Notification devices, notification methods, and programs

Abstract

The present invention provides a notification device that can prevent a notification from being sent via the notification device when a user does not possess the target object, in situations where such notification is unnecessary. [Solution] The device comprises a processing unit 15 that performs a decision and a notification device 11 that notifies the user P1 of the decision result performed by the processing unit 15, and the tag 10 is held by the user P1, wherein the processing unit 15 performs a first decision to determine whether or not the user P1 is holding a terminal device 20 that the user P1 needs to hold, a second decision to determine whether or not the user P1 is moving, a third decision to determine whether or not the user P1 is in a predetermined location where they can move without holding the terminal device 20, and a fourth decision to determine whether or not to output the notification content based on the result of the first decision, the result of the second decision, and the result of the third decision using the notification device 11.

Description

Technical Field

[0005] ,

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a notification device, a notification method, and a program for notifying a user that the user does not possess an object.

Background Art

[0002] An example of a notification device for notifying a user that the user does not possess an object is described in Patent Document 1. The forgetting prevention device described in Patent Document 1 is a forgetting prevention device including a portable wireless transceiver (notification device) having a wireless transmission and reception function and a wireless tag attached to a possessed item (object). Further, the portable wireless transceiver includes a motion detection means for detecting the movement of a carrier (user) carrying the possessed item, and an RF module as a response detection means for accessing the wireless tag and detecting the presence or absence of a response from the wireless tag during the period in which the carrier is moving. Further, a transmission / reception antenna, a liquid crystal display, a buzzer, and an alarm unit are provided in the portable wireless transceiver. The motion detection means has a reed switch and a movable magnet.

[0003] Then, not only when the carrier is walking, but also even a slight body movement is detected by the motion detection means. Specifically, when the body of the carrier moves, the movable magnet vibrates (swings), and thus the reed switch opens and closes according to the movement of the movable magnet. When the reed switch is opened and closed, the RD module transmits an ID code from the portable wireless transceiver to the wireless tag.

[0004] Here, when the wireless tag is outside the communication range, that is, when the possessed item is away from the carrier who owns the portable wireless transceiver, although the portable wireless transceiver transmits the ID code, the ID code is not returned from the wireless tag to the portable wireless transceiver. In this case, it is determined that the possessed item has been forgotten, and the buzzer of the portable wireless transceiver sounds and the alarm unit emits light to notify the carrier that the possessed item has been forgotten.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2008-117120 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] The inventors of the present invention recognized a problem with the notification device described in Patent Document 1: there is a possibility that the notification device may notify the user that the user does not possess the object in situations where notification is unnecessary.

[0007] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a notification device, notification method, and program that can prevent a notification from being sent via a notification device when a user does not possess the object in a situation where such notification is not required. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] This embodiment discloses a notification device having a processor that performs a decision and a notification device that notifies the user of the processing results performed by the processor, wherein the notification device is held by the user, and the processor is configured to perform a first decision to determine whether the user is holding an object that the user needs to hold, a second decision to determine whether the user is moving, a third decision to determine whether the user is in a predetermined location where they can move without holding the object, and a fourth decision to determine whether to output notification content based on the results of the first decision, the second decision, and the third decision using the notification device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the notification device from outputting a notification that the user does not possess the target object in situations where notification is unnecessary. In other words, the processor of the notification device can determine whether or not to notify the user that the user does not possess the target object, depending on the user's environment. Therefore, the relationship between the user's environment and whether or not a notification is issued by the notification device can be made consistent. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example configuration of a notification system, including notification devices. [Figure 2] This flowchart shows an example of a notification method used by the notification system. [Figure 3] This flowchart shows an example of other notification methods used by the notification system. [Figure 4] This flowchart shows an example of yet another notification method used by the notification system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] (overview) Figure 1 discloses a specific example of the notification system 30. The notification system 30 may have a tag 10 and a terminal device 20, which are examples of notification devices. The notification system 30 is used by user P1. Communication is possible between the tag 10 and the terminal device 20, and if user P1 possesses either the tag 10 or the terminal device 20, and does not possess the other device, a notification will be output from the notification device possessed by user P1.

[0012] (Tag description) Tag 10 may be single or multiple. Tag 10 is a device that user P1 can carry and move around with, and user P1 can move while carrying Tag 10. Possession by user P1 includes user P1 holding it in their hand, attaching it directly to user P1's body, attaching it to user P1's clothing, attaching it to an object that user P1 is carrying, etc. Movement by user P1 includes user P1 walking or running, user P1 riding in a vehicle that is moving, etc. The object is an object necessary for user P1 to leave home, for example, a wallet, briefcase, card case, eco-bag, etc.

[0013] The objects possessed by user P1 vary depending on user P1's planned actions. Furthermore, there may be one or more objects; if there are multiple objects, a tag 10 is attached to each of them.

[0014] The tag 10 has a configuration that allows it to be attached to and detached from an object, for example, a configuration that allows it to be attached to and detached from the user P1's body, a configuration that allows it to be attached to and detached from the user P1's clothing, a configuration that allows it to be attached to and detached from an object held by the user P1, etc. The configuration that allows the tag 10 to be attached to and detached from an object includes an engageable hook, a clamp that can be used to grip, a ring-shaped part that can be hung, a magnet that can be magnetically attracted, etc.

[0015] The tag 10 includes a main body, a notification device 11, a detection sensor 12, a memory 14, a processing unit 15, a communication device 16, a power supply 17, etc. The main body is made of, for example, synthetic resin. The main body is hollow inside. The external shape of the main body may be, for example, a card shape, a ball shape, a stick shape, etc.

[0016] A notification device 11, a detection sensor 12, a memory 14, a processing device 15, a communication device 16, a power supply 17, an input device 18, etc. are provided in the main body part. The notification device 11 and the processing device 15 are electrical components and electronic components that function when power is supplied. The processing device 15 is communicably connected to the notification device 11, the detection sensor 12, the memory 14, the communication device 16, and the input device 18.

[0017] The notification device 11 is provided to inform the user P1 of various information. The notification device 11 has a configuration to notify the user P1 that the user P1 does not have the terminal device 20. The notification device 11 is composed of, for example, one or more elements among elements such as a speaker, a buzzer, a lamp, a vibrator, etc. The speaker and the buzzer output, in the form of sound information or voice, the fact that the user P1 does not have the terminal device 20 according to a control signal output from the processing device 15.

[0018] The lamp is, for example, a light-emitting diode lamp, and the lamp can notify, by lighting or flashing the lamp, the fact that the user P1 does not have the terminal device 20 according to a control signal output from the processing device 15. The vibrator has a structure in which a weight (eccentric weight) with a biased center of gravity is attached to the shaft of an electric motor. The vibrator can notify, by applying continuous or intermittent constant vibrations to the main body part of the tag 10, the fact that the user P1 does not have the terminal device 20 according to a control signal output from the processing device 15.

[0019] The detection sensor 12 has a configuration to detect the movement and motion of the tag 10 and output a signal. The detection sensor 12 is composed of, for example, one or more elements among elements such as an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a vibration switch, etc. The signal output from the detection sensor 12 is sent to the processing device 15.

[0020] Memory 14 is a non - volatile storage medium, and is provided within the main body. Also, memory 14 may have a storage medium 14A that can be attached to and detached from the main body. The storage medium 14A that can be attached to and detached from the main body includes, for example, flash memory. Examples of flash memory include SD memory cards, USB flash drives, etc.

[0021] The memory 14 stores non - volatile programs, data used by the processing device 15 to perform various processes, and information. The data stored in the memory 14 includes map data. The processes performed by the processing device 15 include determination and control. Also, the results of various processes performed by the processing device 15 may be stored in the memory 14. Furthermore, the memory 14 stores unique identification information for distinguishing between a plurality of tags 10 from each other. The identification information includes an identification number, an identification symbol, etc.

[0022] The processing device 15 is an electronic component that processes acquired signals, information, and data. The processing device 15 may be constituted by, for example, an integrated circuit, a processor, etc. An integrated circuit is an electronic component in which a structure that operates as a transistor, a capacitor, and a resistor is formed on the surface of a semiconductor chip by diffusing impurities, and wiring is formed by aluminum evaporation and etching to create an electronic circuit. The processor may be constituted by a central processing unit (CPU (Central Processing Unit)) in which an arithmetic unit (arithmetic circuit) and a control unit (control circuit) are integrated.

[0023] When the processing device 15 operates the non - volatile program stored in the memory 14, it executes various processes. The various processes executed by the processing device 15 include processing and determination of signals input to the processing device 15, generation of control signals output to the notification device 11, processing of signals acquired via the network C1, processing of data and information, processing of storing data and information in the memory 14, processing of reading data and information from the memory 14, etc.

[0024] When a non-temporary program is executed, the processing unit 15, in cooperation with the memory 14, has a configuration that functions as a possession determination unit 15A, a movement determination unit 15B, a current location determination unit 15C, and a notification management unit 15D. The possession determination unit 15A is configured to determine whether user P1 is in possession of the terminal device 20 based on the strength of the radio signal acquired by the communication device 16. The movement determination unit 15B is configured to determine whether user P1 is moving based on the signal from the detection sensor 12, map data stored in the memory 14, signals received from the artificial satellite B1, etc.

[0025] The current location determination unit 15C is configured to determine the current location and movement path of tag 1 on the map data based on, for example, the signal from the detection sensor 12, the map data stored in the memory 14, the signal received from the satellite B1, etc. The notification management unit 15D has a function to determine whether or not to send a notification with the notification device 11, and a function to determine the type and content of the notification to be sent with the notification device 11.

[0026] The communication device 16 may consist of, for example, an antenna and a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver. The communication device 16 has a configuration that acquires signals, data, and information from an external device via network C1 and transmits signals, data, and information to an external device via network C1. Network C1 may consist of a wireless communication line, for example, short-range wireless communication. Short-range wireless communication includes communication standards such as Bluetooth® and wireless LAN (Local Area Network). The distance over which communication is possible via short-range wireless communication is, for example, 100 meters or less. Furthermore, if the communication device 16 has a GPS receiver, the communication device 16 can receive radio waves transmitted from artificial satellite B1 via network C1. Network C1 may also have terminal equipment, for example, a wireless access point. In this case, the communication devices 16 of multiple tags 10 can each connect to a wireless access point. When the communication device 16 transmits signals, data, and information to network C1, the unique identification information of the tag 10 is attached as auxiliary information.

[0027] The power supply 17 supplies power to the electronic components and electronic devices of the tag 10. The power supply 17 is composed of a battery, for example, a secondary battery or a primary battery. Secondary batteries include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, lithium-ion batteries, etc. Primary batteries include alkaline batteries, manganese batteries, lithium batteries, etc.

[0028] The input device 27 is operated when inputting information and data to the terminal device 20, when the terminal device 20 executes various processes, when the terminal device 20 sends various information and data to the network C1, when the terminal device 20 acquires various data, information and signals via the network C1, and so on.

[0029] The input device 18 includes one or more elements, such as a display and an operating switch. The display includes a liquid crystal display, an organic electroluminescent display, etc. Various screens, such as an operation screen and an information screen, are displayed on the display. Operation tabs, operation buttons, etc., are displayed on the various screens.

[0030] User P1 can select and register any designated location by operating the input device 18. The designated location is a place where User P1 may travel without the object in possession, based on User P1's lifestyle. Examples of designated locations include User P1's home, workplace, etc. The registered designated location is stored in memory 14. The designated location may be any of the following: address, street address, lot number, etc., in map data.

[0031] (Description of the terminal equipment) Terminal device 20 is a computer used and operated by user P1. Terminal device 20 is a portable computer, and user P1 can carry terminal device 20 and move it indoors and outdoors. Terminal device 20 includes smartphones, tablet computers, mobile phones, etc.

[0032] The terminal device 20 is connected to the tag 10 via the network C1. The terminal device 20 includes a main body (casing), a detection sensor 21, a memory 23, a processing unit 24, a communication device 25, a power supply 26, an input device 27, an output device 28, etc. The material of the main body is, for example, synthetic resin. The main body has a hollow interior.

[0033] The main unit is equipped with a detection sensor 21, memory 23, processing unit 24, communication device 25, power supply 26, input device 27, output device 28, notification device 29, etc. The processing unit 24, input device 27, and output device 28 are electrical and electronic components that function when power is supplied to them.

[0034] The detection sensor 21 is configured to detect the movement of user P1, who is holding the terminal device 20, and output a signal. The detection sensor 21 is composed of one or more elements from among an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope, a vibration switch, etc. The signal output from the detection sensor 21 is sent to the processing unit 24.

[0035] Memory 23 is a non-temporary storage medium. Memory 23 may also have a storage medium 23A that can be attached to and removed from the main unit. The storage medium 23A that can be attached to and removed from the main unit includes, for example, flash memory. Examples of flash memory include SD memory cards and USB flash drives.

[0036] Memory 23 stores non-temporary programs, data used in various processes performed by the processing unit 24, and information. The data stored in memory 23 includes map data. Memory 23 may also store the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 24. Memory 23 stores unique identification information that distinguishes multiple tags 10 from each other.

[0037] The processing unit 24 is located within the main body of the terminal device 20. The processing unit 24 may consist of, for example, a processor. The processor may consist of a central processing unit (CPU) which integrates an arithmetic unit (arithmetic circuit) and a control unit (control circuit). The processing unit 24 is connected to the detection sensor 21, memory 23, communication device 25, input device 27, and output device 28 via a bus.

[0038] The processing unit 24 executes various processes when a non-temporary program stored in memory 23 is run. The various processes executed by the processing unit 24 include processing and judging signals, information, and data input to the processing unit 24, generating control signals to be output to output device 28, processing signals acquired via network C1, processing data and information, storing data and information in memory 23, reading data and information from memory 23, and so on.

[0039] When a non-temporary program is executed, the processing unit 24 works in cooperation with the input device 27, detection sensor 21, communication device 25, and memory 23 to realize the possession determination unit 24A, the movement determination unit 24B, the current location determination unit 24C, the action plan management unit 24D, the condition management unit 24E, the notification management unit 24F, and the artificial intelligence unit 24G. The possession determination unit 24A determines whether user P1 is in possession of the tag 10 based on the strength of the radio signal acquired by the communication device 25. The movement determination unit 24B determines whether user P1 is moving based on the signal from the detection sensor 21, map data stored in memory 23, signals received from satellite B1, etc.

[0040] The current location determination unit 24C is configured to determine the actual actions of user P1 based on, for example, the signal from the detection sensor 21, map data stored in the memory 14, the signal received from the satellite B1, etc. The actual actions of user P1 include the current location of the terminal device 20 and user P1 on the map data, the actual travel path of user P1, and the actual direction of movement of user P1.

[0041] The activity schedule management unit 24D processes and manages information including the activity schedule of user P1 that is input to the terminal device 20, and has a configuration that stores the information and data including the activity schedule in the memory 23. User P1's activity schedule includes items such as the date of the activity, destination, time of departure from home to destination, and time of return home. The condition management unit 24E works in cooperation with the artificial intelligence unit 24G and the memory 23 to realize the function of determining target activity conditions that are suitable for user P1's activity schedule, and the function of determining whether user P1's actual actions are consistent with the target activity conditions. The target activity conditions include information such as the target travel route from user P1's home to the destination, the target travel route from the destination to home, the direction of travel when traveling from home to the destination, and the direction of travel when traveling from the destination to home.

[0042] The notification management unit 24F has a function to determine whether or not to output a notification via the output device 28 indicating that "User P1's actual actions do not match the target action conditions," based on the result of determining whether or not User P1's actual actions match the target action conditions, and a function to determine the elements for which the output device 28 will output a notification. The elements for which the output device 28 will output a notification include a display, speaker, buzzer, lamp, vibrator, etc.

[0043] The artificial intelligence unit 24G operates by program and performs various processes in cooperation with memory 23. The artificial intelligence unit 24G implements the learning phase and the inference phase. In the learning phase of the artificial intelligence unit 24G, a pre-trained model is generated by first training the learning model through machine learning, such as supervised learning. The learning dataset used in supervised learning includes learning data and ground truth labels. The learning data includes information such as the location of user P1's home and destination, information included in user P1's planned actions, such as the travel route connecting home and destination in map data, and user P1's direction of movement along the travel route. The ground truth labels include information such as target action conditions that fit user P1's planned actions. The target action conditions include information such as the target travel route from user P1's home to the destination, the target travel route from the destination to home, the direction of movement when traveling from home to the destination, and the direction of movement when traveling from the destination to home.

[0044] The artificial intelligence unit 24G may, during the learning phase, obtain learning data and correct labels by processing and transforming data and information pre-stored in memory 23, data and information acquired from external devices 31 via network C1 and stored in memory 23.

[0045] The artificial intelligence unit 24G outputs a predetermined inference result by processing the input inference target data (information) with a trained model during the inference stage. In this embodiment, when user P1's planned actions are input to the artificial intelligence unit 24 as inference target data, the trained model can output target action conditions consistent with user P1's planned actions as the inference result.

[0046] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the actual actions of user P1 are input to the artificial intelligence unit 24G as data to be inferred, the trained model can output as an inference result whether or not the actual actions of user P1 are consistent with the target action conditions.

[0047] The communication device 25 may consist of, for example, an antenna and a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver. The communication device 25 has a configuration that acquires signals, data, and information from an external device via network C1 and transmits signals, data, and information to an external device via network C1. Network C1 may consist of a wireless communication line, for example, short-range wireless communication. Short-range wireless communication includes communication standards such as Bluetooth® and wireless LAN (Local Area Network). The distance over which communication is possible via short-range wireless communication is, for example, 100 meters or less.

[0048] Therefore, the tag 10 and the terminal device 20 can communicate with each other via short-range wireless communication through network C1. Furthermore, if the communication device 25 has a GPS receiver, the communication device 16 can receive radio waves transmitted from satellite B1 via network C1. Note that network C1 includes an internetwork, and the configuration may also include external devices 31 connected to network C1.

[0049] External device 31 is a computer, such as a server having a communication device, memory, and processor. Various information, data, and programs are stored in the memory. External device 31 is configured to provide a website to network C1. Terminal device 20 may access external device 31 from the website provided to network C1 and obtain various information, data, and programs from external device 31.

[0050] The power supply 26 supplies power to the electronic components and electronic devices of the terminal device 20. The power supply 26 is composed of a battery, for example, a secondary battery or a primary battery. Secondary batteries include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, lithium-ion batteries, etc. Primary batteries include alkaline batteries, manganese batteries, lithium batteries, etc.

[0051] The input device 27 is operated when inputting information and data to the terminal device 20, when the terminal device 20 executes various processes, when the terminal device 20 sends various information and data to the network C1, when the terminal device 20 acquires various data, information and signals via the network C1, etc. When user P1 operates the input device 27 and launches a browser, it can access external devices via the network C1.

[0052] The input device 27 includes one or more elements, such as a display, an operation switch, and a microphone. These elements are either directly attached to the main unit or connected to the main unit via a cable. The display includes liquid crystal displays, organic electroluminescent displays, and the like. Various screens, such as operation screens and information screens, are displayed on the display. Operation tabs, operation buttons, and the like are displayed on the various screens. By operating the input device 27, user P1 can select any predetermined location and register the selected location. The registered predetermined location is stored in memory 23. Any predetermined location may be any of the following in map data: address, address, lot number, etc. Examples of any predetermined location include user P1's home, workplace, etc.

[0053] The output device 28 is provided to display and inform the user P1 of various data and information. The output device 28 is composed of one or more elements, such as a display, speaker, buzzer, lamp, and vibrator. The speaker and buzzer output sound information, respectively, according to control signals output from the processing device 24. The lamp is, for example, a light-emitting diode lamp, and its illumination, extinguishing, and flashing are controlled according to control signals output from the processing device 24. The vibrator has a structure in which a weight with an off-center center of gravity (eccentric weight) is attached to the shaft of an electric motor. The vibrator applies a constant vibration, continuous or intermittent, to the main body of the terminal device 20 according to control signals output from the processing device 24. Various screens, such as information screens, are displayed on the display. The display of the input device 27 and the display of the output device 28 may also be integrated.

[0054] (Example of a method for notifying someone of not possessing the item) The notification methods for non-possession performed by the notification system 30 include a first non-possession notification method and a second non-possession notification method. The first non-possession notification method is to notify the user P1 via the tag 10 if the user P1 possesses the tag 10 but does not possess the terminal device 20. The second non-possession notification method is to notify the user P1 via the terminal device 20 if the user P1 possesses the terminal device 20 but does not possess the tag 10.

[0055] (Method of notifying of non-possession) First, the first method of notifying of non-possession will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 2. The processing unit 15 of the tag 10 processes the input signals, data, and information in step S10. In step S11, the processing unit 15 determines whether or not user P1 possesses the terminal device 20. The processing unit 15 may make the determination in step S11 based on the radio wave strength of the short-range wireless communication. For example, if the radio wave strength received by the communication device 16 from the communication device 25 exceeds a threshold, the processing unit 15 can determine in step S11 that user P1 possesses the terminal device 20. Conversely, if the radio wave strength received by the communication device 16 from the communication device 25 is below a threshold, the processing unit 15 can determine in step S11 that user P1 does not possess the terminal device 20. The radio wave strength threshold used by the processing unit 15 in the determination in step S11 is stored in memory 14.

[0056] Furthermore, if the distance between the current location of tag 10 in the map data and the current location of terminal device 20 in the map data acquired from terminal device 20 is less than a predetermined distance, the processing unit 15 can determine in step S11 that user P1 possesses terminal device 20. Conversely, if the distance between the current location of tag 10 in the map data and the current location of terminal device 20 in the map data acquired from terminal device 20 is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance, the processing unit 15 can determine in step S11 that user P1 does not possess terminal device 20. The predetermined distance used by the processing unit 15 in the determination in step S11 is stored in memory 14.

[0057] Furthermore, in step S12, the processing unit 15 determines whether or not user P1 is moving. The processing unit 15 may make the determination in step S12 by processing the signal from the detection sensor 12. Alternatively, the processing unit 15 may make the determination in step S12 based on the current position of user P1 on the map data estimated by processing the signal from the detection sensor 12.

[0058] Furthermore, in step S13, the processing unit 15 may determine whether the current location of user P1 on the map data, which is determined by processing the signal from the detection sensor 12, is located at a predetermined location where user P1 is registered. The order of the determinations in steps S11, S12, and S13 described above is not limited.

[0059] Then, if the processing unit 15 determines No in step S11, Yes in step S12, and No in step S13, it executes the decision in step S14 and terminates the notification method shown in Figure 2. In step S14, the processing unit 15 executes a decision to output on the notification device 11 that user P1 does not possess the terminal device 20. For example, if user P1 goes out from home to a park with the tag 10 and the terminal device 20, and leaves the terminal device 20 on a park bench, the notification device 11 on the tag 10 that user P1 possesses can notify that user P1 does not possess the terminal device 20, that is, that user P1 has left the terminal device 20 behind.

[0060] In response, if the processing unit 15 makes one or more decisions from among deciding Yes in step S11, No in step S12, and Yes in step S13, it executes the decision in step S15 and terminates the notification method shown in Figure 2. In step S15, it makes a decision not to output a notification with the notification device 11. In other words, no notification is sent that user P1 does not possess the terminal device 20. For example, if user P1 is at a designated location where they are registered, specifically at home or work, and moves within that designated location without possessing the terminal device 20, it is possible to prevent the notification device 11 from mistakenly sending a notification.

[0061] (Second method of notifying of non-possession) Next, the second method for notifying non-possession will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 2. The processing unit 24 of the terminal device 20 processes the input signals, data, and information in step S10. In step S11, the processing unit 24 determines whether or not user P1 possesses the object to which the tag 10 is attached. The processing unit 24 may make the determination in step S11 based on the radio wave strength of the short-range wireless communication. For example, if the radio wave strength received by the communication device 25 from the communication device 16 exceeds a threshold, the processing unit 24 can determine in step S11 that user P1 possesses the briefcase. Conversely, if the radio wave strength received by the communication device 25 from the communication device 16 is below a threshold, the processing unit 24 can determine in step S11 that user P1 does not possess the briefcase. The radio wave strength threshold used by the processing unit 24 in the determination in step S11 is stored in memory 23.

[0062] Furthermore, in step S11, the processing unit 24 can determine that user P1 is carrying the briefcase if the distance between the current location of terminal device 20 in the map data and the current location of tag 10 in the map data obtained from tag 10 is less than a predetermined distance. Conversely, in step S11, the processing unit 24 can determine that user P1 is not carrying the briefcase if the distance between the current location of terminal device 20 in the map data and the current location of tag 10 in the map data obtained from tag 10 is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance. The predetermined distance used by the processing unit 24 in the determination in step S11 is stored in memory 23.

[0063] Furthermore, in step S12, the processing unit 24 determines whether or not user P1 is moving. The processing unit 24 may make the determination in step S12 by processing the signal from the detection sensor 21. Alternatively, the processing unit 24 may make the determination in step S12 based on the current position of user P1 on the map data estimated by processing the signal from the detection sensor 21.

[0064] Furthermore, in step S13, the processing unit 24 may determine whether the current location of user P1 on the map data, which is estimated by processing the signal from the detection sensor 21, is located at a predetermined location where user P1 is registered. The order of the determinations in steps S11, S12, and S13 described above is not limited.

[0065] Then, if the processing unit 24 determines No in step S11, Yes in step S12, and No in step S13, it proceeds to step S14 and has the output device 28 send a notification, ending the notification method shown in Figure 2. In step S14, the output device 28 notifies that user P1 does not have the briefcase. For example, if user P1 leaves home for a park with the briefcase containing the tag 10, and leaves the briefcase on a park bench, the output device 28 of the terminal device 20 that user P1 is carrying can notify that user P1 does not have the briefcase, that is, that user P1 has left the briefcase behind.

[0066] In response, if the processing unit 24 determines Yes in step S11, No in step S12, or Yes in step S13, it terminates the notification method shown in Figure 2 via step S15. In step S15, no notification is sent by the output device 28. In other words, no notification is sent that user P1 does not have the briefcase containing the tag 10. For example, if user P1 is at a designated location where they are registered, specifically at home or work, and moves to that location without having the briefcase containing the tag 10, it is possible to prevent the output device 28 from mistakenly sending a notification.

[0067] (Another example of a notification method 1) Figure 3 shows another example 1 of a notification method that can be performed when user P1 leaves home for a destination, or when user P1 returns from a destination to a destination. User P1 can input their planned activities by operating the input device 27 of the terminal device 20 in step S20. The processing unit 24 stores the inputted planned activities in memory 23. The planned activities include items such as the date of the activity, the destination, the time of departure from home to the destination, and the time of return from the destination to home. An application for managing these planned activities, such as a management calendar, is obtained from an external device to the terminal device 20 via network C1. The management calendar is stored in the memory of an external device 31 connected to network C1, and the terminal device 20 can access the external device 31 to obtain the management calendar.

[0068] In step S21, following step S20, the processing unit 24 performs actions such as referring to map data stored in memory 23 and processing user P1's planned actions using a trained model, inferring, or determining, target action conditions that are suitable for the planned actions, and storing the result of that determination in memory 23. The target action conditions that are suitable for the planned actions include information such as the target travel route from home to the destination, the target travel route from the destination to home, the direction of travel when traveling from home to the destination, and the direction of travel when traveling from the destination to home.

[0069] Multiple candidate target travel routes may be extracted for both the target travel route from home to the destination and the target travel route from the destination to home. The processing unit 24 may output the extracted multiple target travel routes from the output device 28. User P1 may then select one of the multiple candidate target travel routes from home to the destination and one of the multiple candidate target travel routes from the destination to home by operating the input device 27.

[0070] If user P1 leaves home after step S21, carrying the tag 10 and terminal device 20, the processing unit 24 determines user P1's current location in the map data. User P1's current location may be determined by either the terminal device 20 or the tag 10. The result determined by the tag 10 is sent from the tag 10 to the terminal device 20 via short-range wireless communication that constitutes network C1.

[0071] The processing unit 24 of the terminal device 20 determines in step S23 whether the actual actions of user P1 are consistent with the target action conditions, based on the user P1's planned actions, the current location and actual movement path of the tag 10, the actual direction of movement of user P1, etc. If the processing unit 24 determines in step S23 that the actual actions of user P1 are not consistent with the target action conditions, it proceeds to step S24 and decides to output a notification via the output device 28 stating that "the actual actions of user P1 are not consistent with the target action conditions," and terminates the notification method shown in Figure 3.

[0072] If the processing unit 24 determines "Yes" in step S23, it executes the decision in step S25 and terminates the notification method shown in Figure 3. In step S25, the processing unit 24 makes a decision not to output a notification at the output device 28.

[0073] (Another example of a notification method 2) Figure 4 shows another example of the notification method. In step S30, user P1 attaches the tag 10 to the object. The object required when user P1 leaves home varies depending on user P1's planned activities. Furthermore, in step S30, user P1 operates the input device 27 of the terminal device 20 to input the required object based on the planned activities, and the identification information of the tag 10 attached to that object. The data and information entered by operating the input device 27 of the terminal device 20 are stored in memory 23.

[0074] Furthermore, in step S31, user P1 operates the input device 27 of the terminal device 20 to input user P1's planned actions. The operation in step S31 is the same as the operation in step S20 in Figure 3. The processing unit 24 also stores the planned actions entered in step S31 in the memory 23 of the terminal device 20.

[0075] In step S32, following step S31, the processing unit 24 estimates the items that user P1 will need when leaving home, based on user P1's planned activities. Data and information showing the relationship between user P1's planned activities and the items that user P1 will need when leaving home are stored in memory 23 in advance. For example, if user P1's planned activities are to go shopping at a supermarket, a wallet and eco-bag are stored as necessary items. Also, if user P1's planned activities are to go to work, a pass case, wallet and briefcase are stored as necessary items.

[0076] In step S33, the processing unit 24 determines whether user P1 possesses the necessary object while the user P1 is out of the house with the terminal device 20. The processing unit 24 determines that user P1 has left home with the terminal device 20 based on the user P1's current location in map data estimated from the signal of the detection sensor 21 of the terminal device 20. The processing unit 24 can also determine whether user P1 possesses the object in the same manner as the determination in step S11 of Figure 2, as explained in the second method of notifying non-possession.

[0077] As explained in step S32, the objects that user P1 needs to take out of their home have been determined, and it is possible to determine which object the tag 10 is attached to through the operation and processing in step S30. Therefore, in step S33, the processing device 24 can determine whether the object being carried is a "necessary object."

[0078] Then, when the processing unit 24 determines that step S33 No, it executes the decision in step S34 and terminates the notification method shown in Figure 4. In step S34, the processing unit 24 makes a decision to output a notification at the output device 28. Therefore, the output device 28 outputs a notification that user P1 does not possess the required object.

[0079] In response, if the processing unit 24 determines "Yes" in step S33, the processing unit 24 executes the decision in step S35 and terminates the notification method shown in Figure 4. In step S35, the processing unit 24 makes a decision not to output a notification using the output device 28. When the notification method shown in Figure 4 is executed, user P1 can recognize that they have left necessary items at home that correspond to their planned activities when leaving home.

[0080] (Effects of this embodiment) According to this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the tag 10 or terminal device 20 from notifying that user P1 does not possess the target object in situations where notification is unnecessary. In other words, the processing units of the tag 10 and terminal device 20 can determine whether or not to notify user P1 that user P1 does not possess the target object, depending on user P1's environment. Therefore, the relationship between user P1's environment and whether or not a notification is sent by the notification device can be made consistent.

[0081] Furthermore, the processing unit 24 of the terminal device 20 determines whether the user P1's current location deviates from the target travel path, and based on that determination, it decides whether or not to output a notification using the output device 28. Therefore, it is possible to notify user P1 that their travel path has deviated from the target travel path.

[0082] Furthermore, the processing unit 24 of the terminal device 20 can determine whether user P1 possesses the necessary object based on user P1's planned actions, and based on that determination, it decides whether or not to output a notification using the output device 28. Therefore, the object possessed by user P1 can be matched to user P1's planned actions. For example, it can prevent user P1 from leaving home without knowing that they possess the object.

[0083] (Other explanations) An example of the technical meaning of the matters disclosed in this embodiment is as follows: Processing units 15 and 24 are examples of processors. Notification device 11 and output device 28 are examples of notification devices. Tag 10 and terminal device 20 are examples of notification devices. Tag 10 and terminal device 20 are examples of computers.

[0084] Furthermore, the notification methods shown in Figures 2, 3, and 4 are just examples of notification methods. The notification methods shown in Figures 2, 3, and 4 may be executed in combination on the tag 10 or the terminal device 20. Alternatively, the notification methods shown in Figures 2, 3, and 4 may be executed separately on the tag 10 or the terminal device 20.

[0085] Furthermore, step S11 in Figure 1 is an example of a first judgment. Step S12 is an example of a second judgment. Step S13 is an example of a third judgment. Steps S14 and S15 are examples of a fourth judgment.

[0086] Step S20 in Figure 3 is an example of the fifth decision. Step S21 is an example of the sixth decision. Step S22 is an example of the seventh decision. Step S23 is an example of the eighth decision. Steps S24 and S25 are examples of the ninth decision.

[0087] Step S31 in Figure 4 is an example of the 10th judgment. Step S32 is an example of the 11th judgment. Steps S33, S34, and S35 are examples of the 12th judgment.

[0088] The objects to which tags are attached include briefcases, wallets, clothing, etc. Furthermore, if a user leaves a terminal device inside one of these objects, they will be notified via the tag using the notification device and method of this embodiment. The notification device may also consist of a wristwatch, jewelry, etc., worn on the user's body.

[0089] The program that implements the notification method described in this embodiment may be configured to be downloaded to the tag 10 and the terminal device 20, installed, and then run. Alternatively, the program that implements the notification method described in this embodiment may be configured to run on the network C1 when the terminal device 20 is operated and a browser is launched.

[0090] This embodiment also discloses the following technical features. For example, a storage medium is disclosed which has a notification device for notifying a user of information and stores a non-temporary program that causes a computer owned by the user to make a decision, wherein the program causes the computer to make a first decision to determine whether or not the user is in possession of an object that the user needs to possess, a second decision to determine whether or not the user is on the move, a third decision to determine whether or not the user is in a predetermined location where they can move without possessing the object, and a fourth decision to determine whether or not to output notification content based on the result of the first decision, the result of the second decision, and the result of the third decision using the notification device.

[0091] Furthermore, a storage medium having the above technical features is disclosed, wherein the program is configured to further execute the following on the computer: a fifth determination for determining the user's planned actions; a sixth determination for determining the user's target travel path based on the user's planned actions; a seventh determination for determining the user's current location; an eighth determination for determining whether the user's current location deviates from the target travel path; and a ninth determination, based on the result of the eighth determination, for determining whether or not to have the notification device output a corresponding notification indicating whether or not the user's current location deviates from the target travel path.

[0092] Furthermore, a storage medium having the above technical features is disclosed, wherein the program is configured to further perform on the computer a tenth decision for determining the user's planned actions, an eleventh decision for determining the object based on the user's planned actions, and a twelfth decision for determining whether or not to cause the notification device to output notification content corresponding to whether or not the user possesses the object, based on the result of the eleventh decision.

[0093] Furthermore, this embodiment discloses a notification system comprising a processor that performs processing, a notification device that notifies the user of the results of processing performed by the processor, a notification device held by the user, and a possessed object held by the user that can communicate with the notification device, wherein the processor is configured to perform a first determination to determine whether the user is holding the possessed object that the user needs to hold, a second determination to determine whether the user is moving, a third determination to determine whether the user is in a predetermined location where they can move without possessing the possessed object, and a fourth determination to determine whether to output notification content based on the results of the first determination, the second determination, and the third determination using the notification device. Tag 10 or terminal device 20 is an example of a notification device, and tag 10 or terminal device 20 is an example of a possessed object. [Industrial applicability]

[0094] This embodiment can be used as a notification device, notification method, and program to inform a user that they do not possess the target object. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0095] 10...Tag, 11...Notification device, 15,24...Processing device, 20...Terminal device, 28...Output device

Claims

1. A notification device having a processor that performs a decision, and a notification device that notifies the user of the decision result performed by the processor, and being held by the user, The aforementioned processor, The first determination is to determine whether the user possesses an object that the user is required to possess, A second determination is made to determine whether the user is moving or not, A third determination is made to determine whether the user is in a designated location where they can move without possessing the aforementioned object, A fourth determination is made to determine whether or not to output the notification content based on the results of the first determination, the second determination, and the third determination using the notification device, A notification device configured to perform the following actions.

2. A notification device according to claim 1, The aforementioned processor, If the first determination determines that the user does not possess the object, the second determination determines that the user is moving, and the third determination determines that the user is not in the designated location, then the fourth determination determines that the notification content should be output by the notification device. The aforementioned processor, A notification device configured such that, if one or more of the following determinations are made: the first determination determines that the user is in possession of the object; the second determination determines that the user is not moving; and the third determination determines that the user is in the predetermined location, the fourth determination determines that the notification content should not be output by the notification device.

3. A notification device according to claim 1, The aforementioned processor, The fifth decision, which determines the user's planned actions, The sixth judgment determines the user's target behavioral conditions based on the user's planned actions, The seventh decision, which determines the actual user behavior, The eighth judgment determines whether the user's actual behavior is consistent with the target behavioral conditions, A ninth determination determines whether or not to output a notification from the notification device, based on the result of the eighth determination, regarding whether or not the user's actual actions are consistent with the target action conditions. A notification device, which is a configuration that further performs the following.

4. A notification device according to claim 1, The aforementioned processor, The tenth decision determines the user's planned actions, The 11th decision determines the objects necessary for the user's planned actions, Based on the result of the 11th determination, a 12th determination is made to determine whether or not to output a notification from the notification device indicating whether or not the user possesses the required object, A notification device, which is a configuration that further performs the following.

5. A notification method that has a notification device for notifying a user of information and is executed by a computer owned by the user, The aforementioned computer, The first determination is to determine whether the user possesses an object that the user is required to possess, A second determination is made to determine whether the user is moving or not, A third determination is made to determine whether the user is in a designated location where they can move without possessing the aforementioned object, A fourth determination is made to determine whether or not to output the notification content based on the results of the first determination, the second determination, and the third determination using the notification device, A notification method that is configured to perform the following actions.

6. The notification method according to claim 5, The aforementioned computer, The fifth decision, which determines the user's planned actions, The sixth judgment determines the user's target behavioral conditions based on the user's planned actions, The seventh decision, which determines the actual user behavior, The eighth judgment determines whether the user's actual behavior is consistent with the target behavioral conditions, A ninth determination determines whether or not to output a notification from the notification device, based on the result of the eighth determination, regarding whether or not the user's actual actions are consistent with the target action conditions. A notification method, which is a configuration that further executes the above.

7. The notification method according to claim 5, The aforementioned computer, The tenth decision determines the user's planned actions, The 11th decision determines the necessary objects based on the user's planned actions, Based on the result of the 11th determination, a 12th determination is made to determine whether or not to output a notification from the notification device indicating whether or not the user possesses the required object, A notification method, which is a configuration that further executes the above.

8. A non-temporary program that has a notification device for notifying the user of information and causes a computer owned by the user to execute a decision, To the aforementioned computer, The first determination is to determine whether the user possesses an object that the user is required to possess, A second determination is made to determine whether the user is moving or not, A third determination is made to determine whether the user is in a designated location where they can move without possessing the aforementioned object, A fourth determination is made to determine whether or not to output the notification content based on the results of the first determination, the second determination, and the third determination using the notification device, A program configured to execute [something].

9. The program according to claim 8, To the aforementioned computer, The fifth decision, which determines the user's planned actions, The sixth judgment determines the user's target behavioral conditions based on the user's planned actions, The seventh decision, which determines the actual user behavior, The eighth judgment determines whether the user's actual behavior is consistent with the target behavioral conditions, A ninth determination determines whether or not to output a notification from the notification device, based on the result of the eighth determination, regarding whether or not the user's actual actions are consistent with the target action conditions. A program that is configured to perform further actions.

10. The program according to claim 8, To the aforementioned computer, The tenth decision determines the user's planned actions, The 11th decision determines the necessary objects based on the user's planned actions, A 12th determination determines whether or not to output a notification from the notification device, based on the result of the 11th determination, regarding whether or not the user possesses the required object, A program that is configured to perform further actions.

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