Processor, mobile device, and electronic device

Abstract

To provide a processor, a moving machine, and an electronic apparatus that improve convenience for a user.SOLUTION: A processor executes a function to acquire first quality according to a first radio wave, acquire second quality according to a second radio wave, and display first icons at positions indicated by both the first radio wave and a second radio wave on the basis of, the first quality and the second quality, or a function to display a second icon corresponding to at least one of the first radio wave and the second radio wave on a map of a display on the basis of, the first quality or the second quality, or a function to change a display mode of the icons displayed on the display when a magnitude relationship between the first quality and the second quality changes, or a function to display a semi-outdoor area on the map on the basis of, the first quality and the second quality.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a processor, a mobile device, and an electronic device.

Background Art

[0002] With the development of IoT (Internet of Things) related technologies, technologies for seamlessly positioning people and objects moving indoors and outdoors have attracted attention. In particular, recently, due to the progress of autonomous driving technologies such as autonomous vehicles and drones, cases where the position of the vehicle itself is located and specific work is performed in a factory or rescue activities during disasters are attracting attention.

[0003] For example, in Patent Document 1, a positioning mode is determined based on the number of positioning satellites detected by a mobile device, and according to the positioning mode, the position of the mobile device is specified using a detector installed indoors or specified by the GPS function of the mobile device. A positioning device is disclosed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, when displaying the specified position of the mobile device, how to display it has not been specifically discussed. Therefore, for the user who checks the displayed position, convenience may not always be considered.

[0006] Therefore, an aspect of the present invention aims to provide a processor, a mobile device, and an electronic device that improve user convenience.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The processor according to the first embodiment acquires a first quality using a first radio wave, acquires a second quality using a second radio wave, and performs a predetermined function based on the first quality and the second quality.

[0008] The mobile device according to the second embodiment is a mobile device equipped with the processor according to the first embodiment.

[0009] The electronic device according to the third embodiment is an electronic device equipped with a processor according to the first embodiment. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a processor, a mobile device, and electronic equipment that improve user convenience. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Figure 1(A) shows an electronic device according to the first embodiment, and Figure 1(B) shows an example of the external configuration of a mobile device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figures 2(A) to 2(C) are diagrams showing examples of the external configuration of a mobile device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an electronic device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figures 4(A) to 4(D) are diagrams showing examples of displays according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Figures 6(A) and 6(B) are diagrams showing examples of displays according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of operation according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] Figures 9(A) and 9(B) are diagrams showing examples of displays according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a semi-outdoor environment according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the electronic device 100 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an operation example according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a control example of the drone according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a control example of the collaborative robot and the autonomous vehicle according to the first embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a control example of the drone according to the first embodiment.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0012] The embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals.

[0013] [First Embodiment] The first embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, first, an example of the external configuration of the mobile device and the electronic device according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0014] (Application Example) FIG. 1(A) shows an example of the external configuration of the electronic device 100 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1(A), the electronic device 100 has a processor 150 inside. Also, the electronic device 100 has a display unit 110 for displaying a map or the like.

[0015] The electronic device 100 shown in Figure 1(A) may be a router that routes (or relays) communication between a wireless LAN communication method and a cellular communication communication method. That is, the electronic device 100 communicates wirelessly with terminal devices using a wireless LAN communication method. The electronic device 100 also communicates wirelessly with wireless base stations using a cellular communication method. For example, the electronic device 100 can provide 5G-related services to terminal devices that cannot use wireless communication such as 5G, by using a wireless LAN.

[0016] Furthermore, the electronic device 100 shown in Figure 1(A) may also be a communication device. For example, the electronic device 100 is a communication device that communicates with an access point. The electronic device 100 is also a communication device that receives GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) radio waves transmitted from positioning satellites. The electronic device 100 (or processor 150) has a positioning function. The electronic device 100 can perform the positioning function by using communication with an access point and / or communication using GNSS radio waves.

[0017] The electronic device 100 may also be a processor 150.

[0018] Figure 1(B) shows an example of the external configuration of the mobile device 200 according to the first embodiment. In the example in Figure 1(B), an electronic device 100 is attached to the mobile device 200.

[0019] The mobile device 200 shown in Figure 1(B) may be an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capable of moving through the air. Figure 1(B) shows an example of an UAV, namely a drone. The UAV may also be a radio-controlled aircraft.

[0020] Since the electronic device 100 is attached to the mobile device 200, it can determine the position of the mobile device 200 by performing its positioning function.

[0021] Figure 2(A) shows an example of the external configuration of the mobile device 200 according to the first embodiment. The mobile device 200 shown in Figure 2(A) is an example that has a processor 150 inside. The processor 150 performs a positioning function, making it possible to determine the position of the mobile device 200.

[0022] In both Figure 1(B) and Figure 2(A), the processor 150 is electrically connected to various parts inside the mobile vehicle 200. Therefore, the processor 150 can perform various controls on the mobile vehicle 200, such as speed control and flight altitude control.

[0023] Note that while the mobile aircraft 200 shown in Figure 2(A) represents an example of a drone, it may be any other unmanned aerial vehicle, similar to Figure 1(B).

[0024] Figure 2(B) is a diagram showing an example of the external configuration of the mobile device 200 according to the first embodiment. The mobile device 200 shown in Figure 2(B) represents an example of an autonomous vehicle. The mobile device 200 may be an autonomous vehicle such as a two-wheeled vehicle, a three-wheeled vehicle, or a four-wheeled vehicle, or it may be an autonomous vehicle of a specific vehicle such as a truck.

[0025] The example shown in Figure 2(B) also represents an example in which the mobile device 200 (autonomous vehicle) has a processor 150 inside. In this case as well, the position of the mobile device 200 (autonomous vehicle) can be determined by the processor 150 performing a positioning function.

[0026] In addition, the mobile device 200 shown in Figure 2(B) may also have the electronic device 100 attached to the mobile device 200 (autonomous vehicle), similar to Figure 1(B).

[0027] Figure 2(C) is a diagram showing an example of the external configuration of the mobile robot 200 according to the first embodiment. The mobile robot 200 shown in Figure 2(C) represents an example of a collaborative robot. A collaborative robot is a robot that operates in cooperation with humans without a fence, in contrast to industrial robots that operate in a fenced-off area isolated from human space. However, in the first embodiment, the mobile robot 200 may be an industrial robot.

[0028] The example shown in Figure 2(C) also represents an example in which the mobile device (collaborative robot) has a processor 150 inside. In this case as well, the processor 150 performs a positioning function, which allows the mobile device 200 (collaborative robot) to determine its position.

[0029] In addition, the mobile device 200 shown in Figure 2(C) may also have the electronic device 100 attached to the mobile device 200 (collaborative robot), similar to Figure 1(B).

[0030] (Example of electronic device configuration) Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of the electronic device 100.

[0031] As shown in Figure 3, the electronic device 100 includes a display unit 110, a GNSS receiver unit 120, a wireless LAN communication unit 130, a memory 140, and a processor (or controller) 150.

[0032] The display unit 110 displays a map under the control of the processor 150. Map display is one of the predetermined functions of the processor 150. The processor 150 reads map data from the memory 140 and outputs it to the display unit 110, enabling the display unit 110 to display the map.

[0033] Furthermore, the display unit 110 displays icons at predetermined locations on the map under the control of the processor 150. The processor 150 reads icon data from the memory 140 and outputs it to the display unit 110. The processor 150 also performs a positioning function and outputs location data to the display unit 110. Based on the icon data and location data, the display unit 110 can display icons at predetermined locations on the map. The predetermined location may represent, for example, the location of the electronic device 100. The predetermined location may also represent the location of the mobile device 200 equipped with the processor 150. The icons may have different display forms depending on the radio waves used for positioning. Details will be explained in the operation example.

[0034] The GNSS receiver 120 may receive a first radio wave and a second radio wave transmitted from the same positioning satellite 500. Alternatively, the GNSS receiver 120 may receive a first radio wave and a second radio wave transmitted from different positioning satellites. Furthermore, the GNSS receiver 120 may receive a first radio wave transmitted from the positioning satellite 500.

[0035] The first and second radio waves received by the GNSS receiver 120 are both GNSS radio waves. In this case, the first and second radio waves may be GNSS radio waves in different frequency bands. For example, the first radio wave may be a GNSS radio wave in the L1 frequency band (1575 MHz band), and the second radio wave may be a GNSS radio wave in the L5 frequency band (1176 MHz). The frequency band may also be other than L1 and L5, for example, the L2 frequency band (1227 MHz band), the L6 frequency band (1278 MHz band), or the L2C frequency band (1227 MHz band).

[0036] The GNSS receiver 120 acquires a first quality using a first radio wave. The GNSS receiver 120 may also acquire a second quality using a second radio wave. Both the first and second quality may be received signal strength. Received signal strength is RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator). The first and second quality may also be measured as signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), etc. The GNSS receiver 120 outputs the acquired first quality to the processor 150. The GNSS receiver 120 may also output the acquired second quality to the processor 150.

[0037] Note that while Figure 3 shows an example of one positioning satellite 500, multiple positioning satellites 500 may be shown, as multiple positioning satellites 500 are used during positioning.

[0038] The wireless LAN communication unit 130 communicates wirelessly with the access point using a wireless LAN communication method. The wireless LAN communication method may be Wi-Fi or short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth.

[0039] The wireless LAN communication unit 130 may receive a second radio wave. In this case, the wireless LAN communication unit 130 becomes a receiver. The second radio wave is a radio wave received from an access point. The wireless LAN communication unit 130 may acquire a second quality using the second radio wave. The wireless LAN communication unit 130 may measure the received signal strength index (RSSI) or signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) as the second quality. The wireless LAN communication unit 130 may output the measured second quality to the processor 150.

[0040] The wireless LAN communication unit 130 performs a positioning function using wireless LAN communication. One such positioning function is WiFi RTT (Round Trip Time), as defined by IEEE 802.11mc. WiFi RTT measures the time it takes for a packet to travel round trip between the electronic device 100 and the access point, and by multiplying that time by the speed of light, it measures the distance between the electronic device 100 and the access point, thereby determining the position of the electronic device 100. While WiFi RTT can determine the position of the electronic device 100 with just one access point, accuracy is improved by using three or more access points.

[0041] Memory 140 stores programs and data. The processor 150 reads the programs from memory 140 and executes them, thereby enabling various functions to be implemented by the processor 150. Memory 140 is used as a temporary workspace to store the processing results of the processor 150. Memory 140 may be any non-transitory storage medium, such as a semiconductor storage medium.

[0042] The processor 150 acquires a first quality using the first radio wave, acquires a second quality using the second radio wave, and performs predetermined functions based on the first and second quality. One of these predetermined functions is to display a map on the display unit 110 (operation example 1).

[0043] In this case, the processor 150 has a function to display a first icon at the location indicated by both the first and second radio waves, based on the first and second quality (operation example 1-1). The location indicated by both the first and second radio waves is the same location on the map. The processor 150 may display the first icon by displaying an icon for the first radio wave and an icon for the second radio wave at that location.

[0044] Furthermore, the processor 150 has a function to display a second icon on the map of the display unit 110 that corresponds to at least one of the first radio wave and the second radio wave, based on the first quality and the second quality (operation example 1-2). For example, the processor may display the icon corresponding to the second radio wave received from the access point as the second icon, in a different display manner from the icon corresponding to the first radio wave from the GNSS radio wave.

[0045] Furthermore, the processor 150 has a function to change the display mode of the icons displayed on the display unit 110 when the relative magnitudes of the first quality and the second quality change (operation example 1-3). For example, the processor 150 displays a third icon with a different display mode than the icon corresponding to the first radio wave and the icon corresponding to the second radio wave.

[0046] Furthermore, the processor 150 has the function of displaying semi-outdoor areas on the map based on the first and second quality levels (operational examples 1-4). Semi-outdoor areas are, for example, areas under a roof that is provided as an auxiliary structure outdoors. Details will be explained in the operational examples.

[0047] Furthermore, a predetermined function is control that responds to the surrounding environment (Operation Example 2). The processor 150 estimates the surrounding environment around the processor 150 (or electronic device 100) based on the first and second quality (Operation Example 2-1). In this case, the processor 150 estimates a semi-outdoor environment as the surrounding environment (Operation Example 2-2).

[0048] If the processor 150 estimates that the surrounding environment is a semi-outdoor environment, it executes control on the mobile device 200 that corresponds to the semi-outdoor area (operation example 2-3).

[0049] If the processor 150 estimates an outdoor environment as the surrounding environment, it may execute control corresponding to the outdoor environment. Furthermore, if the processor 150 estimates an indoor environment as the surrounding environment, it may execute control corresponding to the indoor environment. Specific control methods will be explained in the operation examples.

[0050] Furthermore, processor 150 has the ability to display geofence boundaries on a map for semi-outdoor environments (Example 2-4).

[0051] Details of each operation example are explained below.

[0052] (Example of operation)

[0053] (Example of operation 1) Operation Example 1 is an example of the processor 150 executing the function of displaying a map on the display unit 110. Operation Example 1 consists of Operation Example 1-1 to Operation Example 1-4. They will be explained in order below.

[0054] (Example of operation 1-1) Operation Example 1-1 is an example of operation in which the processor 150 displays a first icon at the position indicated by both the first and second radio waves, based on the first and second quality.

[0055] Figures 4(A) to 4(D) are diagrams showing display examples according to the first embodiment. Each shows an example of a map displayed on the display unit 110. Each also shows an example of a GNSS radio wave in the L1 frequency band as the first radio wave and a GNSS radio wave in the L5 frequency band as the second radio wave. Hereinafter, the former may be referred to as the L1 signal and the latter as the L5 signal.

[0056] Figure 4(A) shows an example of the display when the electronic device 100 has captured the L1 signal but has not captured the L5 signal. As shown in Figure 4(A), an icon 111 corresponding to the L1 signal is displayed. The size of the icon 111 corresponds to the quality of the L1 signal. Therefore, the better the quality of the L1 signal, the larger the icon 111 is displayed, and the lower the quality, the smaller it is displayed. This control is performed by the processor 150.

[0057] In Figure 4(A), the location where icon 111 is displayed represents the estimated location of the electronic device 100 based on positioning determined from the L1 signal.

[0058] Figure 4(B) shows an example of the display when the electronic device 100 captures both the L1 signal and the L5 signal. As shown in Figure 4(B), icon 112 corresponding to the L5 signal is displayed. The size of icon 112 is smaller than icon 111. This indicates that the quality of the L1 signal is better than the quality of the L5 signal.

[0059] Figure 4(C) shows an example of the display when the electronic device 100 captures both the L1 signal and the L5 signal. The size of icon 112 in Figure 4(C) is approximately the same as icon 111. This indicates that the quality of the L5 signal is better than in Figure 4(B) and is comparable to the quality of the L1 signal.

[0060] Figure 4(D) also shows an example of the display when the electronic device 100 captures both the L1 signal and the L5 signal. In this case, the icon 112 is smaller than in Figures 4(B) and 4(C). This indicates that the quality of the L5 signal is worse compared to Figures 4(B) and 4(C).

[0061] In Figures 4(B) to 4(D), if the electronic device 100 captures both the L1 signal and the L5 signal, the processor 150 displays icons 111 and 112 at predetermined locations based on the position determined based on the L1 signal and the position determined based on the L5 signal. The predetermined location may be an intermediate point between the position determined based on the L1 signal and the position determined based on the L5 signal. Alternatively, the predetermined location may be a position weighted considering the quality of the position determined based on the L1 signal and the position determined based on the L5 signal.

[0062] Thus, in operation example 1-1, the processor 150 displays icons 111 and 112 in a way that changes the ratio of the first region corresponding to the first radio wave (for example, the white region in Figure 4(A)) and the second region corresponding to the second radio wave (for example, the black region in Figure 4(B)) based on the first and second quality. In Figures 4(B) to 4(D), the icons are represented by white and black regions, but the white region may be displayed in blue and the black region in red, or they may be displayed in other colors. The colors can be any colors as long as icons 111 and 112 are displayed in different ways so that the user can immediately recognize that icons 111 and 112 are different. Icons 111 and 112 are examples of first icons. In other words, icons 111 and 112 may be made to appear different in some way, such as by making their shapes different, so that the user can immediately recognize that icons 111 and 112 are different.

[0063] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of operation 1-1 according to the first embodiment.

[0064] As shown in Figure 5, in step S10, the processor 150 starts processing.

[0065] In step S11, the GNSS receiver 120 receives the L1 signal. Also, in step S12, the GNSS receiver 120 receives the L5 signal. The order of steps S11 and S12 may be reversed.

[0066] In step S13, the processor 150 determines the position based on the L1 signal and the position based on the L5 signal. Then, the processor 150 determines the display position of the icon from the position based on the L1 signal and the position based on the L5 signal.

[0067] In step S14, the processor 150 determines the size (or precision; hereinafter sometimes referred to as "size") of the icon display corresponding to the L1 signal based on the quality of the L1 signal acquired from the GNSS receiver 120. Also in step S14, the processor 150 determines the size of the icon display corresponding to the L5 signal based on the quality of the L5 signal acquired from the GNSS receiver 120.

[0068] In step S15, the processor 150 displays the icon on the display unit 110 at the display position determined in step S13, with the size of the icon determined in step S14.

[0069] Then, processor 150 completes the series of processes.

[0070] As shown above, in Operation Example 1-1, icons 111 and 113 are displayed based on the quality of the L1 and L5 signals, allowing the user to grasp the quality of the L1 and L5 signals at a glance. Therefore, Operation Example 1-1 can improve user convenience.

[0071] (Example 1-2) Operation Example 1-2 is an example of operation in which the processor 150 displays a second icon corresponding to at least one of the first and second radio waves on the map displayed on the display unit 110, based on the first and second quality. In this operation example, the first radio wave is a GNSS radio wave, and the second radio wave is a radio wave acquired from an access point. Signals transmitted by GNSS radio waves are sometimes referred to as GNSS signals, and signals transmitted by radio waves transmitted from an access point are sometimes referred to as AP (Access Point) signals.

[0072] Figure 6(A) shows an example of a display according to the first embodiment.

[0073] As shown in Figure 6(A), icons 113 corresponding to AP signals are displayed on the map shown on the display unit 110. As described above, the processor 150 implements the positioning function by, for example, using WiFi RTT. Icons 113 corresponding to AP signals have a different display pattern than icons 111 and 112 corresponding to GNSS signals.

[0074] The processor 150 may display icon 113 when the AP signal quality is above a predetermined value and the GNSS signal quality is below a predetermined value. Alternatively, the processor 150 may display icon 113 when it is unable to acquire the quality of the GNSS signal (or when it is unable to receive the GNSS signal). Icon 113 is an example of a second icon.

[0075] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of operation 1-2 according to the first embodiment.

[0076] As shown in Figure 7, in step S20, the processor 150 starts processing.

[0077] In step S21, the GNSS receiving unit 120 receives a GNSS signal. Also, in step S22, the wireless LAN communication unit 130 receives an AP signal. The order of steps S21 and S22 may be reversed.

[0078] In step S23, the processor 150 displays an icon at the position indicated by at least one of the position based on the GNSS signal and the position based on the AP signal. That is, the processor 150 displays an icon 113 corresponding to the AP signal at the position based on the AP signal, based on the quality of the GNSS signal and the quality of the AP signal. The processor 150 may display the icon 113 if the quality of the AP signal is above a predetermined value and the quality of the GNSS signal is below a predetermined value. The size of the icon 113 corresponds to the magnitude of the AP signal quality.

[0079] Then, in step S24, the processor 150 terminates the series of processes.

[0080] In this example 1-2, the icon 113 corresponding to the AP signal is displayed on the display unit 110. Therefore, the user can confirm on the map that a signal from the access point has been received, thereby improving user convenience.

[0081] (Examples of operation 1-3) Operation Example 1-3 is an example of operation in which the processor 150 changes the display mode of the icons displayed on the display unit 110 when the relative magnitudes of the first quality and the second quality change. In this operation example, for example, the first radio wave is a GNSS radio wave, and the second radio wave is a radio wave acquired from an access point.

[0082] Figure 6(B) shows an example of a display according to the first embodiment. Figure 6(B) shows an example of the icon 114 that is displayed when the relative magnitudes of the first quality and the second quality change.

[0083] In other words, Figure 6(B) shows that when the quality of the GNSS signal is better than the quality of the AP signal, icon 114 is displayed if the AP signal quality subsequently becomes better than the GNSS signal quality. Alternatively, when the quality of the AP signal is better than the quality of the GNSS signal, icon 114 is displayed if the GNSS signal quality subsequently becomes better than the AP signal quality. Icon 114 is also an icon that is displayed at the timing of the change in the relative quality of the GNSS signal and the AP signal. Icon 114 is an example of a third icon.

[0084] Furthermore, the icon 114 may be displayed not based on the relative magnitude of the GNSS signal quality and the AP signal quality, but rather when the relative magnitude of the GNSS signal quality and the AP signal quality changes when compared to a predetermined value, and when the relative magnitude of the AP signal quality changes when compared to the predetermined value. For example, if the GNSS signal quality is above a predetermined value and the AP signal quality is below a predetermined value, the icon 114 may be displayed if the GNSS signal quality subsequently falls below the predetermined value and the AP signal quality becomes above the predetermined value. Alternatively, if the GNSS signal quality is below a predetermined value and the AP signal quality is above a predetermined value, the icon 114 may be displayed if the GNSS signal quality subsequently becomes above the predetermined value and the AP signal quality becomes above the predetermined value.

[0085] Such comparisons of magnitude are determined by processor 150.

[0086] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating example 1-3 of operation according to the first embodiment.

[0087] As shown in Figure 8, in step S30, the processor 150 starts processing.

[0088] In step S31, the processor 150 obtains the quality of the GNSS signal from the GNSS receiver 120. In step S32, the processor 150 obtains the quality of the AP signal from the wireless LAN communication unit 130. The order of steps S31 and S32 may be reversed.

[0089] In step S33, the processor 150 determines whether the relative magnitudes of the AP signal quality and the GNSS signal quality have changed. In this case, the processor 150 may determine whether the relative magnitudes have changed by comparing the AP signal quality with a predetermined value and the GNSS signal quality with the same predetermined value.

[0090] In step S33, if the processor 150 determines that the relative quality of the AP signal and the GNSS signal has changed (YES in step S33), in step S34, the processor 150 displays icon 114. Icon 114 (Figure 6(B)) is displayed in a different manner from icons 111 and 112 corresponding to the GNSS signal, and is also displayed in a different manner from icon 113 corresponding to the AP signal, and is an icon displayed in a predetermined manner.

[0091] Then, in step S35, the processor 150 terminates the series of processes.

[0092] On the other hand, in step S33, if the processor 150 determines that the relative quality of the AP signal and the GNSS signal has not changed (NO in step S33), the processor 150 terminates the series of processes (step S35). In this case, the processor 150 maintains the display of each icon because the relative quality has not changed.

[0093] In operation example 1-3, the icon 114 is displayed when the relative quality of the GNSS signal and the AP signal changes. Therefore, the user can confirm that the quality of the GNSS signal and the signal from the access point have changed by checking the display of icon 114 on the display unit 110. Thus, the processor 150 can improve convenience for the user.

[0094] (Examples of operation 1-4) Operation Example 1-4 is an example of how the processor 150 displays a semi-outdoor area on a map based on first quality and second quality. In Operation Example 1-4, for example, the first quality is the quality of the GNSS signal, and the second quality is the quality of the AP signal.

[0095] Figure 9(A) shows an example of a display according to the first embodiment. Figure 9(A) shows an example in which the semi-outdoor area 115 is displayed on the display unit 110. Note that the semi-outdoor area 115 may be distinguished from other areas by displaying a different information inside the semi-outdoor area 115 than in other areas.

[0096] A semi-outdoor area may consist of a first semi-outdoor area and a second semi-outdoor area. The first semi-outdoor area represents the area under a roof that is provided as an auxiliary feature outdoors. The first semi-outdoor area may be an area between an indoor area and an outdoor area that has an auxiliary roof.

[0097] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first semi-outdoor area. As shown in Figure 10, the first semi-outdoor area has an auxiliary roof. The first semi-outdoor area may have an opening. The opening may be openable and closable by a door. Figure 10 shows the opening in an open state. The first semi-outdoor area is connected to the building. Each mobile unit 200 can move from outdoors to the first semi-outdoor area through the opening, and further move from the first semi-outdoor area to the interior of the building through the opening. Conversely, each mobile unit 200 can move from the interior to the first semi-outdoor area, and from the first semi-outdoor area to outdoors.

[0098] On the other hand, the second semi-outdoor area represents the area beneath the collapsed building. The second semi-outdoor area may also represent the interior of the collapsed building. Figure 9(B) shows an example of the display of the second semi-outdoor area (semi-outdoor area 115).

[0099] As shown in Figure 9(A), multiple icons 114 are displayed in the semi-outdoor area 115. Similar to operation example 1-3, the icons 114 are displayed when the relative values ​​of the GNSS signal quality and the AP signal quality change.

[0100] Now, let's consider the case where the access point is installed inside the building. In this case, let's further consider the case where icon 114 is displayed. For example, if the quality of the GNSS signal is better than the quality of the AP signal, this is when the electronic device 100 is located outdoors. Subsequently, if the quality of the AP signal becomes better than the quality of the GNSS signal, a roof is installed in the semi-outdoor area 115, so it is conceivable that the electronic device 100 has moved to the semi-outdoor area. Also, in such a case, since it may not be possible to receive the GNSS signal even inside the building, it is also conceivable that the electronic device 100 has moved to the indoor area.

[0101] In the first embodiment, the processor 150 determines that the electronic device 100 is located in the semi-outdoor area 115 at the switching timing when the quality of the GNSS signal is better than the quality of the AP signal, and subsequently the quality of the AP signal becomes better than the quality of the GNSS signal.

[0102] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the processor 150 determines that the electronic device 100 is located in a semi-outdoor area at the switching timing when the quality of the AP signal is better than the quality of the GNSS signal, and subsequently the quality of the GNSS signal becomes better than the quality of the AP signal.

[0103] In other words, the processor 150 determines that the area where the icon 114 is displayed is a semi-outdoor area. The processor 150 may also determine that an area of ​​a predetermined size where the icon 114 is displayed (for example, 3m around the display position of the icon 114) is a semi-outdoor area 115. Alternatively, the processor 150 may consider the position where the icon 114 is displayed as a point indicating the semi-outdoor area 115, and may define the area formed by multiple points represented by multiple icons 114 as the semi-outdoor area 115. The processor 150 may display the semi-outdoor area 115 with a single icon 114, or it may display the semi-outdoor area 115 with multiple icons 114.

[0104] Automatic control of the mobile unit 200 is not limited to outdoor environments. Automatic control of the mobile unit 200 may also be required in environments where there are roofs or obstacles above or around the unit, resulting in weak GNSS signal strength.

[0105] In this context, automatic control may not be sufficient in environments that are only outdoors (environments where positioning satellites can be adequately acquired) and indoors (environments where positioning satellites cannot be acquired). This is because in semi-outdoor areas, the mobile unit 200 may be required to perform automatic control differently than that used outdoors or indoors.

[0106] Therefore, in the first embodiment, the processor 150 estimates the "semi-outdoor" area 115. This makes it possible to perform automatic control that is fully compatible with "semi-outdoor" environments such as factories with semi-transparent ceilings and shopping arcades.

[0107] Figure 8 is also a flowchart showing an example of operation 1-4 according to the first embodiment. In this case, in step S34, the processor 150 should display the semi-outdoor area 115 on the map when displaying the icon 114.

[0108] As described above, in operation example 1-4, the semi-outdoor area 115 can be displayed on the map shown on the display unit 110. Therefore, the user can understand that the area where the electronic device 100 is located is within the semi-outdoor area 115. Consequently, the processor 150 can improve convenience for the user.

[0109] When the processor 150 detects a semi-outdoor area 115, it can perform various controls on the mobile device 200. The types of controls performed depending on the environment will be explained in the following (Operation Example 2).

[0110] (Example of operation 2) In Operation Example 2, the processor 150 first estimates the surrounding environment. Then, the processor 150 instructs the mobile device 200 to perform control corresponding to the surrounding environment. In Operation Example 2, the first radio wave is a GNSS radio wave, and the second radio wave is a radio wave received from an access point.

[0111] Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example configuration of the electronic device 100 in operation example 2. The processor 150 further controls the mobile device 200. The processor 150 estimates the surrounding environment based on the first and second quality. If the processor 150 estimates that the surrounding environment is a semi-outdoor environment, it can cause the mobile device 200 to perform control corresponding to a semi-outdoor environment. Also, if the processor 150 estimates that the surrounding environment is an indoor environment, it can cause the mobile device 200 to perform control corresponding to an indoor environment. Furthermore, if the processor 150 estimates that the surrounding environment is an outdoor environment, it can cause the mobile device 200 to perform control corresponding to an outdoor environment.

[0112] Furthermore, the processor 150 can perform different controls depending on the type of mobile device 200. In the following, a drone 200-1, a collaborative robot 200-2, and an autonomous vehicle 200-3 will be used as examples of the mobile device 200.

[0113] (Example 2-1, Example 2-2) Operation Example 2-1 is an example of operation in which the processor 150 estimates the surrounding environment around the processor 150 (or electronic device 100) based on the first and second quality. Operation Example 2-2 is an example of operation in which the processor 150 estimates a semi-outdoor environment as the surrounding environment.

[0114] Figure 12 is a flowchart of operation example 2-1 according to the first embodiment.

[0115] As shown in Figure 12, in step S40, the processor 150 starts processing.

[0116] In step S41, the processor 150 obtains the quality of the GNSS signal from the GNSS receiver 120. In step S42, the processor 150 obtains the quality of the AP signal from the wireless LAN communication unit 130. Note that the order of steps S41 and S42 may be reversed.

[0117] In step S43, the processor 150 estimates the surrounding environment based on the quality of the GNSS signal and the quality of the AP signal.

[0118] Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the movement of the drone 200-1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 13 shows an example of the drone 200-1 moving from outdoors, through a semi-outdoor area, and into an indoor area.

[0119] As shown in Figure 13, access point #1 (AP#1) 600-1 is installed on the indoor side of the building, at the entrance to the semi-outdoor area. Access point #2 (AP#2) 600-2 is installed indoors.

[0120] In this situation, if the drone 200-1 equipped with processor 150 is located outdoors, the quality of the GNSS signal is better than the quality of the AP signal from access point #1 (AP#1) 600-1. Therefore, processor 150 can compare the quality of the GNSS signal with the quality of the AP signal, and if the quality of the GNSS signal is better than the quality of the AP signal, it can determine that the surrounding environment is "outdoors".

[0121] Furthermore, when drone 200-1 moves to a semi-outdoor location, the quality of the GNSS signal will be worse due to the roof than when it is located outdoors. On the other hand, as drone 200-1 approaches access point #1 (AP#1), the quality of the AP signal will be better than when it is outdoors. Therefore, processor 150 can determine that the surrounding environment is "semi-outdoor" if the quality of the AP signal from access point #1 (AP#1) 600-1 is better than the quality of the GNSS signal.

[0122] Furthermore, if drone 200-1 moves indoors, the quality of the GNSS signal deteriorates even further. Therefore, processor 150 can determine that the surrounding environment is "indoors" if the quality of the AP signal from access point #1 (AP#1) 600-1 is better than the quality of the GNSS signal.

[0123] However, in this case, the determination of "indoors" and "semi-outdoors" overlaps. Therefore, regarding the determination of "semi-outdoors" as described above, the processor 150 may determine it as "semi-outdoors" at the switching timing when the GNSS signal quality changes from when the AP signal quality is better than the AP signal quality, as explained in (Operation Example 1-3).

[0124] Furthermore, the processor 150 may also use the quality of the AP signal from access point #2 (AP#2) 600-2 to determine if the location is "indoors." This avoids redundant determinations and improves the accuracy of the "indoors" determination. In other words, the processor 150 may determine the location as "semi-outdoors" at the moment when the relative quality of the AP signal and the GNSS signal changes, similar to (operation example 1-3). Also, the processor 150 may determine the location as "indoors" if the quality of the AP signal from access point #2 (AP#2) 600-2 is better than the quality of the AP signal from access point #1 (AP#1) 600-1.

[0125] Returning to Figure 12, in step S44, the processor 150 performs control corresponding to the estimated surrounding environment. The specific control is described in the following (Operation Example 2-3).

[0126] Then, in step S45, the processor 150 terminates the series of processes.

[0127] (Example of operation 2-3) Operation Example 2-3 is an example of operation in which the processor 150 executes control corresponding to a semi-outdoor environment when it estimates that the periodic environment is a semi-outdoor environment based on the first and second quality. Furthermore, when the processor 150 estimates that the surrounding environment is located indoors, it executes control corresponding to an indoor environment. In addition, when the processor 150 estimates that the surrounding environment is located outdoors, it executes control corresponding to an outdoor environment.

[0128] (Example of control in a semi-outdoor environment) This section describes an example of control for the mobile device 200 when the processor 150 estimates the surrounding environment to be "semi-outdoor."

[0129] Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of control corresponding to a semi-outdoor environment according to the first embodiment. Figure 13 shows an example of control in drone 200-1.

[0130] As shown in Figure 13, the processor 150 may control the drone 200-1 to change the parameters of the camera function installed on the drone 200-1. For example, the processor 150 may change the parameters so that the camera function is in indoor mode. Specifically, the processor 150 may change the exposure parameter to increase the exposure amount of the camera function, or change the shooting time parameter to shorten the shooting time.

[0131] Furthermore, the processor 150 may perform speed control on the drone 200-1 so that its speed is slower than in the “outdoor” case. In addition, the processor 150 may perform altitude control so that the flight altitude of the drone 200-1 is a predetermined height. The processor 150 may also perform speed control so that the speed is slower as the received signal strength of the AP signal from access point #1 (AP#1) 600-1 increases.

[0132] Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of control corresponding to a semi-outdoor environment according to the first embodiment. Figure 14 shows an example of control in a collaborative robot 200-2 and an autonomous vehicle 200-3.

[0133] As shown in Figure 14, the processor 150 may perform speed control on the collaborative robot 200-2, similar to the drone 200-1. Alternatively, the processor 150 may control the collaborative robot 200-2 to execute the work program for warehouse #1.

[0134] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 14, the processor 150 may perform speed control on the autonomous vehicle 200-3 to be slower than outdoors, similar to the drone 200-1. The processor 150 may also turn on the forward sensor of the camera installed on the autonomous vehicle 200-3. By turning on the forward sensor of the camera, the autonomous vehicle 200-3 can capture images of the situation in front of it with the camera.

[0135] (Example of control in an indoor environment) This section describes an example of control over the mobile device 200 when the processor 150 estimates the surrounding environment to be "indoors".

[0136] As shown in Figure 13, the processor 150 may control the speed of the drone 200-1 to be even slower than in the "semi-indoor" case. The processor 150 may also control the altitude of the drone 200-1 to fly at an even lower altitude than in the "semi-indoor" case. The processor 150 may also control the camera of the drone 200-1 to have a higher exposure or a shorter shooting time than in the "semi-outdoor" case.

[0137] Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating a control example according to the first embodiment. Figure 15 shows a control example when the drone 200-1 is located indoors.

[0138] For example, consider a case where access points #2 (AP#2) 600-2 to #5 (AP#5) 600-5 are installed on the indoor ceiling, as shown in Figure 15. In such a case, the processor 150 can determine the distance to each access point #2 (AP#2) 600-2 to #5 (AP#5) 600-5 using WiFi RTT. Therefore, based on the determined distance, the processor 150 can control the flight altitude of the drone 200-1 so that it does not get too close to the ceiling.

[0139] As shown in Figure 14, the processor 150 may control the collaborative robot 200-2 to execute the work program for warehouse #2. Alternatively, the processor 150 may perform speed control on the collaborative robot 200-2 in the same manner as on the drone 200-1.

[0140] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 14, the processor 150 may perform speed control on the autonomous vehicle 200-3 to further reduce its speed, similar to the drone 200-1. The processor 150 may also control the obstacle sensor of the camera installed on the autonomous vehicle 200-3 to turn on. When the camera's obstacle sensor is turned on, the autonomous vehicle 200-3 can move to avoid the obstacle when it determines that an obstacle is visible in the image captured by the camera. The processor 150 may also control the autonomous vehicle 200-3's driving operation to eliminate lateral shaking and maintain a level position.

[0141] (Example of control in an outdoor environment) This section describes an example of control over the mobile device 200 when the processor 150 estimates the surrounding environment to be "outdoors".

[0142] As shown in Figure 13, the processor 150 may reduce the exposure or shorten the shooting time for the camera mounted on the drone 200-1 compared to the "semi-outdoor" or "indoor" conditions. The processor 150 may also control the drone 200-1 to move faster or at a higher altitude compared to the "semi-outdoor" or "indoor" conditions.

[0143] As shown in Figure 14, the processor 150 may perform speed control on the collaborative robot 200-2 or the autonomous vehicle 200-3 in the same manner as on the drone 200-1.

[0144] (Example of operation 2-4) Operation Example 2-4 is an example of displaying the geofence boundary corresponding to the boundary of a semi-outdoor area on the map.

[0145] The processor 150 can display the semi-outdoor area on the map based on the first and second quality standards (operation example 1-4). An example of this display is shown in Figure 9(A). In this case, the processor 150 can also display the boundary of the semi-outdoor area 115 as a geofence on the map. A geofence is a virtual boundary in the geographical boundaries of the real world. The processor 150 displays the boundary of the semi-outdoor area 115 on the map. As a result, the display unit 110 can display the geofence of the semi-outdoor area 115.

[0146] In Operation Example 2-4, the geofence boundary corresponding to the semi-outdoor area 115 is displayed on the map. Therefore, the user can easily determine whether or not the mobile device 200 is located within the semi-outdoor area. Thus, Operation Example 1-4 can improve convenience for the user.

[0147] [Other embodiments] As described above, the electronic device 100 according to the first embodiment may be a router that routes cellular communication and wireless LAN communication. Therefore, the electronic device 100 shown in Figure 3 may have a cellular communication unit connected to the processor 150.

[0148] Although the embodiments have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to those described above, and various design changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. Furthermore, the embodiments described above can be combined in a way that does not contradict each other. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0149] 100:Electronic equipment 110:Display section 111,112,113,114: Icons 115: Semi-outdoor area 120: GNSS receiver unit 130: Wireless LAN communication unit 140: Memory 150: Processor 200: Mobile vehicle 200-1: Drone 200-2: Collaborative robots 200-3: Autonomous vehicles 500: Positioning satellite 600-1, 600-2, 600-3: Access points

Claims

1. obtaining a first quality from a first radio wave, and obtaining a second quality from a second radio wave; A processor that performs a predetermined function based on the first quality and the second quality.

2. The first radio wave and the second radio wave are a first GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) radio wave and a second GNSS radio wave, respectively, the predetermined function is a function of displaying a map on a display unit, The processor of claim 1 , further comprising: a processor configured to display a first icon at a position indicated by both the first radio wave and the second radio wave based on the first quality and the second quality.

3. The processor of claim 2, wherein displaying a predetermined icon at a position indicated by both the first radio wave and the second radio wave means displaying the first icon corresponding to the first radio wave and the second radio wave at a predetermined position corresponding to a first position based on the first radio wave and a second position based on the second radio wave.

4. The processor of claim 3 , further comprising: a processor configured to change a ratio of a first area of ​​the first icon corresponding to the first radio wave to a second area of ​​the first icon corresponding to the second radio wave based on the first quality and the second quality.

5. 3. The processor of claim 2, wherein the first radio wave is the first GNSS radio wave based on the L1 frequency transmitted from a positioning satellite, the second radio wave is the second GNSS radio wave based on the L5 frequency transmitted from the positioning satellite, the first radio wave and the second radio wave are received by a first receiving unit, and the first quality and the second quality are obtained from the first receiving unit.

6. 3. The processor of claim 2, wherein the first quality is the radio wave strength of the first GNSS radio wave based on the L1 frequency transmitted from the positioning satellite, and the second quality is the radio wave strength of the second GNSS radio wave based on the L5 frequency transmitted from the positioning satellite.

7. the first radio wave is a GNSS radio wave, and the second radio wave is a radio wave received from an access point; the predetermined function is a function of displaying a map on a display unit, The processor of claim 1 , further comprising: displaying a second icon on the map corresponding to at least one of the first radio wave and the second radio wave based on the first quality and the second quality.

8. receiving the first radio wave by a first receiving unit and receiving the second radio wave by a second receiving unit; The processor of claim 7 , wherein the first quality is obtained from the first receiver and the second quality is obtained from the second receiver.

9. the first radio wave is a GNSS radio wave, and the second radio wave is a radio wave received from an access point; the predetermined function is a function of displaying a map on a display unit, 2. The processor of claim 1, further comprising: a processor configured to display a third icon on the map when the magnitude relationship between the first quality and the second quality changes.

10. the first radio wave is a GNSS radio wave, and the second radio wave is a radio wave received from an access point; the predetermined function is a function of displaying a map on a display unit, The processor of claim 1 , further comprising: displaying a semi-outdoor area on the map based on the first quality and the second quality.

11. the first radio wave is a GNSS radio wave, and the second radio wave is a radio wave received from an access point; The processor of claim 1 , further comprising: a processor configured to estimate an ambient environment based on the first quality and the second quality.

12. The processor of claim 11 , wherein the ambient environment is a semi-outdoor environment.

13. The processor of claim 12 , further comprising: displaying a geofence boundary corresponding to a boundary of the semi-outdoor area on the map.

14. A mobile device equipped with the processor according to claim 1.

15. The mobile station according to claim 14 , wherein the processor, when estimating that the mobile station is located in a semi-outdoor environment based on the first quality and the second quality, executes control corresponding to the semi-outdoor environment.

16. An electronic device comprising the processor according to claim 1.

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