Information processing device, information processing method, program, and system

Abstract

This invention provides a monitoring system using GPS terminals, an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program. [Solution] When multiple GPS terminals determine to be "together" using short-range wireless communication, this monitoring system dynamically reduces or stops the power-intensive GPS positioning operation, prioritizing the GPS terminal with the lowest battery level. The GPS terminal that has stopped positioning receives location information from the other GPS terminal that is continuing positioning and displays it on its own display to ensure the continuity of monitoring. The monitoring terminal also displays that both GPS terminals are "together" even when positioning is stopped, alleviating the guardian's anxiety. Furthermore, when the battery level drops, a message such as "Let's go home together" is sent via the server to the GPS terminal with the higher battery level, encouraging coordinated action and dramatically reducing the risk of monitoring interruption due to battery depletion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, a program, and a system for a monitoring system using a GPS terminal.

Background Art

[0002] In a conventional GPS monitoring system, the position information of a target person such as a child or an elderly person is periodically measured and displayed on a guardian's monitoring terminal to perform monitoring. However, GPS positioning consumes a large amount of battery, and there is a problem that the battery runs out in two days at a positioning frequency of, for example, every three minutes. As a result, there is a problem that the battery of the GPS terminal runs out before the target person returns home and the monitoring is interrupted.

[0003] As a prior art, a system disclosed in Patent Document 1 is known. However, there is room for improvement in these systems.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] One of the objects of the present disclosure is to provide an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, a program, and a system improved from the prior art.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An information processing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a processor, the processor which acquires location information from a first GPS terminal at predetermined intervals, acquires information regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication between the first GPS terminal and a second GPS terminal that is predeterminedly associated with the first GPS terminal, and controls the interval at which location information is acquired from the first GPS terminal to differ depending on whether short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal is being performed or whether short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal is not being performed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one aspect of this disclosure, it is possible to dynamically reduce or stop power-intensive GPS positioning operations, prioritizing those on GPS terminals with low battery levels. This directly suppresses battery consumption in GPS terminals and significantly extends their operating time. As a result, battery consumption due to GPS positioning is dramatically reduced, improving the continuous operating time of the monitoring system and dramatically reducing the risk of the battery running out and monitoring being interrupted before the person returns home. Specifically, since the power consumption of GPS positioning is significantly higher than that of Bluetooth communication, stopping or reducing the frequency of power-intensive GPS positioning and switching to low-power Bluetooth communication makes it possible to extend the battery life of GPS terminals by several times to more than 10 times. For example, a system that previously ran out of battery in two days with a positioning frequency of every three minutes could potentially operate continuously for more than a week with this system, demonstrating a significant improvement. Furthermore, even in environments where GPS positioning is difficult, it can continuously provide reassuring information to guardians that the person is "with them," leading to a dramatic improvement in the reliability of monitoring. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This figure shows the overall configuration of a monitoring system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This figure shows the hardware configuration of a GPS terminal according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This figure shows the hardware configuration of a server according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This figure shows the functional block configuration of a GPS terminal according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] This figure shows the functional block configuration of a server according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This figure shows the functional block configuration of a monitoring terminal according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart of a positioning frequency control process according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart of a message notification and merging support process when the battery level is low, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of a data structure that holds association information and setting information between GPS terminals according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of a map display screen for a monitoring terminal according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] This figure shows an example of a message display screen for a GPS terminal according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. These embodiments are not limiting to the disclosure, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the technical concept.

[0010] (Overview of the entire system) As shown in Figure 1, the power-saving monitoring system according to this embodiment mainly comprises a GPS terminal 100, a server 200, and a monitoring terminal 300. The GPS terminal 100 is a portable information terminal carried by the person being monitored, such as a child or the elderly, and has GPS positioning functionality and short-range wireless communication functionality (e.g., Bluetooth communication functionality). Multiple GPS terminals 100 (for example, a first GPS terminal 100a and a second GPS terminal 100b) are associated with each other and registered. The server 200 receives location information, battery level information, and information regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication transmitted from each GPS terminal 100, and based on this information controls the GPS positioning frequency of the GPS terminals 100 and provides information to the monitoring terminal 300. The monitoring terminal 300 is an information terminal for guardians or other caregivers to monitor and confirm the location information and status of the GPS terminals 100, and has map display functionality and message sending / receiving functionality. The GPS terminal 100, server 200, and monitoring terminal 300 are connected via a communication network 400 such as a mobile phone network or the internet. Furthermore, multiple GPS terminals 100 can communicate directly with each other via short-range wireless communication (e.g., Bluetooth communication). In particular, in environments where GPS positioning is difficult, such as multi-story facilities (e.g., shopping centers) or underground shopping areas, GPS signal reception may become unstable or impossible. This system has technical significance in that, even in such environments, it prioritizes determination via short-range wireless communication (Bluetooth communication) over GPS positioning, continuously providing information that the subject is "with" the person, thereby dramatically improving the reliability of monitoring. Additionally, the system may be configured so that the positioning frequency of a single GPS terminal is controlled when it detects entry into or exit from a pre-set specific monitoring area. A key feature of this system is its dynamic control of the positioning frequency of the GPS terminal 100 according to the state of the person being monitored, especially the need to acquire their location information. This state is preferably determined by the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication with the associated GPS terminal 100, but is not limited to this, and may be determined based on other information, such as whether the subject is stationary or moving.Furthermore, the GPS terminal 100 may be configured to control the positioning frequency based on beacon information transmitted from short-range wireless communication transmitters such as Bluetooth beacons installed in the environment. Hardware configuration description

[0011] As shown in Figure 2, the GPS terminal 100 comprises a processor 101, a memory unit 102, a GPS positioning unit 103, a short-range wireless communication unit 104, a battery unit 105, a display 106, and an input receiving unit 107. The processor 101 controls the entire GPS terminal 100 and implements various functions described later by executing programs stored in the memory unit 102. The memory unit 102 stores programs, the OS, various setting information, acquired location information, battery level information, and information related to short-range wireless communication. The GPS positioning unit 103 receives signals from GPS satellites and determines its current position. The short-range wireless communication unit 104 is configured, for example, by a Bluetooth module and performs short-range wireless communication with other GPS terminals 100. The battery unit 105 is a secondary battery or the like that supplies power to the GPS terminal 100. The display 106 displays various information (location information, messages, maps, etc.). The input receiving unit 107 receives operations from the user (for example, touching the display 106, pressing buttons, etc.).

[0012] As shown in Figure 3, the server 200 is an information processing device comprising a processor 201, a storage unit 202, and a communication interface 203. The processor 201 controls the entire server 200 and implements various functions described later by executing programs stored in the storage unit 202. The storage unit 202 stores programs, the OS, location information from each GPS terminal 100, battery level information, short-range wireless communication information, user setting information, and association information between GPS terminals. The communication interface 203 transmits and receives data with the GPS terminals 100 and the monitoring terminal 300 via the communication network 400.

[0013] Note that the monitoring terminal 300 is a general information processing terminal such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a personal computer, and includes a processor, a storage unit, a display, a communication unit, an input unit, and the like. Explanation of functional block configuration

[0014] (Functional blocks of the GPS terminal) As shown in FIG. 4, the GPS terminal 100 includes, as functions of the processor 101, a position information acquisition unit 101a, a short-range wireless communication unit 101b, a battery level acquisition unit 101c, a positioning restart determination unit 101d, a position information transmission unit 101e, a position information reception unit 101f, a message display unit 101g, and a positioning frequency change unit 101h.

[0015] The position information acquisition unit 101a cooperates with the GPS positioning unit 103 to acquire its own current position information by GPS positioning. The frequency (interval) of this position information acquisition is dynamically controlled by the positioning frequency change unit 101h. The "per predetermined period" mentioned here is not limited to a fixed time interval, but includes a variable time interval that varies according to the behavior pattern, movement history, surrounding environment, and other situations of the person being monitored.

[0016] The short-range wireless communication unit 101b cooperates with the short-range wireless communication unit 104 to detect Bluetooth signals (e.g., advertising signals or data from an established GATT connection) from other associated GPS terminals 100, and determines whether it is "with" other GPS terminals 100 based on whether the signal strength (RSSI) is above a predetermined threshold. This "being with" determination functions as one of the trigger information for reducing or stopping the positioning frequency. Information regarding this determination result or the Bluetooth signal strength serving as the basis for the determination (e.g., a flag indicating that RSSI above the threshold has been detected multiple times within a certain period) is periodically transmitted to the server 200 through the position information transmission unit 101e (e.g., about once every 30 seconds to 1 minute). In addition, to prevent false determination (chattering) due to temporary communication failures, even when it is determined that short-range wireless communication has been interrupted, a time threshold for resuming positioning is provided such that positioning is resumed only when communication has been interrupted continuously for a certain period, e.g., 5 seconds. This suppresses unnecessary resumption of positioning and realizes optimization of battery consumption and stabilization of system operation. The determination by this short-range wireless communication unit 101b corresponds to a specific proximity determination process as a subordinate concept.

[0017] (Modification) The information regarding the state of the subject that triggers the "together" determination or the reduction or cessation of GPS positioning frequency is not limited to information regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication. For example, if the GPS terminal 100 is further equipped with a movement detection sensor (not shown) such as an accelerometer or a gyroscope, it may be configured to reduce or cessate GPS positioning frequency when it is determined that the subject is "stationary" or "not moving much" based on information obtained from the movement detection sensor. In this case, the processor 101 functions as a movement state determination unit (not shown) that determines the stationary or slow-moving state of the subject based on movement information obtained from the movement detection sensor. This enables fine-grained power saving control according to the subject's behavior pattern, regardless of the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication, and contributes to further extending battery life. This positioning frequency control based on stationary / moving determination is within the scope of the technical concept of this disclosure, which is to suppress unnecessary positioning and ensure the continuity of monitoring, similar to proximity determination by short-range wireless communication.

[0018] (Modification) Furthermore, the short-range wireless communication unit 101b may be equipped with logic to determine the "certainty of separation" with higher accuracy by also considering the past history and fluctuation trends of the RSSI value, or the number of connections and disconnections within a certain period of time. For example, it may be configured to determine multiple degrees of proximity, such as "close state" when the RSSI value is stably high (e.g., continuously above a predetermined high threshold), "slow separation state" when the RSSI value is gradually decreasing (e.g., moving below the threshold at a constant slope), "unstable communication state" when the RSSI value is fluctuating erratically (e.g., fluctuation due to a temporary obstacle), and "confirmed separation state" when the RSSI value is below the threshold and cannot be detected at all (e.g., completely separated), and to finely control the GPS positioning frequency according to these multi-stage degrees of proximity (e.g., lowest frequency or stopped in "close state", medium frequency in "slow separation state", normal frequency in "unstable communication state", and maximum frequency in "confirmed separation state"). This enables positioning frequency control that is more appropriate to the situation compared to a simple "presence or absence" determination, achieving both further optimization of battery consumption and improved reliability of monitoring. This multi-stage proximity determination corresponds to one of the more specific ways of acquiring "information regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication" in claim 1, and complements its essential meaning.

[0019] (Modification) The information regarding the status of the subject that triggers the reduction or cessation of the GPS positioning frequency is not limited to information regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication or movement information obtained from a movement detection sensor. For example, the GPS terminal 100 may further include an area entry / exit determination unit (not shown) that stores specific monitoring area information (e.g., geographical area information such as home, school, or cram school) pre-set in a memory unit 102, and determines whether its current location, obtained by the location information acquisition unit 101a, is inside or outside the monitoring area, or whether it has approached the boundary of the area. In this case, the processor 101 may be configured to reduce or cessate the positioning frequency while the GPS terminal 100 is inside the monitoring area, and to return the positioning frequency to normal or increase it when it leaves the area or approaches the area, based on the information from the area entry / exit determination unit. This is within the scope of the technical idea of ​​this disclosure, which is to effectively suppress battery consumption and ensure the reliability of monitoring, even in monitoring of a single terminal without cooperation between multiple terminals.

[0020] (Modification) The GPS terminal 100 may also be further equipped with a beacon detection unit (not shown) that detects beacon information transmitted from short-range wireless communication transmitters (not shown), such as Bluetooth beacons, installed in the environment. When this beacon detection unit detects radio waves from a specific beacon (e.g., a beacon installed at the front door of a house), the processor 101 determines that the subject is staying in a specific area where the beacon is installed and controls the frequency of GPS positioning to decrease or stop. This enables power saving in a specific area without relying on cooperation between GPS terminals and maintains the reliability of monitoring.

[0021] (Modification) The phrase "obtain information regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication" in claim 1 is not necessarily limited to the first GPS terminal directly communicating with the second GPS terminal via short-range wireless communication. For example, each GPS terminal 100 may periodically transmit its own location information to the server 200, and the proximity determination information acquisition unit 201b of the server 200 may refer to a location information database on the cloud and virtually determine whether the location information of multiple registered GPS terminals 100 (e.g., the first GPS terminal 100a and the second GPS terminal 100b) is within a predetermined distance (e.g., within 10m), and use this determination result as "information regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication." In this case, the positioning frequency control unit 201d of the server 200 sends an instruction to each GPS terminal 100 individually to reduce or stop the GPS positioning frequency based on this virtual proximity determination result. This eliminates the need for direct communication between GPS terminals, reducing the hardware load on the GPS terminals while achieving both reliable monitoring and power saving. This virtual proximity determination based on location information on the server side falls within the scope of the technical concept of "positioning frequency control according to the subject's state (degree of proximity)" as described in this disclosure.

[0022] The battery level acquisition unit 101c acquires its own battery level from the battery unit 105. This battery level information, along with location information, is transmitted to the server 200.

[0023] The positioning resumption determination unit 101d automatically resumes positioning when short-range wireless communication with another GPS terminal 100 is interrupted by the short-range wireless communication unit 101b (i.e., it is determined that they are "not together"). As a measure against chattering, instead of immediately resuming positioning after detecting a communication interruption, a time threshold is set so that positioning is resumed only after a certain period of time, such as 5 seconds, has been interrupted. This time threshold is set to approximately 5 seconds by default, but may be customizable by the user. The determination made by this positioning resumption determination unit 101d corresponds to a specific separation determination process as a lower-level concept.

[0024] The location information transmission unit 101e periodically transmits its own location information acquired by the location information acquisition unit 101a, battery level information acquired by the battery level acquisition unit 101c, and the proximity determination result or the information on which it is based by the short-range wireless communication unit 101b to the server 200.

[0025] When the location information receiving unit 101f stops or reduces the frequency of GPS positioning, it receives location information from the other GPS terminal 100 that is continuing positioning via short-range wireless communication (Bluetooth communication) and displays it on its own display 106.

[0026] The message display unit 101g controls the display 106 to display messages sent from the server 200, location information from the other GPS terminal 100 received by the location information receiving unit 101f, and so on.

[0027] The positioning frequency changing unit 101h dynamically adjusts the frequency of GPS positioning by the location information acquisition unit 101a based on instructions from the server 200 and the determination result of the positioning restart determination unit 101d. Specifically, it reduces power consumption by lengthening the positioning interval (for example, by halving or reducing the current positioning frequency to one-third). It is also possible to completely stop GPS positioning. (Server Functional Blocks)

[0028] As shown in Figure 5, the server 200 includes, as a function of the processor 201, a location information acquisition unit 201a, a proximity determination information acquisition unit 201b, a battery level acquisition unit 201c, a positioning frequency control unit 201d, a message transmission unit 201e, a display information transmission unit 201f, and an association management unit 201g.

[0029] The location information acquisition unit 201a acquires location information from each GPS terminal 100 at predetermined intervals via the communication interface 203.

[0030] The proximity determination information acquisition unit 201b receives information transmitted from the GPS terminals 100 regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication between the GPS terminals 100 (for example, information regarding Bluetooth signal strength, or a determination result of whether they are "together" or "not together"). The proximity determination information acquisition unit 201b can also virtually determine whether the location information of multiple registered GPS terminals 100 is within a predetermined distance based on the location information transmitted from each GPS terminal 100, and use this determination result as "information regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication". Based on this information, it determines whether the multiple GPS terminals 100 are "together".

[0031] The battery level acquisition unit 201c acquires battery level information transmitted from each GPS terminal 100 along with location information.

[0032] The positioning frequency control unit 201d dynamically adjusts the GPS positioning frequency of one of the GPS terminals 100 when predetermined power-saving conditions are met, such as when the proximity determination information acquisition unit 201b determines that multiple GPS terminals 100 are "together," or when the subject is determined to be stationary by other means, as in the modified example described later, or when the GPS terminal 100 is determined to have entered or left the monitoring area, or when the GPS terminal 100 is determined to have detected specific beacon information, or when the AI ​​determines that there is a need to acquire location information based on its prediction. Specifically, it continues positioning of the other GPS terminal 100 while reducing the positioning frequency of the other GPS terminal 100, or preferably stopping positioning. The GPS terminal 100 whose positioning frequency is reduced or stopped is selected based on the battery level information acquired by the battery level acquisition unit 201c, prioritizing the one with the lower battery level. This allows for dynamic transfer of positioning roles among multiple GPS terminals, optimizing overall system battery consumption and maximizing the continuity of monitoring. When reducing the positioning frequency, multiple setting patterns can be implemented in the system, such as halving or reducing the current frequency to one-third. These frequencies may be automatically selected by the system (e.g., based on battery level, movement speed, and time of day), or they may be selectable by the user (parent) through settings. If the battery level is extremely low (e.g., below 5%), priority will be given to stopping positioning regardless of other conditions. Furthermore, if the proximity determination information acquisition unit 201b determines multiple proximity levels based on the fluctuation trend of the signal strength (RSSI) of the short-range wireless communication, the positioning frequency control unit 201d may finely control the GPS positioning frequency according to these multi-stage proximity levels.

[0033] The message transmission unit 201e sends messages to the GPS terminal 100 or the monitoring terminal 300. In particular, if the battery level of the GPS terminal 100 falls below a pre-set threshold (e.g., 20%), it sends a message such as "Let's go home together" to at least the GPS terminal 100 with the higher remaining battery level via the server. The adjustment of the recipient based on the battery level will be explained in detail in the message notification logic described later. In addition, even if short-range wireless communication is not being performed, a message prompting them to meet up is sent when a low battery level is detected. This actively encourages cooperative behavior between the subjects, prevents the interruption of monitoring due to battery depletion, supports the subjects' autonomous problem-solving, and reduces the burden on guardians.

[0034] The display information transmission unit 201f transmits location information of the GPS terminal 100, information related to proximity detection results, information related to battery level, etc., to the monitoring terminal 300, and controls the display on the map and text display.

[0035] The association management unit 201g manages association information between multiple GPS devices (e.g., sibling devices) registered on the parent monitoring terminal. This identifies the groups of GPS devices that are subject to proximity detection and positioning frequency control. (Functional blocks of the monitoring terminal)

[0036] As shown in Figure 6, the monitoring terminal 300 includes a location information receiving unit 301a, a display control unit 301b, and a setting receiving unit 301c as functions of the processor 301.

[0037] The location information receiving unit 301a receives location information, proximity detection results, battery level information, and other data from the server 200.

[0038] The display control unit 301b controls a display (not shown) and displays the information received by the location information receiving unit 301a on the map. For example, it displays the marker of a GPS terminal 100 that is continuing to acquire position as a solid line, and the marker of a GPS terminal 100 that has stopped acquiring position as a dotted line. The dotted line marker moves and is displayed in accordance with the continuing marker based on the information received via short-range wireless communication. It also displays text such as "○○-kun and ○○-chan are together (in power saving mode)" and special icons (e.g., an icon of two people holding hands). In the unlikely event that the prediction and the actual movement differ (for example, if Bluetooth communication is interrupted and positioning is delayed), the marker of the terminal that has stopped acquiring position will be fixed at the last acquired position, or an alert such as "Location information update stopped" (e.g., red display, warning sound, etc.) will be displayed to notify the parent of the abnormality.

[0039] The settings reception unit 301c receives various settings from parents (for example, battery level threshold, message content, positioning frequency adjustment settings, etc.) and sends them to the server 200. Data structure description

[0040] As shown in Figure 9, the storage unit 202 of the server 200 holds a data structure, such as a "GPS terminal management table," which holds association information and configuration information between GPS terminals. This table includes items such as GPS terminal ID, related GPS terminal ID, current positioning frequency, battery level, proximity determination flag (whether they are together or not), positioning priority (e.g., always positioning, battery priority and reduced frequency), and message notification threshold when battery level is low (e.g., 20%, 10%). This makes it possible to meet the needs of various target groups, such as "siblings," "spouses," "friends," and "colleagues." Explanation of the processing flow 1. Positioning frequency control processing

[0041] As shown in Figure 7, the positioning frequency control process is performed in the following steps.

[0042] (S701) Each GPS terminal 100 detects Bluetooth signals from other associated GPS terminals 100 (e.g., advertising signals or data from an established GATT connection). This is done, for example, by continuously receiving Bluetooth advertising signals or data from an established GATT connection.

[0043] (S702) The short-range wireless communication unit 101b of each GPS terminal 100 determines whether it is "together" with another GPS terminal 100 based on whether the signal strength (RSSI) of the detected Bluetooth signal is above a predetermined threshold. In addition, as a measure against chattering, instead of immediately resuming positioning after detecting a communication interruption, a time threshold is set so that positioning is resumed only if communication is interrupted for a certain period of time, such as 5 seconds. This allows the GPS terminal 100 to determine whether it is "together" with or "not together" with another GPS terminal 100. This determination process is performed This corresponds to "obtaining information regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication."

[0044] (S703) Each GPS terminal 100 determines its location using its own GPS positioning unit 103 and obtains its battery level using the battery level acquisition unit 101c. This information, along with the proximity determination result or the information on which it is based (for example, the proximity determination flag) determined in step S702, is transmitted to the server 200 periodically (for example, once every 30 seconds to 1 minute).

[0045] (S704) The proximity determination information acquisition unit 201b of the server 200 determines whether the associated GPS terminals 100 are "together" based on the information received from each GPS terminal 100.

[0046] (S705) If the positioning frequency control unit 201d of the server 200 determines in step S704 that the two GPS terminals 100 are "together", it decides which GPS terminal 100's positioning frequency to adjust. Specifically, it compares the battery levels of each GPS terminal 100 obtained by the battery level acquisition unit 201c and preferentially selects the GPS terminal 100 with the lower battery level as the target for reducing or stopping the positioning frequency. This control corresponds to "controlling the interval for acquiring location information from the first GPS terminal to be different depending on whether short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal is being performed or not, when the battery level of the first GPS terminal is low."

[0047] (S706) The positioning frequency control unit 201d of the server 200 sends an instruction to adjust the positioning frequency to the GPS terminal 100 that is to reduce or stop positioning. For example, it sends an instruction to stop positioning or to lengthen the positioning interval (for example, to halve or reduce the current positioning frequency to one-third). To the other GPS terminal 100, it sends an instruction to continue positioning or to maintain the current positioning frequency.

[0048] (S707) Upon receiving the instruction, the positioning frequency changing unit 101h of the GPS terminal 100 adjusts its own GPS positioning frequency according to the instruction. The GPS terminal 100 that has stopped positioning receives location information from the other GPS terminal 100 that is continuing positioning via short-range wireless communication (Bluetooth communication) using the location information receiving unit 101f, and displays it on its own display 106, thereby tracking the location of the other child who is moving.

[0049] (S708) The display information transmission unit 201f of the server 200 transmits to the monitoring terminal 300 the information that both GPS terminals 100 are "together," as well as the location information of the terminal that is continuing to acquire positioning. As a result, the display control unit 301b of the monitoring terminal 300 displays a marker for the terminal that has stopped acquiring positioning on the map of the terminal that is continuing to acquire positioning, and also adds text such as "XX and XX are together (in power saving mode)" and a special icon (e.g., an icon of the two holding hands). The display information transmission unit 201f also transmits information related to the battery level of the GPS terminal 100, so that the monitoring terminal 300 can see the battery level.

[0050] (S709) GPS terminal 100 that has stopped positioning or reduced the frequency of positioning monitors the continuation of short-range wireless communication.

[0051] (S710) The positioning restart determination unit 101d of the GPS terminal 100 automatically restarts positioning when short-range wireless communication is interrupted (when it is determined that the two devices are "not together"). In this case, as a measure against chattering, instead of restarting positioning immediately after detecting the communication interruption, a time threshold is set so that positioning is restarted only if communication continues to be interrupted for a certain period of time, such as 5 seconds. After restarting positioning, the GPS terminal 100 transmits the newly acquired location information to the server 200 and returns to normal positioning frequency control. 2. Message notification and merging support process when battery level is low.

[0052] As shown in Figure 8, the message notification and merging support process when the battery level is low are performed in the following steps.

[0053] (S801) The battery level acquisition unit 201c of the server 200 monitors the battery level information transmitted from each GPS terminal 100.

[0054] (S802) Server 200 determines whether the battery level of any GPS terminal 100 has fallen below a pre-set threshold (e.g., 20%). This threshold can be freely set by the user (guardian) through the setting reception unit 301c of the monitoring terminal 300. Multiple thresholds (e.g., warning threshold 20%, emergency threshold 10%) can be set, and the message content and recipient can be changed according to the remaining battery level. If the battery level is above the threshold, the determination continues.

[0055] (S803) If the battery level falls below a threshold, the message sending unit 201e adjusts the target and content of the message to be sent based on the battery level and the proximity determination result (whether they are together or not).

[0056] (S804) Case 1: When the battery level of one GPS terminal is extremely low (e.g., 0-5%). The message sending unit 201e sends an urgent message only to the GPS terminal 100 with a higher remaining battery level, such as, "XX's (battery level XX%) is about to run out of battery! Let's go home together (or head to XX)." This message shows the current location of the terminal with the low battery level on a map, and if possible, also shows the shortest route from the terminal with the higher battery level to that location.

[0057] (S805) Case 2: Both GPS terminals have sufficient battery power, but one of them falls below a threshold (e.g., 6-20%). The message sending unit 201e notifies both GPS terminals 100 of a message encouraging cooperation, such as, "○○ and ○○, your battery levels are getting low. Let's go home together!" Along with the message, the system displays a recommended "meeting place" calculated based on the current locations of both parties on a map, and also provides route guidance to that place. For example, if both are at school, the school entrance is suggested as a meeting place; if they are inside a commercial facility, a specific exit is suggested.

[0058] (S806) Case 3: When short-range wireless communication between GPS terminals is not being performed (situation where the children are acting separately). The message sending unit 201e sends a message such as "Let's go home together" to the GPS terminal 100 with the higher battery level, or to both GPS terminals 100. This message includes the current location of the other GPS terminal 100 (the latest location information obtained by GPS positioning) and suggests a "recommended meeting point" which is a midpoint between the two, or a safe and easy public place to meet (e.g., park entrance, train station ticket gate, shopping mall entrance, etc.).

[0059] (S807) The message display unit 101g of the GPS terminal 100 that received the message displays the message on the display 106. In cases 1, 2, and 3, along with the message, the current location of the other child (see Figure 11) and the recommended meeting point are displayed on the map, and voice guidance is also available as an option.

[0060] (S808) During the period of encouraging the rendezvous in Case 3, the positioning frequency control unit 201d of the server 200 temporarily returns the positioning frequency of the GPS terminal 100 that received the message back to the normal frequency, or increases it as needed (e.g., every 5 seconds), thereby acquiring more accurate location information and providing real-time route guidance to the rendezvous point. This helps the children to efficiently rendezvous and become able to communicate via short-range wireless communication again, even if they are in different locations. When they approach the rendezvous point and enter the Bluetooth communication range (e.g., when the RSSI value exceeds the threshold), the system automatically determines that they are "together" and switches to positioning frequency control (power saving mode).

[0061] (S809) The parent's monitoring terminal 300 is also notified that a message has been sent, and that "A message has been sent urging them to meet up. Currently, XX and XX are attempting to meet up at point XX." Overall system stability (fallback)

[0062] Even when both GPS positioning and Bluetooth communication are unavailable (e.g., in underground shopping areas), this system provides alternative display methods to allow the user to understand the situation, such as displaying the last acquired location information on the monitoring terminal 300 and notifying the user that "location information update is currently stopped." In such situations, safety is the top priority, and the system incorporates logic to automatically attempt positioning and communication to the greatest extent possible.

[0063] (Modified Version) The system may be configured such that the processors 101 and 201 of the GPS terminal 100 or server 200 (particularly the positioning frequency control unit 201d and the positioning frequency change unit 101h) record log data in the storage units 102 and 202, associated with the GPS terminal ID, timestamp, and battery level, showing the status of information acquisition regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication (e.g., RSSI value, detection time, judgment result), instructions to change the positioning frequency based thereon, and the history of the actual positioning operation. This log data can be used as information to aid in behavioral analysis of the monitored person, verification of system operation, fraud detection, or proof of infringement. This provides a means to retrospectively confirm and prove the execution content of the constituent elements of the internal processing of this disclosure, thereby reducing the difficulty of proving infringement. Contribution to improving computer functionality and user interface

[0064] This system dramatically extends the operating time of GPS terminals by significantly reducing the power consumption of GPS positioning, thereby reducing the operational load on the system and enabling more efficient power management. This contributes to improving the computer's functionality by reducing the processing load on GPS terminals and improving the overall energy efficiency of the system. Furthermore, dynamic adjustment of the GPS positioning frequency also contributes to reducing the number and volume of communications, promoting the efficient use of communication bandwidth. In addition, when a GPS terminal 100 that is continuing positioning transmits location information to a GPS terminal 100 that has stopped positioning, measures may be taken to consider the battery consumption of the terminal continuing to position, such as setting the frequency of transmitting location information lower than the positioning frequency or transmitting it only when necessary. For example, by adopting a protocol that transmits location information in bursts in conjunction with the timing when the terminal that has stopped positioning displays information on its display, the communication load on the terminal continuing to positioning can be reduced. As a result, the system as a whole solves the difficult problem of achieving both significant power savings by stopping GPS positioning and limited but reliable continued monitoring through short-range wireless communication, and makes a technical contribution by maximizing the overall battery life of the system. When predictive positioning control using AI is implemented, unnecessary GPS positioning processing can be significantly reduced by having the AI ​​learn the behavioral patterns of the target person and predict future movements and locations. This contributes to optimizing the processing load on the processors of GPS terminals and servers, reducing communication volume, and improving the efficiency of data processing, further promoting improvements in computer functionality.

[0065] In the user interface, the monitoring terminal 300 clearly displays "We are together," allowing for accurate monitoring of both parties' status even when positioning is stopped, thereby eliminating unnecessary anxiety for parents and improving usability. Furthermore, when the battery level is low, a message encouraging cooperative behavior such as "Let's go home together" is displayed on the GPS terminal 100's display 106, along with recommended meeting points and route guidance, encouraging spontaneous cooperative behavior from children and supporting safe reunions. This contributes to improving the quality of information provided and enhancing the user interface to support user decision-making.

[0066] Elements of each embodiment may be combined as appropriate.

[0067] <Summary> [General tasks] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to provide an information processing device, information processing method, program, and system that dramatically reduces terminal battery consumption and significantly improves the continuity of monitoring by dynamically controlling the GPS positioning frequency according to the condition of the person being monitored. Issues corresponding to [Appendix 1] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to provide an information processing device, information processing method, program, and system that dramatically reduces battery consumption of terminals due to GPS positioning and dramatically improves the continuity of monitoring. [Note 1] An information processing device comprising a processor, the processor acquires location information from a first GPS terminal at predetermined intervals, acquires information regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication between the first GPS terminal and a second GPS terminal that is predetermined to be associated with it, and controls the interval at which location information is acquired from the first GPS terminal to differ depending on whether short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal is being performed or not. According to the information processing device described above, it is possible to dramatically reduce the battery consumption of terminals due to GPS positioning and significantly improve the continuity of monitoring. In particular, even in environments where GPS positioning is difficult, it can continuously provide parents with reassuring information that the person in question is "with them," leading to a dramatic improvement in the reliability of monitoring.

[0068] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 2] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to suppress battery consumption and improve the continuity of monitoring by efficiently controlling the positioning frequency based on the remaining battery level. [Note 2] In the information processing device described in Appendix 1, the processor obtains the battery level of the first GPS terminal when the first GPS terminal is performing short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal, and controls the interval for obtaining location information from the first GPS terminal to differ depending on whether short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal is being performed or not, if the battery level of the first GPS terminal is low. This allows for efficient control of positioning frequency based on battery level, suppressing battery consumption and improving the continuity of monitoring.

[0069] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 3] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to maximize the overall battery efficiency of the system and ensure the continuity of monitoring by prioritizing the GPS terminal with the lowest battery level among multiple GPS terminals and suppressing the positioning frequency. [Note 3] In the information processing device described in Note 1, the processor acquires the battery levels of the first GPS terminal and the second GPS terminal when the first GPS terminal is performing short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal, and controls the interval for acquiring location information from the GPS terminal with the lower battery level to be longer than when the first GPS terminal is not performing short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal. This allows the system to prioritize the GPS terminal with the lowest battery level among multiple devices, reducing the frequency of positioning, maximizing the overall battery efficiency of the system, and ensuring the continuity of monitoring.

[0070] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 4] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to enhance the continuity of monitoring by assisting devices with low battery levels and encouraging coordinated behavior. [Note 4] In the information processing device described in Note 3, when the first GPS terminal is performing short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal, the processor transmits to the GPS terminal with the higher battery level the location information of the GPS terminal with the lower battery level and a message prompting the GPS terminal with the lower battery level to go to the GPS terminal with the lower battery level. This allows for support for devices with low battery levels and encourages coordinated behavior, thereby improving the continuity of monitoring.

[0071] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 5] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to maintain a sense of security for parents and ensure the reliability of monitoring by displaying appropriate information on the monitoring terminal even when positioning is stopped. [Note 5] In the information processing device described in Note 3, the processor transmits location information to a monitoring terminal associated with the first GPS terminal and the second GPS terminal, and when the first GPS terminal is performing short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal, transmits information to the monitoring terminal indicating that the first GPS terminal and the second GPS terminal are within a predetermined distance. This allows for the display of appropriate information on the monitoring terminal even when positioning is unavailable, maintaining parents' peace of mind and ensuring reliable monitoring.

[0072] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 6] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to enable parents to understand the situation in more detail and make appropriate decisions by displaying battery level information on monitoring devices. [Note 6] In the information processing device described in Note 5, the processor transmits information indicating that the first GPS terminal and the second GPS terminal are within a predetermined distance, as well as information relating to the remaining battery levels of the first GPS terminal and the second GPS terminal. This allows parents to gain a more detailed understanding of the situation and make appropriate decisions by displaying battery level information on the monitoring device.

[0073] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 7] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to encourage children to reunite when their battery level is low, even when they are acting separately, and to support the continuity of supervision. [Note 7] In the information processing device described in Note 1, the processor obtains the battery levels of the first GPS terminal and the second GPS terminal when the first GPS terminal is not performing short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal, and when the battery level of at least one of the GPS terminals falls below a predetermined level, it sends a message to the first GPS terminal and the second GPS terminal prompting them to move towards a predetermined location. This allows for continued supervision of children even when they are separated, by prompting them to reunite when the battery level is low.

[0074] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 8] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to provide an information processing method that dramatically reduces the battery consumption of a terminal due to GPS positioning and dramatically improves the continuity of monitoring. [Note 8] An information processing method comprising the steps of: a processor acquiring location information from a first GPS terminal at predetermined intervals; acquiring information regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication between the first GPS terminal and a second GPS terminal that is predetermined to be associated with the first GPS terminal; and controlling the interval at which the processor acquires location information from the first GPS terminal to differ depending on whether short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal is being performed or not. This information processing method dramatically reduces battery consumption in devices due to GPS positioning, significantly improving the continuity of monitoring.

[0075] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 9] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to provide a program that dramatically reduces battery consumption of terminals due to GPS positioning and significantly improves the continuity of monitoring. [Note 9] A program that causes a processor to acquire location information from a first GPS terminal at predetermined intervals, acquire information regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication between the first GPS terminal and a second GPS terminal that is predetermined to be associated with it, and control the interval at which location information is acquired from the first GPS terminal to differ depending on whether short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal is being performed or not. This program dramatically reduces battery consumption in devices due to GPS positioning, significantly improving the continuity of monitoring.

[0076] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 10] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to provide a system that dramatically reduces battery consumption of terminals due to GPS positioning and significantly improves the continuity of monitoring. [Note 10] A system comprising a first GPS terminal, a second GPS terminal, and a server, wherein the server acquires location information from the first GPS terminal at predetermined intervals, acquires information regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication between the first GPS terminal and the second GPS terminal which is predeterminedly associated with it, and controls the interval at which location information is acquired from the first GPS terminal to differ depending on whether short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal is being performed or not. This system dramatically reduces battery consumption in devices due to GPS positioning, significantly improving the continuity of monitoring.

[0077] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 11] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to realize more flexible and efficient power-saving positioning control in environments where short-range wireless communication is unavailable, or in response to specific behavioral patterns of the subject (such as remaining stationary). [Note 11] In the information processing device described in Note 1, the processor controls the interval for acquiring location information from the first GPS terminal to be lengthened when it is determined that the first GPS terminal is stationary, based on the movement information acquired from the movement detection sensor built into the first GPS terminal. This enables precise power-saving control tailored to the subject's behavioral patterns, regardless of whether short-range wireless communication is present, contributing to further extensions of battery life.

[0078] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 12] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to achieve more precise positioning frequency control using signal strength information from short-range wireless communication, thereby optimizing battery consumption and ensuring reliable monitoring. [Note 12] In the information processing device described in Note 1, the processor determines the degree of proximity between the two GPS terminals in multiple stages based on information regarding the signal strength of short-range wireless communication between the first GPS terminal and the second GPS terminal, and controls the interval at which location information is acquired from the first GPS terminal in multiple stages according to the multiple degrees of proximity. This enables not only the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication, but also more precise positioning frequency control based on the degree of proximity, achieving both further optimization of battery consumption and improved reliability of monitoring.

[0079] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 13] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to enable efficient, power-saving positioning control tailored to specific locations and situations, even for a single person being monitored, thereby extending battery life. [Note 13] In the information processing device described in Note 1, when the processor detects that the first GPS terminal has entered or left a predetermined monitoring area, it controls the interval at which it acquires location information from the first GPS terminal to be different based on the detection. This enables positioning frequency control according to the subject's behavior, even in single-device monitoring systems that do not rely on coordination between multiple devices, thus achieving both reduced battery consumption and continuous monitoring.

[0080] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 14] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to extend battery life by detecting the presence of a monitored object in a specific location with lower power consumption and performing efficient, power-saving positioning control based on this detection. [Note 14] In the information processing device described in Note 1, when the first GPS terminal detects beacon information transmitted from a short-range wireless communication transmitter installed in the environment, the processor determines, based on the beacon information, that the first GPS terminal is staying in a specific area, and controls the interval for acquiring location information from the first GPS terminal to be longer. This allows for effective suppression of battery consumption during monitoring in a specific area, without relying on direct communication between GPS terminals, and ensures reliable monitoring.

[0081] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 15] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to realize a more intelligent monitoring system that can predict the behavioral patterns of the person being monitored with greater accuracy and eliminate unnecessary positioning, thereby minimizing battery consumption while providing highly accurate location information when needed. [Note 15] In the information processing device described in Note 1, the processor uses AI (artificial intelligence) to predict the future travel route or location of the person carrying the first GPS terminal, and based on this prediction, it controls the interval at which location information is acquired from the first GPS terminal irregularly and predictively. This makes it possible to achieve both a more advanced optimization of battery consumption and improved monitoring accuracy, which is difficult to achieve with conventional periodic positioning.

[0082] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 16] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to extend battery life and improve the continuity of monitoring by efficiently reducing the power consumption and processing load required for positioning while maintaining the frequency of positioning. [Note 16] In the information processing device described in Note 1, the processor controls the GPS positioning accuracy of the first GPS terminal to differ depending on whether short-range wireless communication is being performed between the first GPS terminal and the second GPS terminal or whether short-range wireless communication is not being performed. This allows for optimizing battery consumption by adjusting positioning accuracy without significantly changing the positioning frequency, thus achieving both reliable monitoring and power saving.

[0083] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 17] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to enable more flexible and efficient detection of proximity between monitored individuals and to perform power-saving positioning control without relying on direct communication between GPS terminals. [Note 17] In the information processing device described in Note 1, the processor determines a virtual proximity state between the two GPS terminals based on the location information transmitted from the first GPS terminal and the location information transmitted from the second GPS terminal, and uses the determination result as information regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication. This eliminates the need for direct short-range wireless communication between GPS terminals, and enables both power saving and continuous monitoring through proximity detection based on location information on the server side.

[0084] Issues corresponding to [Appendix 18] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to determine the location of a terminal and perform power-saving positioning control even in environments where GPS positioning is difficult. [Note 18] In the information processing device described in Note 1, the processor determines the location of the first GPS terminal based on Wi-Fi access point scan information or mobile phone base station information, in addition to or as an alternative to GPS positioning. This allows for location determination using Wi-Fi / base station information even in indoor environments where GPS signals cannot be received, achieving both power saving and continuous monitoring. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0085] 100: GPS terminal 100a: First GPS terminal 100b: Second GPS terminal 101: Processor 101a: Location information acquisition unit 101b: Short-range wireless communication department 101c: Battery level acquisition unit 101d: Positioning resumption determination unit 101e: Location information transmission unit 101f: Location information receiving unit 101g: Message display section 101h: Positioning frequency change section 102: Storage section 103: GPS positioning unit 104: Short-range wireless communication department 105: Battery section 106: Display 107: Input Reception Section 200: Server 201: Processor 201a: Location information acquisition unit 201b: Proximity detection information acquisition unit 201c: Battery level acquisition unit 201d: Positioning frequency control unit 201e: Message sending section 201f: Display Information Transmission Unit 201g: Association Management Department 202: Storage section 203: Communication Interface 300: Surveillance terminal 301: Processor 301a: Location information receiving unit 301b: Display Control Unit 301c: Configuration Request Department 400: Communication Network S701: Step S702: Step S703: Step S704: Step S705: Step S706: Step S707: Step S708: Step S709: Step S710: Step S801: Step S802: Step S803: Step S804: Step S805: Step S806: Step S807: Step S808: Step S809: Step

Claims

1. An information processing device comprising a processor, the processor acquires location information from a first GPS terminal at predetermined intervals, acquires information regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication between the first GPS terminal and a second GPS terminal that is predetermined to be associated with it, and controls the interval at which location information is acquired from the first GPS terminal to differ depending on whether short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal is being performed or not.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor obtains the battery level of the first GPS terminal when the first GPS terminal is performing short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal, and controls the interval for obtaining location information from the first GPS terminal to be different depending on whether short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal is being performed or not, when the battery level of the first GPS terminal is low.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor, when the first GPS terminal is performing short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal, obtains the battery level of the first GPS terminal and the battery level of the second GPS terminal, and controls the interval for obtaining location information from the GPS terminal with the lower battery level to be longer than when the first GPS terminal is not performing short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, when the first GPS terminal is performing short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal, the processor transmits to the GPS terminal with the higher battery level the location information of the GPS terminal with the lower battery level and a message prompting the GPS terminal with the lower battery level to go to the GPS terminal with the lower battery level.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the processor transmits location information to a monitoring terminal associated with the first GPS terminal and the second GPS terminal, and when the first GPS terminal is performing short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal, transmits information to the monitoring terminal indicating that the first GPS terminal and the second GPS terminal are within a predetermined distance.

6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the processor transmits information relating to the battery levels of the first GPS terminal and the second GPS terminal, in addition to information indicating that the first GPS terminal and the second GPS terminal are within a predetermined distance.

7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processor obtains the battery levels of the first GPS terminal and the second GPS terminal when the first GPS terminal is not performing short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal, and when the battery level of at least one of the GPS terminals falls below a predetermined level, sends a message to the first GPS terminal and the second GPS terminal prompting them to move to a predetermined location.

8. An information processing method comprising: a processor acquiring location information from a first GPS terminal at predetermined intervals; acquiring information regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication between the first GPS terminal and a second GPS terminal with a predetermined association; and controlling the interval at which location information is acquired from the first GPS terminal to differ depending on whether short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal is being performed or not.

9. A program that causes a processor to acquire location information from a first GPS terminal at predetermined intervals, acquire information regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication between the first GPS terminal and a second GPS terminal that is predetermined to be associated with it, and control the interval at which location information is acquired from the first GPS terminal to differ depending on whether short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal is being performed or not.

10. A system comprising a first GPS terminal, a second GPS terminal, and a server, wherein the server acquires location information from the first GPS terminal at predetermined intervals, acquires information regarding the presence or absence of short-range wireless communication between the first GPS terminal and the second GPS terminal which is predeterminedly associated with it, and controls the interval at which location information is acquired from the first GPS terminal to differ depending on whether short-range wireless communication with the second GPS terminal is being performed or not.

Images