Input device, input system, input method, and input program

Abstract

The present invention provides an input device, input system, input method, and input program that allow users and other passersby to select from multiple options while minimizing the effort required. [Solution] In the guidance system 1, which is an input system, the guidance device 11 comprises a collection unit 18, a position detection unit 19, a generation unit 21, a determination unit 22, and a registration unit 23. The position detection unit 19 detects the position information of the passing object 3 based on the observation information of the passing object 3 collected by the collection unit. The generation unit generates a plurality of option images 12, which are aerial images corresponding to each of the presented options, so that they are arranged in parallel with respect to the direction of travel of the passing object 3. The display device 9 installed in the building 2 displays the plurality of generated option images 12. The determination unit determines the passing option, which is the option image 12 that the passing object 3 has passed through, based on the position information of the passing object 3, and the registration unit registers the options corresponding to the passing option as the options selected by the passing object 3.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an input device, an input system, an input method, and an input program.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an example of a system for guiding building users. In this system, a user selects information on a desired destination such as a destination floor and receives guidance from the system.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the system of Patent Document 1, when a user selects a destination, the user inserts the portable terminal he or she has into a card reader to register the destination. Therefore, when the user selects an option such as a destination, the user needs to stop by the location where the card reader is installed in the building to perform the registration operation. Thus, when the user makes a selection, it may be time-consuming for the user.

[0005] The present disclosure is related to solving such problems. The present disclosure provides an input device, an input system, an input method, or an input program that enables a selection from a plurality of options with less effort for a moving body such as a user.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The input device according to this disclosure includes: a collection unit that collects observation information of a passerby from an observation device installed in a building that observes observation information of a passerby passing through the building; a position detection unit that detects the position information of the passerby based on the observation information of the passerby collected by the collection unit; a generation unit that generates a plurality of option images, including a display of a corresponding option from a plurality of options presented to the passerby, which are aerial images displayed in a corresponding passageway or adjacent to the passageway, such that the plurality of option images are arranged in parallel with respect to the direction of travel of the passerby, and causes a display device installed in the building that displays aerial images to display the plurality of option images; a determination unit that determines a passage option, which is an option image of the passerby passing in the forward direction along a corresponding passageway, based on the position information of the passerby detected by the position detection unit; and a registration unit that registers the option from the plurality of options that corresponds to the passage option of the passerby determined by the determination unit as the option selected by the passerby.

[0007] The input system relating to this disclosure includes: an observation device installed in a building for observing observation information of a passerby passing through the building; a display device installed in the building for displaying aerial images; a collection unit for collecting the observation information of the passerby from the observation device; a position detection unit for detecting the position information of the passerby based on the observation information of the passerby collected by the collection unit; a generation unit for generating a plurality of option images, including a corresponding option from a plurality of options presented to the passerby, which are aerial images displayed in a corresponding passageway or adjacent to the passageway, such that the plurality of option images are arranged in parallel with respect to the direction of travel of the passerby, and for displaying the plurality of option images on the display device; a determination unit for determining a passage option, which is an option image of the passerby passing through a corresponding passageway in the forward direction, based on the position information of the passerby detected by the position detection unit; and a registration unit for registering the option from the plurality of options that corresponds to the passage option of the passerby determined by the determination unit as the option selected by the passerby.

[0008] The input method relating to this disclosure is a method in which a computer performs the following actions: collects observation information of a passerby from an observation device installed in a building that observes observation information of a passerby passing through the building; detects the position information of the passerby based on the observation information of the passerby; generates a plurality of option images, including a display of a corresponding option from a plurality of options presented to the passerby, which are aerial images displayed in a corresponding passageway or adjacent to the passageway, such that the plurality of option images are arranged in parallel with respect to the direction of travel of the passerby; displays the plurality of option images on a display device installed in the building that displays aerial images; determines a passage option from the plurality of option images that is an option image in which the passerby has traveled in the forward direction along a corresponding passageway, based on the position information of the passerby; and registers the option from the plurality of options that corresponds to the passage option of the passerby as the option selected by the passerby.

[0009] The input program relating to this disclosure causes a computer to perform the following actions: collect observation information of a passerby from an observation device installed in a building that observes observation information of a passerby passing through the building; detect the position information of the passerby based on the observation information of the passerby; generate a plurality of option images, including a display of a corresponding option from a plurality of options presented to the passerby, which are aerial images displayed in a corresponding passageway or adjacent to the passageway, such that the plurality of option images are arranged in parallel with respect to the direction of travel of the passerby; cause a display device installed in the building that displays aerial images to display the plurality of option images; determine a passage option from the plurality of option images that is an option image in which the passerby has traveled in the forward direction along a corresponding passageway, based on the position information of the passerby; and register the option from the plurality of options that corresponds to the passage option of the passerby as the option selected by the passerby. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] With the input device, input system, input method, or input program described herein, users and other passersby will be able to select from multiple options with less effort. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a diagram showing the configuration of the guidance system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of displaying an aerial image using the display device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] This flowchart shows an example of the operation of the guidance system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] This is a hardware configuration diagram of the main components of the guidance system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of an aerial image displayed in the guidance system according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 6] This is a diagram showing the configuration of the guidance system according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of an aerial image displayed in the guidance system according to Embodiment 4. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of an aerial image displayed in a guidance system according to a modified example of Embodiment 4. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] The embodiments for carrying out the subject matter of this disclosure will be described with reference to the attached drawings. In each drawing, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are simplified or omitted as appropriate. However, the subject matter of this disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments, and any modification of any component of the embodiments or omission of any component of the embodiments is possible without departing from the spirit of this disclosure.

[0013] Embodiment 1. Figure 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the guidance system 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0014] The guidance system 1 applies to part or all of one or more buildings 2. Here, building 2 may include not only indoor parts such as rooms and corridors, but also outdoor parts such as the perimeter, courtyards, rooftops, and connecting passages. Building 2 may be a commercial facility, office building, public facility, transportation facility, mixed-use facility, or other facility. The guidance system 1 is a system that provides guidance for movement to a pedestrian 3 passing through building 2. The pedestrian 3 is, for example, a user, who is a person passing through building 2, or an autonomous mobile device, who is a machine passing through building 2. The guidance system 1 accepts the selection of options such as destinations from the pedestrian 3 and provides guidance to the pedestrian 3 based on the selection received as input from the pedestrian 3. The guidance system 1 is an example of an input system that accepts input from the pedestrian 3.

[0015] In building 2 to which guidance system 1 is applied, elevator system 4 is also applied. Building 2 has multiple floors. Elevator system 4 includes multiple elevators 5. Each elevator 5 is a device that transports users, who are people using elevator system 4, between multiple floors of building 2. Each elevator 5 includes a car (not shown) in which users ride. Each elevator car 5 travels vertically through a hoistway, which is a space spanning multiple floors of building 2, transporting the users riding in it between multiple floors. Each elevator car 5 is an example of a transport body. On each floor of building 2, there is an elevator landing 6. At each landing 6, there are multiple landing doors 7. Each landing door 7 corresponds to one of the elevators 5. The landing doors 7 open and close so that users can board and alight when the car of the corresponding elevator 5 arrives on the floor where the landing door 7 is located. Elevator system 4 includes a group control device 8. The group control device 8 is a device that manages the operation of each elevator car 5. The group control device 8 is an example of a control device that manages the operation of a transport system. The group control device 8 assigns a call from a user of the elevator system 4 to one of the elevators 5. The car of the elevator 5 to which the call has been assigned travels along the hoistway in a manner that allows it to respond to the call. Part or all of the elevator system 4 may be an internal system of the guidance system 1 included in the guidance system 1, or it may be an external system of the guidance system 1 that works in conjunction with the guidance system 1.

[0016] The guidance system 1 comprises a display device 9, an observation device 10, and a guidance device 11.

[0017] The display device 9 is installed in building 2 to which the guidance system 1 is applied. The display device 9 is a device that displays aerial images in a space separate from the device body in building 2. The display device 9 is, for example, one or more aerial displays. The device body of the display device 9 is placed, for example, in a building structure such as a wall, column, floor, or ceiling of building 2, or in another location. When the device body of the display device 9 is installed embedded in a building structure such as a wall or column, the display device 9 displays aerial images in the space adjacent to the device body embedded in the building structure. The display device 9 displays multiple optional images 12 as aerial images. The multiple optional images 12 present multiple choices to the pedestrian 3. The multiple choices are, for example, destinations such as the destination floor of the pedestrian 3. Each optional image 12 corresponds to one of the multiple choices. Each optional image 12 includes a display area 14 that displays the corresponding choice. The display area 14 is the part of the optional image 12 that displays information for the pedestrian 3. The display area 14 is placed, for example, in a position that is easily visible to the pedestrian 3, who is a person. The display area 14 of the optional video 12 displays, for example, "3" if the optional video 12 corresponds to the 3rd floor, which is a destination floor option. Each optional video 12 is displayed in or adjacent to the corresponding passageway 13. Each passageway 13 is an area in the building 2 through which a vehicle 3 can travel, and the guidance system 1 guides the vehicle 3 so that it travels in the front-to-back direction. Each optional video 12 is, for example, a gate video. The gate video is, for example, an aerial video displayed in the space surrounding the passageway 13 from the left and right directions perpendicular to the front-to-back direction of the corresponding passageway 13, or an aerial video displayed in the space surrounding the passageway 13 from the left, right, and above directions of the corresponding passageway 13. For example, if the corresponding passageway 13 is near a wall, the gate video may be an aerial video displayed in the space on either the left or right side of the passageway 13, flanking the passageway 13 together with the wall. The gate image is an aerial image displayed in the space around a gate, door, arch, tunnel, or other corresponding passageway 13. The display device 9 displays optional images 12, such as the gate image, on a pre-defined boundary 15 in the building 2.The boundary 15 is, for example, the outer edge of a preset area in the building 2. The boundary 15 is set, for example, at the outer edge of the security area in the building 2. In this example, the boundary 15 is set, for example, at the outer edge of the landing 6 of the elevator 5. The display device 9 may be a device within the system of the guidance system 1 or a device outside the system that cooperates with the guidance system 1.

[0018] The observation device 10 is provided in the building 2 to which the guidance system 1 is applied. The observation device 10 is a device that observes the situation of the passing object 3 as observation information. The observation device 10 observes, for example, the situation of the passing object 3 around the space where the display device 9 can display an aerial image. The observation device 10 may be composed of a plurality of devices. The observation device 10 includes, for example, one or more cameras 16 that capture images of the passing object 3. The camera 16 may be a depth camera that measures the distance to the object to be photographed or the like. The observation device 10 includes, for example, one or more sound collection devices that collect the voice emitted by the passing object 3. The sound collection device is, for example, a microphone that collects sound. The sound collection device may be a directional microphone or a microphone array or the like. The observation device 10 may include a distance sensor that measures the distance to the passing object 3, an infrared sensor that detects the infrared rays emitted by the passing object 3 that is a person, or other sensors. The observation device 10 outputs the result of observing the situation of the passing object 3 as observation information. The observation information includes, for example, information such as an image captured by the camera 16 or the voice collected by the sound collection device. Part or all of the observation device 10 may be a device within the system of the guidance system 1 or a device outside the system that cooperates with the guidance system 1.

[0019] The guidance device 11 is a device that undertakes functions such as information processing in the guidance system 1. The information processing in the guidance system 1 includes accepting the selection of options of the passing object 3, etc. The guidance device 11 is an example of an input device that accepts input from the passing object 3. The guidance device 11 communicates with external devices via a communication network 17 or the like. The communication network 17 includes, for example, a wide-area network such as the Internet, a telephone line network, or an optical communication line network. The communication network 17 may include a local network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) within the building 2. The guidance device 11 communicates information through the communication network 17 with, for example, the group management device 8, the display device 9, and the observation device 10. The guidance device 11 is, for example, a computer system composed of one or more server devices, etc. Here, a computer system composed of one or more devices may sometimes be simply called a computer. When the guidance device 11 consists of a plurality of server devices, the plurality of server devices may be arranged at different locations from each other. At this time, the plurality of server devices communicate information with each other through, for example, the communication network 17. Part or all of the functions of the guidance device 11 may be implemented by, for example, processing, storage, or other resources on cloud services. Part or all of the guidance device 11 may be arranged in the building 2. Part or all of the functions of the guidance device 11 may be installed in the group management device 8, the display device 9, or the observation device 10. The guidance device 11 includes a collection unit 18, a position detection unit 19, an appearance detection unit 20, a generation unit 21, a determination unit 22, and a registration unit 23.

[0020] The collection unit 18 is a part that collects information from external devices. The collection unit 18 may receive information spontaneously transmitted by external devices at, for example, preset regular timings or timings when preset events occur, or may receive information as a response to requests transmitted to external devices. The collection unit 18 collects, for example, observation information of the passing object 3 from the observation device 10.

[0021] The position detection unit 19 is responsible for detecting the position information of the traversing object 3. The position detection unit 19 detects the position information of the traversing object 3 based on observation information collected by the collection unit 18 from the observation device 10 via the communication network 17, for example. The position detection unit 19 detects the position information of the traversing object 3 based on the captured image of the traversing object 3 included in the observation information, for example. In the guidance device 11 of this example, feature quantities for identifying the traversing object 3 are registered in advance. The position detection unit 19 identifies the traversing object 3 on the collected captured image and calculates the position information of the identified traversing object 3 using the position where the camera 16 of the observation device 10 that took the captured image is located and image recognition technology. The position detection unit 19 may also detect the position information of the traversing object 3 using other methods or a combination of other methods.

[0022] The appearance detection unit 20 is the part that detects appearance information of the passing object 3. Appearance information is information that represents at least one of the attributes, state, or behavior of the passing object 3. The attributes of the passing object 3 represent properties that do not change or hardly change with each pass, such as characteristics possessed by the passing object 3. The state of the passing object 3 represents properties that may change with each pass, such as the state of the passing object 3 at the time of passage. The behavior of the passing object 3 represents the state of the passing object 3, such as the movements of the passing object 3. Appearance information may include, for example, information as an attribute of the passing object 3, whether the passing object 3 is a person or a machine. Appearance information may also include, for example, information as an attribute of the passing object 3, such as the weight of the passing object 3, the area occupied when the passing object 3 is riding in a transport vehicle such as an elevator car 5, and the vertical, horizontal, and front-to-back dimensions of the passing object 3. Appearance information may include, for example, information as attributes of a person (passing body 3), such as the gender of the person (passing body 3), the age of the person (passing body 3), an identifier to identify the person (passing body 3), the affiliation of the person (passing body 3), and whether or not the person (passing body 3) uses a mobility aid such as a wheelchair. Appearance information may also include, for example, information as the state of the person (passing body 3), such as whether or not the person (passing body 3) is carrying in or out items, and the weight, occupied area, or dimensions of such items. Appearance information may also include, for example, biometric information as the state of a person (passing body 3), such as the complexion or body temperature of the person (passing body 3). Appearance information may also include, for example, information as behavior of the person (passing body 3), such as the speed at which the person (passing body 3) is moving. Appearance information may also include, for example, information as the state of a person (passing body 3), such as the facial expression of the person (passing body 3), the gestures of the person (passing body 3), and the way the person (passing body 3) walks. Appearance information may be information pre-registered for identifiable persons (passing body 3), or it may be information estimated from the appearance of the person (passing body 3). The appearance detection unit 20 detects appearance information of the passing object 3 based on observation information collected by the collection unit 18 from the observation device 10 via the communication network 17, for example. The appearance detection unit 20 detects appearance information of the passing object 3 based on the captured image of the passing object 3 included in the observation information, using techniques such as image recognition. The appearance detection unit 20 may also detect appearance information of the passing object 3 based on the location information of the passing object 3 detected by the location detection unit 19.

[0023] The generation unit 21 is responsible for generating multiple optional images 12 to be displayed on the vehicle 3. The generation unit 21 generates multiple optional images 12 so that they are arranged in parallel with respect to the direction of travel of the vehicle 3. In this example, the multiple optional images 12 are arranged adjacent to each other on the boundary 15. The generation unit 21 outputs information about the generated optional images 12 to the display device 9, for example, via a communication network 17, so that the optional images 12 are displayed at a timing based on the position information of the vehicle 3 detected by the position detection unit 19. The timing for displaying the optional images 12 is, for example, when the vehicle 3 enters a predetermined distance range from the roadway 13 or boundary 15.

[0024] In generating the optional video 12, the generation unit 21 sets the optional video 12, such as a gate video, to be displayed on the display device 9, based on the appearance information of the passage object 3. The generation unit 21 sets the width of the passageway 13 shown by the gate video based on the appearance information of the passage object 3. For example, the generation unit 21 generates a gate video so that the width of the passageway 13 becomes wider for a wider passage object 3. For example, the generation unit 21 generates a gate video so that the width of the passageway 13 is expanded to a wider extent than usual when the passage object 3 is loading or unloading goods, or when the passage object 3 is using a mobility aid such as a wheelchair. The generation unit 21 may also set the height at which the optional video 12 is displayed based on the appearance information of the passage object 3. For example, the generation unit 21 generates the optional video 12 so that the display position is higher for a taller passage object 3.

[0025] The generation unit 21 may, for example, set the correspondence between the location information of the passing object 3 and the timing of displaying the optional video 12 based on the appearance information of the passing object 3. For example, the generation unit 21 sets the option video 12 to be displayed earlier for passing objects 3 that are moving at a faster speed, when the passing object 3 is at a greater distance from the passageway 13 or boundary 15. For example, the generation unit 21 sets the option video 12 to be displayed earlier than usual for passing objects 3 that are people, when the passing object 3 is elderly, when the passing object 3 is using a mobility aid such as a wheelchair, or when the passing object 3 is not in good health. If the passing object 3 is identifiable, the generation unit 21 may set the timing of displaying the optional video 12 using the reactions of the passing object 3 when it has passed in the past as appearance information. For example, if the generation unit 21 detects that the pedestrian 3 is confused or surprised by the display after the optional video 12 is shown, it sets the pedestrian 3 to display the optional video 12 at an earlier timing on subsequent occasions. For example, if the generation unit 21 detects that the pedestrian 3 increases its speed after the optional video 12 is shown, it sets the pedestrian 3 to display the optional video 12 at a later timing on subsequent occasions.

[0026] When generating the optional video 12, the generation unit 21 may also generate an additional video 24, which is an aerial image displayed together with the optional video 12. The additional video 24 contains information about the entire set of options. For example, if the options represent destination floors, the additional video 24 displays information such as "desired destination floor" that explains the content of the option selected by the pedestrian 3. The additional video 24 is displayed adjacent to the multiple optional videos 12 by the display device 9. The additional video 24 is displayed, for example, in the space above the multiple optional videos 12.

[0027] The determination unit 22 is responsible for determining the passage option for the passing object 3 from among a plurality of optional images 12. The passage option is the optional image 12 in which the passing object 3 travels in the forward direction along the corresponding passage path 13, among the plurality of optional images 12 displayed in parallel. The forward direction is the direction from rear to front in the direction of travel of the passing object 3. The determination unit 22 determines the passage option based on, for example, the passage path of the passing object 3. The determination unit 22 detects the passage path of the passing object 3 based on, for example, the position information of the passing object 3 detected by the position detection unit 19. The determination unit 22 may also detect the passage path of the passing object 3 based on observation information collected by the collection unit 18 from the observation device 10 via the communication network 17. The determination unit 22 may also detect the passage path of the passing object 3 using techniques such as image recognition based on the captured image of the passing object 3 included in the observation information.

[0028] The registration unit 23 is responsible for registering the option selected by the passage vehicle 3 from among multiple options presented to the passage vehicle 3. The registration unit 23 registers the option corresponding to the passage option of the passage vehicle 3 determined by the determination unit 22 as the option selected by the passage vehicle 3. For example, if the option presented to the passage vehicle 3 is a destination floor, and the passage vehicle 3 travels along the passage path 13 of the option video 12 corresponding to the 3rd floor, the determination unit 22 determines that the option video 12 is a passage option. At this time, the registration unit 23 registers the 3rd floor, which is the destination floor corresponding to the option video 12, as the selection of the passage vehicle 3.

[0029] In this example, the registration unit 23 outputs the destination floor selected by the passenger vehicle 3 to the group control device 8. At this time, the group control device 8 assigns the passenger vehicle 3's call to the elevator 5 based on the destination floor selected by the passenger vehicle 3. The elevator car of the elevator 5 to which the passenger vehicle 3's call is assigned travels to the passenger vehicle 3's departure floor. The group control device 8 pre-registers the passenger vehicle 3's call to the destination floor in the elevator car of the elevator 5 so that the elevator car can travel to the destination floor after the passenger vehicle 3 has boarded. When the group control device 8 assigns a call for the passenger vehicle 3 to any of the elevators 5, it transmits identification information to the guidance device 11 to identify the elevator 5 to which the call was assigned. The identification information is, for example, the elevator number that identifies the elevator 5.

[0030] When the registration unit 23 outputs the destination floor selected by the vehicle 3, it may transmit the appearance information detected by the appearance detection unit 20 for the vehicle 3 to the group management device 8. The registration unit 23 may also transmit the destination floor information and the appearance information together. At this time, the group management device 8 assigns the vehicle 3's call to the elevator 5 based on the vehicle 3's appearance information. For example, the group management device 8 assigns calls to vehicle 3, which is an autonomous mobile vehicle, according to conditions such as whether or not it can carry a person. For example, the group management device 8 assigns calls to vehicle 3, which is a person, prioritizing it if the vehicle 3 is elderly or uses a mobility aid such as a wheelchair. For example, the group management device 8 assigns calls in a way that can improve the operational efficiency of each elevator 5, according to the weight or occupied area of ​​the vehicle 3. The group management device 8 may, for example, assign calls based on the appearance information of the pedestrian 3, taking into account combinations of passengers and other factors. The group management device 8 may also assign calls based on the height, age, or other appearance information of the pedestrian 3, which is a person.

[0031] The collection unit 18 receives, for example, information about the operation of each elevator car 5 from the group control device 8. The information about the operation of the elevator car 5 includes, for example, call information assigned to that elevator 5. The call information includes, for example, identification information that identifies, from among the multiple elevators 5, the elevator car to which a call for a passenger 3 has been assigned for the passenger 3 to board.

[0032] The generation unit 21 may generate a guidance video 25, which is an aerial image displayed behind the optional video 12, when the specific information collection unit 18 receives from the group control device 8 to identify the elevator car 5 to which a call has been assigned based on the selection of the travel body 3. The guidance video 25 is displayed behind the multiple optional video 12 as the travel body 3 moves forward in the direction of travel. For example, if the call of the travel body 3 is assigned to elevator car 5 car B, the guidance video 25 will display "Car B" as specific information, indicating the car number.

[0033] The pedestrian 3 identifies the elevator 5 to which it has been assigned a call via the guidance video 25, etc., and moves in front of the landing door 7 of the elevator 5. Since the elevator car of the elevator 5 that arrives at the pedestrian 3's departure floor has the call to the destination floor already registered, the pedestrian 3 does not need to perform any operations such as specifying the destination floor when boarding the car. The pedestrian 3 boards the car and travels to the destination selected via the guidance system 1.

[0034] Figure 2 shows an example of the display of aerial images by the display device 9 according to Embodiment 1.

[0035] In this example, the main body of the display device 9 is installed embedded in the wall of building 2. The display device 9 comprises a video source 26, a beam splitter 27, and a retroreflective element 28.

[0036] The image source 26 is positioned inside the wall of building 2. The image source 26 is a device that emits visible light images that form the basis of the aerial image. In this example, the image source 26 is a display panel that displays a two-dimensional image. The image source 26 may also be a volumetric display that displays a three-dimensional image, for example.

[0037] The beam splitter 27 is an optical element that transmits a portion of the incident light and reflects the other portion. The beam splitter 27 is, for example, a half-mirror. In this example, the beam splitter 27 has a planar shape. In this example, the beam splitter 27 is positioned parallel to the wall surface of building 2.

[0038] The retroreflective element 28 is positioned on the inside of the wall of building 2. The retroreflective element 28 is an optical element that reflects light incident from the incident direction in a reflection direction parallel to the incident direction and opposite to the incident direction.

[0039] Light from the image source 26 is reflected by the beam splitter 27. The light reflected by the beam splitter 27 is incident on the retroreflective element 28. The retroreflective element 28 reflects the incident light in the opposite direction. The light reflected by the retroreflective element 28 is incident on the beam splitter 27. The light that is reflected by the retroreflective element 28 and then transmitted without being reflected by the beam splitter 27 converges in the space outside the wall adjacent to the wall, forming a real image of the aerial image. In this way, the display device 9 displays the aerial image to the passerby 3. At this time, the displayable range in which the aerial image can be displayed is a range symmetrical to the range in which the image source 26 displays the image, with the beam splitter 27 as the plane of symmetry.

[0040] The display device 9 may also display aerial images using other methods. The display device 9 may also display multiple optional images 12, additional images 24, and guidance images 25 by combining multiple aerial displays or other devices.

[0041] Next, we will explain an example of the operation of the guidance system 1 using Figure 3. Figure 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the guidance system 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0042] The observation device 10 observes the status of the traffic object 3 as observational information. The observation device 10 outputs the observational information, including the observation results, to the guidance device 11.

[0043] In step S01 of the guidance device 11, the collection unit 18 collects observation information from the observation device 10. After that, the guidance device 11 proceeds to step S02.

[0044] In step S02 of the guidance device 11, the position detection unit 19 detects the position information of the pedestrian object 3 based on the collected observation information. After that, the guidance device 11 proceeds to step S03.

[0045] In step S03 of the guidance device 11, the appearance detection unit 20 detects appearance information of the traversing object 3 based on collected observation information, etc. After that, the processing of the guidance device 11 proceeds to step S04.

[0046] In step S04 of the guidance device 11, the generation unit 21 processes the generation of multiple optional images 12. The generation unit 21 sets each optional image 12 to be displayed on the display device 9 based on, for example, the appearance information of the pedestrian object 3. The generation unit 21 may also process the generation of additional images 24. After that, the processing of the guidance device 11 proceeds to step S05.

[0047] In step S05 of the guidance device 11, the generation unit 21 determines whether it is time to display the multiple optional images 12 based on the position information of the pedestrian object 3. If it is time to display the optional images 12, the guidance device 11 proceeds to step S06. On the other hand, if it is not time to display the optional images 12, the guidance device 11 proceeds to step S01. Note that if the multiple optional images 12 to be displayed for the pedestrian object 3 have already been generated, the processing in step S04 may be omitted.

[0048] In step S06 of the guidance device 11, the generation unit 21 outputs information of the multiple generated optional images 12 to the display device 9. The generation unit 21 may also output information of the generated additional images 24 to the display device 9. After that, the processing of the guidance device 11 proceeds to step S07.

[0049] The display device 9 displays multiple optional images 12 input from the guidance device 11 as aerial images on the boundary 15 in parallel with the direction of travel of the vehicle 3. When information for additional images 24 is input from the guidance device 11, the display device 9 also displays the additional images 24 as aerial images. The vehicle 3 travels along the path 13 of the optional image 12 that corresponds to the option it selects from among the multiple optional images 12 displayed by the display device 9.

[0050] In step S07 of the guidance device 11, the determination unit 22 performs a determination process for the passage option of the passage object 3 based on the position information of the passage object 3. After that, the processing of the guidance device 11 proceeds to step S08.

[0051] In step S08 of the guidance device 11, the guidance device 11 determines whether the determination unit 22 was able to determine the passage options of the passage object 3. If the passage options of the passage object 3 could not be determined, for example, if the passage object 3 passes through the boundary 15 without passing through any of the passage paths 13 of the option images 12, the guidance device 11 proceeds to step S09. On the other hand, if the guidance device 11 is successful in determining the passage options of the passage object 3, the guidance device 11 proceeds to step S10.

[0052] In step S09 of the guidance device 11, the generation unit 21 generates a notification video indicating that the determination of the passage option failed. This notification video may be a pre-set one. The generation unit 21 outputs the information of the generated notification video to the display device 9. After that, the processing of the guidance device 11 ends.

[0053] The display device 9 displays the notification video input from the guidance device 11 as an aerial image. For example, the display device 9 displays the notification video on the far side of the boundary 15 where multiple option videos 12 are displayed, in the forward direction of travel of the pedestrian 3. The pedestrian 3 can understand from the notification video that no selection has been input for it.

[0054] In step S10 of the guidance device 11, the registration unit 23 registers the options corresponding to the passage options of the passage object 3 determined by the determination unit 22 as the options selected by the passage object 3. The registration unit 23 outputs the options such as the destination floor selected by the passage object 3 to the group management device 8. The registration unit 23 may also output the appearance information of the passage object 3 to the group management device 8. After that, the processing of the guidance device 11 proceeds to step S11.

[0055] The group control device 8 assigns the call of a passenger 3 to an elevator 5 based on the passenger 3's selection of destination floor and other factors. The group control device 8 transmits specific information to the guidance device 11 to identify the elevator 5 to which the call of the passenger 3 has been assigned.

[0056] In step S11 of the guidance device 11, the generation unit 21 processes the generation of the guidance video 25. When the specific information unit 18 receives information from the group management device 8 that identifies the elevator 5 to which the call for the passage object 3 has been assigned, the generation unit 21 generates the guidance video 25 to include the display of the specific information. After that, the processing of the guidance device 11 proceeds to step S12.

[0057] In step S12 of the guidance device 11, the generation unit 21 outputs the information of the generated guidance video 25 to the display device 9. After that, the processing of the guidance device 11 is completed.

[0058] The display device 9 displays the guidance video 25 input from the guidance device 11 as an aerial image. The display device 9 displays the guidance video 25 on the far side of the direction of travel of the person traveling 3, beyond the boundary 15 where multiple optional videos 12 are displayed. The person traveling 3 confirms the specific information displayed in the guidance video 25. The person traveling 3 moves in front of the landing door 7 corresponding to the elevator 5 identified by the specific information. The person traveling 3 boards the car of the arriving elevator 5 and moves to the destination selected through the guidance system 1.

[0059] As described above, the guidance system 1 according to Embodiment 1 comprises an observation device 10, a display device 9, and a guidance device 11. The observation device 10 is installed in building 2. The observation device 10 observes observation information of a vehicle 3 passing through building 2. The display device 9 is installed in building 2. The display device 9 displays an aerial image in the space within building 2. The guidance device 11 comprises a collection unit 18, a position detection unit 19, a generation unit 21, a determination unit 22, and a registration unit 23. The collection unit 18 collects observation information of the vehicle 3 from the observation device 10. The position detection unit 19 detects the position information of the vehicle 3 based on the observation information of the vehicle 3. The generation unit 21 generates a plurality of optional images 12 arranged in parallel in the direction of travel of the vehicle 3. Each optional image 12 is an aerial image displayed in the corresponding passageway 13 or adjacent to the passageway 13. Each option video 12 includes a display of the corresponding option from among multiple options presented to the vehicle 3. The generation unit 21 displays the multiple option videos 12 on the display device 9. The determination unit 22 determines the passage option from among the multiple option videos 12 that corresponds to the option video 12 through which the vehicle 3 traveled in the forward direction along the passage path 13, based on the location information of the vehicle 3 detected by the location detection unit 19. The registration unit 23 registers the option from among the multiple options that corresponds to the passage option of the vehicle 3 determined by the determination unit 22 as the option selected by the vehicle 3.

[0060] With this configuration, the pedestrian object 3 can input its selection to the guidance system 1 by passing through one of the passageways 13 of the multiple optional images 12 displayed by the display device 9. The pedestrian object 3 does not need to stop at the location where the input device is installed or operate the device, so it can input its selection to the guidance system 1 with less effort. Since it does not require operation of the input device, there is no waiting time due to congestion or other issues related to such operation. Furthermore, even if the pedestrian object 3 is carrying luggage, has children with it, or has other difficulties operating the device, it can input its selection by passing through the passageway 13 of the optional images 12, thus further reducing the burden on the pedestrian object 3 to input its selection. In addition, since the pedestrian object 3 inputs its selection by moving, it can input its selection to the guidance system 1 even if it does not have a smartphone or other portable device with it. Moreover, as the pedestrian object 3 moves, its selection is made visible through its movement, making it easier for users in the vicinity to understand the pedestrian object 3's subsequent behavior.

[0061] Furthermore, when generating multiple optional images 12, the generation unit 21 generates an additional image 24 that is displayed together with the multiple optional images 12, so as to be adjacent to the multiple optional images 12. The additional image 24 is an aerial image that contains information about the entire set of choices. The generation unit 21 displays the generated additional image 24 together with the multiple optional images 12 on the display device 9. As a result, the passerby 3 can more clearly understand the content of the presented choices.

[0062] Furthermore, the generation unit 21 generates a guidance video 25, which is an aerial image including a display corresponding to the selected option, based on the option selected by the traveler 3 registered by the registration unit 23. The display corresponding to the option selected by the traveler 3 may include a display of the option itself, or it may include a display of specific information that is determined based on the option, such as identifying the elevator 5 to which the traveler 3 has been assigned a call. The generation unit 21 displays the guidance video 25 on the display device 9 at the far end of the traveler 3's forward direction from among the multiple option videos 12. This allows the traveler 3 to more clearly understand the results of the input selection.

[0063] Furthermore, the generation unit 21 generates each optional video 12 as a gate video displayed in the space surrounding or bordering the corresponding passageway 13. This allows the passageway 3 to more clearly understand the passageway 13 it should travel on. Also, because the range of the passageway 13 becomes clearer, the determination unit 22 can more accurately determine the passage option.

[0064] Furthermore, the group control device 8 manages the operation of multiple elevator cars 5, each capable of transporting passengers in building 2. When multiple options presented to the pedestrian 3 represent destinations such as the pedestrian 3's destination floor, the registration unit 23 outputs the destination registered as the option selected by the pedestrian 3 to the group control device 8. As a result, the pedestrian 3 can travel to its destination using the elevator 5 by passing through the passageway 13 of the optional video 12. The pedestrian 3 does not need to stop at the location of other devices in order to use the elevator 5, thus further reducing the effort required of the pedestrian 3.

[0065] Furthermore, the guidance device 11 includes a state detection unit 20. The state detection unit 20 detects state information of the traveler 3 based on observation information of the traveler 3. The state information of the traveler 3 represents at least one of the attributes, state, or behavior of the traveler 3. When the registration unit 23 outputs the destination of the traveler 3, it outputs the state information of the traveler 3 detected by the state detection unit 20 to the group management device 8. As a result, elevator 5 is assigned based on information such as the attributes of the traveler 3, allowing the traveler 3 to use the elevator 5 more comfortably or more efficiently.

[0066] Furthermore, the generation unit 21 generates multiple optional videos 12 based on the appearance information of the passing object 3 detected by the appearance detection unit 20. The width of the passageway 13 or the height of the optional videos 12 are set based on information such as the attributes of the passing object 3, making it easier for the passing object 3 to pass and increasing its convenience.

[0067] The guidance device 11 may also have a function to cancel the registration of the option selected by the vehicle 3. The cancellation of the option registration is performed, for example, as follows: The determination unit 22 determines, based on the position information detected by the position detection unit 19, whether the vehicle 3 has traveled in the reverse direction along the path 13 corresponding to any of the option videos 12. The reverse direction is the direction from front to back in the direction of travel of the vehicle 3, and is the opposite direction to the forward direction. When the determination unit 22 determines that the vehicle 3 has traveled in the reverse direction along any of the path 13, the registration unit 23 cancels the registration of the option selected by the vehicle 3. The path 13 along which the vehicle 3 travels in the reverse direction may be the path 13 of the option video 12 corresponding to the option selected by the vehicle 3, or it may be any other path 13. The guidance device 11 may also perform the cancellation process by other methods. The registration unit 23 may, for example, cancel the registration of an option for the passing object 3 if it detects a pre-set gesture of the passing object 3 indicating cancellation using image recognition or other technology based on the captured image of the passing object 3 included in the observation information. At this time, the generation unit 21 may regenerate the multiple option images 12 and redisplay the multiple option images 12 for the passing object 3 on the far side in the direction of travel of the passing object 3 via the display device 9.

[0068] Furthermore, in the guidance system 1, the transport body does not have to be the elevator car 5. For example, if building 2 is a train station, each transport body may be a train or bus departing from building 2. The management device manages operational information such as the destination, departure platform or departure stop, and departure time of trains or buses departing from building 2. The management device outputs specific information such as the platform number of the train or the vehicle number of the priority vehicle, or the bus stop number, depending on the attributes or destination of the transport body 3. For example, if building 2 has a taxi stand, each transport body may be a vehicle such as a taxi departing from building 2. The management device manages operational information such as the direction of the destination corresponding to the vehicle departing from building 2, the number of waiting vehicles, and the waiting time. The management device outputs specific information such as the stop number where the vehicle corresponding to the direction of the destination of the transport body 3 is waiting, or the stop number where the priority vehicle is waiting, depending on the attributes or destination of the transport body 3.

[0069] Next, we will explain an example of the hardware configuration of guidance system 1 using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a hardware configuration diagram of the main parts of the guidance system 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0070] Some or all of the functions of the guidance system 1 can be implemented by a processing circuit. The processing circuit comprises at least one processor 100a and at least one memory 100b. The processing circuit may also include at least one dedicated hardware 200 together with the processor 100a and memory 100b, or as a substitute for them.

[0071] When the processing circuit includes a processor 100a and a memory 100b, each function of the guidance system 1 is realized by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. At least one of the software and firmware is written as a program. This program is stored in the memory 100b. The processor 100a realizes each function of the guidance system 1 by reading and executing the program stored in the memory 100b. The program may be a program package that includes multiple subprograms, modules, or libraries. The program may also be treated as a program product that includes the program.

[0072] The processor 100a is also called a CPU (Central Processing Unit), processing unit, arithmetic unit, microprocessor, microcomputer, or DSP. The memory 100b is composed of non-volatile or volatile semiconductor memory such as RAM, ROM, flash memory, EPROM, or EEPROM.

[0073] If the processing circuit includes dedicated hardware 200, the processing circuit may be implemented as, for example, a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel programmed processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, or a combination thereof.

[0074] Each function of the guidance system 1 can be implemented by a separate processing circuit. Alternatively, each function of the guidance system 1 can be implemented collectively by a processing circuit. For each function of the guidance system 1, some may be implemented by dedicated hardware 200, and others by software or firmware. In this way, the processing circuit implements each function of the guidance system 1 using dedicated hardware 200, software, firmware, or a combination thereof.

[0075] Embodiment 2. In Embodiment 2, the differences from the example disclosed in Embodiment 1 will be explained in particular detail. For features not described in Embodiment 2, any of the features from the example disclosed in Embodiment 1 may be adopted.

[0076] Figure 5 shows an example of an aerial image displayed in the guidance system 1 according to Embodiment 2.

[0077] In this example, multiple transport vehicles, such as elevator cars, that the traveler 3 can board are presented as options. Each option video 12 corresponds to one of the elevators 5. The display area 14 of the option video 12 displays "A" indicating the elevator number, for example, if the option video 12 corresponds to elevator 5 unit A. The traveler 3 travels along the path 13 of the option video 12 that corresponds to the elevator 5 that the traveler 3 wishes to board. The determination unit 22 determines the travel option for the traveler 3 based on the traveler 3's location information, etc. The registration unit 23 registers the options corresponding to the travel option for the traveler 3 determined by the determination unit 22 as the option selected by the traveler 3. The registration unit 23 outputs the elevator number of the elevator 5 selected by the traveler 3 to the group management device 8. The group management device 8 assigns the call of the traveler 3 to the elevator 5 based on the elevator number of the elevator 5 desired by the traveler 3, etc. The group control device 8 transmits identification information to the guidance device 11 that identifies the elevator 5 to which the passenger 3 has been assigned a call. The generation unit 21 generates a guidance video 25 that includes, for example, the unit number of the elevator 5 selected by the passenger 3. The guidance video 25 may also include guidance information that shows the location or route of the landing door 7 of the elevator 5 selected by the passenger 3. The guidance information may be, for example, arrows that represent the location or route of the building 2 on a map. The guidance video 25 is displayed behind a group of optional videos 12 by the display device 9.

[0078] In this example, the collection unit 18 collects information about the operation of each elevator car 5 from the group management device 8, specifically the availability status of each elevator car 5. The availability status of an elevator car is, for example, the occupancy rate. The occupancy rate of an elevator car is evaluated by, for example, the ratio of the loaded weight to the rated load of the elevator car, or the occupancy rate of the floor area of ​​the elevator car. The availability status of an elevator car is, for example, the number of passengers that can ride in the elevator car. The number of passengers that can ride in the elevator car is evaluated by, for example, the number of additional passengers that can ride in the elevator car, based on the occupancy rate. The generation unit 21 generates multiple optional videos 12 based on the availability status of the elevator car. The generation unit 21 generates each optional video 12 such that, for example, in the display area 14 of each optional video 12, the number of passengers that can ride in the elevator car is displayed along with the elevator number as a display of the corresponding option for the optional video 12. The generation unit 21 may display the availability status as a number such as the number of passengers that can ride in the elevator car, as well as as an icon, or as a color coding.

[0079] Furthermore, the generation unit 21 generates multiple optional videos 12 so as not to generate an optional video 12 corresponding to an elevator car 5 that the passenger 3 cannot board. An elevator car 5 that the passenger 3 cannot board is, for example, a full car, a car with a capacity of 0 passengers, or a car with an occupancy rate higher than a preset threshold. An elevator car 5 that the passenger 3 cannot board may also be, for example, a car that is operating exclusively or preferentially for other users. An elevator car 5 that the passenger 3 cannot board may also be, for example, a car that is out of service due to maintenance work. In this example, the generation unit 21 does not generate a corresponding optional video 12 for elevator 5 unit B, which has a capacity of 0 passengers.

[0080] Embodiment 3. In Embodiment 3, the differences from the examples disclosed in Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2 will be described in particular detail. For features not described in Embodiment 3, any of the features from the examples disclosed in Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2 may be adopted.

[0081] Figure 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of the guidance system 1 according to Embodiment 3.

[0082] In this example, the observation device 10 includes a camera 16 installed at the landing 6 of the elevator 5.

[0083] The guidance device 11 includes a identification unit 29. The identification unit 29 is the part that identifies the transport object, such as the elevator car 5, in which the traveler 3 is riding. For example, the identification unit 29 identifies the elevator car 5 in which the traveler 3 is riding based on observation information collected by the collection unit 18 from the observation device 10 via the communication network 17. The identification unit 29 may also identify the elevator car 5 in which the traveler 3 is riding based on the captured image of the traveler 3 included in the observation information, using techniques such as image recognition. The identification unit 29 may also identify the elevator car 5 in which the traveler 3 is riding based on the location information of the traveler 3 detected by the location detection unit 19.

[0084] In this example, several elevator cars 5 that the traveler 3 could ride are presented as options. The traveler 3 travels along the route 13 of the option video 12 corresponding to the elevator 5 that it wishes to ride among the multiple elevators 5. The determination unit 22 determines the travel option for the traveler 3 based on the traveler 3's location information, etc. The registration unit 23 registers the option corresponding to the travel option for the traveler 3 determined by the determination unit 22 as the option selected by the traveler 3. The registration unit 23 outputs the elevator number 5 selected by the traveler 3 to the group management device 8. The group management device 8 assigns the call of the traveler 3 to the elevator 5 based on the elevator number 5 desired by the traveler 3, etc. The group management device 8 transmits specific information identifying the elevator 5 to which the call of the traveler 3 has been assigned to the guidance device 11. If the elevator 5 output to the group control device 8 as the selection for the passenger 3 is different from the elevator 5 identified by the identification unit 29 as the one the passenger 3 boarded, the registration unit 23 cancels the registration of the option selected by the passenger 3. The registration unit 23 may also output to the group control device 8 that the registration of the option has been canceled. When the group control device 8 receives the cancellation notification from the guidance device 11, it may also cancel the call for the passenger 3 that was previously registered in the elevator car 5. This ensures that even if the passenger 3 boards the wrong elevator car 5, the previously registered call for the passenger 3 is automatically canceled, thus reducing the operational efficiency of the elevator 5.

[0085] The guidance device 11 may evaluate the availability of each elevator car 5 based on information such as which elevator car 5 the person 3 actually boarded, obtained by the identification unit 29.

[0086] Embodiment 4. In Embodiment 4, the differences from the examples disclosed in Embodiments 1 to 3 will be explained in particular detail. For features not described in Embodiment 4, any of the features from the examples disclosed in Embodiments 1 to 3 may be adopted.

[0087] Figure 7 shows an example of an aerial image displayed in the guidance system 1 according to Embodiment 4.

[0088] In this example, the vehicle 3 selects a destination, such as a destination floor, from multiple options. The generation unit 21 generates multiple backup option images 30. The multiple backup option images 30 are displayed on the near side of the vehicle 3, in the opposite direction of travel from the boundary 15 where the multiple option images 12 are displayed. The multiple backup option images 30 present the vehicle 3 with multiple backup options. The multiple backup options are backup choices that narrow down the options for the vehicle 3. Each backup option image 30 is an aerial image corresponding to one of the multiple backup options. The multiple options are, for example, the range of destination floors for the vehicle 3. For example, if the backup option image 30 corresponds to the range of destination floors from the 18th to the 20th floor, it displays "18-20" to represent that range. Each backup option image 30 is displayed in the corresponding backup passageway 31 or adjacent to the backup passageway 31. Each auxiliary passageway 31 is an area within the building 2 where a vehicle 3 can travel, and the guidance system 1 guides the vehicle 3 so that it travels in the forward and backward direction. The generation unit 21 may, for example, generate multiple auxiliary option videos 30, similar to the multiple optional videos 12. The generation unit 21 outputs information of the generated multiple auxiliary option videos 30 to the display device 9, thereby causing the multiple auxiliary option videos 30 to be displayed on the display device 9 for the vehicle 3.

[0089] The determination unit 22 determines the travel option for the traveler 3 from among multiple alternative option videos 30. The travel option is the alternative option video 30 in which the traveler 3 travels in the forward direction along the corresponding alternative travel path 31, from among multiple alternative option videos 30 displayed in parallel. The determination unit 22 determines the alternative travel option based, for example, on the travel path of the traveler 3. The generation unit 21 generates multiple option videos 12 according to the alternative options corresponding to the alternative travel path 31 of the travel option determined by the determination unit 22. The generation unit 21 generates multiple option videos 12 corresponding to the options narrowed down by the alternative option selected by the traveler 3. The generation unit 21 may narrow down the options based on the alternative options based on conditions such as the numerical range represented by the alternative options, or based on pre-set correspondences between alternative options and options.

[0090] For example, when a pedestrian 3 travels along a preliminary passageway 31 of a preliminary option video 30 corresponding to a preliminary option representing the range from the 18th to the 20th floor, the determination unit 22 determines that the preliminary option video 30 is a preliminary option for travel. The generation unit 21 narrows down the options for the pedestrian 3 to the 18th, 19th, and 20th floors based on the range from the 18th to the 20th floor, which is a preliminary option that the preliminary option for travel corresponds to. The generation unit 21 generates multiple option videos 12 corresponding to the narrowed-down options. Subsequently, when a pedestrian 3 travels along a passageway 13 of an option video 12 corresponding to the option representing the 18th floor, the determination unit 22 determines that the option video 12 is a travel option. The registration unit 23 registers the 18th floor, which is an option that the travel option corresponds to, as the option selected by the pedestrian 3. With this configuration, even if, for example, the building 2 has many floors, the destination floors that are options are narrowed down in stages, so the pedestrian 3 can easily make a selection.

[0091] Figure 8 shows an example of an aerial image displayed in the guidance system 1 according to a modified example of Embodiment 4.

[0092] The guidance system 1 may accept input for the selection of the vehicle 3 through a multi-stage narrowing process of three or more stages. In this example, multiple primary backup option images 30 are displayed in front of multiple option images 12 in the direction of travel of the vehicle 3. In addition, multiple secondary backup option images 30 are displayed between the multiple primary option images 12 and the multiple option images 12 in the direction of travel of the vehicle 3.

[0093] For example, when a vehicle 3 travels along a preliminary passageway 31 of a primary preliminary option video 30 corresponding to a preliminary option representing the range from the 11th to the 20th floor, the determination unit 22 determines that the preliminary option video 30 is a primary preliminary option for passage. Based on the range from the 11th to the 20th floor, which is the preliminary option that the primary preliminary option for passage corresponds to, the generation unit 21 narrows down the preliminary options for the vehicle 3 to the range from the 11th to the 13th floor, the range from the 14th to the 17th floor, and the range from the 18th to the 20th floor. The generation unit 21 generates multiple secondary preliminary option videos 30 corresponding to the narrowed-down preliminary options. Subsequently, when a vehicle 3 travels along a preliminary passageway 31 of a secondary preliminary option video 30 corresponding to a preliminary option representing the range from the 14th to the 17th floor, the determination unit 22 determines that the preliminary option video 30 is a secondary preliminary option for passage. The generation unit 21 narrows down the options for the passage body 3 to the 14th, 15th, 16th, and 17th floors based on the range of floors from the 14th to the 17th floor, which are the secondary alternative passage options. The generation unit 21 generates multiple option videos 12 corresponding to the narrowed-down options. Subsequently, when the passage body 3 travels along the passage path 13 of the option video 12 corresponding to the option representing the 15th floor, the determination unit 22 determines that the option video 12 is a passage option. The registration unit 23 registers the 15th floor, which is the option corresponding to the passage option, as the option selected by the passage body 3.

[0094] To summarize the above explanation, the possible configurations of the technology relating to this disclosure include the configurations listed below as appendices. (Note 1) A collection unit that collects observation information of a passerby from an observation device installed in a building that observes observation information of a passerby passing through the building, A position detection unit detects the position information of the passing object based on the observation information of the passing object collected by the collection unit, A generation unit generates a plurality of optional images, which are aerial images displayed on a corresponding passageway or adjacent to said passageway and include a display of a corresponding option from a plurality of options presented to the passageway, such that the plurality of optional images are arranged in parallel with respect to the direction of travel of the passageway, and causes a display device that displays aerial images and is installed in the building to display the plurality of optional images. Based on the position information of the passing body detected by the position detection unit, a determination unit determines a passage option from among the plurality of option images which is an option image in which the passing body has traveled in the forward direction along a corresponding passage path. A registration unit registers, from among the multiple options, the option that corresponds to the passage option of the passage body determined by the determination unit as the option selected by the passage body, An input device equipped with the following features. (Note 2) The generation unit generates an additional image adjacent to the multiple option images, which is an aerial image displayed together with the multiple option images and contains information about the entire set of choices, and displays the additional image together with the multiple option images on the display device. The input device described in Appendix 1. (Note 3) The generation unit generates a guidance video, which is an aerial image including a display corresponding to the selected option, based on the option selected by the passerby registered by the registration unit, and displays the guidance video on the display device at the far end of the forward direction of travel from among the multiple option videos. The input device described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2. (Note 4) The generation unit generates each of the multiple optional images as a gate image to be displayed in the space that surrounds or encloses the corresponding passageway. An input device as described in any one of the notes 1 through 3. (Note 5) When the aforementioned multiple options represent destinations that the vehicle can choose, The registration unit outputs the destination registered as a selected option for the vehicle to a management device that manages the operation of a vehicle capable of transporting people boarding at the building. An input device as described in any one of the appendices 1 through 4. (Note 6) Aspect detection unit detects aspect information representing at least one of the attributes, state, or behavior of the passing object based on the observation information of the passing object collected by the collection unit. Equipped with, When the registration unit outputs the destination of the passing object, it outputs the appearance information of the passing object detected by the appearance detection unit to the management device. The input device described in Appendix 5. (Note 7) Aspect detection unit detects aspect information representing at least one of the attributes, state, or behavior of the passing object based on the observation information of the passing object collected by the collection unit. Equipped with, The generation unit generates the plurality of optional images based on the appearance information of the passing object detected by the appearance detection unit. An input device as described in any one of the appendices 1 through 4. (Note 8) When the aforementioned multiple options represent a transport body that the passenger can board from among a plurality of transport bodies that can each transport a passenger boarding the building, The registration unit outputs the registered transport body as the option selected by the transport body to the management device that manages the operation of the multiple transport bodies. An input device as described in any one of the appendices 1 through 4. (Note 9) The generation unit does not generate optional video corresponding to the transport vehicle among the plurality of transport vehicles that the passenger cannot board. The input device described in Appendix 8. (Note 10) The generation unit generates the multiple optional videos so that each video also displays the availability status of the corresponding transport vehicle. The input device described in Appendix 8 or Appendix 9. (Note 11) The determination unit determines, based on the position information detected by the position detection unit, whether the passing body traveled in the reverse direction along the passage corresponding to one of the plurality of optional images. The registration unit cancels the registration of the option selected by the vehicle when the determination unit determines that the vehicle has traveled in the opposite direction along any of the passageways. An input device as described in any one of the appendices 1 through 10. (Note 12) Based on the observation information of the pedestrian collected by the collection unit, the identification unit identifies the transport vehicle on which the pedestrian is riding, from among a plurality of transport vehicles each capable of transporting people boarding in the building. Equipped with, An input device as described in any one of the appendices 1 through 4. (Note 13) When the aforementioned multiple options represent the transport vehicles on which the passenger can board, The registration unit outputs the registered transport body as the option selected by the passenger to the management device that manages the operation of the multiple transport bodies, and cancels the registration of the transport body selected by the passenger if the transport body and the transport body identified by the identification unit as the one the passenger boarded are different. The input device described in Appendix 12. (Note 14) The generation unit generates a plurality of alternative option images, which are aerial images displayed on a corresponding alternative passage or adjacent to the alternative passage and include a display of a corresponding alternative option from a plurality of alternative options presented to the passage body, such that the plurality of alternative option images are arranged in parallel with respect to the direction of travel, and displays the plurality of alternative option images on the display device on the side in front of the option images, returning in the opposite direction of travel from the plurality of option images. Based on the position information of the passing body detected by the position detection unit, the determination unit determines a passing alternative option from among the plurality of alternative option videos, which is an alternative option video in which the passing body has traveled in the forward direction along the corresponding alternative passage path. The generation unit generates the plurality of option images corresponding to each of the plurality of options narrowed down by the preliminary options corresponding to the preliminary passage routes of the preliminary passage options determined by the determination unit. An input device as described in any one of the appendices 1 through 13. (Note 15) An observation device installed in a building to observe information on objects passing through the building, The aforementioned building is equipped with a display device that displays aerial images, A collection unit that collects the observation information of the passing body from the observation device, A position detection unit detects the position information of the passing object based on the observation information of the passing object collected by the collection unit, A generation unit generates a plurality of optional images, which are aerial images displayed on a corresponding passageway or adjacent to said passageway and include a display of a corresponding option from a plurality of options presented to the passageway, such that the plurality of optional images are arranged in parallel with respect to the direction of travel of the passageway, and displays the plurality of optional images on the display device, Based on the position information of the passing body detected by the position detection unit, a determination unit determines a passage option from among the plurality of option images which is an option image in which the passing body has traveled in the forward direction along a corresponding passage path. A registration unit registers, from among the multiple options, the option that corresponds to the passage option of the passage body determined by the determination unit as the option selected by the passage body, An input system equipped with the following features. (Note 16) Computers The collection of observation information of a passerby from an observation device installed in a building that observes observation information of a passerby passing through the building, Based on the observation information of the aforementioned object, the location information of the object is detected. The process involves generating a plurality of optional images, which are aerial images displayed on or adjacent to a corresponding passageway and include a display of a corresponding option among a plurality of options presented to the passageway, such that the plurality of optional images are arranged in parallel with respect to the direction of travel of the passageway, The display device installed in the building that displays aerial images will display the multiple optional images, Based on the position information of the passing body, a passage option is determined from among the plurality of option images, which is an option image in which the passing body travels in the forward direction along the corresponding passage path. Of the aforementioned multiple options, the option corresponding to the passage option of the passage body is registered as the option selected by the passage body. The input method for executing this. (Note 17) On the computer, The collection of observation information of a passerby from an observation device installed in a building that observes observation information of a passerby passing through the building, Based on the observation information of the aforementioned object, the location information of the object is detected. The process involves generating a plurality of optional images, which are aerial images displayed on or adjacent to a corresponding passageway and include a display of a corresponding option among a plurality of options presented to the passageway, such that the plurality of optional images are arranged in parallel with respect to the direction of travel of the passageway, The display device installed in the building that displays aerial images will display the multiple optional images, Based on the position information of the passing body, a passage option is determined from among the plurality of option images, which is an option image in which the passing body travels in the forward direction along the corresponding passage path. Of the aforementioned multiple options, the option corresponding to the passage option of the passage body is registered as the option selected by the passage body. An input program that executes an action. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0095] 1. Guidance system, 2. Building, 3. Passageway, 4. Elevator system, 5. Elevator, 6. Landing, 7. Landing door, 8. Group control device, 9. Display device, 10. Observation device, 11. Guidance device, 12. Optional video, 13. Passageway, 14. Display area, 15. Boundary, 16. Camera, 17. Communication network, 18. Data collection unit, 19. Position detection unit, 20. Aspect detection unit, 21. Generation unit, 22. Judgment unit, 23. Registration unit, 24. Additional video, 25. Guidance video, 26. Video source, 27. Beam splitter, 28. Retroreflective element, 29. Identification unit, 30. Backup optional video, 31. Backup passageway, 100a. Processor, 100b. Memory, 200. Dedicated hardware

Claims

1. A collection unit that collects observation information of a passerby from an observation device installed in a building that observes observation information of a passerby passing through the building, A position detection unit detects the position information of the passing object based on the observation information of the passing object collected by the collection unit, A generation unit generates a plurality of optional images, which are aerial images displayed on a corresponding passageway or adjacent to said passageway and include a display of a corresponding option from a plurality of options presented to the passageway, such that the plurality of optional images are arranged in parallel with respect to the direction of travel of the passageway, and causes a display device that displays aerial images and is installed in the building to display the plurality of optional images. Based on the position information of the passing body detected by the position detection unit, a determination unit determines a passage option from among the plurality of option images which is an option image in which the passing body has traveled in the forward direction along a corresponding passage path. A registration unit registers, from among the multiple options, the option that corresponds to the passage option of the passage body determined by the determination unit as the option selected by the passage body, An input device equipped with the following features.

2. The generation unit generates an additional image adjacent to the multiple option images, which is an aerial image displayed together with the multiple option images and contains information about the entire set of choices, and displays the additional image together with the multiple option images on the display device. The input device according to claim 1.

3. The generation unit generates a guidance video, which is an aerial image including a display corresponding to the selected option, based on the option selected by the passerby registered by the registration unit, and displays the guidance video on the display device at the far end of the forward direction of travel from among the multiple option videos. The input device according to claim 1.

4. The generation unit generates each of the multiple optional images as a gate image to be displayed in the space that surrounds or encloses the corresponding passageway. The input device according to claim 1.

5. When the aforementioned multiple options represent destinations that the vehicle can choose, The registration unit outputs the destination registered as a selected option for the vehicle to a management device that manages the operation of a vehicle capable of transporting people boarding at the building. The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. Aspect detection unit detects aspect information representing at least one of the attributes, state, or behavior of the passing object based on the observation information of the passing object collected by the collection unit. Equipped with, When the registration unit outputs the destination of the passing object, it outputs the appearance information of the passing object detected by the appearance detection unit to the management device. The input device according to claim 5.

7. Aspect detection unit detects aspect information representing at least one of the attributes, state, or behavior of the passing object based on the observation information of the passing object collected by the collection unit. Equipped with, The generation unit generates the plurality of optional images based on the appearance information of the passing object detected by the appearance detection unit. The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

8. When the aforementioned multiple options represent a transport body that the passenger can board from among a plurality of transport bodies that can each transport a passenger boarding the building, The registration unit outputs the registered transport body as the option selected by the transport body to the management device that manages the operation of the multiple transport bodies. The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

9. The generation unit does not generate optional video corresponding to the transport vehicle among the plurality of transport vehicles that the passenger cannot board. The input device according to claim 8.

10. The generation unit generates the multiple optional videos so that each video also displays the availability status of the corresponding transport vehicle. The input device according to claim 8.

11. The determination unit determines, based on the position information detected by the position detection unit, whether the passing body traveled in the reverse direction along the passage corresponding to one of the plurality of optional images. The registration unit cancels the registration of the option selected by the vehicle when the determination unit determines that the vehicle traveled in the wrong direction on any of the passageways. The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

12. Based on the observation information of the pedestrian collected by the collection unit, the identification unit identifies the transport vehicle on which the pedestrian is riding, from among a plurality of transport vehicles each capable of transporting people boarding in the building. Equipped with, The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

13. When the aforementioned multiple options represent the transport vehicles on which the passenger can board, The registration unit outputs the registered transport body as the option selected by the passenger to the management device that manages the operation of the multiple transport bodies, and cancels the registration of the transport body selected by the passenger if the transport body and the transport body identified by the identification unit as the one the passenger boarded are different. The input device according to claim 12.

14. The generation unit generates a plurality of alternative option images, which are aerial images displayed on a corresponding alternative passage or adjacent to the alternative passage and include a display of a corresponding alternative option from a plurality of alternative options presented to the passage body, such that the plurality of alternative option images are arranged in parallel with respect to the direction of travel, and displays the plurality of alternative option images on the display device on the side in front of the option images, returning in the opposite direction of travel from the plurality of option images. Based on the position information of the passing body detected by the position detection unit, the determination unit determines a passing alternative option from among the plurality of alternative option videos, which is an alternative option video in which the passing body has traveled in the forward direction along the corresponding alternative passage path. The generation unit generates the plurality of option images corresponding to each of the plurality of options narrowed down by the preliminary options corresponding to the preliminary passage routes of the preliminary passage options determined by the determination unit. The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

15. An observation device installed in a building to observe information on objects passing through the building, The aforementioned building is equipped with a display device that displays aerial images, A collection unit that collects the observation information of the passing body from the observation device, A position detection unit detects the position information of the passing object based on the observation information of the passing object collected by the collection unit, A generation unit generates a plurality of optional images, which are aerial images displayed on a corresponding passageway or adjacent to said passageway and include a display of a corresponding option from a plurality of options presented to the passageway, such that the plurality of optional images are arranged in parallel with respect to the direction of travel of the passageway, and displays the plurality of optional images on the display device, Based on the position information of the passing body detected by the position detection unit, a determination unit determines a passage option from among the plurality of option images which is an option image in which the passing body has traveled in the forward direction along a corresponding passage path. A registration unit registers, from among the multiple options, the option that corresponds to the passage option of the passage body determined by the determination unit as the option selected by the passage body, An input system equipped with the following features.

16. Computers The collection of observation information of a passerby from an observation device installed in a building that observes observation information of a passerby passing through the building, Based on the observation information of the aforementioned object, the location information of the object is detected. The process involves generating a plurality of optional images, which are aerial images displayed on or adjacent to a corresponding passageway and include a display of a corresponding option among a plurality of options presented to the passageway, such that the plurality of optional images are arranged in parallel with respect to the direction of travel of the passageway, The display device installed in the building that displays aerial images will display the multiple optional images, Based on the position information of the passing body, a passage option is determined from among the plurality of option images, which is an option image in which the passing body travels in the forward direction along the corresponding passage path. Of the aforementioned multiple options, the option corresponding to the passage option of the passage body is registered as the option selected by the passage body. The input method for executing this.

17. On the computer, The collection of observation information of a passerby from an observation device installed in a building that observes observation information of a passerby passing through the building, Based on the observation information of the aforementioned object, the location information of the object is detected. The process involves generating a plurality of optional images, which are aerial images displayed on or adjacent to a corresponding passageway and include a display of a corresponding option among a plurality of options presented to the passageway, such that the plurality of optional images are arranged in parallel with respect to the direction of travel of the passageway, The display device installed in the building that displays aerial images will display the multiple optional images, Based on the position information of the passing body, a passage option is determined from among the plurality of option images, which is an option image in which the passing body travels in the forward direction along the corresponding passage path. Of the aforementioned multiple options, the option corresponding to the passage option of the passage body is registered as the option selected by the passage body. An input program that executes an action.

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