Electronic equipment, systems, and programs

Abstract

To provide an electronic apparatus whose setting can be easily performed.SOLUTION: An electronic apparatus comprises: first communication means that receives setting information by automatically performing near field communication (NFC) with another electronic apparatus when entering a communicable area with the other electronic apparatus that transmits the setting information to the electronic apparatus; and control means that changes the setting of the electronic apparatus on the basis of the setting information received by the first communication means. Preferably, the "communicable area" is a range where "the other electronic apparatus" can be identified as an intended communication partner while being discriminated from an apparatus other than "the other electronic apparatus" on the basis of, for example, relative position relation between "the electronic apparatus" and "the other electronic apparatus". Especially preferably, the "communicable area" is a range within approximately 10 cm from communication means of "the other electronic apparatus". Most preferably, the "communicable area" is approximately a range where the communication means of the electronic apparatus is in contact with the communication means of the other electronic apparatus.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic device, a system, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, technologies for realizing interconnection of various electronic devices constituting a home network and enabling these electronic devices to exchange content data such as video and audio have been established (see, for example, Patent Document 1). If the home network is constituted by a wireless network, a user can freely view content stored in a storage processing device called NAS (Network Attached Storage) using a so-called portable information terminal such as a tablet computer or a smartphone without being restricted by location within an area where the user can connect to the wireless network.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in order to perform content audition via the network as described above, it is necessary to perform complicated settings on the NAS and the terminal, and it has not been easily available to users who are not familiar with the settings of the network and devices.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an electronic device and a system that can be set more easily than in the past. This object is achieved by, for example, a combination of features described in an independent claim in the claims. The dependent claims define further advantageous specific examples of the present invention.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] (1) In order to solve the above problems, the electronic device of the present invention comprises a first communication means that, when it enters an area where it can communicate with other electronic devices that transmit setting information for the electronic device, automatically performs near-field communication (NFC) with other electronic devices to receive setting information, and a control means that changes the settings of the electronic device based on the setting information received by the first communication means.

[0007] According to the electronic device of the present invention, the settings of the electronic device to be configured can be performed simply by placing the electronic device to be configured in an area that can communicate with other electronic devices that have pre-stored configuration information. For example, if the electronic device is configured to be portable, it can be configured simply by bringing it into an area that can communicate with other electronic devices, without requiring any other complicated operations. Even users unfamiliar with operating electronic devices can easily perform the desired settings. For example, the other electronic device may store configuration information for this electronic device. Alternatively, the other electronic device may be configured to send and receive configuration information. The configuration information may be, for example, the user's desired settings. Alternatively, the configuration information may be stored in an NFC tag. If such an NFC tag is provided, the electronic device can be configured simply by bringing the tag close to it.

[0008] "Automatically" means, for example, a configuration that does not require user operation. For instance, when an electronic device enters a communication range with another electronic device, either the electrical device or the other electronic device initiates communication.

[0009] The "communication area" can be defined as the range in which the "other electronic device" can be identified as the intended communication partner, distinguished from other devices, based on the relative positional relationship between the "electronic device" and the "other electronic device." In particular, it is best to define this range as approximately 10 cm from the communication means of the "other electronic device," and most preferably as the range in which the communication means of the electronic device and the communication means of the other electronic device come into contact.

[0010] (2) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, the electronic device and other electronic devices each include display means, and the first communication means of the electronic device receives information about an image as setting information from the other electronic device by short-range wireless communication, and the control means controls the display in the display means of the electronic device based on the information about the image.

[0011] According to the electronic device of the present invention, when an image is displayed on another electronic device, simply by placing the electronic device within a communication range with the other electronic device, the electronic device can receive information about the image displayed on the other electronic device and display information according to the received information. Therefore, for example, when a movie is being shown on a television, simply by bringing the electronic device close to the television, information about the movie being shown on the television can be displayed on the electronic device. The information about the image may be, for example, information about a still image, but it is particularly preferable to have information about a moving image. The information about a moving image may be, for example, information about the sound played in conjunction with the moving image, or information about the moving image itself, but it is preferable to have information necessary for playing the moving image. Also, the image may be, for example, a 2D image or a 3D image. It may be, for example, a black and white image or a color image. The other electronic device may store information about the image being displayed by the other electronic device as setting information for the electronic device.

[0012] (3) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, the first communication means receives information from the other electronic device as setting information for displaying the continuation of the image being displayed on the other electronic device, and the control means causes the display means of the electronic device to display the continuation of the image being displayed on the other electronic device.

[0013] According to the electronic device of the present invention, when an image is being displayed on another electronic device, simply by bringing the electronic device into an area where it can communicate with the other electronic device, the continuation of the image being displayed on the other electronic device can be displayed on the electronic device. Examples of information used to display the continuation on the electronic device include identification information for the last displayed image, identification information for the first image to be displayed as a continuation, and, if the image is a video, information on the playback position to be displayed as a continuation.

[0014] For example, other electronic devices may store information as configuration information that allows them to display the continuation of an image that the other electronic device is displaying on its display means. For example, the control means may, based on the configuration information received by the first communication means, cause the display means of the electronic device to display the continuation of an image that the other electronic device is displaying on its display means.

[0015] "A continuation of an image displayed on another electronic device, to be displayed on the display means of an electronic device" should be defined as an image that the user can see, recognizes as being displayed, or is already displayed. For example, it could be an image slightly prior to the image currently displayed on the other electronic device, but it is especially important that it be an image that is either currently displayed on the other electronic device or a later image than the image currently displayed on the other electronic device, within a range that the user can recognize as a continuation.

[0016] For example, if the image displayed on the display device of another electronic device is a video file being played, the timing may be set to a position earlier than the currently displayed video within that file, but it is preferable to set it to the currently displayed video's timing or a position later than the currently displayed video. For example, if the image displayed on the display device of another electronic device is a television broadcast currently in progress, the timing may be set to the channel selection information of that television broadcast, but it is also preferable to always record the television broadcast and configure it to be playable from any point in time, so that it starts playing from a position earlier than the currently displayed television broadcast. However, it is preferable to set it to the currently displayed television broadcast's timing or simply the position of the currently broadcasting television broadcast based on channel selection information, etc.

[0017] (4) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, the information relating to an image includes information restricting the reproduction of the image.

[0018] The electronic device of the present invention can control the display on the display means based on copy restriction information. The copy restriction information may be, for example, information that restrictions on copying have been imposed on the content, such as content whose copying is prohibited by technology to prevent unauthorized copying (technical protection means), or content whose number of copies is limited. The control means may be configured to control the content according to the content of the restriction, for example, by stopping the display of the next image or prompting the user to stop the display on other electronic devices, thereby allowing the user to continue displaying while avoiding infringement of the restriction. With such a configuration, the user can be provided with a display that corresponds to the imposed copy restriction without the user being aware of the restriction.

[0019] (5) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, if the copy restriction information indicates that copying is not permitted, the control means prevents the display means of the electronic device from displaying the image that is being displayed on another electronic device.

[0020] The electronic device of the present invention makes it possible to avoid displaying images that are not permitted to be copied on multiple electronic devices simultaneously. For example, the control means may be controlled so that the display means does not display the image that another electronic device is displaying while that device is displaying the image. Specifically, for example, the control means may be controlled so that it does not display the image until it receives notification from another electronic device that it has finished displaying the image. Such control can prevent displays that violate copying restrictions.

[0021] (6) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, when the copy restriction information indicates that copying is permitted, the control means displays the image on the display means of the electronic device and performs output control to prompt the user to choose whether or not to continue displaying the image on other electronic devices, inputs the user's choice, and controls whether or not to display the image on other electronic devices based on the input.

[0022] The electronic device of the present invention allows the user to choose whether to continue displaying an image on another electronic device or to end the display on the other electronic device. For example, with respect to content that is not prohibited from being copied, the control means may allow the user to choose whether to continue displaying the rest of an image that another electronic device is displaying on the display means of that other electronic device. This allows the user to freely choose which device to continue displaying. Examples of cases where the copy restriction information indicates that copying is permitted include cases where the copy restriction information is information that permits copying, or cases where the copy restriction information does not contain information that restricts copying.

[0023] (7) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, when the first communication means receives information from the other electronic device regarding an image being displayed by the other electronic device, the control means performs output control to prompt the user to choose whether to display the image being displayed by the other electronic device or the image being displayed by the display means of the electronic device, inputs the user's selection, and controls which image to display on the display means of the electronic device based on the input.

[0024] According to the electronic device of the present invention, the user can be made to select which of the images displayed on another electronic device and the image displayed on the display means is to be displayed on the display means. For example, in a scenario where both the electronic device and another electronic device are each displaying an image separately, information for displaying the continuation is transmitted and received as setting information, and the user can freely select which device's image continuation is to be displayed. In this way, for example, complex procedures such as stopping the display on the electronic device that does not display the continuation and then transmitting and receiving setting information by short-range wireless communication can be omitted, and the continuation of the desired content can be easily displayed.

[0025] (8) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, when the electronic device is already displaying an image, the control means performs output control to prompt the user to select which of the images displayed on another electronic device and the image displayed on the electronic device is to be displayed on the display means, inputs the user's selection, and controls which of them is to be displayed on the display means of the electronic device based on the input content.

[0026] According to the electronic device of the present invention, when the display means is already displaying an image, the user can be made to select which of the images displayed on another electronic device and the image displayed on the display means is to be displayed on the display means. When the display means is not displaying an image, the image displayed on another electronic device can be displayed without making the user select.

[0027] (9) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, when the first communication means receives information regarding the image displayed on another electronic device from the other electronic device, and when the electronic device is already displaying an image, the control means performs output control to display both the image displayed on the other electronic device and the image displayed on the electronic device on the display means of the electronic device and prompt the user to select one of them, performs control to input the selection content, and displays either the image displayed on the other electronic device or the image displayed on the electronic device based on the selection content.

[0028] According to the electronic device of the present invention, when a display means is already displaying an image, the user can be presented with both images and allowed to make a selection whether to display an image displayed by another electronic device or an image displayed by the display means. For example, the display means may be equipped with a touch panel input function. This allows the user to display the rest of the desired content through intuitive operation via the touch panel.

[0029] (10) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, the electronic device further comprises a location information acquisition means for acquiring location information of the electronic device and a database relating to location information of traffic monitoring points, the first communication means receives update data of location information of traffic monitoring points as setting information from other electronic devices, and the control means updates the database based on the update data received by the first communication means.

[0030] According to the electronic device of the present invention, the database can be updated without complicated operations simply by placing another electronic device containing update data in a communication area with an electronic device equipped with a database of location information of traffic monitoring points. Therefore, the database of location information of traffic monitoring points can be easily updated even in limited spaces such as the interior of a vehicle, or in electronic devices where the operability of the input / output interface is not good.

[0031] (11) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, when the first communication means enters an area where it can communicate with the other electronic device when the other electronic device is in a first state, it transmits information stored in the electronic device to the other electronic device, and when the first communication means enters an area where it can communicate with the other electronic device when the other electronic device is in a second state different from the first state, it receives setting information from the other electronic device.

[0032] The electronic device of the present invention can switch between transmitting and receiving depending on the state of other electronic devices. For example, it is preferable to enable bidirectional communication between the electronic device and other electronic devices, and to configure the device so that it switches which of the electronic devices acts as the transmitter depending on the state of the electronic device.

[0033] (12) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, when the first communication means enters an area where it can communicate with other electronic devices, it transmits unique information specific to the electronic device stored in the electronic device to the other electronic device and receives setting information from the other electronic device.

[0034] According to the electronic device of the present invention, when bidirectional communication is possible between an electronic device and another electronic device, the settings of the electronic device and the acquisition of information from the other electronic device can be performed together by bringing the electronic device into a range where it can communicate with the other electronic device.

[0035] (13) Preferably, the electronic device of the present invention further comprises an input / output interface, the input / output interface which, when the first communication means enters an area where it can communicate with other electronic devices, emits an output requesting permission from the user to transmit unique information specific to the electronic device to the other electronic device, and when the user inputs an input to the input / output interface indicating permission in response to the output requesting permission, the first communication means transmits unique information specific to the electronic device to the other electronic device and receives setting information from the other electronic device.

[0036] According to the electronic device of the present invention, by obtaining permission from the user in advance to transmit information, it is possible to prevent the transmission of information that the user does not wish to receive. Unique information may include, for example, information that requires user permission to transmit, such as personal information, or information that may concern the user's privacy and that they may not wish to transmit.

[0037] The "input / output interface" could be, for example, a touch panel display. With such a configuration, input can be made in response to the visually displayed output, making it easy for even users unfamiliar with operating the device to perform input operations in response to the output. Another example is that the "input / output interface" could consist of a speaker and a microphone. With such a configuration, input operations in response to the output can be performed even when the user's hands are occupied.

[0038] (14) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, the input / output interface has a display means, and when the first communication unit enters an area in which it can communicate with other electronic devices, the display means displays a request for permission to transmit unique information specific to the electronic device to the other electronic device, and in response to the user performing an operation to express permission to transmit the unique information, the first communication means transmits unique information specific to the electronic device to the other electronic device and receives setting information from the other electronic device.

[0039] According to the electronic device of the present invention, setting information stored in other electronic devices is automatically set in the electronic device on the condition that the user provides unique information specific to the electronic device, thereby motivating the user to provide unique information.

[0040] (15) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, the electronic device further comprises a location detection means for detecting location information of the current location and a navigation means for guiding a route from the current location to a set destination, the first communication means transmits to other electronic devices information indicating at least the current location and the destination as unique information specific to the electronic device, and receives route information from the other electronic devices as setting information, and the control means sets the route information received by the first communication means as the route to be guided by the navigation means.

[0041] According to the electronic device of the present invention, the current location information detected by the location detection means and the destination set in the navigation means can be transmitted to another electronic device, and route information to the destination can be obtained from the other electronic device. Therefore, route search functions, route selection functions, etc., can be performed by an external device to the electronic device equipped with the navigation means, and a navigation device can be realized with a simple configuration.

[0042] (16) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, the history of location information detected by the location detection means is further transmitted to other electronic devices as unique information.

[0043] The electronic device of the present invention can provide other electronic devices with a history of location information in addition to the current location and destination. The history of location information is, for example, driving log data, and the electronic device may be configured to collect driving log data from the user through other electronic devices. The electronic device may be further configured to transmit the collected driving log data to an external device that performs route selection processing. Such a configuration can improve the accuracy of route selection performed by the external device.

[0044] (17) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, the electronic device further comprises a location detection means for detecting location information of the current location, and a navigation means for searching for a route from the current location to a set destination and guiding according to the route obtained by the search, wherein the first communication means receives information indicating the destination as setting information from another electronic device, and the control means sets the destination to the navigation means based on the received information indicating the destination.

[0045] The electronic device of the present invention can receive destination information from other electronic devices. For example, a new spot not registered in this electronic device can be searched for using another electronic device that can connect to the internet (e.g., a smartphone), and destination information can be obtained. This configuration allows this electronic device to receive the obtained information from the other electronic device. With this configuration, a new spot can be easily set as a destination simply by placing the other electronic device used for the search within a communication range with this electronic device.

[0046] (18) Preferably, the electronic device of the present invention further comprises a location detection means for detecting location information of the current location and a navigation means for guiding the user on a route from the current location to a set destination, and receives social networking service (SNS) posting information received by other electronic devices as setting information from other electronic devices, and the navigation means analyzes the posting information to extract information on spots along the guided route and presents it to the user.

[0047] The electronic device of the present invention can present users with spots along a guided route that are trending on social media. Therefore, it can present users with spots that are trending on social media, even if they have not directly set them as their destination.

[0048] (19) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, the navigation means receives vehicle information relating to the status of the vehicle and selectively presents spot information to the user based on the vehicle information.

[0049] The electronic device of the present invention can prompt the user to stop at a spot that is trending on social media, even if it is not directly set as a destination, based on the vehicle's status. The navigation means, for example, can receive information on remaining fuel as vehicle information, and if the remaining fuel is below a predetermined amount, it can extract information about refueling facilities from social media posts and prompt the user to stop at such a refueling facility.

[0050] (20) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, the navigation means selectively presents spot information to the user based on the current time.

[0051] The electronic device of the present invention can prompt the user to visit a spot that is trending on social media, even if it is not directly set as a destination, based on the current time. For example, if the current time is near noon, the navigation means can extract information about restaurants from social media posts and prompt the user to visit a restaurant that is trending on social media.

[0052] (21) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, when the navigation means analyzes posted information and extracts information on spots along the guided route, it gives importance to extracting spot information by posting by the user of the electronic device itself.

[0053] The electronic device of the present invention can prioritize the user's own posts in social media posts and present information that the user is likely to adopt. For example, if a user has posted "I'm hungry" on social media, the electronic device can extract restaurant information from the post and encourage the user to visit a restaurant that is trending on social media.

[0054] (22) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, the navigation means changes the frequency with which it presents spot information to the user according to the time elapsed since it last communicated via short-range wireless communication with another electronic device.

[0055] The electronic device of the present invention can present information to the user at an appropriate timing according to the time elapsed since the last short-range wireless communication with another electronic device. The navigation means may, for example, not have a constant frequency for presenting spot information. Specifically, for example, the longer the time elapsed since the last short-range wireless communication with another electronic device, the lower the frequency of presenting spot information to the user should be. With such a configuration, the longer the time elapsed since the last short-range wireless communication with another electronic device, the lower the frequency of presenting spot information to the user should be. Therefore, for users who do not engage in short-range wireless communication with other electronic devices, it is possible to suppress the presentation of unnecessary information, such as information about spots along the guidance route, and prevent it from hindering them from reaching their destination. When short-range wireless communication is engaged with another electronic device, it is presumed that the user has a high interest in spot information, and the frequency of information presentation should be increased. As time elapsed since the short-range wireless communication, it is presumed that the user's interest will wane, and the frequency of information presentation should be decreased.

[0056] (23) Preferably, the electronic device of the present invention further comprises a display means, and the navigation means presents information of a spot to the user by displaying it on the display means.

[0057] According to the electronic device of the present invention, information about a spot can be displayed on a display means and presented to the user visually.

[0058] (24) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, the display means displays a map, and the navigation means, after a predetermined time has elapsed since the display means displayed the spot information, terminates the display of the spot information and displays an icon indicating the spot at the position corresponding to the spot on the map.

[0059] The electronic device of the present invention prevents the display of a map from being obstructed by the display of spot information, and also allows the user's interest in the spot to be continuously maintained by the icons displayed on the map.

[0060] (25) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, the display means is equipped with a touch panel input function, and the navigation means displays information of a spot on the display means as a button prompting the user to set the spot as a destination.

[0061] The electronic device of the present invention can present information to the user in an easy-to-operate manner. It is even better if the device is configured so that when the button is pressed, the spot is set as a destination. With such a configuration, the spot can be added as a destination with simple operation without requiring complicated operations that would interfere with driving.

[0062] (26) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, other electronic devices are operable using a remote control, and the first communication means stores setting information relating to a remote control for operating the other electronic devices, and when the first communication means enters an area where it can communicate with the other electronic devices, it performs short-range wireless communication with the other electronic devices to receive the setting information relating to the remote control, and the control means changes the settings of the electronic device to simulate a remote control for operating the other electronic device based on the setting information received by the first communication means.

[0063] The electronic device of the present invention can be configured simply by placing it in an area where short-range wireless communication with other electronic devices is possible. The electronic device is preferably configured to simulate the settings of multiple remote controls from different manufacturers and models. Furthermore, the electronic device is preferably configured to simulate the button layout of a remote control using a touch panel display, and it is even better if it reproduces the different number, shape, and arrangement of buttons depending on the remote control. With such a configuration, it is possible to provide an operating feel similar to that of an original remote control.

[0064] (27) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, the electronic device is equipped with a second communication means that performs communication with a larger communication capacity than the communication performed by the first communication means, and when the amount of data of the setting information is greater than a predetermined amount, a portion of the setting information, including at least information that enables communication with other electronic devices by the second communication means, is received from other electronic devices via the first communication means, and the remaining portion of the setting information is received from other electronic devices by communication by the second communication means.

[0065] According to the electronic device of the present invention, even if the amount of data for setting information is so large that it is difficult or impossible to transmit and receive it by short-range wireless communication, the settings for communication by the second communication means can be received from another electronic device by short-range wireless communication, communication by the second communication means can be established, and the remaining data can be received using the second communication means.

[0066] (28) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, the setting information for the electronic device is common setting information that can also be used in other electronic devices.

[0067] According to the electronic device of the present invention, setting information that is commonly used between one electronic device and other electronic devices can be easily transferred and configured via short-range wireless communication without having to repeat the input for each device.

[0068] (29) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, when the first communication means enters an area where it can communicate with a plurality of other electronic devices, it receives setting information stored in each of the plurality of other electronic devices.

[0069] According to the electronic device of the present invention, setting information stored in multiple other electronic devices can be set in the electronic device all at once. Therefore, various settings can be performed all at once by combining multiple other electronic devices.

[0070] (30) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, the communication range is a range in which other electronic devices can be identified as the intended communication partner, distinguished from other electronic devices, based on the relative positional relationship between the electronic device and other electronic devices.

[0071] According to the electronic device of the present invention, other electronic devices that are to be used as communication partners can be identified by their physical relative position. For example, in an environment where many electronic devices are present, in a scenario where an electronic device is to display the continuation of an image displayed on another electronic device as described in relation to (3) above, the electronic device that you want to display the continuation of can be displayed on the electronic device simply by positioning it within a predetermined range of relative positions in which the other electronic device can be distinguished from other electronic devices.

[0072] (31) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, the communication range is within approximately 10 cm from the communication means of other electronic devices.

[0073] According to the electronic device of the present invention, the object to which information is exchanged becomes visually clear through the visible act of bringing the device closer to it. Because the other electronic device that will receive the setting information can be identified through a visually clear and easily recognizable act, even users unfamiliar with operating electronic devices can easily set the setting information stored in the other electronic device onto the electronic device.

[0074] (32) Preferably, in the electronic device of the present invention, the communication range is such that the communication means of the electronic device and the communication means of another electronic device come into contact.

[0075] According to the electronic device of the present invention, the object to which information is exchanged becomes visually clear through the visible act of making contact. For example, it is preferable to configure the device so that communication does not occur unless the electronic device is in contact with another electronic device. Because the other electronic device that will receive the setting information is identified by the visually clear act of making contact with the object, even users unfamiliar with operating electronic devices can easily set the setting information stored in the other electronic device onto the electronic device.

[0076] (33) In order to solve the above problems, the system of the present invention comprises the above-mentioned electronic device and a server device that can communicate with the electronic device via a communication line. When the electronic device enters an area where it can store information and communicate with other electronic devices that transmit and receive such information, it automatically performs short-range wireless communication with the other electronic device to receive the information, transfers the received information to the server device, the server device receives the information transferred from the electronic device, processes it, and transmits the processing result to the electronic device.

[0077] According to the system of the present invention, information received from other electronic devices is transferred to a server device, and the processing results from the server device are received. This allows the server device to perform advanced processing that would be difficult or impossible for this electronic device or other electronic devices to do, and the processing results can be utilized.

[0078] (34) In order to solve the above problems, the system of the present invention includes a plurality of the above-mentioned electronic devices and a batch setting receiving means that automatically performs short-range wireless communication with other electronic devices when entering an area where communication with other electronic devices is possible, receives setting information for the plurality of electronic devices, and distributes the corresponding setting information to each of the plurality of electronic devices, and the control means of each electronic device changes the setting of the respective electronic device based on the setting information distributed from the batch setting receiving means.

[0079] According to the system of the present invention, when the system enters an area where it can communicate with other electronic devices, it automatically performs short-range wireless communication with other electronic devices to receive setting information for multiple electronic devices, and is equipped with a batch setting receiving means that distributes the corresponding setting information to each of the multiple electronic devices. Therefore, in a system where a wide variety of electronic devices are arranged, the settings of electronic devices can be set all at once. For example, if a user stores their personal favorite settings for the system on an NFC tag (corresponding to another electronic device), and brings their NFC tag close to the batch setting receiving means, they can set the settings of all electronic devices included in the system to their preferred settings all at once.

[0080] (35) In order to solve the above problems, the program of the present invention makes the computer function as a control means in the electronic device described above.

[0081] According to the program of the present invention, the control means in the above-mentioned electronic device can be implemented by a computer, and the problem of simplifying the settings of the electronic device can be solved by software. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0082] [Figure 1] This figure shows a first embodiment in which the present invention is applied to an image display device and a second embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a learning remote control. [Figure 2] This figure shows a third embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a radar detector. [Figure 3] This figure shows a third embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a radar detector. [Figure 4] This figure shows a fourth embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a navigation device. [Figure 5] This figure shows a fifth embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a navigation device. [Figure 6] This figure shows a sixth embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a navigation device. [Figure 7] This figure shows a seventh embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a navigation device. [Figure 8] This figure shows an eighth embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a passenger car including multiple in-vehicle electronic devices. [Figure 9] This figure shows a ninth embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a vehicle operation management system. [Figure 10] This figure shows a tenth embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a golf navigation device and a golf practice support device. [Figure 11] This figure shows an eleventh embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a navigation device and a golf navigation device. [Figure 12] This figure shows a twelfth embodiment in which the present invention is applied to an anti-counterfeiting and product management system. [Figure 13] This figure shows a 13th embodiment of the present invention applied to medical and nursing care facilities. [Figure 14] This figure shows a 14th embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a guest management system. [Figure 15] This figure shows a 15th embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a management system for a sports gym. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0083] [Examples of application to image display devices] Referring to Figure 1, the first embodiment will be described. This embodiment is an example of applying the present invention to an image display device. Figure 1 shows a smartphone 100, a portable navigation device 110, a television receiver 120, and a digital camera 130, each of which are embodiments of electronic devices according to the present invention. The smartphone 100, portable navigation device 110, television receiver 120, and digital camera 130 can each also be examples of "other electronic devices" in the present invention. Hereinafter, the case in which the smartphone 100 functions as an electronic device according to the present invention and the television receiver 120 functions as another electronic device in the present invention will be described as an example.

[0084] The television receiver 120 has the function of receiving television broadcasts and displaying them on the screen, as well as NFC communication and wireless LAN communication functions, and can display content received via NFC or wireless LAN on the screen. The smartphone 100 comprises an NFC communication unit, a wireless LAN communication unit, a control unit, and a touch panel display.

[0085] The NFC communication unit is an example of the first communication means in this invention. When the NFC communication unit enters a communication range with the television receiver 120, it automatically performs short-range wireless communication with the television receiver 120 and receives setting information that defines the settings of each part of the smartphone 100. "Automatically" means, for example, that no operation by the user is required, but in this example, short-range wireless communication is performed when the smartphone 100 approaches the television receiver 120 to a distance where it is in contact with it. The communication range is a range in which the television receiver 120 can be identified as the intended communication partner, distinguished from other devices, based on the relative positional relationship between the smartphone 100 and the television receiver 120, but in this example, it is defined as the range in which the smartphone 100 and the television receiver 120 are in contact. The visible act of contact makes the target of information exchange visually clear.

[0086] The configuration information is, for example, information about the image to be displayed on the touch panel display. Specifically, the image information includes, for example, information about still images and information about moving images. The image may be, for example, a 2D image or a 3D image. It may be, for example, a black and white image or a color image. The information about moving images may be, for example, information about the audio played in conjunction with the moving image or information about the moving image itself. In this example, the NFC communication unit receives information necessary for playing the moving image as image information. The NFC communication unit also receives information that enables communication with the television receiving device 120 via the wireless LAN communication unit.

[0087] "Image information" includes information on the copying restrictions of the image. Copying restriction information refers to information on whether or not the content is subject to copying restrictions, such as content whose copying is prohibited by technology to prevent unauthorized copying (technical protection measures), or content whose number of copies is limited. The control unit performs control according to the content of the restriction, for example, by canceling the display of the next image or prompting the television receiver 120 to stop displaying the image, thereby allowing the next image to be displayed while avoiding infringement of the restriction.

[0088] If the copy restriction information indicates that copying is not permitted, the control unit controls the touch panel display so that the image being displayed by the television receiver 120 is not displayed on the touch panel display while the television receiver 120 is displaying the image. More specifically, the control unit controls the display so that the image is not displayed until it receives notification from the television receiver 120 that it has finished displaying the image. From a copyright protection standpoint, it is desirable that the image not be displayed on either the smartphone 100 or the television receiver 120 at any given moment.

[0089] On the other hand, if the copy restriction information indicates that copying is permitted, the control unit displays the image on the touch panel display of the smartphone 100 and performs output control prompting the user to choose whether or not to continue displaying the image on the television receiver 120. The control unit takes the user's selection as input and controls whether or not to display the image on the television receiver 120 based on that input. For example, if the image displayed on the television receiver 120 is not prohibited from being copied, and an operation is performed to display the rest of the image on the smartphone 100, the control unit displays the rest of the image on the smartphone 100. At the same time, the control unit should control the television receiver 120 to prompt the user to choose whether or not to continue displaying the rest of the image. Furthermore, if the copy restriction information permits multiple copies, it is good practice to control the television receiver 120 to allow the user to choose whether or not to continue displaying the image on the television receiver 120 or to display it only on the smartphone 100, for images with multiple copies remaining in the allowed number of copies.

[0090] If the television receiver 120 does not continue to display an image, when the display of the image on the television receiver 120 ends, the television receiver 120 will display a different screen than before. For example, the television receiver 120 may display television broadcasts or other images. Alternatively, it may display nothing on the screen, or it may display noise (so-called static). After the display on the smartphone 100 has started, it may be prohibited to play the same image again on the television receiver 120.

[0091] The control unit is an example of a control means in the present invention. The control unit changes the settings of the smartphone 100 based on the setting information received by the NFC communication unit. The control unit controls the display on the touch panel display of the smartphone 100 based on image information. In addition, the control unit sends commands to each component of the smartphone 100 and receives status information from each component, thereby coordinating the overall operation of the smartphone 100.

[0092] The wireless LAN communication unit is an example of a second communication means in the present invention. The wireless LAN communication unit performs communication with a larger communication capacity than the NFC communication unit. The wireless LAN communication unit uses the information received by the NFC communication unit to enable communication by the wireless LAN communication unit and receives the remaining portion of the setting information from the television receiving device 120.

[0093] A touch panel display is an example of a display means in the present invention, and displays images and other information on the screen based on control by a control unit. In addition to its display function, the touch panel display also has an input function and functions as an input / output interface that accepts user input.

[0094] The television receiver 120 displays television broadcasts and video content on its screen. The television receiver 120 also stores setting information for the smartphone 100 in an NFC tag. The setting information is, for example, the user's desired settings, but in this embodiment, the setting information is information that allows the smartphone 100 to display the continuation of the image displayed on the television receiver 120. More specifically, the setting information is information that allows the smartphone 100 to display the continuation of the image displayed on the screen of the television receiver 120. The television receiver 120 transmits and receives setting information with the smartphone 100 via short-range wireless communication.

[0095] The operation of the smartphone 100 and television receiver 120 described above will now be explained when the television receiver 120 is playing and displaying a video file and enters an area where short-range wireless communication is possible. When the smartphone 100 and television receiver 120 enter an area where communication is possible, the NFC communication unit of the smartphone 100 initiates short-range wireless communication with the television receiver 120 and receives information as setting information to display the continuation of the video being displayed by the television receiver 120 on the smartphone 100. This information to display the continuation on the smartphone 100 may include, for example, identification information of the last displayed image, identification information of the first image to be displayed as the continuation, and, if the image is a video, information on the playback position to be displayed as the continuation.

[0096] The control unit causes the touch panel display to show an image starting from a later time position in the file being played by the television receiver 120 than the currently displayed video. Note that "the continuation of the image displayed by the television receiver 120 to be displayed on the smartphone 100's touch panel display" is not limited to this; it may be any image that the user can see, recognizes as being displayed, or is already displayed. For example, it could be an image slightly earlier than the image currently displayed on the television receiver 120, or it could be the image currently displayed on the television receiver 120.

[0097] If no image is displayed on the touch panel display of the smartphone 100, the control unit, based on the setting information received by the NFC communication unit, causes the rest of the image that the television receiver 120 is displaying on its touch panel display to be displayed on the touch panel display of the smartphone 100.

[0098] On the other hand, if the NFC communication unit receives information from the television receiver 120 regarding the image being displayed by the television receiver 120, and the same image is already displayed on the touch panel display of the smartphone 100, the control unit performs output control to prompt the user to choose whether to display the image displayed by the television receiver 120 or the image displayed on the touch panel display of the smartphone 100. Upon detecting the user's selection input, the control unit controls which image to display on the touch panel display of the smartphone 100 based on that input. Specifically, if the smartphone 100 is already displaying an image when the NFC communication unit receives information from the television receiver 120 regarding the image being displayed by the television receiver 120, the control unit performs output control to display both the image displayed by the television receiver 120 and the image displayed on the smartphone 100 on the touch panel display of the smartphone 100, prompting the user to choose one of them. The control unit then performs control to input the selection, and based on that selection, displays either the image displayed by the television receiver 120 or the image displayed on the smartphone 100. When displaying both images on the touch panel display of smartphone 100, smartphone 100 should use half of the touch panel display screen for each image, displaying the image displayed by the TV receiver 120 and the image displayed by smartphone 100 at the same size. In this case, it is easy to compare the two images and the user can easily make a selection. Alternatively, smartphone 100 may display the image it was originally displaying larger than the image displayed by the TV receiver 120. In this case, interference with viewing the originally displayed image can be reduced. Inputting the selection can be done, for example, by dragging (sliding, for example) the desired image towards the center of the screen with a fingertip. Display the selection interface on a device with a touch panel. The Blu-ray player also has NFC, so the information can be passed directly from the Blu-ray player to the tablet without displaying it on the TV receiver 120.

[0099] When viewing content recorded on a hard disk recorder or similar device on a smartphone 100, complicated settings are required from a copyright protection standpoint. However, using NFC, once communication is established between the device playing the recorded content and the smartphone 100, it is easy to confirm that both devices are in the same space and within close range for NFC communication. By utilizing NFC, which requires devices to be very close together to communicate, it can be inferred that the content is being used within the same space, such as within a household, and at close range, rather than being distributed to an unspecified number of people. For example, while watching a recorded movie in the living room, simply bringing the smartphone 100 close to the TV receiver 120 or recorder will switch the screen to the smartphone 100, allowing you to continue watching in the bedroom. Furthermore, bringing it closer to the TV in the bedroom will switch the screen there as well. Since the screen switching is done with physical movement, an easy-to-understand operation method is provided. You can also continue watching a YouTube video that you were watching on the smartphone 100 on the TV receiver 120. Furthermore, by bringing the digital camera 130, which is currently playing back images, closer to the television receiver 120, the playback screen can be switched to the television receiver 120, allowing the images taken with the digital camera 130 to be viewed on the large screen of the television receiver 120.

[0100] Information regarding the right to view copyrighted content is transmitted using NFC as a key, like passing a baton in a relay race. At this time, it is advisable to send and receive information as configuration information, specifying who is granting the right to view the content to whom. Furthermore, information regarding which part of the content to display, and how much has been displayed, may also be sent and received between the devices exchanging the right to view the content. The image data of the content itself may be transmitted using a high-capacity communication method such as wireless LAN.

[0101] [Example of application to learning remote controls] The second embodiment will now be described with reference to Figure 1. In this embodiment, a smartphone 100 having a touch panel display corresponds to the electronic device according to the present invention, while a portable navigation device 110, a television receiver 120, a digital camera 130, a radar detector 140, and a washing machine 150, all operable using a remote control, correspond to other electronic devices. In the following description, we will use as an example the case in which the smartphone 100 functions as the electronic device according to the present invention and the television receiver 120 functions as another electronic device in the present invention. In this embodiment, both the smartphone 100 and the television receiver 120 are configured to be capable of both short-range wireless communication and wireless LAN communication.

[0102] Since smartphone 100 is the same as in the first embodiment, we will omit explanations of the same aspects here to avoid redundant descriptions.

[0103] When the NFC communication unit enters a communication range with the TV receiver 120, which transmits setting information for the smartphone 100, it automatically performs short-range wireless communication with the TV receiver 120 and receives setting information that defines the settings for each part of the smartphone 100. The TV receiver 120 holds setting information related to the remote control for operating itself and transmits this setting information to the smartphone 100 via short-range wireless communication. In this embodiment, the setting information is related to the remote control for operating the TV receiver 120. Specifically, for example, the setting information includes information such as the button layout of the remote control, the design of each button, the remote control code to be transmitted when each button is pressed, and the IP address of the TV receiver 120.

[0104] Based on information regarding the remote control, the control unit displays buttons on the touch panel display of the smartphone 100, simulating the remote control of the television receiver 120.

[0105] The wireless LAN communication unit uses wireless LAN, which has a longer communication range than short-range wireless communication, to achieve wireless communication with the television receiving device 120.

[0106] When the control unit detects that a button displayed on the user's touch panel display has been pressed, it transmits a remote control code corresponding to the pressed button to the TV receiver 120 via the wireless LAN communication unit. The TV receiver 120 receives the remote control code and configures the system to respond to the button pressed by the user. For example, when the user presses the volume up button displayed on the touch panel display of the smartphone 100, the TV receiver 120 receives a remote control code via the wireless LAN instructing it to increase the volume and configures the system to increase the volume accordingly.

[0107] In this embodiment, NFC is used as a "setting key" to enable a smartphone to be used as a remote control for home appliances. Since the communication range of NFC is insufficient for use as a remote control, Wi-Fi is used for actual operation. Each home appliance is equipped with Wi-Fi and NFC, and a remote control application is provided on the smartphone. To prevent interference and to configure settings such as button layout, negotiation with each home appliance is performed only once using NFC. By simply bringing the smartphone close to each device to link them, all necessary settings are performed automatically, and after that, it can be operated just like a normal remote control.

[0108] Because Wi-Fi is used to send remote control codes from a smartphone to home appliances, remote control operation is possible even if there are obstacles in the way. The smartphone can communicate bidirectionally with each device using Wi-Fi. You can check the status of appliances such as washing machines from another room, so you can know the remaining time and when the wash cycle is finished. Multiple home appliances can be operated simply by switching screens on the smartphone, avoiding problems such as a multitude of remote controls or losing remotes.

[0109] With just a touch, the remote control codes are transmitted from each appliance to the smartphone, making setup easier than with conventional learning remotes. Furthermore, after negotiating with each appliance via NFC only once, cumbersome settings such as button assignments are automatically configured, and interference prevention linking is also performed simultaneously. [Examples of application to radar detectors]

[0110] A third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. In this embodiment, the radar detector 300 corresponds to the electronic device according to the present invention, and the tablet computer 320, notebook computer 340, and smartphone 360 ​​correspond to other electronic devices. In the following description, an example will be given in which the radar detector 300 functions as the electronic device according to the present invention and the tablet computer 320 functions as another electronic device in the present invention.

[0111] The radar detector 300 is a radar detector that detects radar waves emitted from radar-type speed measuring devices, automatic speed enforcement devices (commonly known as "Orbis"), etc., and notifies the user of the detection of radar waves through chimes, flashing LEDs, text displays, and voice announcements. The radar detector 300 comprises an NFC communication unit, a wireless LAN communication unit, a control unit, a location information acquisition unit, a database, a radar detection unit, and an interface unit.

[0112] The control unit is an example of a control means in the present invention. In addition, the control unit transmits commands to each component of the radar detector 300 and receives status information from each component, thereby coordinating the operation of the entire radar detector 300. The radar detection unit detects radar waves of a predetermined frequency and communicates this to the control unit.

[0113] The interface unit includes an input function that accepts user input and an output function that presents information to the user. The input function is implemented using operation buttons, a touch panel, a microphone, etc., while the output function is implemented using an LCD display, LEDs (light-emitting diodes), speakers, etc.

[0114] The database stores location information of traffic monitoring points, location information of cancellation points (locations that should be ignored even if radar waves are detected), location information of locations where notifications have been issued in the past, etc. The location information acquisition unit is an example of a location information acquisition means in this invention and is composed of, for example, GPS (Global Positioning System). The location information acquisition unit acquires the current location information of the radar detector 300.

[0115] The NFC communication unit is an example of the first communication means in the present invention, and is a communication means that enables short-range wireless communication. The wireless LAN communication unit is an example of the second communication means in the present invention, and enables a wireless LAN communication unit with a larger communication capacity and longer communication range than short-range wireless communication.

[0116] The radar detector 300, configured as described above, notifies the user of the detection of radar waves in the following manner. When the control unit receives notification from the radar detection unit that radar waves have been detected, it obtains the current location information from the location information acquisition unit and queries the database for the current location information to check whether the current location is a cancellation point. If the current location is a cancellation point, the control unit does not allow the interface unit to send a notification. On the other hand, if the current location is not a cancellation point registered in the database, the control unit determines whether the current location should be set as a new cancellation point based on the location information of the traffic monitoring point and the location information of points that have previously sent notifications. If it is determined that the current location should be set as a new cancellation point, the control unit automatically registers the current location information as a cancellation point in the database and ends the process without sending a notification. If it is determined that the current location should not be set as a new cancellation point, the control unit controls the interface unit to notify the user that radar waves have been detected by sounding a chime, flashing an LED, displaying text, or making a voice announcement. If the user confirms that no traffic monitoring is being conducted at that location, they can manually register their current location as a cancellation point in the database by operating the radar detector 300.

[0117] As described above, cancellation points are automatically or manually registered and accumulated in the database. In addition to cancellation points, the radar detector 300 can also automatically or manually register points where traffic monitoring is performed. The radar detector 300 has editing functions for the location information accumulated in this way, such as correcting location information and assigning names. However, due to the limitations of the interface of the radar detector 300, the usability of the editing function is not always good.

[0118] The tablet computer 320 is a general-purpose tablet-type terminal equipped with short-range wireless communication and wireless LAN communication capabilities. The tablet computer 320 has an application installed that provides the function of editing data registered in the database of the radar detector 300, allowing users to edit the data with greater flexibility than on the radar detector 300 itself.

[0119] When the application providing data editing functionality on the tablet computer 320 is set to "data read mode," and the radar detector 300 enters an area where it can communicate wirelessly with the tablet computer 320, the information stored in the database of the radar detector 300 is transmitted to the tablet computer 320 via the NFC communication unit.

[0120] The user can edit data read from the radar detector 300 with a high degree of flexibility using the application on the tablet computer 320. To overwrite the edited data in the radar detector 300's database, the tablet computer 320's application is set to "data overwrite mode," and the radar detector 300 is placed within the area where it can communicate wirelessly with the tablet computer 320. The NFC communication unit of the radar detector 300 then receives the edited data from the tablet computer 320 via wireless communication, and the control unit stores the received data in its database. In this way, the data stored in the radar detector 300's database can be edited using the highly flexible editing function of the tablet computer 320 and easily written back to the radar detector 300.

[0121] By the way, in order to properly notify users, the various location information stored in the radar detector 300's database needs to be updated with the latest information. With conventional radar detectors, the update data was written to a memory card using a personal computer, and then the memory card was inserted into the radar detector to allow the radar detector to read the update data.

[0122] As described below, the radar detector 300 of this embodiment receives update data and updates its database through communication with the tablet computer 320. The tablet computer 320 acquires update data from the server 380 that distributes the update data via a network such as the Internet, 3G (third-generation mobile communication system), or LTE (Long Term Evolution).

[0123] When a user brings the tablet computer 320, which has acquired the update data, into contact with the radar detector 300, the NFC communication unit communicates wirelessly with the tablet computer 320 to receive setting information from the radar detector 300. By using NFC, even in situations where many radar detectors are present in the surrounding area, the update data can be provided only to the radar detector 300 that has been brought into contact with the tablet computer.

[0124] The configuration information may include, for example, updated location data for traffic monitoring points, and the radar detector 300 may receive the updated data from the tablet computer 320 via short-range wireless communication.

[0125] Alternatively, the configuration information may include information such as the IP address necessary for wireless LAN communication with the tablet computer 320, and key information (e.g., ID and password) for providing update data. The radar detector 300 transmits the key information received from the tablet computer 320 to the tablet computer 320 via the wireless LAN communication unit and receives permission to receive the update data. The radar detector 300 then receives the update data from the tablet computer 320 via the wireless LAN communication unit. This method allows data transfer even if the amount of data in the update data exceeds the amount of data permitted by short-range wireless communication. Furthermore, since only the information necessary for wireless LAN communication and the key information need to be received via short-range wireless communication, contact between the radar detector 300 and the tablet computer 320 only needs to be for a short time.

[0126] The control unit updates the database based on update data received from the tablet computer 320. By simply placing the tablet computer 320, which contains the update data, within a communication area with the radar detector 300, the database can be updated without complicated operations. For example, even in a limited space such as inside a vehicle, or with a radar detector 300 that has an input / output interface that is not particularly user-friendly, the database containing location information for traffic monitoring points can be easily updated. Furthermore, the tablet computer 320 can only provide update data to devices with which it has made contact and established short-range wireless communication. Therefore, even in environments where many radar detectors are within range of wireless LAN communication (for example, a parking lot), update data can be sent only to the intended radar detectors. This also prevents unintended updates to the data in the radar detector 300's database.

[0127] Unlike previous update methods using PCs and memory cards, all operations can be completed on the spot. There's no need to boot up a home PC or carry a memory card to transfer data; updates can be easily performed anytime, anywhere. Furthermore, with a dedicated app, updates can be performed even more easily than with a PC, increasing opportunities to reach untapped users, such as those with low PC skills or those who previously avoided updates due to the hassle. Replacing the memory card read / write function in the Radar Detector 300 with NFC functionality eliminates the need for card slots or openings in the casing, resulting in cost and design advantages. The proliferation of smartphones and tablets has led to an increase in users who don't own PCs. Additionally, the widespread availability of high-speed communication such as LTE has created an infrastructure that allows mobile devices to handle large amounts of data. This allows for diverse update methods without forcing the use of PCs or memory cards.

[0128] This eliminates the need for a PC or memory card to update data, making data updates easier and more accessible. Radar systems require updated data to remain effective as enforcement locations are constantly being updated. Previously, this required updating firmware on a PC or memory card. Now, data updates can be easily performed using smartphones and tablets. Even those without a PC can retrieve data from a server using their smartphone or tablet and transfer it via short-range wireless communication.

[0129] An app is available that allows users to edit registration information such as cancellation points and various settings on their smartphones or computers, and then transfer the organized data to the Radar Detector 300. Using map services on smartphones or computers, users can check registered locations in detail, adjust locations, and register new locations. Furthermore, they can delete unnecessary locations, making editing, which was previously limited to the small screen of the Radar Detector 300 and the confined space inside a car, much more comfortable on the larger screens of smartphones, computers, and tablets.

[0130] Registration of cancellation points and other information can be performed using the radar detector 300 as before. The radar detector 300 uses NFC to transfer the registration information to a smartphone or PC. The registration information is then organized and edited using a dedicated application on the tablet computer 320. The organized information is then written back to the radar detector 300 using NFC again.

[0131] A similar process of extracting, organizing / editing, and writing back registered information can also be applied to car navigation systems. Location information from the car navigation system can be extracted to a tablet via NFC, edited on the tablet, and written back to the navigation system via NFC. Car navigation systems have significant operational constraints, while the editing method on a tablet has fewer operational constraints. Traditionally, location information acquired by sensors such as GPS at the site was registered at a time specified by the user, and editing such as naming was performed within the navigation system. This improves upon the difficult editing work that was forced upon users in the small space of a car.

[0132] [Example of application to navigation systems 1] Referring to Figure 4, a fourth embodiment will be described. This embodiment is an example in which the present invention is applied to a navigation device. In this embodiment, the navigation device 400 corresponds to the electronic device according to the present invention, and the NFC tag 410 corresponds to another electronic device.

[0133] The navigation device 400 has a thin, rectangular case body that is installed on the vehicle's dashboard. The front of the case body is equipped with a display unit, and on the display unit is a touch panel that detects which part of the display unit is touched. The navigation device 400 is equipped with a storage unit, in which map data and the like are recorded. The navigation device 400 uses the map data stored in the storage unit when performing navigation. The navigation device 400 is also equipped with an NFC communication unit, and when an external electronic device enters an area where it can communicate with the NFC communication unit, it performs short-range wireless communication with the electronic device and receives setting information from the electronic device. The navigation device 400 is further equipped with a control unit, which configures the navigation device 400 according to the setting information received by the NFC communication unit. The navigation device 400 is further equipped with a GPS unit that detects the current location information and a navigation unit that searches for a route from the current location to a set destination and guides the user according to the route obtained.

[0134] The NFC tag 410 is a thin electronic device with a predetermined memory capacity (for example, several hundred bytes) and capable of short-range wireless communication (for example, wireless communication over a distance of about 10 cm or communication over a distance where devices are touching each other), and is formed as a sticker, card, keychain, strap, etc. The memory within the NFC tag 410 stores setting information for the navigation device 400. The setting information stored in the NFC tag 410 can be anything as long as it is a setting for the navigation device 400, such as a destination, search conditions such as "prioritize highways" or "prioritize general roads," or screen display mode. Multiple items of setting information may be stored in a single NFC tag 410.

[0135] In the navigation device 400 of this embodiment, destination setting is possible immediately by simply holding an NFC tag 410 with a registered destination over the navigation device 400. By preparing multiple tags for each destination, users are freed from the hassle of operating the touch panel of the navigation device 400 and scrolling through a long list of registered locations to find their destination. Even users who are not comfortable with electronic devices can easily and quickly set their destination by simply holding the tag over the device. Setting can be made even easier by providing a space on the surface of the tag to write the registered content, or by providing the tags themselves in multiple colors and shapes to make them easy to identify. For example, an NFC tag for setting highway priority should be made in a color and shape that resembles a highway road sign, and an NFC tag for setting home as the destination should be made in the shape of a house. The NFC communication unit of the navigation device 400 should be configured to receive the setting information stored in each NFC 410 when multiple NFC tags 410 are held over the device at the same time. With this configuration, by holding up the NFC tags 410 for each setting item together, the desired settings can be easily configured by combining the NFC tags 410. For example, by holding up the NFC tag for setting high-speed priority and the NFC tag for setting home as the destination together, the settings for high-speed priority and home as the destination can be configured all at once. Needless to say, by holding up the NFC tags 410 corresponding to the setting items together, it is possible to configure other setting items to be set all at once in any combination.

[0136] The navigation device 400 is equipped with a function that allows for easy registration of the current location or any point on the map, and a mechanism is provided for easily creating new NFC tags. For example, when you want to return to your current location, you can set the navigation device to NFC writing mode and hold the NFC tag 410 over it to store the current location as a destination in the NFC tag 410. It is also possible to write multiple settings for the navigation device 400 to the NFC tag 410 all at once. When multiple people, such as a family or company, share one car, each person can write their preferred settings to their own NFC tag 410, and then simply by holding their NFC tag 410 over the navigation device 400, the settings of the navigation device 400 can be instantly switched to those of that person. In addition, setting information can be written to commercially available NFC tags 410 using a smartphone 420 or tablet computer equipped with NFC functionality. For example, you can search for a destination on your smartphone 420 and register the location information of the destination from the search results to the NFC tag 410. Alternatively, the destination address and phone number can be entered into the navigation device 400 for a search, and the found location can be registered in the NFC tag 410.

[0137] Furthermore, it would be beneficial to provide an app that allows users to write destinations to the NFC tag 410 using their smartphone or computer, creating an environment where new tags can be created. The writing space on the NFC tag, where the stored settings can be changed, should preferably be made of a material that can be written on and erased with a pen. In addition to destinations, the NFC tag 410 should also be able to record function switches such as "highway priority" or "local road priority," and combined with the destination tag, allowing users to execute their desired settings all at once by simply holding the tag over the tag. Frequently used setting combinations should be managed by bundling them together like a vocabulary list.

[0138] According to the navigation device 400 of this embodiment, various settings of the navigation device 400 can be made simply by bringing the NFC tag 410 close to it, making it easy for even unfamiliar users to make settings. Furthermore, because an easily identifiable NFC tag 410 is used, it is easy to instruct or request operation from unfamiliar users, thus preventing operational errors. It is also easy for the driver to instruct a passenger to make settings, and it is easy to teach the setting method to someone in a remote location.

[0139] Destinations and preferred settings typically vary from person to person. By simply preparing NFC tags 410 with individual settings registered, all settings can be switched at once, eliminating the need to reconfigure settings individually or limitations on the number of registered users, allowing everyone to use the navigation system in their preferred environment. Each person prepares their own NFC tag 410 with their registered preferences. Additional NFC tags 410 can be purchased and increased as needed. When getting into a vehicle, simply hold the tag over the navigation system 400 to instantly switch the contents. Adding a new NFC tag 410 requires writing the settings to the NFC tag 410 after completing the initial setup. A similar function could be implemented in radar detectors to create a radar detector version of the personalized settings NFC tag function.

[0140] [Example of application to navigation systems 2] Referring to Figure 5, a fifth embodiment will be described. This embodiment is an example in which the present invention is applied to a navigation device. In this embodiment, the navigation device 500 corresponds to the electronic device according to the present invention, and the smartphone 510 corresponds to another electronic device.

[0141] The configuration of the navigation device 500 is the same as that of the navigation device 400 described in "Example of Application to Navigation Device 1" above, so we will omit explanations of matters that are the same here.

[0142] The smartphone 510 comprises an NFC communication unit, a network communication unit, a control unit, and a touch panel display. The NFC communication unit is a communication means that enables short-range wireless communication. The network communication unit connects to a network such as the Internet and allows access to various information connected to the network. The control unit executes a configuration application for the navigation device. The control unit also sends commands to each component of the smartphone 510 and receives status information from each component, thereby coordinating the overall operation of the smartphone 510.

[0143] The user searches for a destination using the smartphone 510 and obtains various information about the destination, including its location (e.g., address, latitude, and longitude), and registers it as a destination in the settings application. Along with the location information, the name of the destination is also registered in the settings application. It is recommended to set the keyword used during the search as the name of the destination. When the smartphone 510 is held over the navigation device 500, the destination registered in the settings application is sent to the navigation device 500 via short-range wireless communication, and the control unit of the navigation device 500 sets it as a destination. If this destination is not already registered as a registered spot in the navigation device, the control unit registers it as a new registered spot.

[0144] The NFC-enabled smartphone 510 and tablet computer 520 instantly transfer locations searched for as destinations. Even for new leisure spots or places whose addresses or names are not precisely known, it is possible to identify destinations by searching online using only a small amount of information. While previous navigation devices 500 had difficulty finding locations unknown to the user or locations created after the purchase of the navigation device 500, the navigation device 500 continues to evolve, constantly acquiring the latest information by linking with smartphones 510 and tablet computers 520. It is also possible to specify and transfer destinations using voice search on the smartphone 510, freeing users from cumbersome button operations. The latest spots, local information, and macro information not registered in the navigation device 500's guide information can also be searched using the internet search function of the smartphone 510 or tablet computer 520 and transferred as destinations to the navigation device 500. Ambiguous information, such as only knowing the name, can be searched on the tablet computer 520 or smartphone 510 and registered on the navigation device 500 via NFC. The search keywords used on the tablet computer 520 or smartphone 510 are used as the registered name, and this setting information is transferred via NFC along with location information. This is simpler than the conventional method of registering by comparing the map and the navigation device display, and even users unfamiliar with the operation can easily set a new destination.

[0145] [Example of application to navigation systems 3] Referring to Figure 6, a sixth embodiment will be described. This embodiment is an example in which the present invention is applied to a navigation device. In this embodiment, the navigation device 600 corresponds to the electronic device according to the present invention, and the smartphone 610 corresponds to another electronic device.

[0146] The configurations of the navigation device 600 and the smartphone 610 are the same as those of the navigation device 400 and smartphone 410 described in "Application Example 2 to Navigation Devices" above, so details that are the same will be omitted here.

[0147] The user uses a social networking service (SNS) on their smartphone 610 and sets categories of interest on that SNS. Examples of SNS include, but are not limited to, Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, LinkedIn, mixi, GREE, Mobage, and Ameba. The user registers to receive SNS post information, which is a chronological display of posts by the user and other users selected by the user, as well as posts related to selected keywords, known as a "timeline." The user also sets a destination on the navigation device 600 and starts guidance to that destination. For example, when the user is about to depart for their destination, they hold the navigation device 600 over the smartphone 610 and transmit the SNS post information to the navigation device 600 using short-range wireless communication. The SNS post information transmitted to the navigation device 600 should be for a predetermined period (for example, the past hour). The information on the navigation device 600 will not be updated unless the smartphone 610 is held over the navigation device 600 again.

[0148] The navigation unit of the navigation device 600 analyzes SNS posts acquired from the smartphone 610 to extract information on spots along the route to the destination and present it to the user. The navigation unit should display an alert on the map shown on the display unit when the user approaches a predetermined distance from the extracted spots. In analyzing the SNS posts, information from categories pre-set by the user may be extracted, but it is even better to cluster a series of pieces of information included in the SNS posts to predict categories of high user interest and automatically determine which categories to extract. It is preferable that the smartphone perform the rough filtering of the SNS posts, and the navigation device 600 perform the detailed information processing. This reduces the amount of information that needs to be transmitted via short-range wireless communication and shortens the total processing time by dividing the processing.

[0149] The navigation unit uses OBD (On-board diagnostics) to receive vehicle information regarding the vehicle's status and selectively presents spot information to the user based on this vehicle information. For example, the navigation unit uses OBD to receive the fuel level, and if the fuel level is below a predetermined value, it extracts information on gas stations with low unit prices along the guided route from SNS posts and displays a button on the display prompting the user to add the gas station as a destination. The user can either press the displayed button to add the destination or refrain from adding the destination by not pressing the button. If a predetermined time has elapsed without the destination being added, the navigation unit will remove the button display on the display and display an icon indicating the gas station at the corresponding location on the map displayed on the display. If the user then presses the icon, the navigation unit will redisplay the button on the display prompting the user to add that location as a destination. In the case of a navigation device 500 installed in an electric vehicle, it is advisable to use OBD to receive the battery level, and if the battery level is below a predetermined value, extract information on charging stations from SNS posts and present it to the user.

[0150] Furthermore, the navigation unit selectively presents information about locations to the user based on the current time. For example, if the current time is close to lunchtime, the navigation unit extracts information about restaurants and highly-rated establishments along the guided route from social media posts and displays a button on the display prompting the user to add the extracted establishments to their destination. The navigation unit should prioritize presenting information to the user that has received many recommendations from posters in the social media posts (e.g., "likes" and "retweets"). Information about restaurants could be displayed for 30 minutes before and after mealtime (e.g., noon), or the display of information could be stopped at a predetermined time (e.g., 2 PM). When deciding on a time to stop displaying information, it is advisable to consider the average closing time of the establishments. The navigation unit selects the establishments to present to the user based on the strings of the social media posts. For example, the navigation unit assigns a score to each establishment based on the strings of the social media posts and determines the priority of presentation according to the score. For restaurants mentioned in posts containing phrases like "delicious," "cheap," and "good deal," increase their score. Conversely, for restaurants mentioned in posts containing phrases like "closed" and "disappointing," decrease their score.

[0151] Furthermore, the navigation section should analyze social media posts, prioritizing information shared by the user themselves. For example, if a user's post contains the phrase "I'm hungry," it should prioritize displaying information about restaurants.

[0152] The navigation unit changes the frequency with which it displays spot information to the user depending on the time elapsed since the user last held their smartphone 610 over the navigation device 600 to receive SNS post information. For example, the navigation unit displays information frequently immediately after receiving SNS post information, and decreases the frequency of displaying information as time passes. Since a user holding their smartphone 610 over the navigation device 600 is considered an indication that they want spot information, it is preferable to display spot information around the guided route immediately after updating the SNS post information. Also, if the SNS post information has not been updated for a long period of time, the user is likely to be focused on arriving at their current destination, so it is preferable to lower the frequency of information display. If the SNS post information has not been updated for a long period of time, the navigation device 600 should prompt the user to update the SNS post information. This can remind users who have simply forgotten to update their SNS post information.

[0153] According to the aforementioned navigation device 600, if you set categories of interest, such as cheap gas stations and gourmet spots, on your smartphone 610, it will automatically obtain information from social media and other sources, transfer it to the navigation device 600 using NFC, and alert you when you approach those locations. It would be best to treat this slightly less critically than destination registration, and have a system that provides timely information about places you pass along the way. If linked with OBD, it would be good to set it up so that only gas station information is displayed when the fuel level is low, or gourmet information is linked to the clock and alerts are only given at meal times, so that only organized information is displayed as if controlled by artificial intelligence.

[0154] The smartphone 610 or tablet can search for information in the desired category based on the car's status and time, and transfer it to the navigation unit 600. It will notify you at the right time when you pass by the vicinity. The navigation unit will notify you of useful and interesting information that is not necessarily a destination, depending on the time and location. It will display recommended shops (restaurants or highly-rated places during meal times) along the route searched, rather than the destination itself. The navigation system will sense what you need and provide information accordingly. The smartphone 610 or navigation unit 600 will filter information circulating on social media by location, time of day, etc., and notify you. To prevent you from missing out on popular spots on social media, such as places with many "likes," recommended tourist spots, scenic viewpoints, and photo spots, the navigation unit 600 will automatically present information along the guided route.

[0155] [Example of application to navigation systems 4] Referring to Figure 7, a seventh embodiment will be described. This embodiment is an example in which the present invention is applied to a navigation device. In this embodiment, the navigation device 600 corresponds to the electronic device according to the present invention, and the smartphone 610 corresponds to another electronic device.

[0156] The configurations of the navigation device 700 and the smartphone 710 are the same as those of the navigation device 400 and smartphone 410 described in "Example of Application to Navigation Device 2" above, so details that are the same will be omitted here.

[0157] In this example, the navigation device 700 can search for a route to the destination using its navigation unit, but it can also obtain a route obtained through more advanced analysis from an external server device 720.

[0158] When obtaining a navigation route from the server device 720, the user sets the navigation device 700 to "cloud navigation mode" and holds the smartphone 710 over it. The current location, destination, and past driving logs stored in the navigation device 700 are then transmitted to the smartphone 710 via short-range wireless communication. At this time, the user can select which driving log data to send to the smartphone 710. For example, for privacy reasons, the user can choose not to transmit driving log data from their home area. Driving logs are not transmitted unless the smartphone 710 is in contact with the navigation device 700. Furthermore, when the smartphone 710 is in contact with the navigation device 600, a confirmation message such as "Do you want to send the driving log?" should be displayed on the navigation device 700's screen.

[0159] The smartphone 710 transfers the current location, destination, and driving log received from the navigation device 700 to the server device 720 via the network communication unit. The server device 720 stores the driving log data from the navigation device 700 and uses it for subsequent analysis. Driving log data is similarly collected from navigation devices used by other users and used for analysis by the server device 720.

[0160] The server device 720 searches for a route from the current location to the destination. In the search performed by the server device 720, various data such as collected driving log data, traffic information, construction information, season, day of the week, and time of day are used to select the most efficient route at that time. For example, the server device 720 calculates congested roads, roads that are always uncongested, average speed, etc. from the collected driving log data and uses these as criteria for route selection.

[0161] The server device 720 sends the selected guidance route back to the smartphone 710. The user then holds the smartphone 710 over the navigation device 700, and the guidance route sent from the server device 720 is transferred to the navigation device 700. The navigation unit of the navigation device 700 guides the user to their destination according to the guidance route selected by the server device 720. In this way, advanced analysis by the server device 720 can be utilized, provided that driving log data is provided to the server device 720.

[0162] The navigation system 700's driving logs are collected by the NFC-equipped smartphone 710, cross-referenced with online traffic information, and used to improve future route searches. The navigation system 700 can be transformed from a simple route guide into an advanced information tool that analyzes past performance to determine "when is the most efficient time to depart?" and "which routes were less congested?" An analysis center will be established to collect driving logs from numerous users, comprehensively analyzing various driving logs to improve the route selection learning function. A cloud-based navigation system will be built that comprehensively considers factors such as season, day of the week, and time of day to select the most efficient route. For electric vehicles, the system will provide route and charging timing notifications considering charging stations, and will also allow for charging station congestion information and reservations.

[0163] The more logs collected at the analysis center, the more it evolves, and the more refined the route selection becomes. In the future, the navigation device 700 could be specialized in map display, with the analysis center handling route search and the data being received and displayed on a smartphone.

[0164] Conventional navigation systems calculate route information based on factors such as road section distance, number of lanes, speed limits, and the number of turns. However, this example navigation system goes beyond that, combining factors such as average speed, road congestion, time, and weather based on driving logs to find truly comfortable routes. In the event of an event where many users are searching for the same destination, a cloud-based system can intentionally present distributed routes, avoiding congestion by preventing users from concentrating on the same route.

[0165] The navigation system's driving logs are collected via NFC and sent to an analysis center using the smartphone's communication function. This information is then compared with traffic information for the day and used to analyze future routes, ensuring the most optimal route is selected. Because a large amount of actual driving logs are analyzed and used, the accuracy of the route improves the more you drive. Analysis results collected from all over the country, along with secondary factors such as road construction and weather, are used as the source of information for route selection.

[0166] [Examples of application to passenger cars containing multiple in-vehicle electronic devices] Referring to Figure 8, an eighth embodiment will be described. This embodiment is an example in which the present invention is applied to a passenger car which is a system including multiple in-vehicle electronic devices. In this embodiment, the passenger car 800 including multiple in-vehicle electronic devices corresponds to the system in the present invention, the navigation device 810 and radar detector 820 correspond to the electronic devices according to the present invention, and the NFC tag 830 corresponds to other electronic devices.

[0167] The configurations of the navigation device 810 and the radar detector 820 are the same as those of the navigation device 400 described in "Application Example 1 to Navigation Devices" and the radar detector 300 described in "Application Example to Radar Detectors," respectively. Therefore, explanations of the same aspects will be omitted here. The configuration of the NFC tag 830 is the same as that of the NFC tag 410 described in "Application Example 1 to Navigation Devices," and redundant explanations will be omitted. However, the memory of the NFC tag 830 stores setting information for the navigation device 810 and the radar detector 820.

[0168] The passenger car 800 is equipped with a centralized setting unit for receiving setting information for multiple electronic devices, including a navigation system 810 and a radar detector 820, all at once. The centralized setting unit is preferably located in a position easily accessible to the driver, specifically near the ignition switch. In this case, the NFC tag 830 is embedded in the ignition key, and the centralized setting unit is positioned so that it can communicate with the NFC tag 830 when the ignition key is inserted into the key cylinder of the ignition switch. The centralized setting unit is wired to distribute setting information to multiple electronic devices, including the navigation system 810 and the radar detector 820.

[0169] When the NFC tag 830 is held over the centralized setting unit, the setting information for the navigation device 810 and radar detector 820 stored in the memory of the NFC tag 830 is transmitted to the centralized setting unit, and the centralized setting unit distributes the setting information to the navigation device 810 and radar detector 820, respectively. The navigation device 810 and radar detector 820 are then configured based on the setting information they have received.

[0170] After setting multiple electronic devices by holding the NFC tag 830 over the batch setting unit, the settings for each electronic device may be reconfigured individually. For example, as explained in "Example of Application to Navigation System 1," the navigation system 810 may be reconfigured by holding an NFC tag with different settings over the navigation system 810. In addition to the settings for the navigation system 810 and the radar detector 820, the NFC tag 830 may also store settings such as seat position and mirror position. It is not necessary to provide a function to individually configure the seat position and mirror position via NFC communication. Furthermore, the batch setting unit may also have a function to write various settings within the passenger car 800 to the NFC tag in a batch.

[0171] [Examples of application to vehicle operation management systems] Referring to Figure 9, a ninth embodiment will be described. This embodiment is an example of applying the present invention to a vehicle operation management system. In this embodiment, the operation log recording device 900 and the management terminal 910 correspond to the electronic devices according to the present invention, and the NFC tag 920 corresponds to other electronic devices.

[0172] The operation log recording device 900 is installed in vehicles such as taxis and trucks, and records and stores operation logs such as ride time and distance traveled. The operation log recording device 900 is equipped with NFC communication functionality. The operation log recording device 900 is wired to distribute setting information to various electronic devices within the vehicle, similar to the centralized setting unit described in "Application Example to Passenger Cars Including Multiple In-Vehicle Electronic Devices".

[0173] The management terminal 910 is deployed to taxi companies and transportation companies and is a terminal that records and manages vehicle operation logs. The management terminal 910 is equipped with NFC communication functionality, and when it enters an area where it can communicate with the NFC tag 920 which stores the operation log, it retrieves and records the operation log from the NFC tag 920.

[0174] The configuration of the NFC tag 920 is the same as that of the NFC tag 410 described in "Example 1 of Application to Navigation Devices," so redundant explanations will be omitted. However, the memory of the NFC tag 920 stores various settings information preferred by the driver, as described in "Example 1 of Application to Navigation Devices," as well as an ID unique to the driver who possesses the NFC tag 920. It also functions as a temporary storage location for the operation log read from the operation log recording device 900.

[0175] Before driving, the vehicle driver holds the NFC tag 920 over the operation log recording device 900. The operation log recording device 900 then receives setting information from the NFC tag 920 and distributes it to various electronic devices, and also receives the driver's ID and starts recording the operation log. The operation log records the driver's ID, driving time, and distance traveled. Once the setting information is set on the various electronic devices, the driver's preferred settings are erased from the NFC tag 920. By holding the NFC tag over the device before starting to drive, the driver's preferred settings are set on the various electronic devices and their ID is recorded in the operation log recording device 900, preventing the driver from forgetting to set their own ID in the operation log recording device 900 before starting to drive.

[0176] After driving, the vehicle driver holds the NFC tag 920 over the operation log recording device 900 again. The operation log recording device 900 then stops recording the operation log, records the operation log in the memory of the NFC tag 920, and writes the driver's preferred settings information back to the memory of the NFC tag 920. If the driver does not hold the NFC tag 920 over the operation log recording device 900 after driving, they will not get their preferred settings information back, thus preventing the driver from forgetting to hold the NFC tag 920 over the operation log recording device 900. After driving, the driver who has read the operation log into the NFC tag 920 returns to the company with the NFC tag and holds the NFC tag 920 over the company's management terminal 910. The management terminal 910 acquires and records the driver's operation log from the NFC tag via short-range wireless communication.

[0177] Vehicles are equipped with dedicated NFC devices to record and store operational logs such as travel time and distance. Data is collected via NFC, and all records can be transferred to a dedicated terminal upon returning to the office, simplifying operational management. Simply holding the NFC tag over each terminal allows for easy and error-free log saving, reducing the burden on both drivers and administrative staff. Since there is no analog process such as handwriting or visual inspection, human error can be eliminated.

[0178] [Examples of application to golf navigation systems and golf practice support systems] Referring to Figure 10, a tenth embodiment will be described. This embodiment is an example of applying the present invention to a golf navigation device and a golf practice support device. In this embodiment, depending on the direction of information exchange, one of the golf navigation device 1000 and the golf practice support device 1010 corresponds to the electronic device according to the present invention, and the other of the golf navigation device 1000 and the golf practice support device 1010 corresponds to other electronic devices. Which device becomes the source of the setting information is determined by the state of either device (for example, the application being run, the operating mode set in that application, etc.).

[0179] The golf navigation device 1000 includes a display means such as an LCD screen, a map database storing map information including course layout information, and a location information acquisition means such as GPS. The current location, remaining distance, and strategy acquired by the location information acquisition means are displayed on the display means along with the golf course layout to support the user's play on the golf course. In addition, the golf navigation device 1000 can record the club used and the landing position of the ball after each shot, keeping a detailed history.

[0180] The golf practice support device 1010 is a device that assists in practicing golf swings. Based on the club selection and the swing speed measured by the golf practice support device, it estimates and displays the distance of the shot. The golf practice support device 1010 has a game mode that allows users to practice while simulating playing a round of golf. In game mode, the golf practice support device 1010 displays the layout of a golf course on the screen and displays the trajectory and landing position of the ball for each swing. Users can simulate playing a round of golf while checking the display of the golf practice support device 1010. In game mode, it is recommended to select the direction of the shot in addition to the club, but it is also possible to determine the landing position by assuming the ball lands on the shortest route without selecting the direction of the shot. The golf practice support device 1010 records information such as the user's swing habits during practice.

[0181] The golf navigation device 1000 and the golf practice support device 1010 of this embodiment are each equipped with an NFC communication unit, and by bringing the two devices into contact, they perform short-range wireless communication to transfer information from one device to the other. For example, the golf practice support device 1010 receives course layout information from the golf navigation device 1000 and provides a game mode using the received course layout information. This allows the user to practice while simulating actual courses, such as courses they plan to play, courses they want to play, or courses they have played in the past. Furthermore, when practicing on the course layout of a course they have played in the past, the golf navigation device 1000 receives a history of that course, including the score, the position of each shot, and the destination. The received history is then analyzed and the user is advised on practice methods to conquer the course.

[0182] Furthermore, the golf navigation device 1000 receives information about the user's swing habits and characteristics from the golf practice support device 1010 and provides swing advice to the user when guiding them on the course. For example, if the user tends to have a slow swing speed and lack of distance on approach shots, the navigation device 1000 can advise them to swing harder on approach shots on the course. In addition, based on the received swing characteristics, the golf navigation device 1000 extracts and recommends golf courses that the user is likely to excel at or courses suitable for overcoming the user's challenges.

[0183] When practicing with the golf practice support device 1010, habits and other information are sent via NFC to the golf navigation device 1000, which then provides advice that takes course characteristics into account. The reverse also works: when playing a round on the course using the golf navigation device 1000, information is sent via NFC to the golf practice support device 1010, which then provides advice on practice methods to overcome the course. Whether before or after playing a round, the device provides personalized advice tailored to the situation, enhancing the added value of owning this set that supports improvement. Information is shared between the golf practice device and the golf navigation device using NFC to provide personalized and course-specific practice and strategy advice.

[0184] [Examples of application to navigation systems and golf navigation systems] Referring to Figure 11, the eleventh embodiment will be described. This embodiment is an example in which the present invention is applied to a navigation device (hereinafter, a navigation device 1100 and a golf navigation device 1110). In this embodiment, depending on the direction of information exchange, one of the navigation device 1100 and the golf navigation device 1110 corresponds to the electronic device according to the present invention, and the other corresponds to other electronic devices. Which device becomes the source of the setting information is determined by the state of either device (for example, the running application, the operating mode set in that application, etc.).

[0185] The configuration of the navigation device 1100 is the same as that of the navigation device 400 described in "Example of Application to Navigation Device 2" above, so details that are the same will be omitted here.

[0186] The golf navigation device 1110 of this embodiment is equipped with an NFC communication unit. By bringing the navigation device 1100 and the golf navigation device 1110 into contact, short-range wireless communication is performed, and setting information common to both devices is transmitted from one device to the other. This allows the settings for one device to be used by the other device as well. For example, if a golf course is set as the destination on the navigation device 1100, and the golf navigation device 1110 is brought close, the NFC function sends information about the golf course to the golf navigation device 1110, and the course setting on the golf navigation device 1110 is automatically performed. Conversely, if a course is selected on the golf navigation device 1110, bringing the golf navigation device 1110 close to the navigation device 1100 will automatically register the golf course as the destination on the navigation device 1100. In this way, a single setting can be shared between each device, eliminating the hassle of having to perform similar operations repeatedly.

[0187] [Examples of application to counterfeit prevention and inventory management systems] Referring to Figure 12, a twelfth embodiment will be described. This embodiment is an example of applying the present invention to an anti-counterfeiting and product management system. In this embodiment, the smartphone 1200 corresponds to the electronic device according to the present invention, and the NFC tag 1215 embedded in the bag 1210 and the NFC tag 1225 embedded in the watch 1220 correspond to other electronic devices.

[0188] The smartphone 1200 comprises an NFC communication unit, a network communication unit, a control unit, and a touch panel display. The NFC communication unit is an example of the first communication means in the present invention. The network communication unit is an example of the second communication means in the present invention, and connects to a network such as the Internet and communicates with a server 1230 connected to the network. The control unit is an example of the control means in the present invention. The control unit executes a dedicated application for anti-counterfeiting and product management systems. The control unit sends commands to each component of the smartphone 1200 and receives status from each component, and manages the overall operation of the smartphone 1200.

[0189] Bag 1210 and watch 1220 have NFC tags 1215 and 1225 embedded in them, respectively. Each NFC tag 1215 and 1225 stores a unique ID. The manufacturers of bag 1210 and watch 1220 manage server 1230. Server 1230 has a database that stores products such as bag 1210 and watch 1220, along with their IDs. This database stores the distribution history and repair history of the products, etc., associated with the IDs.

[0190] When the NFC communication unit enters an area where it can communicate with the NFC tag 1215 embedded in the bag 1210, it automatically performs short-range wireless communication with the NFC tag 1215 and receives the ID recorded on the NFC tag 1215. The control unit queries the server 1230 via the network communication unit for the ID received by the NFC communication unit. The server sends the query result back to the smartphone 1200, and the smartphone 1200, under the control of the control unit, displays the query result on its touch panel display.

[0191] In this way, a system is provided for companies such as brand-name product manufacturers that are troubled by counterfeiting, which allows them to determine the authenticity of a product simply by embedding an NFC tag in the product and holding it over a reader. NFC tags are embedded in brand-name products that are susceptible to counterfeiting. The NFC tag has a product-specific ID recorded on it. The reader can be a commercially available product such as a smartphone or tablet equipped with NFC communication functionality and a dedicated application installed. The ID is read by holding such a reader over the product with the embedded NFC tag. The read ID is then accessed to an NFC tag information management server and compared with a database. The comparison result is immediately returned to the smartphone and information on whether it is genuine or counterfeit is displayed. This makes it possible to determine authenticity on the spot. The ID read from the product's NFC tag can be checked against the database via the network. Because commercially available smartphones etc. are used, the cost of equipment and communication fees can be kept low. The anti-counterfeiting and product management system of this embodiment can be used by users to check whether their purchases are genuine. It can also be used by stores to inspect products for sale.

[0192] Furthermore, information about the distribution route during the product's distribution process (e.g., retailers, trade-in locations) and repair information (e.g., repair of a fastener) are recorded on server 1230, associated with the product ID. Distributors and other parties register various types of information on the server, and the product manufacturer manages server 830. This allows for the creation of a product record that documents the distribution and repair history. Moreover, duplication is difficult, and even if duplication occurs, it is easy to determine its authenticity.

[0193] Server 1230 may store the requested ID in association with the location information of the requesting party. By analyzing this data, which associates the requested ID with the location information of the requesting party, if the ID is for a genuine product, the movement history of the genuine product can be determined. If the ID is not for a genuine product, the distribution of counterfeit products can be determined. Data is accumulated each time a request is made.

[0194] Since NFC tags are embedded within the product, they do not detract from its appearance and are difficult to counterfeit. Counterfeit products naturally do not have genuine NFC tags embedded, making it easy to determine their authenticity. Furthermore, for genuine products, the tag can record information such as the distribution route and repair history, making it possible to check for fraudulent transactions and after-sales service. Suitable products for embedding NFC tags include branded goods, motorcycles, and other expensive items that are prone to counterfeiting. The location of the embedded NFC tag within the product does not need to be known to the user.

[0195] [Examples of application to medical and nursing care facilities] Referring to Figure 13, a thirteenth embodiment will be described. This embodiment is an example of applying the present invention to a medical facility. In this embodiment, the tablet computer 1300 and the reader 1310 placed on the floor of the facility correspond to the electronic devices according to the present invention, while the NFC tags 1320 embedded in medical equipment, medicine bags, slippers worn by patients, etc. correspond to other electronic devices. Although this embodiment is described using a medical facility as an example, a similar configuration can also be applied to a nursing care facility.

[0196] In the medical facility described in this embodiment, NFC tags 1320 are embedded in various instruments and supplies, such as medical measuring instruments like thermometers and blood pressure monitors, medicine bags, bracelets worn by patients, and patients' footwear (e.g., slippers). The NFC tags 1320 store IDs for medical measuring instruments, medicines, patients, etc.

[0197] The tablet computer 1300 comprises an NFC communication unit, a network communication unit, a control unit, and a touch panel display. The NFC communication unit is an example of the first communication means in the present invention, and when it enters an area where it can communicate with the NFC tag 1320, it automatically communicates with the NFC tag 1320 and receives the ID and other information recorded on the NFC tag 1320. The network communication unit is an example of the second communication means in the present invention, and connects to a network such as the Internet and communicates with a server 1340 connected to the network. It is desirable that the network communication unit use a wired connection to prevent malfunctions of medical devices. The control unit is an example of the control means in the present invention. The control unit executes a dedicated application for the medical facility / nursing care facility management system.

[0198] The reader 1310 is placed on the floor at key locations within the facility, such as entrances and exits, entrances and exits to each room within the facility, entrances and exits to toilets and bathrooms, and in front of elevators and stairs. The reader 1310 comprises an NFC communication unit, a network communication unit, and a control unit. The NFC communication unit is an example of the first communication means in this invention, and when it enters an area where it can communicate with the NFC tag 1320, it automatically communicates with the NFC tag 1320 and receives the ID and other information recorded on the NFC tag. The network communication unit is an example of the second communication means in this invention, and connects to a network such as the Internet and communicates with a server 1340 connected to the network. The control unit transmits the data read by the NFC communication unit to the server 1340 via the network communication unit.

[0199] Server 1340 is equipped with a database for managing various information in a medical institution. The database records various histories, such as temperature checks, medication administration, and X-ray images, associated with a patient identification ID. It also records the ID of the footwear lent to the patient, the ID of the reader 1310 that read the ID of the footwear, and the time when the reader read the ID of the footwear, all associated with the patient identification ID. The patient identification ID and the ID of the footwear lent to the patient may be the same.

[0200] Patients at medical facilities wear bracelets containing NFC tags 1320 with their individual identification IDs. Patients at risk of wandering are also provided with footwear embedded with NFC tags containing their IDs, which they wear when going out.

[0201] When doctors, nurses, and other staff at a medical institution examine, diagnose, or perform tests on a patient, they hold a tablet computer 1300 over the bracelet the patient is wearing. This allows them to read the patient's ID from the NFC tag 1320 and query the server 1340 to confirm that there is no patient mix-up. In addition to the patient's ID, information on the medication to be administered to the patient, a list of items to be measured, and past measurement results are read and displayed on the screen of the tablet computer 1300. This makes it easy for nurses to compare and confirm the actual medication to be administered and verify the measurement results. Subsequently, they touch medical measuring devices or medication bags to record the measurement results and administered medications, associating them with the patient's ID. Then, the results of the examination, diagnosis, tests, and information on administered medications are sent to the server along with the patient's ID and registered in the database. Communication between the server 1340 and the tablet computer 1300 is conducted via a wired connection to prevent malfunction of medical devices. Therefore, for example, a tablet computer 1300 carried by a nurse should at least temporarily store information such as the results of examinations, diagnoses, tests, and administered medications inside the tablet computer 1300, and when the nurse returns to the nurse's station and puts the tablet computer 1300 back in its designated place, the information should be automatically read into the hospital server 1340 so that backup and centralized data management can be performed.

[0202] In hospitals and nursing homes, NFC tags are worn by relevant individuals, and readers are installed at key locations within the building to prevent people with wandering tendencies from going missing or to prevent errors such as administering medication to the wrong person. Various histories, such as temperature readings, medication administration, and X-ray images, are written to the NFC, allowing for on-the-spot registration and verification using tablet devices. Patients wear bracelet-type NFC devices, and NFC is embedded in thermometers, blood pressure monitors, and medication bags. The history can be easily managed by reading the data on a tablet during measurement and medication administration. This prevents human errors caused by handwritten records and creates a system that ensures adequate health and safety management.

[0203] Hospitals often transport expensive medical measuring devices to patient rooms for use. NFC can be used to manage where these devices are currently being used, where they are located, and whether they are reserved. It would be beneficial to build a management system within the hospital that allows staff to check the status of these devices using readily available smartphones and tablets. For example, for large medical measuring devices on carts, an NFC tag 1320 could be placed on the bottom of the cart, and readers 1310 placed on the floor at key locations within the facility could read the ID recorded on the NFC tag 1320 to manage the movement history of the medical measuring devices.

[0204] In nursing homes, it's possible to check who is in their room, who has been in the toilet or bathroom for a certain period, and if unusual behavior is detected, an alert is issued, enhancing safety. By embedding NFC tags in each resident's shoes or slippers and placing readers in the mats, movement can be tracked naturally and without error. It's possible to know where residents are going and if they are staying in the same place for an extended period. For example, if a resident remains motionless in the bathroom or toilet for an extended period, an alarm could be issued as a potential accident risk.

[0205] [Example of application to a guest management system] Referring to Figure 14, a 14th embodiment will be described. This embodiment is an example of applying the present invention to a guest management system. In this embodiment, the guest management system 1400 corresponds to the electronic device according to the present invention, and the card 1410 and the personally owned smartphone 1420 correspond to other electronic devices.

[0206] The guest management system 1400 is installed in hotels and inns and used for managing guests. The guest management system 1400 has a database that records various information about guests. This database stores an ID assigned to each guest, the room assigned to the guest, and billing information for the guest.

[0207] Card 1010 contains an NFC tag that records the ID assigned to the guest and is lent to the guest as a card-type room key in the guest management system 1400. The guest uses this card to unlock and lock the room. For example, to unlock the room, the guest holds card 1410 over a reader located near the entrance. The reader then reads the ID recorded on card 1410, and the read ID is checked against the database. If the read ID matches the ID of the guest assigned to that room, the guest management system 1400 unlocks the room door.

[0208] Guests who have a smartphone 1420 equipped with NFC communication capabilities can register it during check-in and use their smartphone 1420 in place of card 1410.

[0209] The guest management system 1400 enables payments for goods and services within the accommodation facility to be made using cards 1410 or smartphones 1420. For example, when paying at restaurants or shops, or using the pool or gym, payment information is registered in the database along with the ID, and all payments can be settled at checkout. Furthermore, when guests using smartphones 1420 check out, they can use online banking or credit card payments to check out without going through the front desk.

[0210] The room key will be NFC-enabled, allowing for not only unlocking and locking the room, but also managing payments at restaurants and shops, and access to the pool and gym. Guests with NFC-enabled smartphones can register them during check-in to use them as a substitute, and self-check-out will also be possible.

[0211] By matching the NFC with an individually assigned ID, security is ensured, allowing users to check transaction details and amounts on their smartphone or tablet screen and complete payments directly via online banking or credit card. This improves customer satisfaction by avoiding crowded front desk checkouts. Furthermore, repeat customers can check in using their smartphone screen while confirming their room number, and by registering the NFC ID to their room key, they can go directly to the front desk without stopping there, eliminating the need to use the front desk for both check-in and check-out. Personal smartphones and cards with NFC capabilities can be used as room keys, as well as for accessing and paying for services within the hotel, such as the gym and restaurants.

[0212] [Example of application to a sports gym management system] Referring to Figure 15, a fifteenth embodiment will be described. This embodiment is an example of applying the present invention to a sports gym management system. In this embodiment, the management system 1500 corresponds to the electronic device according to the present invention, and the membership card 1510 with an embedded NFC tag corresponds to another electronic device. Another example of the other electronic device is an NFC tag embedded in a locker key.

[0213] The management system 1500 is installed in a sports gym and used to manage the training of its users. The management system 1500 has a database that records various information about users. This database stores an ID assigned to each user, the daily training volume of each user, etc. The management system 1500 is equipped with NFC readers in each facility and piece of equipment within the sports gym.

[0214] The membership card 1510 contains an NFC tag that records the ID assigned to the user and is lent to the user. When a user enters the gym, they hold the membership card 1510 over the NFC reader located at the front desk to transmit their ID to the management system, which then records that the user has entered the gym. When the user performs various training exercises within the gym, they hold the membership card 1510 over the NFC reader on each facility and piece of equipment to register the type of training they performed, the amount of exercise, calories burned, etc. For example, when using a treadmill, the user holds their membership card 1510 over the treadmill's NFC reader at the start and end of their training. This allows the management system 1500 to receive the user's ID at the start of training and register the user's use of the treadmill in its database. After the training is complete, the management system 1500 retrieves the training details from the treadmill and registers them in the database as the user's training record.

[0215] For pool training, users hold their membership card 1510 over the desired menu on a training menu posted poolside. The training menu displays swimming strokes and distances in a matrix format, and multiple NFC readers are provided, corresponding to the number of training menus, so that the NFC tag on the membership card 1510 is read when the membership card is held over the corresponding location. The detectable ranges of the multiple NFC readers are spaced apart so as not to overlap. When a member holds their membership card over the desired training menu on such a training menu, the management system 1500 reads the user's ID from the NFC tag and registers the training menu corresponding to the read area as the user's training record in the database.

[0216] The management system 1500 designs a recommended training program for each user based on their registered training history. Before and after training, users hold their membership card 1510 over a terminal 1520 located within the gym to plan and execute their training while referring to the training program designed by the management system 1500. Users can also access and edit their individual user data and training programs stored in the management system 1500's database from terminals within the gym, external personal computers, smartphones, etc.

[0217] In addition to serving as a gym membership card, it uses NFC to manage entry and exit, track the duration and distance of various sports activities, and calculate calorie expenditure. It can also aggregate exercise data over a period of one day or week, and support the creation of personalized programs. By making the gym's server accessible from outside, users can check their reservations and exercise data from home, enabling health management anytime, anywhere. The NFC tags are completely waterproof, making them usable in a variety of situations, such as membership cards, pool access, locker keys, and purchasing items within the facility.

[0218] In the example above, the management system 1500 read the NFC tag held by the user. However, conversely, the user could also obtain information such as the type of training, exercise volume, and calories burned from various equipment in the gym using their own device (e.g., a smartphone). For example, when using a treadmill, the user would hold their smartphone over the treadmill's NFC communication port at the end of their workout, and the treadmill would receive and record the training details from start to finish on the smartphone. The user could then refer to the training details recorded on their smartphone to review their training history or create training programs.

[0219] For pool training, users hold their smartphones over the desired training menu on a training menu posted poolside. The training menu displays swimming strokes and distances in a matrix format, with NFC tags containing information corresponding to each training menu placed at its display location. Each NFC tag is placed at a distance greater than the NFC communication range to prevent false detections. By holding a smartphone over the desired training menu on this training menu, the training content is received and recorded on the smartphone from the menu.

[0220] A structure in which multiple NFC tags are embedded in a thin, flat plate or sheet so that their detection ranges do not overlap, and each NFC tag has a distinct marking on its surface, can be applied to other embodiments of the present invention. In the embodiments described using one NFC tag as an example, a structure in which multiple NFC tags are embedded may be used instead.

[0221] For example, in the fourth embodiment (Example 1 of application to a navigation device), the NFC tags may be provided in a manner in which multiple NFC tags 410 are embedded in a large map or travel guide. It is preferable that a portable navigation device 400 be held over a desired spot on the map or travel guide to set a destination.

Claims

1. An in-vehicle device equipped with NFC communication functionality, When an NFC tag containing predetermined location information is held over the device, the device has a function to receive the predetermined location information via the NFC communication function, A function to perform processing corresponding to the received predetermined location information, Equipped with, When an NFC tag storing the predetermined location information and another NFC tag, which is separate from the aforementioned NFC tag and stores information other than the predetermined location information, are held together, the device has a function to receive the predetermined location information and the other information via the NFC communication function. The processing corresponding to the predetermined location information is the processing corresponding to the combination of the predetermined location information and the other information. An in-vehicle device characterized by the following features.

2. Another NFC tag storing information other than the predetermined location information stores search conditions, The process corresponding to the combination of the predetermined location information and the other information is the process of setting a route with the predetermined location information received from the NFC tag storing the predetermined location information as the destination, using the search conditions received from another NFC tag storing the other information. The in-vehicle device according to feature 1.

3. An NFC tag on which the predetermined location information is stored, An in-vehicle device as described in claim 1 or 2, Equipped with, The surface of the NFC tag on which the predetermined location information is stored is provided with a space on which the contents stored in the NFC tag can be written with a pen. A system characterized by the following features.

4. An NFC tag on which the predetermined location information is stored, An in-vehicle device as described in claim 1 or 2, A system equipped with, The shape of the NFC tag in which the predetermined location information is stored is the shape corresponding to the predetermined location information. A system characterized by the following features.

5. A program for a computer to implement the functions of the in-vehicle device described in claim 1 or 2.

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