Processing apparatus, processing system, processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide a processor capable of specifying a person and taking measures against theft.SOLUTION: The processing apparatus includes a determination unit configured to determine whether or not a person is permitted to use the processing apparatus when the processing apparatus is used, a setting unit configured to enable a first function, which is a function for identifying the person of the processing apparatus, when the determination unit determines that the person is permitted to use the processing apparatus, and to disable the first function when the determination unit determines that the person is not permitted to use the processing apparatus, and an instruction unit configured to cause the processing apparatus to output a signal for making the processing apparatus traceable when the setting unit disables the first function.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 15

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a processing device, a processing system, a processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, damage caused by vermin such as bears has been increasing, and vermin extermination is being carried out. When exterminating vermin, for example, hunters go into the mountains and exterminate them with guns. However, visibility is poor in the mountains, making it difficult to distinguish between vermin and people, and hunters may mistake people for vermin and shoot them. Patent Document 1 discloses a related technology related to vermin extermination. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-168167 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the technical field related to pest control, as described in Patent Document 1 and elsewhere, there is a demand for technology that can identify people as well as technology that can prevent theft of devices used to identify people.

[0005] An object of each aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a processing device, a processing system, a processing method, and a program that can solve the above-mentioned problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the processing device is a processing device that can be connected to other devices and thereby cooperate with the other devices, and is equipped with a determination means that determines whether or not the person using the processing device is authorized to use the processing device when using the processing device, a setting means that enables a first function, which is a function for identifying the person on the processing device, if the determination means determines that the person is authorized to use the processing device, and disables the first function if the determination means determines that the person is not authorized to use the processing device, and an instruction means that causes the processing device to output a signal to enable tracking of the processing device if the setting means disables the first function.

[0007] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a processing system includes the processing device and the other device that is connected to the processing device and is thereby capable of cooperating with the processing device.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a processing method is a processing method executed by a processing device that can cooperate with other devices by being connected to the other devices, and includes determining whether or not the person using the processing device is authorized to use the processing device when using the processing device, enabling a first function of the processing device, which is a function for identifying the person, if it is determined that the person using the processing device is authorized, disabling the first function if it is determined that the person using the processing device is not authorized, and outputting a signal to the processing device to enable tracking of the processing device if the first function is disabled.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the program causes a computer of a processing device that can be connected to another device and thereby cooperate with the other device to determine whether or not the person using the processing device is authorized to use the processing device when using the processing device, and if it is determined that the person is authorized to use the processing device, enables a first function of the processing device, which is a function for identifying the person, and if it is determined that the person is not authorized to use the processing device, disables the first function, and if it is determined that the person is not authorized to use the processing device, outputs a signal to the processing device to enable tracking of the processing device when the first function is disabled. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to each aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible to identify a person and take measures against theft. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a configuration of a processing system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a configuration of a processing device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a configuration of an interrogator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the received power of a first signal received by a transponder included in a destination processing device in response to a first signal transmitted from an antenna according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 illustrates an example range over which an antenna transmits a first signal in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a first signal transmitted by an antenna according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a configuration of a responder according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of another device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow of a processing system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an interrogator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the received power of a SUM signal and a DIFF signal transmitted by an antenna according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 12] 10 is a diagram illustrating a first example of a difference in received power between a SUM signal and a DIFF signal received by a responder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 13] 10 is a diagram illustrating a second example of the difference in received power between a SUM signal and a DIFF signal received by a responder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow of a processing system according to a modified example of an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a configuration of a processing device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow of a processing device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating the configuration of a computer according to at least one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. <Embodiment> (Processing system configuration) A processing system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. A processing device 10 in the processing system 1, which will be described later, is a device that can identify a desired person and is a device that has anti-theft measures.

[0013] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a processing system 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, the processing system 1 includes processing devices 10a1, 10a2, 10a3, ..., 10aN and other devices 20a1, 20a2, 20a3, ..., 20aN. The processing devices 10a1, 10a2, 10a3, ..., 10aN may be collectively referred to as processing device 10. The other devices 20a1, 20a2, 20a3, ..., 20aN may be collectively referred to as other devices 20.

[0014] (Configuration of processing device) The processing device 10 is a device that can cooperate with another device 20 by being connected to the other device 20. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the processing device 10 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 2, the processing device 10 includes an input unit 101, an authentication unit 102 (an example of a determination means, an example of a setting means, and an example of an instruction means), an interrogator 103, a responder 104, an antenna 105, and a control unit 106.

[0015] The input unit 101 acquires authentication information. The authentication information is information used by the authentication unit 102 to determine whether or not a person is authorized to use the processing device 10 when using the processing device 10. Examples of the authentication information include ear acoustic information, iris information, face information, fingerprint information, and an input code.

[0016] When the authentication information is earacoustic information, the input unit 101 may include a hearable device and directly acquire the earacoustic information. When the authentication information is earacoustic information, a hearable device may exist separate from the input unit 101, and the input unit 101 may acquire the earacoustic information acquired by the hearable device.

[0017] Furthermore, when the authentication information is iris information or face information, the input unit 101 may be equipped with a camera and directly acquire the iris information or face information. Furthermore, when the authentication information is iris information or face information, a camera may be provided separately from the input unit 101, and the input unit 101 may acquire the iris information or face information acquired by the camera.

[0018] Furthermore, when the authentication information is fingerprint information, the input unit 101 may be provided with a fingerprint sensor and may directly acquire the fingerprint information. Furthermore, when the authentication information is fingerprint information, a fingerprint sensor may be provided separately from the input unit 101, and the input unit 101 may acquire the fingerprint information acquired by the fingerprint sensor.

[0019] Furthermore, when the authentication information is an input code, the input unit 101 may be provided with an input device such as a keyboard or a microphone and may directly acquire the input code. Furthermore, when the authentication information is an input code, an input device may exist separately from the input unit 101, and the input unit 101 may acquire the input code acquired by the input device.

[0020] The authentication unit 102 determines, when using the processing device 10, whether or not the person is authorized to use the processing device 10, based on the authentication information acquired by the input unit 101. For example, the authentication unit 102 pre-stores authentication information of people authorized to use the processing device 10, and determines whether or not the authentication information acquired by the input unit 101 matches the stored authentication information. If the authentication unit 102 determines that the authentication information acquired by the input unit 101 matches the stored authentication information, it determines that the person is authorized to use the processing device 10. If the authentication unit 102 determines that the authentication information acquired by the input unit 101 does not match the stored authentication information, it determines that the person is not authorized to use the processing device 10.

[0021] If authentication unit 102 determines that the person is authorized to use processing device 10, it causes interrogator 103 to transmit a first signal via antenna 105, which will be described later.

[0022] Furthermore, if authentication unit 102 determines that the person is not authorized to use processing device 10, it prevents interrogator 103 from transmitting the first signal. Then, authentication unit 102 causes responder 104 to transmit a location signal, which will be described later.

[0023] Note that the authentication unit 102 causing the interrogator 103 to transmit a first signal, which will be described later, via the antenna 105 is an example of enabling the first function, which is a function for identifying a person in the processing device 10. Also, the authentication unit 102 preventing the interrogator 103 from transmitting the first signal is an example of disabling the first function, which is a function for identifying a person in the processing device 10.

[0024] (Interrogator configuration) Fig. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an interrogator 103 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 3, the interrogator 103 includes a transmitter 103a and a receiver 103b. Also shown in Fig. 3 are an authentication unit 102, an antenna 105, and a control unit 106.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 3, transmitting unit 103a includes first control unit 103a1, signal generating unit 103a2, and second control unit 103a3.

[0026] First control unit 103a1 instructs second control unit 103a3 on the direction in which to output a first signal, which is a signal for identifying a person, from antenna 105. Furthermore, first control unit 103a1 causes signal generation unit 103a2 to generate the first signal to be output from antenna 105. Examples of the first signal that first control unit 103a1 causes signal generation unit 103a2 to generate include a sum signal (hereinafter referred to as a "SUM signal") and a difference signal (hereinafter referred to as a "DIFF signal"), etc.

[0027] Furthermore, first control unit 103a1 instructs signal generation unit 103a2 to output the generated signal to antenna 105 at a predetermined timing. For example, first control unit 103a1 instructs signal generation unit 103a2 to output the generated SUM signal to antenna 105 at a first timing. For example, first control unit 103a1 instructs signal generation unit 103a2 to output the generated DIFF signal to antenna 105 at a second timing that is a predetermined time after the first timing.

[0028] Signal generating unit 103a2 generates a first signal in response to an instruction from first control unit 103a1. Signal generating unit 103a2 outputs the generated first signal to antenna 105 at a predetermined timing in response to an instruction from first control unit 103a1.

[0029] Second control unit 103a3 controls the direction in which antenna 105 outputs the first signal in response to an instruction from first control unit 103a1. For example, if antenna 105 is an array antenna, second control unit 103a3 can shift the radiation direction of the first signal by a predetermined angle (e.g., α degrees) to the left or right with respect to a reference direction by controlling the phase of the first signal for each antenna element. Antenna 105 is not limited to an array antenna, and second control unit 103a3 may control the direction of antenna 105 to physically shift the direction of antenna 105 by a predetermined angle to the left or right with respect to a reference direction. Furthermore, antenna 105 is not limited to a single antenna. Antenna 105 may be, for example, two horn antennas that output a SUM signal and a DIFF signal that have the same amplitude and phase under the control of second control unit 103a3.

[0030] 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the received power of a first signal received by the transponder 104 of the destination processing device 10 in response to a first signal transmitted from the antenna 105 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In the example of the processing system 1 illustrated in FIG. 1, the antenna 105 of the processing device 10a1 transmits the first signals, that is, a SUM signal and a DIFF signal, to the processing devices 10a3 and 10a4. In the example of the processing system 1 illustrated in FIG. 1, the transponders 104 of the processing devices 10a3 and 10a4 receive the first signals, that is, the SUM signal and the DIFF signal. The second control unit 103a3 controls the output of the antenna 105 so that interference occurs far from the antenna 105, and the SUM signal is stronger than the DIFF signal (i.e., the received power is greater) in the central region (the region within the range of angle θ degrees within the range of angle γ illustrated in FIG. 4) In addition, the second control unit 103a3 controls the SUM signal to be weaker than the DIFF signal (i.e., the received power is smaller) in the peripheral area (the area excluding the range of angle θ degrees within the range of angle γ shown in Figure 4) due to interference at a distance from the antenna 105.

[0031] The antenna 105 is an antenna capable of transmitting a first signal in directions shifted left and right by a predetermined angle with respect to a reference direction (i.e., in at least two different ranges) under the control of the second control unit 103a3. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a range in which the antenna 105 transmits the first signal according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first signal transmitted by the antenna 105 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The "0" in FIG. 5 indicates the reference direction. The angle θ in FIG. 5 indicates a range in which the received power of the SUM signal is greater than the received power of the DIFF signal. Range A in FIG. 5 is a range in which the received power of the SUM signal received by the transponder 104 is greater than the received power of the DIFF signal when the direction of the antenna 105 is shifted left by a predetermined angle α degrees with respect to the reference direction. Range B in FIG. 5 is a range in which the received power of the SUM signal received by the transponder 104 is greater than the received power of the DIFF signal when the direction of the antenna 105 is shifted right by a predetermined angle α degrees with respect to the reference direction. Furthermore, range C in Figure 5 is a range common to both range A and range B, that is, a range in which, when the direction of antenna 105 is shifted to the left or right by a predetermined angle α degrees from the reference direction, the received power of the SUM signal received by responder 104 is greater than the received power of the DIFF signal on either the left or right.

[0032] Assume now that signal generating unit 103a2, in response to an instruction from first control unit 103a1, transmits a SUM signal of signal P1 and a DIFF signal of signal P2, which have the same signal amplitude as shown in FIG. 6, via antenna 105 in range A, and transmits a SUM signal of signal P3 and a DIFF signal of signal P4, which have the same signal amplitude as shown in FIG. 6, via antenna 105 in range B. Note that interrogator 103 and responder 104 are assumed to recognize in advance whether signals P1, P2, P3, and P4 are high-level or low-level signals, the timing at which signal P2 is transmitted after signal P1 is transmitted, and the timing at which signal P4 is transmitted after signal P3 is transmitted. In this case, range C, which is common to both range A and range B, can be adjusted by adjusting angle α degrees. As will be described later, the transponder 104 receives all of the signals P1, P2, P3, and P4 and responds to the interrogator 103 according to the combination of the received signals, so that only the transponders 104 present in range C (i.e., the appropriate transponders 104) can respond (transmit a response signal to the interrogator 103). The response signal is a signal that responds to the first signal.

[0033] The receiving unit 103b receives, via the antenna 105, a response signal transmitted by the transponder 104 in response to the first signal. The response signal may not only contain a simple reply from the transponder 104 (i.e., information that allows the user to recognize that a specific person carrying the transponder 104 is present in range C), but may also contain detailed information about the person carrying the transponder (e.g., the identification number of the processing device 10 or another device 20, or, in the case of that person, attributes, etc.). The receiving unit 103b identifies the transponder 104 that transmitted the received response signal. This identification makes it possible to recognize that a specific person carrying the transponder 104 is present in range C.

[0034] When authentication unit 102 disables the first function, first control unit 103a1 stops.

[0035] The receiving unit 103b receives, via the antenna 105, a response signal transmitted by the transponder 104 to which the first signal was transmitted. The response signal may not only be a simple reply from the transponder 104 to which the first signal was transmitted (i.e., information that recognizes that a specific person carrying the transponder 104 is present in range C), but may also include detailed information about the person carrying the transponder (e.g., the identification number of the processing device 10 or another device 20, or, in the case of that person, attributes, etc.). When the receiving unit 103b receives a response signal, it can recognize that the person carrying the transponder 104 that transmitted the received response signal is present in range C.

[0036] Furthermore, the receiving unit 103b receives, via the antenna 105, a location signal transmitted by a transponder 104 provided in a processing device 10 other than the processing device 10 that includes the receiving unit 103b. When the receiving unit 103b receives a location signal, it can identify the location of the processing device 10 that includes the transponder 104 that transmitted the location signal, based on the location information included in the received location signal.

[0037] The antenna 105 transmits a first signal generated by the signal generating unit 103a2. The antenna 105 also receives a response signal transmitted in response to the first signal by a responder 104 provided in a processing device 10 other than the processing device 10 having the antenna 105. The antenna 105 also receives a first signal transmitted by an interrogator 103 provided in a processing device 10 other than the processing device 10 having the antenna 105. The antenna 105 also receives a location signal transmitted by a responder 104 provided in a processing device 10 other than the processing device 10 having the antenna 105.

[0038] When the authentication unit 102 uses the processing device 10, the control unit 106 determines whether the person is authorized to use the processing device 10 based on the authentication information acquired by the input unit 101, and if it determines that the person is not authorized to use the processing device 10, it disables the functions of other devices 20 connected to the processing device 10 that has its own control unit 106 (for example, it makes it impossible to fire bullets, etc., described below, for exterminating vermin).

[0039] Furthermore, when the authentication unit 102 determines, based on the authentication information acquired by the input unit 101, that the person using the processing device 10 is authorized to use the processing device 10, the control unit 106 enables the functions of the other device 20 connected to the processing device 10 including its own control unit 106 (for example, makes it possible to fire a bullet or the like described below for exterminating vermin). However, when the receiving unit 103b of the interrogator 103 included in the processing device 10 receives a response signal (that is, when a person carrying the transponder 104 that transmitted the received response signal is present in range C), the control unit 106 disables some of the functions of the other device 20 (for example, makes it impossible to pull a trigger for firing a bullet or the like described below for exterminating vermin).

[0040] As will be described later, when the other device 20 is a gun for exterminating vermin, and the processing device 10 and the other device 20 are connected and linked, the antenna 105 included in the processing device 10 is provided at the position of the other device 20 where the first signal is transmitted in the direction in which the gun, which is the other device 20, is held. In other words, when the receiving unit 103b of the interrogator 103 included in the processing device 10 receives a response signal, this indicates that the gun, which is the other device 20, is pointed toward range C where a person carrying the responder 104 that transmitted the received response signal is present, and the process of the control unit 106 disabling some functions of the other device 20 is intended to prevent accidental firing at a person present in range C.

[0041] (Response machine configuration) Fig. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a responder 104 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 7, the responder 104 includes a receiving unit 104a and a transmitting unit 104b. Note that Fig. 7 also illustrates an authentication unit 102 and an antenna 105.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 7, receiving unit 104a includes a comparing unit 104a1, a storage unit 104a2, and a control unit 104a3.

[0043] Comparator 104a1 compares the first signal received via antenna 105 (i.e., the first signal transmitted from interrogator 103 of another processing device 10) with an amplitude threshold value for defining the pattern of the first signal, which is stored in memory 104a2. For example, comparator 104a1 compares the SUM signal received via antenna 105 with the threshold value stored in memory 104a2. Also, for example, comparator 104a1 compares the DIFF signal received via antenna 105 with the threshold value stored in memory 104a2. Then, comparator 104a1 outputs the comparison result to controller 104a3.

[0044] Storage unit 104a2 stores various information necessary for the processing performed by receiving unit 104a. For example, storage unit 104a2 stores threshold values ​​used in the comparison performed by comparing unit 104a1. Storage unit 104a2 also stores, for example, predetermined signal patterns used in the determination processing performed by control unit 104a3, which will be described later.

[0045] Based on the comparison result output by comparison unit 104a1, control unit 104a3 instructs transmission unit 104b to transmit. For example, control unit 104a3 determines whether the comparison result matches a predetermined signal pattern stored in memory unit 104a2. If control unit 104a3 determines that the comparison result matches the predetermined signal pattern stored in memory unit 104a2, control unit 104a3 controls transmission unit 104b to transmit a response signal in response to reception of a first signal (e.g., a SUM signal and a DIFF signal) generated by signal generation unit 103a2 that matches the predetermined signal pattern to processing device 10 including interrogator 103 that transmitted the first signal. The response signal includes information that can identify processing device 10 including transponder 104 that transmitted the response signal. Furthermore, if control unit 104a3 determines that the comparison result does not match the predetermined signal pattern stored in memory unit 104a2, control unit 104a3 controls transmission unit 104b not to transmit the response signal.

[0046] Specifically, after adjusting angle α degrees to adjust common range C, interrogator 103 of a certain processing device 10 transmits signals P1, P2, P3, and P4 shown in FIG. 5 to both range A and range B. Then, responder 104, the destination of the signals, receives all of signals P1, P2, P3, and P4. Comparator 104a1 compares each of signals P1, P2, P3, and P4 received by responder 104 with a threshold value stored in memory 104a2. Comparator 104a1 outputs the comparison result (i.e., a signal pattern indicating whether each of signals P1, P2, P3, and P4 is greater than or less than the threshold value) to controller 104a3.

[0047] The control unit 104a3 determines whether the received comparison result (i.e., signal pattern) matches a predetermined signal pattern stored in the storage unit 104a2 for both the signal transmitted to range A and the signal transmitted to range B by the interrogator 103 of the other processing device 10. If the control unit 104a3 determines that the comparison result matches the processing signal pattern for the signal transmitted to range A and that the comparison result matches the processing signal pattern for the signal transmitted to range B, it determines that the predetermined condition is satisfied. If the control unit 104a3 determines that the comparison result does not match the processing signal pattern for the signal transmitted to range A or that the comparison result does not match the processing signal pattern for the signal transmitted to range B (i.e., if it determines that the comparison result does not match the processing signal pattern for at least one of the signals transmitted to range A and range B), it determines that the predetermined condition is not satisfied.

[0048] The processing performed by the receiving unit 104a described above is processing performed when the authentication unit 102 determines, based on the authentication information acquired by the input unit 101, that the person using the processing device 10 is authorized to use the processing device 10. When the authentication unit 102 determines, based on the authentication information acquired by the input unit 101, that the person using the processing device 10 is not authorized to use the processing device 10, the authentication unit 102 stops the processing of the receiving unit 104a.

[0049] When the authentication unit 102 determines that the person using the processing device 10 is not authorized to use the processing device 10 and stops the processing of the receiving unit 104a, it causes the transmitting unit 104b to transmit a location signal including location information indicating the location of the processing device 10 that has its own authentication unit 102 to the outside of the processing device 10 via the antenna 105.

[0050] Transmitter 104b generates a response signal under the control of controller 104a3. Transmitter 104b transmits the generated response signal to interrogator 103 via antenna 105 under the control of controller 104a3. Transmitter 104b also transmits a location signal to the outside of processing device 10 via antenna 105 under the instruction of authentication unit 102.

[0051] Antenna 105 receives signals (e.g., SUM signal and DIFF signal) generated by signal generating unit 103a2 from interrogator 103. Antenna 105 also transmits response signals generated by transmitting unit 104b to interrogator 103. Antenna 105 also transmits position signals to the outside of processing device 10.

[0052] (Configuration of other devices) FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of another device 20 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The other device 20 is, for example, a gun that fires bullets used to exterminate vermin. Guns include guns and cannons. As shown in FIG. 8, the other device 20 includes a control unit 201 and a device main body 202. Note that FIG. 8 also illustrates an authentication unit 102, an antenna 105, and a control unit 106 that are included in a processing device 10 that is connected to and cooperates with the other device 20.

[0053] The control unit 201 controls the state of the device body 202. For example, if the device body 202 is a gun body, the control unit 201 controls the device body 202 to a state in which the trigger can be pulled or a state in which the trigger cannot be pulled. Also, for example, the control unit 201 controls the device body 202 to a state in which a bullet or the like can be fired or a state in which a bullet or the like cannot be fired, regardless of the state of the trigger.

[0054] Specifically, when the control unit 106 performs a process to disable the functions of another device 20 connected to the processing device 10 that includes its own control unit 106, the control unit 201 controls the device main body 202 to a state in which it can fire bullets, etc., or a state in which it cannot fire bullets, etc., regardless of the state of the trigger.

[0055] Furthermore, as described above, when authentication unit 102 uses processing device 10 based on the authentication information acquired by input unit 101, if control unit 106 determines that the person is authorized to use processing device 10 and performs processing to enable the functions of other device 20 connected to processing device 10 including control unit 106, control unit 201 controls device main body 202 to a state in which a bullet or the like can be fired according to the state of the trigger. However, if receiving unit 103b of interrogator 103 included in processing device 10 receives a response signal and control unit 106 performs processing to disable the trigger from being pulled, which is processing to disable some functions of other device 20, control unit 201 controls device main body 202 to a state in which the trigger cannot be pulled.

[0056] For example, if the other device 20 is a gun, the device main body 202 is a gun main body that fires a bullet or the like by a predetermined operation such as pulling a trigger.

[0057] (Processing performed by the processing system) The above-described processing performed by the processing system 1 is merely an example, and the processing performed by the processing system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described processing. For example, the processing system 1 may perform the processing described below.

[0058] 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow of the processing system 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Next, referring to FIG. 9, a description will be given of processing performed by the processing system 1 when the processing device 10a1 and another device 20a1 are connected and cooperate to exterminate vermin. In the specific example in the following description, it is assumed that the interrogator 103 included in the processing device 10a1 transmits a first signal, and the responder 104 included in the processing device 10a2 receives the first signal. In the following description, unless it is explicitly stated that a processing device is included in the processing device 10a2, the processing device is included in the processing device 10a1.

[0059] When using the processing device 10a1 linked with the other device 20a1, a user performs a predetermined operation to input authentication information to the input unit 101. The input unit 101 acquires the authentication information in response to the predetermined operation by the user (step S1). The authentication unit 102 determines, based on the authentication information acquired by the input unit 101, whether or not the person using the processing device 10a1 is authorized to use the processing device 10a1 (step S2).

[0060] If the authentication unit 102 determines that the person is not authorized to use the processing device 10a1 (NO in step S2), it prevents the interrogator 103 from transmitting the first signal (step S3). The processing in step S3 renders the interrogator 103 unable to transmit the first signal. The authentication unit 102 also stops the processing of the receiving unit 104a (step S4). The authentication unit 102 also causes the transmitting unit 104b to transmit a location signal including location information indicating the location of the processing device 10a1 via the antenna 105 toward the outside of the processing device 10a1 (step S5). When the location signal transmitted in the processing in step S5 is received, the location of the processing device 10a1 that the unauthorized person attempted to use can be identified from the location information included in the location signal. In other words, the processing in step S5 provides a measure against theft.

[0061] Furthermore, if authentication unit 102 determines that the person using processing device 10a1 is not authorized (NO in step S2), control unit 106 disables the functions of other device 20a1 connected to processing device 10a1 (step S6). For example, control unit 106 disables other device 20a1 from firing bullets for exterminating vermin. By performing the processing in step S6, unauthorized persons cannot use other device 20a1 linked to processing device 10a1. In other words, if other device 20a1 can operate only when linked to processing device 10a1, the processing in step S6 can prevent unauthorized persons from using other device 20a1.

[0062] Furthermore, if authentication unit 102 determines that the person is authorized to use processing device 10 (YES in step S2), control unit 106 enables the functions of other device 20a1 connected to processing device 10a1 (step S7). For example, control unit 106 puts other device 20a1 into a state in which it can fire a bullet or the like for exterminating vermin. However, as will be described later, if receiving unit 103b receives a response signal (i.e., if a person carrying transponder 104 included in processing device 10a2 that transmitted the received response signal is present in range C), control unit 106 disables some of the functions of other device 20a1. For example, control unit 106 puts other device 20a1 into a state in which it cannot pull the trigger that fires a bullet or the like for exterminating vermin.

[0063] When authenticating unit 102 determines that the person is authorized to use processing device 10a1 (YES in step S2), it causes interrogator 103 to transmit a first signal via antenna 105 (step S8). Here, the process of step S8 in which authenticating unit 102 causes interrogator 103 to transmit the first signal via antenna 105 may be executed when authenticating unit 102 determines that the user has held other device 20 facing in a certain direction. For example, other device 20 may include a sensor such as an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor, and authentication unit 102 may execute the process of step S8 when the sensor value indicates that other device 20 is within a predetermined orientation range (for example, within a predetermined angle range close to horizontal).

[0064] In response to the process of step S8, first control unit 103a1 instructs second control unit 103a3 on the direction in which the first signal is to be output from antenna 105 (step S9).

[0065] Furthermore, first control unit 103a1 causes signal generating unit 103a2 to generate a first signal to be output from antenna 105 (step S10). Examples of the first signal that first control unit 103a1 causes signal generating unit 103a2 to generate include a SUM signal and a DIFF signal.

[0066] Furthermore, first control unit 103a1 instructs signal generation unit 103a2 to output the generated first signal to antenna 105 at a predetermined timing (step S11). For example, first control unit 103a1 instructs signal generation unit 103a2 to output the generated SUM signal to antenna 105 at a first timing. Also, for example, first control unit 103a1 instructs signal generation unit 103a2 to output the generated DIFF signal to antenna 105 at a second timing that is a predetermined time after the first timing.

[0067] In response to the instruction from the first control unit 103a1, the second control unit 103a3 controls the direction in which the antenna 105 outputs the first signal (step S12). For example, if the antenna 105 is an array antenna, the second control unit 103a3 controls the phase of the first signal for each antenna element, thereby shifting the radiation direction of the first signal to the left or right by a predetermined angle (for example, α degrees) with respect to the reference direction.

[0068] Signal generating unit 103a2 generates a new first signal in response to an instruction from first control unit 103a1 (step S13), and then outputs the generated first signal to antenna 105 at a predetermined timing in response to an instruction from first control unit 103a1 (step S14).

[0069] Under the control of the second control unit 103a3, the antenna 105 transmits the first signal to the responder 104 in a direction shifted to the left or right by a predetermined angle with respect to the reference direction (i.e., in at least two different ranges) (step S15).

[0070] The receiving unit 103b determines whether or not a response signal has been received via the antenna 105 (step S16). If the receiving unit 103b determines that a response signal has not been received (NO in step S16), the process returns to step S16. On the other hand, if the receiving unit 103b determines that a response signal has been received (YES in step S16), the process proceeds to step S23, which will be described later.

[0071] Comparator 104a1 included in processing device 10a2 receives a first signal from interrogator 103 via antenna 105 included in processing device 10a2 (step S17). Comparator 104a1 included in processing device 10a2 compares the received first signal with a threshold value stored in memory 104a2 included in processing device 10a2 (step S18). For example, comparator 104a1 included in processing device 10a2 compares a SUM signal received via antenna 105 included in processing device 10a2 with a threshold value stored in memory 104a2 included in processing device 10a2. Also, for example, comparator 104a1 included in processing device 10a2 compares a DIFF signal received via antenna 105 included in processing device 10a2 with a threshold value stored in memory 104a2 included in processing device 10a2. Then, the comparison unit 104a1 included in the processing device 10a2 outputs the comparison result to the control unit 104a3 included in the processing device 10a2 (step S19).

[0072] Control unit 104a3 included in processing device 10a2 instructs transmission unit 104b included in processing device 10a2 to transmit based on the comparison result output by comparison unit 104a1 included in processing device 10a2 (step S20). For example, control unit 104a3 included in processing device 10a2 determines whether the determination result included in processing device 10a2 matches a predetermined signal pattern stored in memory unit 104a2. If control unit 104a3 included in processing device 10a2 determines that the comparison result matches the predetermined signal pattern stored in memory unit 104a2 included in processing device 10a2, it controls transmission unit 104b included in processing device 10a2 to transmit to interrogator 103 a response signal in response to reception of signals (e.g., SUM signal and DIFF signal) generated by signal generation unit 103a2 that match the predetermined signal pattern.

[0073] Transmitter 104b included in processing device 10a2 generates a response signal under the control of controller 104a3 included in processing device 10a2 (step S21). Transmitter 104b included in processing device 10a2 transmits the generated response signal to interrogator 103 via antenna 105 included in processing device 10a2 under the control of controller 104a3 included in processing device 10a2 (step S22).

[0074] In this case, receiving unit 103b determines that the response signal transmitted by transponder 104 included in processing device 10a2 has been received via antenna 105 (YES in step S16). Then, receiving unit 103b identifies transponder 104 included in processing device 10a2 that transmitted the received response signal (step S23). This identification makes it possible to recognize that a specific person carrying transponder 104 included in processing device 10a2 is present in range C. Note that, in the process of step S20, if control unit 104a3 included in processing device 10a2 determines that the comparison result does not match the predetermined signal pattern stored in memory unit 104a2 included in processing device 10a2, control unit 104a3 included in processing device 10a2 to control transmitting unit 104b included in processing device 10a2 not to transmit the response signal to interrogator 103. Then, control unit 104a3 included in processing device 10a2 returns to the process of step S17 (i.e., transponder 104 included in processing device 10a2 returns to the initial process).

[0075] When receiving unit 103b of interrogator 103 receives a response signal (i.e., when a person carrying responder 104 provided in processing device 10a2 that transmitted the received response signal is present within range C), control unit 106 disables some functions of other device 20 (step S24). For example, control unit 106 causes other device 20 to be in a state where it cannot pull a trigger that fires a bullet or the like for exterminating vermin. By processing step S24, when a person is present within range C described with reference to FIG. 5, it is possible to prevent a user from accidentally firing another device 20 at a person.

[0076] (advantage) The processing system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above. The processing device 10 included in the processing system 1 is a processing device that can cooperate with another device 20 by being connected to the other device 20. In the processing device 10, the authentication unit 102 (an example of a determination means) determines whether or not the person using the processing device 10 is authorized to use the processing device 10. If the authentication unit 102 (an example of a setting means) determines that the person using the processing device 10 is authorized, it enables a first function of the processing device 10, which is a function for identifying the person, and if it determines that the person using the processing device 10 is not authorized, it disables the first function. If the authentication unit 102 disables the first function, it causes the processing device 10 to output a signal that enables tracking of the processing device 10. This processing device 10 makes it possible to identify people and take measures against theft.

[0077] <Modifications of the embodiment> (Processing system configuration) A processing system 1 according to a modified embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the processing system 1, a transponder 104 determines whether a first signal transmitted from an interrogator 103 provided in a processing device 10 other than the processing device 10 including the transponder 104 itself and a second signal transmitted from the interrogator 103, which is different from the first signal, satisfy a predetermined condition. If it is determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied, the transponder 104 transmits a response signal indicating a response to the first signal and the second signal to the interrogator 103. Specifically, the transponder 104 determines whether the predetermined condition is satisfied based on the difference between the first signal strength, which is the received signal strength of the first signal transmitted by the interrogator 103 provided in the processing device 10 other than the processing device 10 including the transponder 104 itself, and the second signal strength, which is the received signal strength of the second signal transmitted by the interrogator 103. If it is determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied, the transponder 104 transmits a response signal to the first signal and the second signal to the interrogator 103.

[0078] The processing system 1 includes a processing device 10 and a transponder 104, similar to the processing system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0079] The processing device 10 includes an interrogator 103. Fig. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the interrogator 103 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 10, the interrogator 103 includes a transmitter 103a and a receiver 103b. Also shown in Fig. 10 are an authentication unit 102, an antenna 105, and a control unit 106.

[0080] 10, the transmitting unit 103a includes a first control unit 103a1 and a signal generating unit 103a2. However, the processes performed by the first control unit 103a1 and the signal generating unit 103a2 differ from those of the transmitting unit 103a according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0081] First control unit 103a1 instructs signal generation unit 103a2 to generate the difference in signal levels between two signals (for example, a SUM signal and a DIFF signal) to be output from antenna 105, and two signals that realize this difference.

[0082] Furthermore, first control unit 103a1 instructs signal generation unit 103a2 to output the generated signal to antenna 105 at a predetermined timing. For example, first control unit 103a1 instructs signal generation unit 103a2 to output the generated SUM signal to antenna 105 at a first timing. For example, first control unit 103a1 instructs signal generation unit 103a2 to output the generated DIFF signal to antenna 105 at a second timing that is a predetermined time after the first timing.

[0083] Signal generating unit 103a2 generates a signal in response to an instruction from first control unit 103a1. Signal generating unit 103a2 outputs the generated signal to antenna 105 at a predetermined timing in response to an instruction from first control unit 103a1.

[0084] For example, in response to an instruction from first control unit 103a1, signal generation unit 103a2 generates information indicating the difference in signal levels between two signals (e.g., a SUM signal and a DIFF signal) and a SUM signal that realizes that difference. Then, signal generation unit 103a2 transmits the generated information indicating the difference in signal levels and the SUM signal to transponder 104 via antenna 105. Also, in response to an instruction from first control unit 103a1, signal generation unit 103a2 generates a DIFF signal that realizes that difference. Then, signal generation unit 103a2 transmits the generated DIFF signal to transponder 104 via antenna 105.

[0085] The antenna 105 is an antenna that can transmit a signal in a predetermined direction. For example, the antenna 105 is an array antenna. However, the antenna 105 is not limited to an array antenna.

[0086] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the received power of the SUM signal and the DIFF signal transmitted by the antenna 105 at the responder 104 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Even if the interrogator 103 transmits the SUM signal and the DIFF signal with the same signal strength, as the angle θ moves away from the reference angle direction, the received signal strength of the SUM signal received by the responder 104 is greater than the received signal strength of the DIFF signal. However, the received signal strengths of the SUM signal and the DIFF signal gradually become closer. Outside the range of angle θ, the received signal strength of the SUM signal becomes smaller than the received signal strength of the DIFF signal. The "0" in FIG. 11 indicates the reference direction. The angle θ in FIG. 11 indicates a range D where the received power of the SUM signal is greater than the received power of the DIFF signal.

[0087] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a first example of the difference in received power between the SUM signal and the DIFF signal received by the transponder 104 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a second example of the difference in received power between the SUM signal and the DIFF signal received by the transponder 104 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, FIG. 13 illustrates an example of the difference in received power between the SUM signal and the DIFF signal received by the transponder 104 (6 dB or more in this example) within the range of angle Δθ illustrated in FIG. 11 (i.e., range E1 within range D). For example, FIG. 12 illustrates an example of the difference in received power between the SUM signal and the DIFF signal received by the transponder 104 (3 dB or more and less than 6 dB in this example) within the range of angle Δθ illustrated in FIG. 11 (i.e., range E2 within range D). In response to an instruction from first control unit 103a1, signal generation unit 103a2 of interrogator 103 can arbitrarily set the same signal strength between the SUM signal and the DIFF signal, and by setting the difference in received signal strength between the SUM signal and the DIFF signal received by transponder 104 to a desired difference, one of range E1 and range E2 can be narrowed relative to the range in which the SUM signal and the DIFF signal have the same signal strength, and the other can be widened relative to the range in which the SUM signal and the DIFF signal have the same signal strength. In other words, in response to an instruction from first control unit 103a1, signal generation unit 103a2 of interrogator 103 can arbitrarily set a range in which the difference between the two signals has a desired difference.

[0088] For example, suppose that signal generation unit 103a2, in response to an instruction from first control unit 103a1, transmits two signals (i.e., a SUM signal and a DIFF signal) received by transponder 104 via antenna 105, as shown in FIG. 12, where the difference in received signal strength between the SUM signal and the DIFF signal received by transponder 104 is 3 dB. In this case, the range in which the two signals are received and where there is a difference of 3 dB or more is range D in FIG. 11. Now, suppose that signal generation unit 103a2, in response to an instruction from first control unit 103a1, transmits two signals (i.e., a SUM signal and a DIFF signal) received by transponder 104 via antenna 105, as shown in FIG. 13, where the difference in received signal strength between the SUM signal and the DIFF signal received by transponder 104 is 6 dB. In this case, the range in which the two signals are received and where there is a difference of 6 dB or more is range E1, indicated by angle Δθ, which is narrower than range D, indicated by angle θ, in FIG.

[0089] The receiving unit 103b receives the response signal transmitted by the transponder 104 via the antenna 105. The receiving unit 103b identifies the transponder 104 that transmitted the received response signal. By this identification, it is possible to recognize that a specific person carrying the transponder 104 is present in, for example, range E1.

[0090] Each of the responders 104 includes a receiving unit 104a and a transmitting unit 104b, similar to the responder 104 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0091] The receiving unit 104a includes a comparing unit 104a1, a storage unit 104a2, and a control unit 104a3, similar to the receiving unit 104a according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. However, the processes performed by the comparing unit 104a1, the storage unit 104a2, and the control unit 104a3 are different from those of the receiving unit 104a according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0092] Comparator 104a1 compares the received signal strengths of two signals (e.g., a SUM signal and a DIFF signal) received from interrogator 103 via antenna 105. For example, comparator 104a1 writes a threshold value indicating a difference to be compared with the difference in signal levels of the two signals received via antenna 105 into memory 104a2. Comparator 104a1 also writes the SUM signal and DIFF signal received via antenna 105 into memory 104a2. Comparator 104a1 then compares the received signal strength of the SUM signal with the received signal strength of the DIFF signal. Comparator 104a1 determines whether the comparison result of the received signal strengths is greater than the threshold value indicating the difference. Comparator 104a1 outputs the determination result to controller 104a3.

[0093] Storage unit 104a2 stores various information necessary for the processing performed by receiving unit 104a. For example, storage unit 104a2 stores a threshold value indicating a difference to be compared with the difference in signal levels of two signals received by comparing unit 104a1 via antenna 105. Storage unit 104a2 also stores the SUM signal and the DIFF signal received by comparing unit 104a1 via antenna 105.

[0094] Control unit 104a3 instructs transmission unit 104b to transmit based on the determination result output by comparison unit 104a1. For example, when the determination result based on the comparison of the received signal strength indicates that the strength is greater than a threshold value indicating the difference, control unit 104a3 controls transmission unit 104b to transmit to interrogator 103 a response signal in response to the reception of the signals generated by signal generation unit 103a2 (i.e., the SUM signal and the DIFF signal). The response signal includes information that can identify processing device 10 equipped with transponder 104 that transmitted the response signal.

[0095] Antenna 105 receives the signals generated by signal generating unit 103a2 (that is, the SUM signal and the DIFF signal) from interrogator 103. Antenna 105 also transmits to interrogator 103 the response signal generated by transmitting unit 104b.

[0096] Transmitter 104b generates a response signal under the control of controller 104a3, and transmits the generated response signal to interrogator 103 via antenna 105 under the control of controller 104a3.

[0097] (Processing performed by the processing system) The above-described processing performed by the processing system 1 is merely an example, and the processing performed by the processing system 1 according to the modified example of the embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described processing. For example, the processing system 1 may perform the processing described below.

[0098] 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow of the processing system 1 according to a modified example of an embodiment of the present disclosure. Next, a process in the processing system 1 in which the interrogator 103 transmits two signals with the same amplitude (for example, a SUM signal and a DIFF signal), and when the difference in the received signal strength of those signals satisfies a predetermined condition, the responder 104 responds by transmitting a response signal will be described with reference to FIG.

[0099] The processing system 1 performs the processes of steps S1 to S7. The first control unit 103a1 instructs the signal generating unit 103a2 to generate two signals (i.e., a SUM signal and a DIFF signal) to be output from the antenna 105, which realize a difference in the received signal strength between the SUM signal and the DIFF signal received by the transponder 104 corresponding to a desired range (for example, the range indicated by Δθ in FIG. 11) (step S31). The first control unit 103a1 also instructs the signal generating unit 103a2 to output the generated signals to the antenna 105 at a predetermined timing (step S32). For example, the first control unit 103a1 instructs the signal generating unit 103a2 to output the generated SUM signal to the antenna 105 at a first timing. The first control unit 103a1 also instructs the signal generating unit 103a2 to output the generated DIFF signal to the antenna 105 at a second timing that is a predetermined time after the first timing.

[0100] Signal generating unit 103a2 generates a signal in response to an instruction from first control unit 103a1 (step S33). Signal generating unit 103a2 outputs the generated signal to antenna 105 at a predetermined timing in response to an instruction from first control unit 103a1 (step S34). Antenna 105 transmits the signal in a predetermined direction (step S35).

[0101] The receiving unit 103b determines whether or not a response signal has been received via the antenna 105 (step S16). If the receiving unit 103b determines that a response signal has not been received (NO in step S16), the process returns to step S16. On the other hand, if the receiving unit 103b determines that a response signal has been received (YES in step S16), the process proceeds to step S23, which will be described later.

[0102] Comparator 104a1 receives a signal from interrogator 103 via antenna 105 (step S36). Comparator 104a1 compares the received signal strengths of the two signals received from interrogator 103 via antenna 105 (step S37). For example, comparator 104a1 writes a threshold value indicating a difference to be compared with the difference in signal levels of the two signals received via antenna 105 into storage unit 104a2. Comparator 104a1 also writes the SUM signal and DIFF signal received via antenna 105 into storage unit 104a2. Comparator 104a1 then compares the received signal strength of the SUM signal with the received signal strength of the DIFF signal. Comparator 104a1 determines whether the comparison result of the received signal strengths is greater than the threshold value indicating the difference (step S38). Comparator 104a1 outputs the determination result to controller 104a3 (step S39).

[0103] Based on the determination result output by comparison unit 104a1, control unit 104a3 instructs transmission unit 104b to transmit (step S40). For example, when the determination result indicates that the difference is greater than the threshold value indicating the difference, control unit 104a3 controls transmission unit 104b to transmit a response signal to interrogator 103 in response to receiving the signal generated by signal generation unit 103a2. The response signal includes information that can identify transponder 104 that transmitted the response signal.

[0104] Transmitter 104b generates a response signal under the control of controller 104a3 (step S41). Transmitter 104b transmits the generated response signal to interrogator 103 via antenna 105 under the control of controller 104a3 (step S42).

[0105] In this case, receiving unit 103b determines that the response signal transmitted by responder 104 included in processing device 10a2 has been received via antenna 105 (YES in step S16). Then, processing system 1 performs the processes of steps S23 to S24.

[0106] (advantage) The processing system 1 according to a modified example of an embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above. In the transponder 104 included in the processing device 10 of the processing system 1, the control unit 104a3 determines whether a comparison result between the first signal strength, which is the received signal strength of a SUM signal (an example of a first signal) transmitted by the interrogator 103, and the second signal strength, which is the received signal strength of a DIFF signal (an example of a second signal) transmitted by the interrogator 103, is greater than a predetermined signal level difference. When the control unit 104a3 determines that the comparison result between the first signal strength and the second signal strength is greater than the predetermined signal level difference, the transmission unit 104b transmits a response signal indicating a response to the signal generated by the signal generation unit 103a2 to the interrogator 103. The transponder 104 can vary the range of a response area by changing the value of information indicating the signal level difference.

[0107] A processing system 1 according to another modification of an embodiment of the present disclosure may include all the processing units included in the processing system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and all the processing units included in the processing system 1 according to a modification of an embodiment of the present disclosure. The processing system 1 may perform both the process of transmitting a first signal and determining whether a response signal has been received, as described in the embodiment of the present disclosure, and the process of transmitting a first signal and a second signal and determining whether a response signal has been received, as described in the modification of an embodiment of the present disclosure. When the processing system 1 ensures that a responding device 104 that should respond responds, it may allow a responding device 104 whose processing signal pattern is determined to match in at least one of the determination process described in the embodiment of the present disclosure and the determination process described in the modification of an embodiment of the present disclosure to respond to the interrogator 103. When the processing system 1 does not ensure that a responding device 104 that should not respond responds, it may allow a responding device 104 whose processing signal pattern is determined to match in both the determination process described in the embodiment of the present disclosure and the determination process described in the modification of an embodiment of the present disclosure to respond to the interrogator 103.

[0108] This is based on the idea that, since the accuracy of the judgment process described in one embodiment of the present disclosure and the accuracy of the judgment process described in a modified example of one embodiment of the present disclosure change from moment to moment, using the judgment results from both processes is less likely to result in an incorrect judgment.

[0109] In each embodiment of the present disclosure, a specific example of the other device 20 has been described as a gun. However, in a further modification of each embodiment of the present disclosure, the other device 20 may be a drone. The drone may fire bullets or the like to exterminate or repel pests.

[0110] Furthermore, in each embodiment of the present disclosure, the processing device 10 has been described as being connected to another device 20. However, in a further modification of each embodiment of the present disclosure, the processing device 10 may not be connected to the other device 20. In this case, the processing device 10 cannot cooperate with the other device 20, but can determine whether a person is present or not in response to a response signal transmitted from the interrogator 103. Furthermore, the processing device 10 can transmit a response signal in response to a signal transmitted from the interrogator 103 of another processing device 10, thereby preventing erroneous transmission from others. Furthermore, the functions provided as crime prevention measures can be used as they are.

[0111] Furthermore, in each embodiment of the present disclosure, the processing device 10 has been described as including both the interrogator 103 and the responder 104. However, in further modifications of each embodiment of the present disclosure, the processing device 10 may include either the interrogator 103 or the responder 104. For example, if only one person carries the other device 20, the processing device 10 carried by that person will not be mistakenly shot by another person even if the processing device 10 carried by that person does not include the responder 104. Therefore, it is sufficient for that one person not to mistakenly shoot at another person. Therefore, if the other person carries a processing device 10 that has the responder 104 but not the interrogator 103, and the other person carries a processing device 10 that has the interrogator 103 but not the responder 104, it is possible to prevent that one person from mistakenly shooting at someone other than that one person.

[0112] In the processing system 1 of each embodiment of the present disclosure described above, the control unit 106 is configured to determine whether the person using the processing device 10 is authorized to use the processing device 10 based on the authentication information acquired by the input unit 101 when the authentication unit 102 uses the processing device 10, and if it determines that the person is not authorized to use the processing device 10, disable the functions of the other device 20 connected to the processing device 10 including its own control unit 106 (for example, disable the firing of bullets, etc., described below, for exterminating vermin). However, in the processing system 1 according to another modified example of each embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit 106 does not need to disable the functions of the other device 20 connected to the processing device 10 including its own control unit 106 even if it determines that the person using the processing device 10 is not authorized to use the processing device 10 based on the authentication information acquired by the input unit 101 when the authentication unit 102 uses the processing device 10, and determines that the person using the processing device 10 is not authorized.

[0113] 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the processing device 10 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 15, the processing device 10 includes a determining unit 301, a setting unit 302, and an instruction unit 303.

[0114] The processing device 10 is a processing device that can cooperate with other devices by being connected to the other devices. The determination means 301 determines whether or not the person using the processing device is authorized when using the processing device. The setting means 302 enables a first function of the processing device, which is a function for identifying the person, when the determination means 301 determines that the person using the processing device is authorized, and disables the first function when the determination means 301 determines that the person using the processing device is not authorized. The instruction means 303 causes the processing device to output a signal to make the processing device traceable when the setting means 302 disables the first function.

[0115] The determination means 301, the setting means 302, and the instruction means 303 can each be realized by using the functions of the authentication unit 102 illustrated in FIG. 3, for example.

[0116] 16 is a diagram showing an example of a processing flow of the processing device 10 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Next, processing of the processing device 10 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG.

[0117] In a processing device 10 that can cooperate with another device by being connected to the other device, a determination means 301 determines whether or not the person using the processing device is authorized to use the processing device when using the processing device (step S101). If the determination means 301 determines that the person using the processing device is authorized, a setting means 302 enables a first function that is a function for identifying the person of the processing device, and if the determination means 301 determines that the person using the processing device is not authorized, disables the first function (step S102). If the setting means 302 disables the first function, an instruction means 303 causes the processing device to output a signal to make the processing device traceable (step S103).

[0118] The processing device 10 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure has been described above. The processing device 10 can identify a person and take measures against theft.

[0119] The order of the processes in the embodiments of the present disclosure may be changed as long as the processes are performed appropriately.

[0120] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, the processing system 1, processing device 10, interrogator 103, responder 104, and other control devices may each have a computer system built therein. The above-described processing steps are stored in the form of a program on a computer-readable recording medium, and the computer reads and executes this program to perform the above processing. Specific examples of computers are shown below.

[0121] 17 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of a computer according to at least one embodiment. As shown in FIG. 17, the computer 5 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 6, a main memory 7, a storage 8, and an interface 9.

[0122] For example, the above-described processing system 1, processing device 10, interrogator 103, responder 104, and other control devices are implemented in computer 5. The operations of the above-described processing units are stored in storage 8 in the form of a program. CPU 6 reads the program from storage 8, loads it into main memory 7, and executes the above-described processing in accordance with the program. CPU 6 also allocates storage areas in main memory 7 corresponding to the above-described storage units in accordance with the program.

[0123] Examples of storage 8 include a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disc read-only memory (DVD-ROM), and a semiconductor memory. Storage 8 may be an internal medium directly connected to the bus of computer 5, or an external medium connected to computer 5 via interface 9 or a communication line. In addition, when this program is distributed to computer 5 via a communication line, computer 5 that receives the program may load the program into main memory 7 and execute the above-mentioned processing. In at least one embodiment, storage 8 is a non-transitory tangible storage medium.

[0124] The program may also implement some of the functions described above. Furthermore, the program may be a file that can implement the functions described above in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system, a so-called differential file (differential program).

[0125] Although several embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, these embodiments are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the disclosure. Various additions, omissions, substitutions, and modifications may be made to these embodiments without departing from the spirit of the disclosure.

[0126] Note that part or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but are not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0127] (Appendix 1) A processing device that can be connected to another device and cooperate with the other device, a determination means for determining whether or not a person is authorized to use the processing device when the processing device is used; a setting means for enabling a first function, which is a function for identifying the person of the processing device, when the determination means determines that the person is authorized to use the processing device, and for disabling the first function when the determination means determines that the person is not authorized to use the processing device; an instruction means for causing the processing device to output a signal for making the processing device traceable when the setting means disables the first function; The processing device comprising:

[0128] (Appendix 2) a first output control means for causing the processing device to output a first signal, which is a signal for identifying the person, toward a first range at a first timing when the setting means has enabled the first function, and for causing the processing device to output the first signal toward a second range having a range overlapping with the first range at a second timing when a predetermined time has elapsed since the first timing; 2. The processing device of claim 1, comprising:

[0129] (Appendix 3) The first output control means determining the first range and the second range so that the person to be identified by the processing device is included in the overlapping range; 3. The processing device of claim 2.

[0130] (Appendix 4) The first output control means Narrowing at least one of the first range and the second range; 4. The processing device of claim 3.

[0131] (Appendix 5) a second output control means for outputting to the other device a signal for enabling a second function, which is a predetermined function of the other device, when the processing device is connected to the other device and the determination means determines that the person using the processing device is not authorized to use the other device; 5. The processing device according to claim 1, comprising:

[0132] (Appendix 6) A processing device according to any one of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 5; the other device that can cooperate with the processing device by being connected to the processing device; A processing system comprising:

[0133] (Appendix 7) A processing method executed by a processing device that can cooperate with another device by being connected to the other device, determining whether the person using the processing device is an authorized user when using the processing device; When it is determined that the person is authorized to use the processing device, a first function that is a function for identifying the person of the processing device is enabled, and when it is determined that the person is not authorized to use the processing device, the first function is disabled; When the first function is disabled, causing the processing device to output a signal to enable tracing of the processing device; A processing method comprising:

[0134] (Appendix 8) when the first function is enabled, causing the processing device to output a first signal, which is a signal for identifying the person, toward a first range at a first timing, and causing the processing device to output the first signal toward a second range having a range overlapping with the first range at a second timing after a predetermined time has elapsed from the first timing; Attachment 7, a processing method comprising:

[0135] (Appendix 9) determining the first range and the second range so that the person to be identified by the processing device is included in the overlapping range; Attachment 8, a processing method comprising:

[0136] (Appendix 10) Narrowing at least one of the first range and the second range; Attachment 9, a processing method comprising:

[0137] (Appendix 11) When the processing device is connected to the other device and it is determined that the person is not authorized to use the processing device, outputting a signal to the other device to enable a second function that is a predetermined function of the other device; 11. The method of any one of claims 7 to 10,

[0138] (Appendix 12) A computer of a processing device that can be connected to another device and cooperate with the other device, determining whether the person using the processing device is an authorized user when using the processing device; When it is determined that the person is authorized to use the processing device, a first function that is a function for identifying the person of the processing device is enabled, and when it is determined that the person is not authorized to use the processing device, the first function is disabled; When the first function is disabled, causing the processing device to output a signal to enable tracing of the processing device; A program that executes the following.

[0139] (Appendix 13) when the first function is enabled, causing the processing device to output a first signal, which is a signal for identifying the person, toward a first range at a first timing, and causing the processing device to output the first signal toward a second range having a range overlapping with the first range at a second timing after a predetermined time has elapsed from the first timing; 13. The program according to claim 12, which causes the computer to execute the above steps.

[0140] (Appendix 14) determining the first range and the second range so that the person to be identified by the processing device is included in the overlapping range; 14. The program according to claim 13, which causes the computer to execute the above steps.

[0141] (Appendix 15) Narrowing at least one of the first range and the second range; 15. The program according to claim 14, which causes the computer to execute the above steps.

[0142] (Appendix 16) When the processing device is connected to the other device and it is determined that the person is not authorized to use the processing device, outputting a signal to the other device to enable a second function that is a predetermined function of the other device; 16. The program according to any one of appendices 12 to 15, which causes the computer to execute the above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0143] 1. Processing System 5. Computer 6 CPU 7. Main memory 8. Storage 9. Interface 10 Processing equipment 20...Other devices 101 Input section 102 Authentication section 103···Question Machine 103a Transmitter 103a1 First control section 103a2...Signal generation section 103a3 Second control section 103b Receiving unit 104 Answering Machine 104a Receiving unit 104a1... Comparison section 104a2...Storage section 104a3 Control unit 104b Transmitter 105... Antenna 106 Control unit 201 Control unit 202 Device body 301...determination means 302 Setting method 303...Instruction means

Claims

1. A processing device that can be connected to another device and cooperate with the other device, a determination means for determining whether or not a person is authorized to use the processing device when the processing device is used; a setting means for enabling a first function, which is a function for identifying the person of the processing device, when the determination means determines that the person is authorized to use the processing device, and for disabling the first function when the determination means determines that the person is not authorized to use the processing device; an instruction means for causing the processing device to output a signal for making the processing device traceable when the setting means disables the first function; The processing device comprising:

2. a first output control means for causing the processing device to output a first signal, which is a signal for identifying the person, toward a first range at a first timing when the setting means has enabled the first function, and for causing the processing device to output the first signal toward a second range having a range overlapping with the first range at a second timing when a predetermined time has elapsed since the first timing; The processing device of claim 1 , comprising:

3. The first output control means determining the first range and the second range so that the person to be identified by the processing device is included in the overlapping range; The processing device of claim 2 .

4. The first output control means Narrowing at least one of the first range and the second range; The processing device according to claim 3 .

5. a second output control means for outputting to the other device a signal for enabling a second function, which is a predetermined function of the other device, when the processing device is connected to the other device and the determination means determines that the person using the processing device is not authorized to use the other device; The processing device of claim 1 , comprising:

6. The processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5; the other device that can cooperate with the processing device by being connected to the processing device; A processing system comprising:

7. A processing method executed by a processing device that can cooperate with another device by being connected to the other device, determining whether the person using the processing device is an authorized user when using the processing device; When it is determined that the person is authorized to use the processing device, a first function that is a function for identifying the person of the processing device is enabled, and when it is determined that the person is not authorized to use the processing device, the first function is disabled; When the first function is disabled, causing the processing device to output a signal to enable tracing of the processing device; A processing method comprising:

8. A computer of a processing device that can be connected to another device and cooperate with the other device, determining whether the person using the processing device is an authorized user when using the processing device; When it is determined that the person is authorized to use the processing device, a first function that is a function for identifying the person of the processing device is enabled, and when it is determined that the person is not authorized to use the processing device, the first function is disabled; When the first function is disabled, causing the processing device to output a signal to enable tracing of the processing device; A program that executes the following.

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