Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To enable the generation of a locomotion pattern that takes characteristics of a route into consideration about the route on which a user performs locomotion due to body movement such as walking and running.SOLUTION: An exercise support device 100 includes a route line shape information acquisition part 118 for acquiring route line shape information being information related to the line shape of a route on which a user perform locomotion, and a locomotion pattern setting part 119 for setting a first section being a section in which the user perform locomotion at a first speed and a second section being a section in which the user performs locomotion at a second speed lower than the first speed about the route on the basis of the acquired route line shape information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0004] , , , , , , ,

[0005] , , ,

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Walking is an exercise that can be carried out without difficulty for maintaining and improving health. In particular, interval walking, which alternates between walking at a normal pace and walking at a faster pace than normal to enhance the exercise effect, has attracted attention. This interval walking can be carried out in various scenes and on various routes, such as in parks and on the streets.

[0003] On the other hand, when a user performs training such as running, a technique for automatically generating the route has been proposed. For example, in Patent Document 1, based on various user activity data, the popularity level and activity level of the activity are determined and displayed on a map, and a route passing through the area indicating the activity selected by the user on the map is automatically generated.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the case of the aforementioned interval walking, the repetition cycle between normal pace walking and brisk walking was set based only on a predetermined time. As a result, sections of the route that are unsuitable for brisk walking, such as steep curves and slopes, may be set as brisk walking sections, which means that a walking program that provides appropriate exercise effects for the user may not always be provided. Patent Document 1 also does not disclose how to reflect curves and gradients included in the route itself in the automatic setting of the route.

[0006] One of the objectives of the present invention is to provide an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program that enable the generation of movement patterns that take into account the characteristics of a path along which a user performs a movement involving physical movement such as walking or running. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An information processing apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention includes a path information acquisition unit that acquires path information, which is information relating to a path on which a user moves; and a section setting unit that, based on the acquired path information, sets a first section, which is a section on the path in which the user moves at a first speed, and a second section, which is a section on which the user moves at a second speed lower than the first speed. The route information includes gradient information indicating the correspondence between a position on the route and information regarding the gradient on the route, and curve information indicating the correspondence between a position on the route and information regarding a curve on the route. The section setting unit sets the route such that, as a section suitable for movement at the first speed, the gradient in the section is less than a predetermined threshold and the radius of the curve is greater than a predetermined threshold. . [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it becomes possible to generate movement patterns that take into account the characteristics of a path along which a user performs a movement involving physical movement, such as walking or running. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram illustrating a standard walking pattern in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a system configuration diagram illustrating the configuration of an exercise support system in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3]This is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of a motor support device in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram illustrating the functions realized by the processing unit of a motion support device in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a motion path in one embodiment of the present invention, represented in plan view. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a motion path in one embodiment of the present invention, illustrated in longitudinal alignment. [Figure 7] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of output display of a walking pattern created by an exercise support device in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart illustrating the walking pattern setting process in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart illustrating the gait pattern correction process in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a moving motion path in another embodiment of the present invention, in a planar linear manner. [Figure 11] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a moving motion path in another embodiment of the present invention, in a longitudinal linear format. [Figure 12] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of output display of a movement pattern created by a motion support device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] This flowchart illustrates the process for setting a motion pattern in another embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in accordance with its embodiments.

[0011] (Embodiment 1) <Interval Walking> As described above, interval walking is an exercise method that repeatedly alternates between walking at a normal pace and walking faster than normal for predetermined periods of time. Academic support for this can be found, for example, in "Hiroshi N势 et al., 'Prevention and Evaluation of Lifestyle Diseases and Nursing Care by Interval Fast Walking - The Current Situation and Future of Matsumoto Municipal University of Geriatric Sports Science -', Physical Therapy, Vol. 36, No. 4, pp. 148-152, 2009". According to this paper, an exercise method called Interval Fast Walking (registered trademark) is introduced, which involves repeatedly alternating between fast walking at a speed exceeding 70% of the maximum oxygen uptake (VO2peak) determined by a predetermined test and normal walking at a speed not exceeding 30% of the maximum oxygen uptake for three minutes each. Since there are individual differences in maximum oxygen uptake, it is not possible to uniformly define the speeds of fast walking and normal walking. For the sake of explanation, here we assume a normal walking speed of 4.0 km / h and a fast walking speed of 6.0 km / h. If we call such a walking pattern of repeatedly alternating between normal walking and fast walking for three minutes each the "standard walking pattern", in terms of walking distance, it means repeatedly walking 200 m at a normal pace and 300 m at a fast pace. An example of this standard walking pattern is schematically shown in Fig. 1. In Fig. 1, the symbol N indicates normal walking (Normal walk), and the symbol F indicates fast walking (Fast Walk).

[0012] <Overview of the System including the Exercise Support Device> Fig. 2 is a system configuration diagram illustrating the system configuration of an exercise support system S including an exercise support device according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 2, the exercise support system S includes an exercise support device 1 realized by an information processing device such as a smartphone or a personal computer, and a terminal device 2 such as a smartwatch. The exercise support device 1 is communicably connected to a server computer 3 via a communication network such as the Internet, a LAN, or a WAN. The exercise support device 1 and the terminal device 2 are communicably connected by wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0013] The exercise support device 1 acquires route alignment information (route information) related to the route the user intends to walk via a communication network N from an external device, for example, and generates a walking pattern suitable for the user to walk along that route, taking into account the route alignment information, based on user information input by the user. "Route alignment information" refers to information about the gradient and curves of the route the user intends to walk. Route alignment information may also include other information such as the condition of the road surface and, in the case of routes in urban areas, the location of traffic signals. The exercise support device 1 can register the generated walking pattern with the server computer 3. The registered walking pattern may be made shareable by multiple users. Route setting can be configured so that the user accesses map data via a smartphone acting as the exercise support device 1 and inputs the settings on the map. Alternatively, it may be configured so that the user can select from multiple model routes pre-registered on the server computer 3 or other external devices. Route alignment data can be acquired from the map data as planar alignment and elevation information, which are sets of position coordinates along the set route. If the exercise support device 1 is implemented as a smartphone, the user can wear the smartphone on their body and use it as a terminal device 2, which will be described later. The exercise support device 1 can be implemented as a device in various forms. The possible forms of the exercise support device 1 of this embodiment will be described later with respect to the configuration example shown in Figure 3.

[0014] The terminal device 2 is generally a portable terminal device such as a smartwatch worn by a user who intends to perform walking exercise, and is communicably connected to the exercise support device 1 by means of communication such as Bluetooth. For example, in this embodiment, the terminal device 2 has a function of transferring and outputting walking pattern data on the walking route created by the exercise support device 1, or transferring information indicating the user's state detected by various sensors provided in the terminal device 2 to the exercise support device 1. The terminal device 2 can also be configured to function as the exercise support device 1 by being communicably configured with the server computer 3 via the communication network N. In that case, the terminal device 2 as the exercise support device 1 functions to acquire route linear information from the communication network N, create a walking pattern, and register the created walking pattern in the server computer 3 via the communication network N.

[0015] The server computer 3 is a computer that manages the functions of the exercise support system S, provides the exercise support device 1 with information about the user necessary for creating a walking pattern and route linear information, and has a function of registering and managing the walking pattern data for each route and each user created by each exercise support device 1. The server computer 3 may be a computer installed at a single location, or may be configured as a cloud system composed of a plurality of computers distributed on the network.

[0016] <Configuration example of the exercise support device> Next, the configuration of the exercise support device 1 in this embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of the exercise support device 1 in an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 3, the exercise support device 1 in this embodiment includes a processing unit 11, a main storage unit 12, an auxiliary storage unit 13, an input unit 14, an output unit 15, and a communication unit 16. The sensor unit 17 and the GNSS unit 18 shown by the dashed line in FIG. 3 are not essential as elements of the hardware of the exercise support device 1.

[0017] As shown with respect to Figure 2, the exercise support device 1 in this embodiment can be realized in various forms. The main function of the exercise support device 1 is to acquire path information, including information on curves and gradients, for the path that the user intends to take to perform movement, generate a movement pattern that takes this path information into account, and provide it to the user. Therefore, the exercise support device 1 in this embodiment can first be configured as an information processing device such as a smartphone, tablet terminal, or personal computer, without a sensor unit 17 or a GNSS unit 18. In that case, it is also possible to configure the server computer 3 exemplified in Figure 2 to function as the exercise support device 1. The exercise support device 1 configured in this way can generate a suitable movement pattern for the path that the user will take to perform movement, based on path information acquired from an external source, and provide it to the user. The exercise support device 1 in this embodiment can also be configured as an information processing device including a sensor unit 17 and a GNSS unit 18. In this case, the exercise support device 1 can be realized as, for example, a smartphone, wristwatch-type terminal, etc., equipped with all the hardware elements shown in Figure 3, and it is possible to create a walking pattern based on path alignment information in a scene in which the user is performing exercise. In particular, wearable devices such as smartwatches, used as exercise support devices 1, can be used to create walking patterns based on path alignment information while being worn during exercise, thus improving user convenience. Furthermore, as will be described later, the exercise support system S can be used not only for users to create walking patterns, but also for creating movement patterns when performing movement exercises that combine walking and running.

[0018] The hardware elements illustrated in Figure 3 will now be explained. The processing unit 11 is composed of a processor that performs various calculations and control processes necessary for the operation of the motion support device 1. The processing unit 11 can also be referred to as a processor. The processors that make up the processing unit 11 include, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), SoC (System on a Chip), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), PLD (Programmable Logic Device), or FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or combinations thereof. Furthermore, the processing unit 11 may also be a combination of these processors with hardware accelerators, etc.

[0019] The main memory unit 12 stores programs such as firmware, system software, and application software, and also functions as a work area that is temporarily used for various processing tasks. The main memory unit 12 is composed of, for example, non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and volatile memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0020] The auxiliary storage unit 13 stores user information, acquired path alignment information, created walking pattern information, etc. The auxiliary storage unit 13 is composed of semiconductor memory or the like.

[0021] The input unit 14 consists of various components such as a touch panel, keys, and a microphone, and accepts user input. The output unit 15 consists of a display equipped with the aforementioned touch panel to display images and a speaker to amplify sound, and outputs images and sound.

[0022] The communication unit 16 controls the communication between the motor support device 1 and other terminal devices 2, server computers 3, and other external information processing devices. The communication unit 16 is composed of, for example, network connection devices such as SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) cards and network adapters, and wireless communication devices based on communication standards such as BLE (Bluetooth® Low Energy), Wi-Fi® (Wireless Fidelity), and NFC (Near Field Communication).

[0023] The communication unit 16 may exchange information with an external information processing device via a network such as the Internet, or it may exchange information with an external information processing device via a paired information processing terminal.

[0024] The sensor unit 17 consists of various sensors that detect the user's state and movements. The sensor unit 17 is composed of, for example, an acceleration sensor, an angular acceleration sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, a pressure sensor, a heart rate sensor, etc. The acceleration sensor, angular acceleration sensor, geomagnetic sensor, and pressure sensor can make the sensor unit 17 function as a behavior detection unit to detect the user's movements, or as a location determination unit together with the GNSS unit 18 described later. In addition, the heart rate sensor can make the sensor unit 17 function as a biometric information acquisition unit to obtain the user's heart rate as biometric information.

[0025] The GNSS unit 18 is a positioning information acquisition unit for obtaining location information. GNSS is an abbreviation for Global Navigation Satellite System, and the GNSS unit 16 is a satellite positioning device that utilizes satellite positioning systems such as GPS (Global Positioning System). The GNSS unit 18 is composed of antennas and electronic components, and acquires positioning satellite signals transmitted from multiple positioning satellites to determine its own position.

[0026] Next, the functions realized by the processing unit 11 of the motion support device 1 will be described. Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating the functions realized by the processing unit 11 of the motion support device 1 in one embodiment of the present invention. The processing unit 11 in this embodiment includes a communication control unit 111, an output control unit 112, an input control unit 113, a position information acquisition unit 114, a sensor information acquisition unit 115, a motion information acquisition unit 116, a user information acquisition unit 117, a path alignment information acquisition unit 118, and a movement pattern setting unit 119.

[0027] The communication control unit 111 performs processing to enable the motion support device 1 to communicate with external devices via the communication unit 18. For example, the communication control unit 111 communicates with the terminal device 2 or the server computer 3 to send and receive various types of information.

[0028] The output control unit 112 performs processing to display an image on the screen of the output unit 15. For example, the output control unit 112 performs processing to display a walking pattern display image of a walking route created by the exercise support device 1 on the screen of the output unit 15.

[0029] The input control unit 113 executes a process to accept user operations on the input unit 14. For example, the input control unit 113 executes a process to accept input operations performed by the user via the input unit 14 based on the operation screen displayed on the output unit 15's screen.

[0030] The location information acquisition unit 114 has the function of calculating the latitude, longitude, and altitude indicating the current location of the motion support device 1 or the terminal device 2 equipped with the sensor unit 17 and GNSS unit 18, based on the positioning satellite signals received by the GNSS unit 18 and the pressure signals obtained from the pressure sensor of the sensor unit 17, and using this as location information.

[0031] The sensor information acquisition unit 115 has the function of acquiring measurement values ​​obtained by each sensor from the sensor signals acquired by the various sensors provided in the sensor unit 17. The sensor unit 17 may be provided in the exercise support device 1, or it may be provided in an external device such as a wearable terminal that works in conjunction with the exercise support device 1. The same applies to the following exercise information acquisition unit 116.

[0032] The motion information acquisition unit 116 has the function of detecting the movement of the motion support device 1 based on the measured values ​​obtained from the acceleration sensor, angular acceleration sensor, geomagnetic sensor, etc. of the sensor unit 17 via the sensor information acquisition unit 115.

[0033] The user information acquisition unit 117 has the function of acquiring user information entered by the user via the input unit 14 and storing it in the auxiliary storage unit 13. User information may include, for example, user attribute information such as user identification information (ID), age, gender, height, and weight. Based on this user information, the exercise support device 1 calculates the user's maximum oxygen uptake or maximal oxygen uptake and records it as user information. The user information is used by the exercise support device 1 as data to create walking patterns that are highly effective for each user and each route. The user information may be registered in advance in the server computer 3 and loaded into the exercise support device 1, such as a smartphone, personal computer, or smartwatch, as needed when the user performs walking pattern creation.

[0034] The route alignment information acquisition unit 118 has the function of acquiring linear information relating to a walking route for which a walking pattern is to be created from an external device such as a server computer 3. Here, "linear information" refers to information that records the start and end points and curve radius of curved sections, and the start and end points and incline angle of gradient sections for each position along the route from the starting point to the end point of the route on which the walking exercise is performed. When the exercise support device 1 of this embodiment creates a walking pattern for each route, in addition to the distribution of brisk walking and normal walking, it creates the walking pattern using as a criterion whether the curves and gradients on the route are suitable for brisk walking. In addition to curves and gradients, the route alignment information may also include points of interest (points of interest, POIs) along the route. Furthermore, the route alignment information may appropriately include other information that serves as a criterion for determining the walking pattern when interval walking exercises are performed along the route.

[0035] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of the planar alignment illustrating the relationship between position on a walking route and curves, and Figure 6 shows a schematic diagram of the longitudinal alignment illustrating the relationship between position on the route and gradient for the same walking route. Referring to Figure 5, this example route is a loop route and is generally composed of a combination of straight sections, gently curved sections, and sharply curved sections. The loop route illustrated in Figure 5 has the following planar alignment, starting from a point at distance s=0 and moving clockwise.

[0036] Curve radius R for a section along the path 0-C1 R≧Y C1-C2 R <Y C2-C3 ST C3-C4 R <Y C4-C5 ST C5-C6 R <Y C6-S R≧Y

[0037] Here, as shown in Figure 5, the symbols C1, C2, ... each represent a curve change point on the path. The symbol R represents the curve radius, the symbol Y represents the curve radius value set as the threshold for gentle and sharp curves on the path, and the symbol ST represents a straight section. The symbol N represents a normal walking section, and the symbol F represents a brisk walking section. In this embodiment, the curve radius R=Y is used as the threshold, and curve sections sharper than this are considered unsuitable for brisk walking and are excluded from the brisk walking setting when setting the walking pattern. Note that the relationship between the planar alignment of the path and the walking pattern is not limited to the above example. For example, even if the curve radius R≧Y is a curve, sections that are considered difficult to walk briskly or that may have a negative effect on the legs, such as a series of S-shaped curves, can be pre-defined not to be set as brisk walking. Each curve change point is a connection point between a straight line and a curve on the path, and is set as, for example, a point where the curvature, which was 0 in a straight section, changes to a certain finite value. For the curve radius R in a certain section of the path, the average value of the curve radius in that section or the minimum curve radius can be adopted.

[0038] Figure 6 shows a schematic longitudinal section illustrating the relationship between distance and elevation for the walking route in the example shown in Figure 5. Referring to Figure 6, this example route includes several gradient sections along with a curve similar to that in Figure 4. The route illustrated in Figure 5 has the following longitudinal alignment, starting from a point with distance s=0.

[0039] Sections on the route with gradients U and D 0-G1 L G1-G2 U>X G2-G3 L G3-G4 D>X G4-G5 L G5-S U≦X

[0040] Here, the symbols G1, G2, ... each represent a point of gradient change on the longitudinal section of the path. The symbol X represents the value of the inclination angle X set as the threshold for gentle and steep gradients, and the symbol L represents a horizontal (flat) section. The symbols U and D represent uphill and downhill gradients, respectively. In this embodiment, for both uphill and downhill gradients, U, D = X is used as the threshold, and sections with steeper uphill and downhill gradients than this are considered unsuitable for brisk walking and are excluded from the brisk walking setting when setting the walking pattern. Note that the relationship between the longitudinal alignment of the path and the walking pattern is not limited to the above example, and can be set as appropriate, for example, by changing the threshold of the inclination angle X for uphill and downhill gradients. Each gradient change point is the connection point between a flat section and a gradient on the path. For a given section of the path, the average value of the gradient in that section or the steepest gradient value can be used as the gradient.

[0041] While the path alignment information acquisition unit 118 can acquire path alignment information from an external device, if the exercise support device 1 is equipped with a sensor unit 17 and a GNSS unit 18, the exercise support device 1 itself can acquire path alignment information as data. For example, in the case of a circular route as illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, a user possessing or wearing an exercise support device 1 equipped with a sensor unit 17 and a GNSS unit 18, such as a smartwatch, can perform movement such as walking or running along the route. Based on the user's position coordinates and altitude information detected by the sensor unit 17, path alignment information including information on the curve and gradient of the route can be acquired. Specifically, for example, the user's position coordinates can be obtained from the positioning signal of the GNSS unit 18, and atmospheric pressure can be detected by the pressure sensor of the sensor unit 17. From this detected data, the relationship between the change in the user's planar position coordinates and atmospheric pressure can be obtained. The path alignment information acquisition unit 118 can use this relationship to generate the planar and longitudinal alignments of the path corresponding to Figures 5 and 6. Returning to the starting point of the circular route can be detected by checking the output of the GNSS unit 18, which indicates that the vehicle has returned to the same location as the starting point. Furthermore, when acquiring route alignment information using the motion support device 1, the user may be allowed to input points of interest (POIs) along the route via the input unit 14.

[0042] The movement pattern setting unit 119, acting as a section setting unit, has the function of creating a walking pattern suitable for the user to perform interval walking exercises on that walking route, using the acquired route alignment information and user information. First, the movement pattern setting unit 119 reads the speed during brisk walking and the speed during normal walking, which are stored in advance based on, for example, the user's gender, age, etc. Using the speed during brisk walking and the speed during normal walking, the movement pattern setting unit 119 sets a walking pattern along the route for performing interval walking, in which brisk walking and normal walking are repeated at predetermined intervals along the route obtained from the route alignment information. Here, the route alignment information is not reflected in the walking pattern. Next, the movement pattern setting unit 119 refers to the route alignment information exemplified in Figures 5 and 6 and performs a process to change sections that were excluded from the brisk walking setting to normal walking in the walking pattern set on the route according to the basic pattern of interval walking. As a result, if there are brisk walking sections that were set as steep slope sections or sharp curve sections in the basic pattern, they are changed to normal walking sections. The movement pattern setting unit 119 registers the walking pattern, which has been modified based on the path alignment information, with the server computer 3. When creating the walking pattern, a certain distance threshold may be set for the brisk walking section to enhance the exercise effect, and a distance longer than that threshold may be set.

[0043] Figure 7 shows an example of the output display of a walking pattern created by the movement pattern setting unit 119. Along the approximate planar alignment of the path, the fast walking sections are shown as diagonal lines, and the normal walking sections are shown as dots. It can be seen that the sections identified as steep gradients and sharp curves exceeding a certain threshold in Figures 5 and 6 are designated as normal walking sections. At the same time, it can be seen that even in sections where there are no steep gradients or sharp curves, fast walking sections and normal walking sections are set alternately according to the basic pattern of interval walking. In the example in Figure 7, the area around the "giant tree" designated as a POI is also set as a normal walking section. In this way, the movement pattern setting unit 119 can automatically create an effective interval walking pattern while taking into account the alignment of the path.

[0044] <Data processing by exercise support devices> Next, the walking pattern setting process by the exercise support device 1 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 8 shows a flowchart illustrating the data processing flow of the walking pattern setting process. The walking pattern setting process is a data processing process for setting a walking pattern suitable for interval walking, which aims to obtain effective exercise effects through walking, a form of body movement, while taking into account the linearity of the walking path. The walking pattern setting process is started by an operation input from a user who wishes to receive the walking pattern setting service to start the setting.

[0045] The user information acquisition unit 117 acquires user information, including the user's ID, age, gender, height, weight, etc., entered by the user through the input unit 14, and sets the appropriate brisk walking and normal walking speeds (pace) and the repetition times for brisk walking and normal walking for the user (step S11).

[0046] The route alignment information acquisition unit 118 acquires the alignment information of the route on which the interval walking exercise is to be performed from an external device such as a server computer 3 (step S12). This route may be configured so that the user can select from existing routes registered in the server computer 3, or a map application linked with the exercise support device 1 may be configured so that the desired route can be set on a map, and information such as curves, altitude, and POIs related to that route can be acquired as route alignment information. Alternatively, in the case of a circular route provided in a park or sports facility, route alignment information may be generated and used based on the altitude information and curve information of the route detected by the sensor unit 17 during the process of a user carrying or wearing the exercise support device 1 completing one lap of the circular route.

[0047] The movement pattern setting unit 119 sets a standard walking pattern along the target route using the interval walking pattern suitable for the user set in step S11 (step S13). This standard walking pattern is generated based on the user's interval walking speed and repetition time set in step S11, and the general shape of the route acquired in step S12, and does not take route alignment information into consideration.

[0048] The movement pattern setting unit 119 compares the above standard walking pattern with the path alignment information (step S14).

[0049] The movement pattern setting unit 119 determines whether there are any discrepancies between the standard walking pattern and the path alignment information (step S15). If it determines that there are no discrepancies (step S15: NO), the movement pattern setting unit 119 determines that the standard walking pattern is the walking pattern for the path being processed (step S17). Examples of paths to which the standard walking pattern can be applied directly include circular jogging and walking paths set up in flat parks with gentle undulations and no sharp curves.

[0050] In step S15, if the movement pattern setting unit 119 determines that there is a discrepancy between the standard walking pattern and the path alignment information (step S15: YES), the movement pattern setting unit 119 performs a correction to change the fast walking sections set in sections with steep gradients and sharp curves exceeding a predetermined threshold to normal walking sections (step S16). Generally, this correction process changes the repetition time between fast walking and normal walking that was appropriately secured in the standard walking pattern. It is desirable that the movement pattern setting unit 119 can adjust the length of each fast walking section and each normal walking section in order to bring the corrected walking pattern as close as possible to the standard walking pattern. For example, if a normal walking section set to correspond to a sharp curve or steep gradient is shorter than the standard, the unit can perform a process to extend the length of that section so that it is as close as possible to the length in the standard walking pattern.

[0051] The walking pattern modified in step S16 is determined as the walking pattern for the target path in step S17. The movement pattern setting unit 119 outputs the walking pattern determined in step S17 and terminates processing (step S18).

[0052] <Modification of determined walking patterns> The walking pattern determined by the movement pattern setting unit 119 can be further modified according to the results of the user actually performing interval walking based on that walking pattern. Figure 9 shows a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing flow for the walking pattern modification process. The walking pattern modification process is performed by the movement pattern setting unit 119 and is initiated when the user inputs the start of interval walking to the exercise support device 1 from the input unit 14.

[0053] In this embodiment, the exercise support device 1 can be modified based on the user's heart rate information obtained when the user actually walks along that walking pattern, by modifying the walking pattern created by the device considering the path alignment information. As mentioned above, in interval walking, it is recommended to set the walking speed so that it exceeds 70% of VO2max in the fast walking section and falls below 40% of VO2max in the normal walking section, using the user's (exercise participant's) maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) as an indicator. The user's heart rate can be used similarly as a guideline for walking speed. According to the Karvonen method, which is widely used to determine the target heart rate during exercise, the target heart rate HR during exercise is: HR = (220 - age - resting heart rate) × exercise intensity + resting heart rate The target heart rate can be calculated using the following formula, and it will vary depending on the individual's resting heart rate and the desired exercise intensity. In this embodiment, model values ​​for the target heart rate during exercise are set in advance according to the user's gender, age, etc., and these are used as a guideline for adjusting the brisk walking speed and normal walking speed.

[0054] In the walking pattern correction process illustrated in Figure 9, the movement pattern setting unit 119 acquires the user's heart rate from the heart rate sensor provided in the sensor unit 17 of the exercise support device 1 or a terminal device 2 such as a smartwatch that works in conjunction with the exercise support device 1 (step S21). The acquired heart rate data is stored in the main memory unit 12 along with the location information on the route, making it possible to distinguish whether the data is from a brisk walking section or a normal walking section.

[0055] The movement pattern setting unit 119 first compares the acquired heart rate data with the target heart rate for a brisk walking section that has been pre-stored in the main memory unit 12, for example (step S22). If it determines that the acquired heart rate data is lower than the target heart rate (step S23: YES), the movement pattern setting unit 119 extends the distance of the corresponding brisk walking section so that the heart rate in that brisk walking section reaches the target heart rate (step S24). The degree to which the distance is extended in this case can be determined in advance by conducting tests.

[0056] Next, the movement pattern setting unit 119 compares the acquired heart rate data with a target heart rate for a normal walking section that has been pre-stored in the main memory unit 12, for example (step S25). If it determines that the acquired heart rate data is higher than the target heart rate (step S26: YES), the movement pattern setting unit 119 extends the distance of the corresponding normal walking section so that the heart rate in that section falls below the target heart rate (step S27). The degree to which the distance is extended in this case can be determined in advance by conducting tests.

[0057] The movement pattern setting unit 119 stores the modified walking pattern in the main memory unit 12 or the auxiliary memory unit 13 and outputs it via the output unit 15, thereby ending the walking pattern modification process (step S28).

[0058] In this way, by modifying the walking pattern according to the user's heart rate during interval walking, it is possible to set an effective walking pattern that increases the heart rate to achieve the necessary exercise intensity during brisk walking, while lowering the heart rate sufficiently during normal walking to prevent excessive strain on the body.

[0059] Furthermore, during interval walking, the set walking pattern can be presented to the user visually or audibly via the output unit 15 of the exercise support device 1. When presenting the pattern, tactile means such as vibration may be used in conjunction, and the timing of the output may be simultaneous with the pattern change, or a method of informing the user in advance, such as "You will soon be entering a brisk walking section," may be used. Tactile means can also be used as a notification means on their own. This allows for more reliable execution of effective exercise patterns, and is expected to bring about appropriate exercise effects for the user.

[0060] (Embodiment 2) A second embodiment of the present invention will now be described. The exercise support device 1 described in the above embodiment had a function to create a walking pattern when a user performs interval walking, in which they alternate between normal walking and brisk walking at predetermined time intervals. The exercise support device 1 according to the second embodiment aims to extend this function beyond walking to include running, jogging, and all other forms of physical movement. In this embodiment, the exercise support device 1 provides a function to adjust and set the pattern of movement along the path in which such a user, i.e., the exerciser, performs movement, i.e., the sections in which they run, jog, or walk, based on the linear information of the path.

[0061] <Configuration and Function of the Exercise Support Device 1 According to the Second Embodiment> <<Configuration of the Exercise Support Device 1>> The exercise support device 1 of this embodiment has basically the same configuration as the exercise support device 1 of the first embodiment. Based on the differences in function from the first embodiment, the movement pattern setting unit provided in the processing unit 11 of the first embodiment sets patterns that include not only walking but also running, jogging, and other types of running.

[0062] <<Functions of Exercise Support Device 1>> Here, the function of the movement pattern setting unit 119 that realizes the movement pattern setting function in the second embodiment will be described by focusing on it. For ease of understanding, it is assumed that the linear information of the path for making a movement such as running is the same as that in FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0063] FIG. 10 illustrates the planar linearity of the path corresponding to FIG. 5. In this embodiment, three forms of movement, namely walking, jogging, and running, are assumed as the forms of movement, and they are represented by the symbols W, J, and Ru, respectively. The symbols Y1 and Y2 respectively indicate the thresholds used when classifying the curves on the path according to the curve radius. Here, it is assumed that Y2>Y1, that is, the curve radius becomes larger, that is, gentler, from Y1 to Y2. In the second embodiment, regarding the curve of a certain section on the path, with R = Y1, Y2 (Y2>Y1) as the threshold, when R<Y1, only walking is possible, when Y2>R≧Y1, walking or jogging is possible, and when R≧Y2, walking, jogging, or running can be assigned. With such settings, walking is assigned to sharp curves and corners that are difficult to pass through at high speed, and jogging and running are additionally assigned to gentler curves, enabling the user to move safely on the path.

[0064] Figure 11 shows the longitudinal alignment of the path corresponding to Figure 6. The symbols X1 and X2 indicate thresholds used when classifying the gradient on the path according to its slope angle, respectively. Here, X2 > X1, that is, the gradient increases from X1 to X2, i.e., becomes steeper. In the second embodiment, regarding the relationship between the uphill gradient U and downhill gradient D on the path and the type of exercise, with respect to the thresholds X1 and X2 (X2 > X1), if U, D > X2, only walking is possible; if X2 ≥ U, D > X1, walking or jogging is possible; and if X1 ≥ U, D, walking, jogging, or running is possible. This is because the burden (impact force) on the legs when running or walking increases as the gradient becomes steeper, so jogging or running is not assigned depending on the gradient. This prevents excessive physical strain on the user when exercising. Regarding uphill gradients U, it is possible that running or jogging may actually enhance the exercise effect if the gradient is not excessively steep. Therefore, it may be advisable to set appropriate thresholds so that jogging or running can be assigned to these gradients.

[0065] Figure 12 shows an example of an output exercise pattern created by the exercise support device 1 according to the second embodiment for the route illustrated in Figures 10 and 11. In the example in Figure 12, running sections are shown as diagonal lines, jogging sections as dots, and walking sections as blank spaces, along the approximate planar alignment of the route. It can be seen that sections identified as steep gradients and sharp curves exceeding a certain threshold in Figures 10 and 11 are designated as walking sections. At the same time, even in sections where there are no steep gradients or sharp curves, running, jogging, and walking are arranged according to a predetermined regularity. The distance settings and arrangement of each running, jogging, and walking section can be determined based on a training plan formulated to improve the exercise effect. Alternatively, the exercise pattern set by the movement exercise pattern setting unit 119 based on the route alignment information may be adopted as is. In this way, the movement exercise pattern setting unit 119 can automatically create an exercise pattern while considering the alignment of the route on which movement exercises, including running and jogging, are performed, similar to the first embodiment.

[0066] <Data processing by the exercise support device of the second embodiment> Next, the movement pattern setting process by the exercise support device 1 of the second embodiment will be described. Figure 13 shows a flowchart illustrating the data processing flow of the movement pattern setting process. The movement pattern setting process is a data processing process for setting a movement pattern that is suitable for obtaining effective exercise effects by mainly using running, a form of movement, in combination with jogging and walking, taking into account the linearity of the path. The movement pattern setting process is started by an operation input from a user who wishes to receive the movement pattern setting service to start the setting.

[0067] The user inputs the movement pattern they intend to perform through the input unit 14 (step S31). In this embodiment, since the movement patterns in so-called interval training are expected to vary widely depending on the user's purpose, preferences, etc., the initial movement pattern is provided by the user. In this regard, for example, model patterns for interval training may be prepared on the server computer 3 and made available for the user to select. The movement pattern set by the user can be set in a form similar to the standard walking pattern illustrated in Figure 1 of the first embodiment.

[0068] The route alignment information acquisition unit 118 acquires route alignment information of the route to be used for the exercise from an external device such as the server computer 3 (step S32). The manner of acquiring route alignment information is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0069] The motion pattern setting unit 119 compares the motion pattern set in step S31 with the path alignment information (step S33).

[0070] The motion pattern setting unit 119 determines whether there are any discrepancies between the set motion pattern and the path alignment information (step S34). If it determines that there are no discrepancies (step S34: NO), the motion pattern setting unit 119 determines that the motion pattern set in step S31 is the motion pattern for the path being processed (step S36).

[0071] In step S34, if the motion pattern setting unit 119 determines that there is a discrepancy between the initially set motion pattern and the path alignment information (step S34: YES), the motion pattern setting unit 119 performs modifications such as changing running or jogging in sections with gradients or curves exceeding a predetermined threshold to walking (step S35). In this case, as in the first embodiment, it is desirable that the motion pattern setting unit 119 can adjust the length of each section in order to bring the modified motion pattern as close as possible to the initially set motion pattern.

[0072] The movement pattern modified in step S35 is determined as the movement pattern for the target path in step S36. The movement pattern setting unit 119 outputs the movement pattern determined in step S36 and terminates processing (step S37). In this embodiment as well, as in the first embodiment, the system may perform a process to modify the set movement pattern based on the user's biometric information such as heart rate.

[0073] As described above, the exercise support device 1 in the embodiment of the present invention includes a path alignment information acquisition unit 118, which is a path information acquisition unit that acquires path information, which is information relating to the path on which the user performs movement, and a section setting unit 119 that, based on the acquired path information, sets a first section, which is a section on the path in which the user walks or runs at a first speed, and a second section, which is a section on the path in which the user walks or runs at a second speed lower than the first speed.

[0074] In this way, it is possible to create walking or running patterns that allow users to enjoy appropriate exercise benefits depending on the conditions of the route.

[0075] The route alignment information acquisition unit 118 may acquire information regarding the alignment of the route the user will travel as route information, and the section setting unit 119 may set the first section and the second section based on the information regarding the alignment of the route the user will travel.

[0076] In this way, a suitable walking or running pattern can be created based on the linearity of the path the user walks or runs along.

[0077] The path alignment information includes gradient information indicating the correspondence between a position on the path and the gradient on the path, and curve information indicating the correspondence between a position on the path and the curve on the path. The movement pattern setting unit 119 can set the path such that a section suitable for walking or running at the first speed satisfies the conditions that the gradient in that section is less than a predetermined threshold and the radius of the curve is greater than a predetermined threshold.

[0078] In this way, it is possible to avoid steep gradients and curves along the route, set sections where movement should be performed more quickly, and thus enhance the user's exercise effectiveness.

[0079] The motion pattern setting unit 119 may set the first section and the second section on the path such that the motion of moving at least a first distance at the first speed and the motion of moving at least a second distance at the second speed are repeated along the path.

[0080] In this way, it is possible to create movement patterns suitable for interval training such as interval walking, which enhances the exercise effect for the user.

[0081] When the motion pattern setting unit 119 sets the first interval, it may set the length of the first interval to be greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold.

[0082] In this way, a predetermined distance can be secured that provides the user with an appropriate level of exertion as a section for walking or running at a faster pace.

[0083] The movement pattern setting unit 119 may output the first section and the second section set on the path in a manner that can be identified through at least one of the senses of sight, hearing, and touch.

[0084] In this way, users can easily grasp the walking or running patterns created for a given movement path through at least one of their senses: sight, hearing, and touch.

[0085] The aforementioned movement may include at least one of the following: the user walking or the user running.

[0086] In this way, it is possible to provide users with a variety of movement patterns, such as walking and running, that meet their specific needs.

[0087] When a user moves along the aforementioned path, path alignment information for the path may be obtained based on the user's time-series position information detected along the path.

[0088] In this way, by having the user walk or run along a path for movement, such as a circular route, path alignment information for that path can be obtained.

[0089] The route alignment information may include a record of a notable location on the route, and the section setting unit may set the vicinity of the notable location on the route as the second section.

[0090] This approach encourages users to walk or run more slowly near points of interest along their route.

[0091] The movement pattern setting unit 119 may adjust the setting distance of the first section, the second section, or either one thereof, based on the biometric information acquired about the user.

[0092] In this way, based on changes in the user's biometric information such as heart rate, the distances of sections where the user walks or runs faster and sections where they walk or run slower can be set to better optimize the exercise effect for the user.

[0093] The series of processes described above can be executed by hardware or by software. In other words, the functional configuration in Figure 3 is merely illustrative and not particularly limited. That is, it is sufficient that the motor support device 1 is equipped with a function that can execute the series of processes described above as a whole, and the type of functional block used to realize this function is not particularly limited to the example in Figure 3. Furthermore, a single functional block may be composed of hardware alone, software alone, or a combination of both. The functional configuration in this embodiment is realized by a processor that performs arithmetic processing, and processors that can be used in this embodiment include not only those composed of various processing units such as single processors, multiprocessors, and multicore processors, but also those that are a combination of these various processing units with processing circuits such as ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits) and FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays).

[0094] When a series of processes are executed by software, the programs that make up that software are installed on a computer or other device from a network or storage medium. The computer may be a computer built into dedicated hardware. Alternatively, the computer may be a computer capable of performing various functions by installing various programs, such as a general-purpose personal computer.

[0095] Such recording media containing programs consist not only of removable media such as USB memory distributed separately from the main unit to the user to provide the program, but also of recording media provided to the user in a state where they are pre-installed in the main unit. Removable media consist of, for example, magnetic disks (including floppy disks), optical disks, or magneto-optical disks. Optical disks consist of, for example, CD-ROMs (Compact Disk-Read Only Memory), DVDs (Digital Versatile Disks), Blu-ray® Discs, etc. Magneto-optical disks consist of, for example, MDs (Mini-Disks). Furthermore, recording media provided to the user in a state where they are pre-installed in the main unit consist of, for example, ROMs on which programs are recorded, or hard disks included in the auxiliary storage unit 13.

[0096] In this specification, the step of describing a program to be recorded on a recording medium includes not only processes that are performed chronologically in that order, but also processes that are not necessarily performed chronologically, but are executed in parallel or individually.

[0097] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are merely illustrative and do not limit the technical scope of the present invention. The present invention can take on a variety of other embodiments, and it is also possible to combine the above embodiments with their modified configurations. Furthermore, various modifications such as omissions and substitutions can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention as described herein, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as described in the claims.

[0098] The invention described in the original claims of this application is listed below. [Note 1] A route information acquisition unit acquires route information, which is information about the path a user takes to move, A section setting unit sets, based on the acquired route information, a first section in which the user moves at a first speed, and a second section in which the user moves at a second speed lower than the first speed, along the route. An information processing device equipped with the following features. [Note 2] The route information acquisition unit acquires information regarding the linearity of the route the user takes to move as route information. The information processing device according to Appendix 1, wherein the section setting unit sets the first section and the second section based on information regarding the linearity of the path the user takes to move. [Note 3] The information processing apparatus according to Appendix 1 or 2, wherein the path information includes information relating to a position in the path and a gradient in the path, and information relating to a position in the path and a curve in the path, and the section setting unit sets a section in the path to satisfy the conditions that the gradient in the section is less than a predetermined threshold and the radius of the curve is greater than a predetermined threshold, as a section suitable for movement at the first speed. [Note 4] The information processing apparatus according to any one of the appendices 1 to 3, wherein the section setting unit sets the first section and the second section on the path such that the path repeatedly moves at a first speed for at least a first distance and moves at a second speed for at least a second distance. [Note 5] The information processing apparatus according to any one of the appendices 1 to 4, wherein when the interval setting unit sets the first interval, it sets the length of the first interval to be greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold. [Note 6] The information processing apparatus according to any one of the appendices 1 to 5, wherein the section setting unit outputs the first section and the second section set on the path in a manner that can be identified through at least one of the senses of sight, hearing, and touch. [Note 7] The information processing apparatus according to any one of the appendices 1 to 6, wherein the aforementioned movement includes at least one of the user walking and the user running. [Note 8] An information processing device according to any one of the appendices 1 to 7, which acquires path alignment information for the path based on the user's time-series position information detected along the path when the user moves along the path. [Note 9] The information processing device according to any one of the appendices 1 to 8, wherein the route alignment information records a place of note on the route, and the section setting unit sets the vicinity of the place of note on the route as the second section. [Note 10] The information processing apparatus according to any one of the appendices 1 to 9, wherein the interval setting unit adjusts the setting distance of the first interval and the second interval or either one thereof based on biometric information acquired about the user. [Note 11] Information processing device, The process of obtaining route information, which is information about the path the user will travel, Based on the acquired route information, the process of setting a first section of the route, which is a section in which the user travels at a first speed, and a second section, which is a section in which the user travels at a second speed lower than the first speed, An information processing method that performs the following. [Note 12] In an information processing device, The process of obtaining route information, which is information about the path the user will travel, Based on the acquired route information, the process of setting a first section of the route, which is a section in which the user travels at a first speed, and a second section, which is a section in which the user travels at a second speed lower than the first speed, A program that executes the command. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0099] S Exercise Support System 1 Exercise support device 2 Terminal devices 3 Server Computers 11 Processing Section 117 User Information Acquisition Unit 118 Path Alignment Information Acquisition Unit 119 Movement Pattern Setting Unit

Claims

1. A route information acquisition unit acquires route information, which is information about the path a user takes to move, A section setting unit sets, based on the acquired route information, a first section in which the user moves at a first speed, and a second section in which the user moves at a second speed lower than the first speed, along the route. Equipped with, The path information includes gradient information indicating a correspondence between a position on the path and information regarding the gradient on the path, and curve information indicating a correspondence between a position on the path and information regarding a curve on the path, and the section setting unit sets a section on the path to satisfy the conditions that the gradient in the section is less than a predetermined threshold and the radius of the curve is greater than a predetermined threshold, as a section suitable for movement at the first speed.

2. The route information acquisition unit acquires information regarding the linearity of the route the user takes to move as route information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the section setting unit sets the first section and the second section based on information regarding the linearity of the path the user takes to move.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the section setting unit sets the first section and the second section on the path such that the path repeatedly moves at a first speed for at least a first distance and moves at a second speed for at least a second distance.

4. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein when the interval setting unit sets the first interval, it sets the length of the first interval to be greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold.

5. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the section setting unit outputs the first section and the second section set on the path in a manner that can be identified through at least one of the senses of sight, hearing, and touch.

6. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the aforementioned movement includes at least one of the user walking and the user running.

7. An information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, which acquires route information about the route based on the user's time-series position information detected along the route when the user moves along the route.

8. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the route information includes a location of note on the route, and the section setting unit sets the vicinity of the location of note on the route as the second section.

9. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the interval setting unit adjusts the setting distance of the first interval and the second interval or either one thereof based on biometric information acquired about the user.

10. Information processing device, The process of obtaining route information, which is information about the path the user will travel, Based on the acquired route information, the process of setting a first section in the route, which is a section in which the user travels at a first speed, and a second section, which is a section in which the user travels at a second speed lower than the first speed, Execute, The path information includes gradient information indicating a correspondence between a position on the path and information regarding the gradient on the path, and curve information indicating a correspondence between a position on the path and information regarding a curve on the path, and the setting process is an information processing method that sets a section of the path to satisfy the conditions that the gradient in the section is less than a predetermined threshold and the radius of the curve is greater than a predetermined threshold, as a section suitable for movement at the first speed.

11. In an information processing device, The process of obtaining route information, which is information about the path the user will travel, Based on the acquired route information, the process of setting a first section in the route, which is a section in which the user travels at a first speed, and a second section, which is a section in which the user travels at a second speed lower than the first speed, Make it run, The path information includes gradient information indicating the correspondence between a position on the path and information regarding the gradient on the path, and curve information indicating the correspondence between a position on the path and information regarding a curve on the path, and the setting process is a program that sets the path such that a section suitable for movement at the first speed satisfies the conditions that the gradient in the section is less than a predetermined threshold and the radius of the curve is greater than a predetermined threshold.

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