting an object by the gesture sensor 27 will be described below. First, the sound output control executed by the control unit 35 based on the detection value of the gesture sensor 27 will be described in relation to the target object in several specific gestures. Here, gestures that can determine the "predetermined processing" described later will be mainly described as examples, but since the movement of the target object is not simple, gestures other than those listed below are also possible. Furthermore, from a user's perspective, a gesture may be recognized before the object enters the sound output reference area Z, and the user may also recognize that the gesture continues even after the object leaves the sound output reference area Z. However, in terms of recognizing a gesture for outputting sound, the object entering the sound output reference area Z is considered to be the objective start of the gesture. Similarly, the object leaving the sound output reference area Z is considered to be the end of the gesture. Furthermore, if gesture recognition fails (if it is not determined to be a specified gesture), no sound is played, so the fact that a sound is played also means that the movement of the object has been recognized as a gesture.

[0031] (1) The first movement of the object during the gesture (part 1) This is the stage where an object approaches the gesture sensor 27 from a distance and enters the sound output standard region Z. Basically, this process always occurs in sound output control. The control unit 35 reads the detection value of the gesture sensor 27, and if it determines that the value indicates that the object (the "hand" in FIG. 6) is within the sound output standard region Z (if the value exceeds or falls below a certain threshold value), that is, if it determines that the gesture is at the position indicated by A in FIG. 6, it causes the speaker device 20 to output the sound of the first scale (here, "re"). The control unit 35 reads the detection value of the gesture sensor 27 at a predetermined timing (every 12 ms in this embodiment), and if it determines that the object is within the sound output standard region Z, it causes the speaker device 20 to continue outputting the sound of "re" without interruption. On the other hand, if the object leaves the sound output reference area Z without entering the direction of the movement direction determination area Q, the control unit 35 stops the sound output based on the gesture detection value. That is, one possible case is when the object accidentally approaches the gesture sensor 27 and enters the sound output reference area Z, but then turns around and leaves the sound output reference area Z. In that case, the "predetermined process" described below is not selected.

[0032] (2) First movement of the object during the gesture (part 2) This is a state in which the gesture has advanced further and passed in front of the gesture sensor 27. The control unit 35 reads the detection value of the gesture sensor 27, and if it determines that the object has passed through the sound output reference area Z and is in the movement direction determination area Q (if the value is above or below a certain threshold), that is, if it determines that the gesture is in the position shown in B in FIG. 6, it outputs a sound of a second scale different from (1) (the second scale should be higher than the first scale, and in this case, "Fa#") from the speaker device 20. At this determination timing, the control unit 35 stops the sound of "Re." In this way, the sound is output with the scale changed in a state in which the user can recognize that the sound has changed continuously. The control unit 35 reads the detection value of the gesture sensor 27 at a predetermined timing (every 12 ms in this embodiment), and if it determines that it is within the movement direction judgment area Q, it continues to output the sound ``Fa#'' without interruption. Here, the control unit 35 executes different sound control depending on whether the object in the movement direction determination area Q "a. crosses in front of the gesture sensor 27 to leave the movement direction determination area Q" or "b. leaves the movement direction determination area Q without crossing." In the case of "a," the process proceeds to (3) below. On the other hand, in the case of "b," which is an expected case, for example, an object accidentally approaches the gesture sensor 27, enters the movement direction determination area Q within a very short time, turns around, and leaves it through the sound output standard area Z. In this case, the determination of (1) above occurs, and the control unit 35 changes the sound from "Fa#" to "Re." In addition, in this case, the "predetermined processing" described below is not selected.

[0033] (3) The first movement of the object during the gesture (part 3) The object is gradually moving away from the gesture sensor 27. The control unit 35 reads the detection value of the gesture sensor 27, and if it determines that the value satisfies the condition a above and indicates that the object is within the sound output standard region Z (when the value exceeds or falls below a certain threshold value), that is, if it determines that the gesture is at the position shown in C in Fig. 6, it causes the speaker device 20 to output a third note (which may be higher than the second note, and is "La" in this case) that is different from (1) and (2). At this determination timing, the control unit 35 stops the "Fa#" sound. In this way, the sound is output by changing the scale in a state in which the user can recognize that the sound has changed continuously. The control unit 35 reads the detection value of the gesture sensor 27 at predetermined timings (every 12 ms in this embodiment), and if it determines that the value is within the sound output standard region Z, it causes the speaker device 20 to continue outputting the "La" sound without interruption.

[0034] (4) First movement of the object during the gesture (part 4) This indicates a state in which the object has passed in front of the gesture sensor 27 and has left the sound output reference area Z. The control unit 35 reads the detection value of the gesture sensor 27, and if it determines that the condition a above is satisfied and that the object has left the sound output reference area Z (if the value exceeds or falls below a certain threshold value), that is, if it determines that the gesture is at the position shown by D in FIG. 6, it causes the speaker device 20 to output a fourth scale sound different from (1), (2), and (3). Here, the "fourth scale sound" output differs depending on the direction of movement of the object. This sound is a sound indicating the completion of recognition, and the frequency between this recognition completion sound and the previous recognition sound is set to be greater than the frequency between sounds that change during recognition. It is also desirable that the duration of the sound be shorter than the duration of sounds emitted during recognition. This is determined by the direction of movement in the movement direction determination area Q in (2) above. In this embodiment, four movement directions of the object are prepared: "bottom to top," "top to bottom," "left to right," and "right to left." Each movement direction is associated with a sound and a "predetermined process" (described later). That is, the first gesture is recognized as a different gesture depending on the direction. When the control unit 35 determines that the movement within the movement direction determination area Q is "bottom to top," it outputs "so" as a recognition confirmation sound (e.g., a startup process confirmation sound) that is a short "beep" sound in a higher pitch range than the highest note output during recognition (i.e., "la" in the third scale in this embodiment). Similarly, when the control unit 35 determines that the movement is "top to bottom," it outputs "do." Similarly, when the control unit 35 determines that the movement is "left to right," it outputs "re." This "re" is one octave higher than the "re" in the first scale. Similarly, when the control unit 35 determines that the movement is "right to left," it outputs "mi." These sounds correspond to "processes that vary depending on the moving direction of the object" (described later) executed by the control unit 35. When the object moves away from D in Fig. 6 (moves to the right in the figure), the control unit 35 stops the output of the sound based on the detected value of the gesture sensor 27 (that is, when the value exceeds or falls below a certain threshold value). (5) First movement of the object during the gesture (variation of No. 4) After passing in front of the gesture sensor 27, the object moves out of the sound output standard area Z and stops near it. The control unit 35 reads the detection value of the gesture sensor 27 at a predetermined timing (every 12 ms in this embodiment), and if it determines that the value indicates that the object has left the sound output standard area Z and is still near the sound output standard area Z, and if a predetermined time (e.g., 0.3 seconds) or more has elapsed, i.e., if it determines that the gesture is one in which the object has been present at the position indicated by D in FIG. 6 for a long time, the control unit 35 intermittently outputs a sound corresponding to one of the four movement directions, i.e., one of the sounds "So," "Do," "Re," or "Mi," which is the same as the recognition confirmation sound described above. This intermittent sound corresponds to the so-called "long press mode" in the "predetermined process" executed by the control unit 35, which will be described later. Then, when the object moves away from D in FIG. 6, similar to (4), the control unit 35 stops outputting the sound based on the detection value of the gesture sensor 27 (i.e., if the value exceeds or falls below a certain threshold value).

[0035] Regarding the four movement directions mentioned above, the movement direction of the object is not necessarily exactly horizontal or vertical. For example, if the object moves diagonally, it may be interpreted as either horizontal or vertical. The control unit 35 compares the horizontal and vertical components based on the obtained numerical value and selects whichever is greater to determine whether the movement is horizontal or vertical. The direction of movement is determined when the object leaves the sound output reference area Z (goes outside z_th). In other words, at the stage a in (2) above, the predetermined process is only selected and is not yet determined, but is determined at a later timing based on a certain detection value detected by the gesture sensor 27. Depending on the movement of the object at the position where the "La" sound is output in (3), the predetermined process may be canceled or changed.

[0036] (6) Secondary movement of the object during the gesture 7, the control unit 35 reads the detection value of the gesture sensor 27, determines that the value indicates that the object is within the sound output reference area Z (including the movement direction determination area Q), and if it determines that the object has been stationary for a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) or more, it causes a "crunch" sound with a predetermined pitch, different from any of the above sounds, to be intermittently output from the speaker device 20. The stationary state is determined based on whether the detection value of the gesture sensor 27 does not fluctuate at all or fluctuates only within a narrow numerical range. Furthermore, the control unit 35 reads the detection value of the gesture sensor 27 at a predetermined timing (every 12 ms in this embodiment), and stops the sound output when the stationary object moves. After the stationary object moves, the sound output control is performed according to the above conditions (1) to (4) depending on the position of the object. Furthermore, as a prerequisite for this stop-based audio output processing, if the object enters the sound output reference area Z and thus meets the above conditions (1) or (2), audio output according to (1) or (2) is also executed.

[0037] When a specific gesture is performed among the above gestures, a predetermined process is selected and confirmed along with a sound. Next, the predetermined process executed by the control unit 35 will be described in conjunction with the actual gesture and the sound output in response to the gesture. Note that, in the initial setting, the distance z_th of the sound output reference area Z is set to 10 cm. Furthermore, if an object crosses the movement direction determination area Q very quickly, the difference in the detection values ​​of the gesture sensor 27 cannot be obtained, resulting in an error. In other words, the movement direction becomes indeterminate, and as a result, the predetermined process cannot be determined. Therefore, the following description assumes that the movement direction is determined by the object moving at a moderate speed, and the predetermined process is confirmed accordingly. A. Changing the volume (From bottom to top) 8, while maintaining a distance of, for example, 7 cm in front of the front plate 12 of the radar detection device 10, the hand representing the target makes a gesture of sliding once from a position below the radar detection device 10, passing in front of the gesture sensor 27, to a position where it has passed above the radar detection device 10. At this time, the control unit 35 determines that the target has made a gesture of sliding once from bottom to top in front of the gesture sensor 27, and increases the volume by one level from the current volume. Then, in conjunction with this gesture, the control unit 35 outputs sounds from the speaker device 20 in the order of "Re" → "Fa#" → "La" → "So" (corresponding to the first movement of the target in the series of gestures described above). On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 9, a hand is passed from a position below the radar detection device 10 in front of the gesture sensor 27 and then stopped near the upper edge of the housing 13. This position is close to and outside the sound output standard zone Z. In Fig. 8, the object is far away from the sound output standard zone Z, but in Fig. 9, although the object is outside the set sound output standard zone Z, the difference in the detection value compared to when the object is inside the sound output standard zone Z is very small. When the control unit 35 detects a stopped state at this position for a predetermined stopped time (e.g., 0.3 seconds) or longer, it determines this to be a so-called "long press" mode, and the control unit 35 controls to continuously increase the volume from the current level. At this time, in conjunction with this gesture (corresponding to "variation 4" above), the control unit 35 outputs intermittent sounds of "Re" → "Fa#" → "La" → "So" in that order from the speaker device 20. The control unit 35 ends the process when the object is released from the stopped state or the volume reaches its maximum (a state where further changes are not possible), and also stops the intermittent sounds.

[0038] (From top to bottom) Conversely, as shown in Fig. 10, a gesture is made in which the hand slides once from an upper position of the radar detection device 10, passes in front of the gesture sensor 27, and exits below the radar detection device 10. At this time, the control unit 35 determines that the object has made a gesture of sliding once from above to below in front of the gesture sensor 27, and decreases the volume by one level from the current level. At this time, in conjunction with this gesture, the control unit 35 outputs sounds from the speaker device 20 in the order of "Re" → "Fa#" → "La" → "Do" (corresponding to the first movement of the object in the series of gestures described above). Meanwhile, as shown in FIG. 11 , a hand is moved from an upper position on the radar detection device 10 past the front of the gesture sensor 27 and then stopped near the lower edge of the housing 13. This position corresponds to a position outside the sound output standard region Z adjacent to the sound output standard region Z. When the control unit 35 detects a stop state at this position for a predetermined stop time (e.g., 0.3 seconds) or longer, it determines this to be a so-called "long press" mode and controls the volume to be continuously reduced from its current level. In response to this gesture (corresponding to "Variation 4" above), the control unit 35 outputs intermittent sounds from the speaker device 20 in the order "Re" → "Fa#" → "La" → "Do." The control unit 35 ends the process when the object is released from the stop state or the volume reaches its maximum (a state where further changes are not possible), and also stops the intermittent sounds.

[0039] B. Changing the standby screen (From left to right) 12, while maintaining a distance of, for example, 7 cm in front of the front plate 12 of the radar detection device 10, the hand representing the target makes a gesture of sliding once from the left of the radar detection device 10, passing in front of the gesture sensor 27, to a position where it has exited to the right of the radar detection device 10. At this time, the control unit 35 determines that the target has made a gesture of sliding once from left to right in front of the gesture sensor 27, and causes the current standby screen displayed on the display screen to recede to the right, and causes the next standby screen in an adjacent position that had been hidden to slide to be displayed on the display screen of the display panel 18. At this time, in conjunction with this gesture, the control unit 35 causes the speaker device 20 to output sounds in the order of "Re" → "Fa#" → "La" → "Re" one octave higher (corresponding to the first movement of the target in the series of gestures described above). The standby screen in this embodiment is looped as follows: calendar → clock → speed → eco-driving mode → positioning information → rotation of all standby screens → display off → radar scope → driving mode, etc., and it takes eight movements from the current state to return to the initial standby screen mode. 13, the hand is moved from the left side of the radar detection device 10, passes in front of the gesture sensor 27, and then stops near the right edge of the housing 13. This position is adjacent to and outside the sound output standard area Z. When the control unit 35 detects a stop state at this position for a predetermined stop time (e.g., 0.3 seconds) or longer, it determines this to be the so-called "long press" mode and changes the looped standby screen to be displayed on the display screen one after another. At this time, in conjunction with this gesture (corresponding to the above-mentioned "Variation 4"), the control unit 35 outputs intermittent sounds of "Re" → "Fa#" → "La" → "Re" in this order from the speaker device 20. The control unit 35 ends the process when the object is released from the stopped state, and stops the intermittent sounds.

[0040] (From right to left) Conversely, as shown in Fig. 14, the hand is slid once from a position to the right of the radar detection device 10 to a position beyond the radar detection device 10 to the left. At this time, the control unit 35 determines that the object has made a gesture of sliding once from left to right in front of the gesture sensor 27, and causes the current standby screen displayed on the display screen to recede to the left, and causes the next standby screen in an adjacent position that was previously hidden to slide to be displayed on the display screen of the display panel 18. At this time, in conjunction with this gesture, the control unit 35 causes the speaker device 20 to output sounds in the order of "Re" → "Fa#" → "La" → "Mi" (corresponding to the first movement of the object in the series of gestures described above). 15, a hand is moved from the right side of the radar detection device 10, passes in front of the gesture sensor 27, and then stops near the left side of the display panel 18. This position is outside the sound output standard area Z, adjacent to the sound output standard area Z. This determines that the device is in the so-called "long press" mode, and the control unit 35 changes and displays the looped standby screens one after another on the display screen. At this time, in conjunction with this gesture (corresponding to the above-mentioned "variation 4"), the control unit 35 outputs intermittent sounds of "Re" → "Fa#" → "La" → "Mi" in this order from the speaker device 20. The control unit 35 ends the process when the object is released from the stopped state, and stops the intermittent sounds.

[0041] C. About moving to the settings screen 16, a gesture is made to stop the object in front of the front plate 12 of the radar detection device 10 at a position directly facing the gesture sensor 27, maintaining a distance of, for example, 9 cm. At this time, the control unit 35 determines that a gesture has been made in which the object stops in front of the gesture sensor 27 for a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) or more, and transitions the display screen of the display panel 18 from the standby screen displayed as an initial setting to the setting screen. The setting screen of this embodiment starts with ity.MAP, which is the initial transition screen, and is looped as follows: → Mode (and its submenu) → Brightness (and its submenu) → Flex Dimmer (and its submenu) → Radar Alarm Sound (and its submenu) → Sensor Confirmation Sound (and its submenu) → Sensor Response Range (and its submenu) → Initial Settings (and its submenu) → Version Display → Demo Mode (and its submenu) → Standby Screen → ity.MAP. Using the same operations as in "B. Changing the Standby Screen" above, the setting menu displayed on the display screen of the display panel 18 can be changed sequentially from left to right or from right to left. Furthermore, using the same operations as in "A. Changing the Volume" above, the setting menu displayed on the submenu can be changed sequentially from bottom to top or from top to bottom. Because the standby screen is included in the setting screen loop, if you want to return to the standby screen during this transition mode to the setting screen, you can do so by making a gesture on the setting screen without having to turn off the power. After returning to the standby screen, you will be able to use the gestures described above in "B. Changing the standby screen." When the control unit 35 detects a stopped state at this position for a predetermined stopping time (for example, 2 seconds) or more, it causes the speaker device 20 to intermittently output a "crunch" sound (corresponding to the second movement of the object in the gesture) as described in (6) above. In the gesture for changing the setting screen, a sound according to the description of the first movement of the object in the series of gestures (1) to (4) above is output.

[0042] Next, a process when there is some obstruction in the sound output reference area Z that hinders gesture determination will be described. For example, consider a case where the radar detection device 10 is used inside a vehicle. In that case, the sun visor may be used because the sunlight is too bright. In this case, depending on the installation position of the radar detection device 10, the sun visor may act as an obstruction and enter the sound output reference region Z. The following is a process that allows the user to perform gestures without any problems even when there is an obstruction, and recognizes normal gestures after offsetting (subtracting) the detection value based on the amount of light from the obstruction.

[0043] (Determining whether there is an obstruction in the initial state) First, in an initial state where there is no obstruction, the control unit 35 judges the following three states. a. When some kind of obstruction (the judgment is made without distinguishing between objects, the same below) enters the sound output reference area Z, and it is determined that there has been a stop for a specified time (120 ms) without any specified processing being decided. b. When some kind of obstruction enters the sound output reference area Z and it is determined that the gesture described above in "(6) Second movement of the object during the gesture" has continued for 5 seconds or more. c. When some kind of obstruction enters the sound output reference area Z and it is determined that the gesture described above in "(5) First movement of the target object during the gesture (variation of No. 4)" has continued for 8 seconds or more.

[0044] Here, "a" assumes a case where the entering object does not cause the transition to any processing mode. The reason for setting the interval to 120 ms is that the control unit 35 calculates the offset every 120 ms, and this corresponds to that interval. In this case, the control unit 35 calculates to offset the detection value of the gesture sensor 27 that has changed due to the object, and the state of the gesture sensor 27 after the offset is used as the detection reference. Furthermore, b. and c. are states in which the display screen or volume has changed due to a transition to some processing mode, and a long time has been set to create a stop gesture that differs from a normal gesture. In these cases, since unintended processing has been executed due to the obstruction, the control unit 35 forcibly transitions to the standby screen set by default. Similarly, the volume of the audio is forcibly set to the default volume to cancel processing that may have been started due to an unintended input. Then, as in a., the control unit 35 then calculates to offset the detection value of the gesture sensor 27 that has changed due to the obstruction, and uses the state of the gesture sensor 27 after the offset as the detection reference. The above can be explained schematically as shown in FIG. 17(a).

[0045] (Determining whether there is an obstruction during offset calculation) As described above, the offset calculation is started and normal gesture recognition is performed with the amount of light from the obstruction canceled. During gesture recognition, the control unit 35 constantly calculates the offset at a predetermined timing (120 ms) and uses the latest state of the gesture sensor 27 as the detection reference. Here, there are cases where an obstruction that once remained within the sound output standard region Z moves. For example, it is assumed that a sun visor may swing or change position depending on the direction of sunlight, or that the object may leave the sound output standard region Z and return to its original position. When an obstruction moves, the control unit 35 judges the following three states. d. When the obstruction moves but the specified processing is not determined e. When the obstruction moves and the gesture described above in "(6) Second movement of the object during the gesture" is determined to have continued for 5 seconds or more. f. If the obstruction moves and the gesture described in "(5) First movement of the object during the gesture (variation of No. 4)" above is determined to have continued for 8 seconds or more. d. assumes, for example, that an obstruction within the sound output reference region Z is slightly shaken by vibration. In this case, there is no particular change in the current processing of the radar detection device 10, so the control unit 35 performs a calculation to offset the detection value of the gesture sensor 27 at a predetermined timing, as described above. In cases e and f, the gesture is recognized, the device transitions to a processing mode, and the display screen or volume changes. In this case, the control unit 35 forcibly transitions to the standby screen, as in cases b and c above, and also forcibly sets the volume of the audio to the default setting. Thereafter, the control unit 35 performs a calculation to offset the detection value of the gesture sensor 27 at a predetermined timing, as described above. The processing executed by the control unit 35 is similar to the above b. and c., but the purpose is different. b. and c. are responses to the case where an obstacle enters the sound output reference region Z from outside in the initial state, and are responses when no offset calculation has been performed yet, while e. and f. are responses to the case where an obstacle enters the sound output reference region Z and calculations to offset the obstacle are in progress (after the offset calculation has started). The above can be explained schematically as shown in FIG. 17(b).

[0046] (When an object is near the gesture sensor) If an obstruction is placed very close to the gesture sensor 27, normal gestures cannot be made because there is little space in the space. In other words, detection by the gesture sensor 27 becomes physically impossible. Therefore, assuming such a situation, processing is performed to prevent gesture recognition when an obstruction is placed very close to the gesture sensor 27. Specifically, during gesture recognition, the control unit 35 determines at a predetermined timing (120 ms) whether an obstruction is always present within a predetermined distance (e.g., 3 cm) from the gesture sensor 27 and whether the obstruction has been stationary for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 5 seconds) or more. Then, if it is determined that an obstruction is present within the predetermined distance and has been stationary for a predetermined period of time or more, the control unit 35 cancels the detection value of the gesture sensor 27 in the calculation. In other words, although the gesture sensor 27 still recognizes the gesture, it appears as if it is not detecting anything, and the gesture sensor 27 is not operating (the detection by the gesture sensor 27 may actually be stopped). On the other hand, when the control unit 35 determines that the gesture sensor 27 has moved a predetermined distance or more, the calculation using the detection value of the gesture sensor 27 is restarted.

[0047] Next, we will explain the process for temporarily resetting the "sensor response range" set by the user on the settings screen to the default setting (a range of 10 cm in this case). This process assumes the following case. When the sensor response range is set to the default state, it is set to a wide range, which means that there is a possibility that the sensor response range (output reference region Z) may be accidentally tampered with and some processing may be executed. Therefore, it is desirable for the user to be able to set the sensor response range to, for example, normal (6 cm) or narrow (4 cm). However, even in such cases, it is desirable to return to the wide default state so that quick operation can be performed depending on the situation. As an example, here, the processing by the control unit 35 to temporarily widen the "sensor response range" to make it easier to mute an alarm when an alarm is issued by the radar detection device 10 will be described based on the routine in Figure 18. The control unit 35 repeatedly executes this routine at a predetermined timing. First, in step S10, the control unit 35 determines whether an alarm has been issued, and if it determines that an alarm has been issued, it determines in step S11 whether the current sensor response range is set to 10 cm. If it determines that the sensor response range is set to 10 cm, the process ends. In other words, there is no particular need to change the sensor response range.

[0048] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S11 that the current sensor response range is not 10 cm (i.e., 6 cm or 4 cm), the sensor response range is controlled to 10 cm in step S12, and the flag is set to "1" in step S13, terminating the process for the time being. This temporarily changes the sensor response range to 10 cm. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S10 that an alarm has not been issued, it is determined in step S14 whether the flag is "1." If the flag is "1," this means that the sensor response range was temporarily changed to 10 cm in the immediately preceding routine, so the sensor response range is returned to the immediately preceding sensor response range of 6 cm or 4 cm, and the flag is set to "0." On the other hand, if the flag is not "1" in step S14, this means that there was no change in the immediately preceding sensor response range, and the process is terminated. With this type of control, when an alarm is sounded, the sensor response range is temporarily changed to a distance of 10 cm, which is easier for the user to operate, making it easier for the user to reduce the volume using gesture operations.On the other hand, once the alarm is finished sounding, the sensor response range returns to its original range, saving the user the trouble of having to set it again.

[0049] With the above-described configuration, the radar detection device 10 of this embodiment provides the following effects. (1) The radar detection device 10 does not require an input unit or touch panel, for example, composed of an electrostatic switch, which is used to operate the device by actually touching it, as in the past. Since the device can be operated by four-way operation plus approach and stop operation, costs are significantly reduced. Furthermore, since components such as the input unit are no longer necessary, the weight can also be reduced, making the device particularly suitable for installing the radar detection device 10 inside a vehicle that is subject to a lot of vibration. (2) High-end radar detection devices with many functions require detailed settings, making input devices such as remote controls or touch panels essential. However, low-end devices tend to have fewer settings, and gesture input is simple and prevents missing settings, making it ideal for low-end devices. High-end devices do not need to be equipped with a gesture sensor 27, and even if a gesture function is provided, it serves only as an auxiliary input, resulting in increased costs. In other words, it is possible to provide devices such as radar detection devices that do not have any other means for user input other than gesture detection means. (3) The radar detection device 10 also serves as a rearview mirror, but by allowing input by gestures in this way, the switch area on the side of the mirror as in the past is no longer necessary, and the mirror area is relatively larger than in the past, improving the functionality of the rearview mirror for the user. In addition, since the user can operate the mirror without touching it, it is less likely to be soiled with fingerprints, etc. (4) The user can switch the radar detection device 10 to the desired processing mode simply by performing a predetermined gesture, which is advantageous in terms of operation because there is no need to visually search for an input unit or the like for inputting data by touch. Also, if the user is driving, there is no need to search for an input unit or the like, so the user can concentrate on driving. (5) For example, since there is no need to come into contact with an input unit or a touch panel that is operated by touch, the housing 13 is less likely to get dirty and deterioration due to contact can be prevented. (6) By repeating a gesture several times, the user can memorize the gesture pattern that produces the same sound, and can easily select the desired process by executing the gesture. In this case, the user can accurately memorize the gesture pattern based on the type of sound and the timing at which multiple sounds are output. (7) If the series of gestures includes a gesture for executing a predetermined process, a sound corresponding to the predetermined process is output, and the user can understand the content of the predetermined process in relation to the sound. (8) Even if there is an obstruction, such as a sun visor, within the sound output reference area Z that interferes with the judgment of gestures, processing is performed to cancel this effect, so input is possible without any actual reliable input means, such as an input unit for operation. (9) Even if the user sets the sensor response range to, for example, normal (6 cm) or narrow (4 cm), when an alarm is sounded, the sensor response range is temporarily changed to a distance of 10 cm, which is easier for the user to operate, making it easier for the user to control the volume with gesture operations. On the other hand, once the alarm is finished sounding, the sensor response range returns to its original setting, saving the user the trouble of having to set it again. (10) The sound outlet 25 of the speaker device 20 is located at the bottom of the housing 13, so when the radar detection device 10 is installed in a vehicle, it is close to the ear, and the sound is amplified within the horn 23, making it very easy for the user to hear. (11) The four marks 33 indicating the sensor positions simultaneously indicate the gesture directions (up, down, left, right) for executing a predetermined process, making it easy to understand for first-time users.

[0050] The present invention may be embodied and implemented in the following manner. In the radar detection device 10 of the above embodiment, as shown in Fig. 2, the sensor board 28 carrying the gesture sensor 27 is connected to the control board 17 via a BtoB connector (not shown) as a separate layer. However, when attempting to place the gesture sensor 27 close to the back surface of the mirror unit 30 using such a connection, there is a possibility that the gesture sensor 27 may be farther away from the mirror unit 30 than expected due to thickness tolerances of the board, and may not fit within the specified range. For this reason, when arranging a gesture sensor, it is preferable to use a configuration such as that shown in Fig. 19. Fig. 19 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a stationary radar detection device 50. The radar detection device 50 has a housing 53 composed of a main body case 51 and a front plate 52. A transparent glass cover 54 is disposed on the front of the front plate 52. A sensor board 56 equipped with a gesture sensor 55 is fixed to a stud 57 formed on the front plate 52 with a screw 58. The sensor board 56 is connected to a main board 59 by a flexible cable 60. In this way, the sensor board 56 is fixed directly to the studs 57 on the front plate 52 side, shortening the distance to the mirror unit 30 without any other intervening members, making it possible to accurately position the gesture sensor 55 in close proximity to the cover 54. The key point is that the sensor board 56 only needs to be fixed to the front plate 52 side, so it may be fixed by means other than the screws 58, such as clips. The gesture sensor installation mechanism of such a stationary radar detection device 50 may be applied to the configuration of the radar detection device 10 described above.

[0051] -Various sounds are produced depending on the position of the object in the gesture, and in this case, the gesture can be considered as a whole that produces several sounds, or as a single gesture that corresponds to a single sound. For example, the first gesture below can be considered as a gesture that starts with 1 and ends with 4, or "first gesture (part 2)" can be considered a single gesture with a beginning and an end. In addition to the above gestures, it is also possible to use a gesture in which the object diagonally crosses the front face of the gesture sensor 27 or a gesture in which the object draws a circle. Also, it is also possible to use a gesture in which the object is directly facing the gesture sensor 27 and then moved from a distant position toward the gesture sensor 27 (or conversely, moved away from the gesture sensor 27). The second window 32 of the mirror 30 is configured to transmit visible light, allowing the gesture sensor 27 to be seen. However, it is preferable to arrange a transparent film that reflects or absorbs light in the visible light range and transmits only infrared light so that the gesture sensor 27 is not visible. The shapes and positions of the first and second window portions 31, 32 can be changed as appropriate. Other processes executed by the control unit 35 exemplified in the above embodiment may be, for example, sound-related processes, such as outputting and stopping sound (voice), changing the sound quality (tone), changing the number of sounds, changing the sound pattern (e.g., melody), and changing the voice of the guidance, all of which may be set to be possible by gesture. In the above embodiment, the movement direction of the hand gesture is set to four directions, up, down, left, and right, but the movement direction may be prepared in patterns other than these four. The sounds made during the gestures above are just examples, and sounds of other pitches may be used. Also, while the pitch above was set to gradually increase as the object crossed the sensor's response range, it may also be set to a pattern where the sound output as the object moves gets higher and lower, like a melody. In the above embodiment, if the user sets the sensor response range to, for example, normal (6 cm) or narrow (4 cm), the sensor response range is temporarily changed to a distance of 10 cm, which is easier for the user to operate, when an alarm is issued. However, this processing may be performed in cases other than when an alarm is issued. For example, when the time is announced or accident information is announced. Also, in the above example, the sensor response range can be set to three distances, but it may also be set to two or four or more distances. Furthermore, after the sensor response range is temporarily changed to a distance of 10 cm, which is easier for the user to operate, the sensor response range is returned to normal (6 cm) or narrow (4 cm), but this does not have to be the case. The above-described configuration of the radar detection device 10 is merely an example, and the device may be implemented in other shapes. For example, in the above embodiment, the gesture sensor 27 is disposed to the right as viewed from the front. This is primarily intended for users who use their left hand to make gestures in right-hand drive vehicles. However, the gesture sensor 27 may be disposed to the left for left-hand drive vehicles (i.e., it may be disposed in a position that makes it easier to make gestures depending on the vehicle). Alternatively, in the above embodiment in which the gesture sensor 27 is disposed to the right as viewed from the front, the sensor may be configured to be rotated 180 degrees within the mirror's plane and attached to the vehicle's rearview mirror. In this case, the attachment direction may be determined by a user setting or a G sensor, and a determination may be made as to whether to rotate the gesture recognition direction 180 degrees to match the determined attachment direction. In addition to radar detection devices, the present invention may also be applied to vehicle navigation devices (without radar detection functions) and drive recorder devices. The present invention may be applied to various devices other than those for vehicles. In the detection by the gesture sensor 27 described above, infrared light from an infrared emitting element is shone on the object and the change in the reflected light is detected by a light receiving element. However, instead of infrared light, a gesture sensor based on a different principle, such as one that utilizes ultrasonic waves or changes in capacitance, may also be used. A protective sheet for protecting the mirror surface may be attached to the front of the mirror unit 30. In this case, the user may use the device without removing it. However, over time, the protective sheet may partially peel off, causing the peeled protective sheet to swing within the detection range of the gesture sensor 27, potentially resulting in an action that may be mistaken for a gesture. This may cause a malfunction. Therefore, as shown in Figure 20, the protective sheet 62 may be attached only within an area away from the second window unit 32, or the corners that are prone to peeling may be chamfered. This prevents malfunctions and the protective sheet 62 from interfering with the user's gestures, and also eliminates the hassle of the user having to remove the peeled portion. In particular, it is preferable to provide a protective sheet on the entire surface of the mirror and carve out a protective sheet along the second window unit 32. This configuration not only protects the entire mirror surface, but also reduces the possibility that the movement of the protective sheet will be recognized as a gesture, even if the user starts using the device without removing the protective sheet. · It may be applied to devices other than those mounted on vehicles. The present invention may be freely implemented in modified forms within the scope of the spirit thereof. [Explanation of symbols]

[0052] 10...Radar detection device as an electronic information system, 35...Control unit as a control means.

Claims

1. An electronic device having a mirror portion disposed on the front surface of a plate, The mirror portion has a reflective film formed on the front surface of a transparent substrate and a black light-shielding print formed on the rear surface thereof, An electronic device characterized in that a transparent mark is formed by hollowing out a part of the light-shielding print.

2. 2. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the transparent mark is visible through a reflective film formed on the surface of the mirror portion.

3. 3. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein a small distance is provided between the mirror portion and the plate at least around the periphery of the second window portion.

4. 4. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the transparent mark is disposed around the second window portion of the mirror portion.

5. 5. The electronic device according to claim 4, wherein the transparent marks are arranged in the shape of polygonal lines that are convex outward in all four directions.

6. 6. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein a sensor is disposed opposite the second window of the mirror portion.

7. 7. The electronic device according to claim 6, wherein the second window serves as a passage for projecting infrared light emitted from the sensor and receiving light reflected from an object.

8. 8. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the second window is formed adjacent to the first window facing the display panel in a front view.

Images