Terminal, terminal control method, terminal control program, and recording medium

Abstract

To provide an information processing device, etc., capable of reducing actions of a notification section in a facility such as a school.SOLUTION: An information processing device comprises a control section which controls a terminal carried by a moving person. The terminal includes: a position acquisition section which acquires a present position; and at least any one of a notification section by which, when the present position acquired by the position acquisition section is in a predetermined geographical relation with a first preset position, the moving person is notified thereof and a notification section by which, when a detection section for detecting a peripheral object detects an approaching object, the moving person is notified thereof. The control section switches between a first state where the notification section performs the notification to the moving person at a first notification level and a second state where the notification section performs the notification to the moving person at a second notification level lower than the first notification level when the present position acquired by the position acquisition section is in a predetermined geographical relation with a second preset position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[[Technical Field]]

[0001] The present invention relates to terminal , a terminal control method, a terminal control program, and a recording medium. [[Background Art]]

[0002] In order to prevent traffic accidents involving children, traffic safety education, such as having children stop temporarily to check safety when they approach a point where safety confirmation is necessary (safety confirmation point) such as an intersection, is extremely important. Patent Document 1 below discloses a system that assists traffic safety education for children by notifying a child carrying a terminal via a notification unit (vibrator or speaker) provided in the terminal when the child approaches a preset location. [[Prior Art Documents]] [[Patent Documents]]

[0003] [[Patent Document 1]] International Publication No. 2020 / 203605 [[Summary of the Invention]] [[Problem to be Solved by the Invention]]

[0004] By the way, when a child is in a facility such as a school, if the notification unit (vibrator or speaker) operates, there is a possibility that problems such as interfering with classes may occur.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide an information processing apparatus, a terminal control method, a terminal control program, and a recording medium that can reduce the operation of a notification unit in a facility such as a school. [[Means for Solving the Problem]]

[0006] The information processing apparatus, terminal control method, terminal control program, and recording medium according to the present invention adopt the following configuration. (1) An information processing device according to one aspect of the present invention is an information processing device comprising a control unit for controlling a terminal carried by a person on the move, wherein the terminal comprises a position acquisition unit for acquiring the current position, a notification unit for notifying the person on the move when the current position acquired by the position acquisition unit is in a predetermined geographical relationship with a first set position which is a pre-set geographical location, and at least one of a detection unit for detecting surrounding objects for notifying the person on the move when an approaching object is detected, and the control unit switches between a first state in which the notification unit notifies the person on the move with a first level of notification, and a second state in which the notification unit notifies the person on the move with a second level of notification which is smaller than the first level of notification, when the current position acquired by the position acquisition unit is in a predetermined geographical relationship with a second set position which is a pre-set geographical location.

[0007] (2) In the embodiment of (1) above, the second level of notification is such that the notification unit does not notify the person moving.

[0008] (3) In the embodiment of (1) or (2) above, in the second state, the control unit causes the light-emitting unit, which is visible from the outside of the terminal, to emit light at a first level of illumination when it acquires that the current position acquired by the position acquisition unit has changed from a stationary state to a moving state, or when the motion acquisition unit that acquires the motion of the terminal acquires that the terminal has changed from a stationary state to a moving state.

[0009] (4) In the embodiment of (3) above, in the first state, the control unit causes the light-emitting unit to emit light at a second light-emitting degree that is greater than the first light-emitting degree.

[0010] (5) In the embodiment of (4) above, the first luminescence intensity is stronger than that of the second luminescence intensity.

[0011] (6) In the embodiment of (4) or (5) above, the first luminescence intensity is such that the frequency of luminescence is higher than that of the second luminescence intensity.

[0012] (7): In any one embodiment of (3) to (6) above, the light-emitting part is configured to emit light in a shape that resembles the eyes of an animal or character.

[0013] (8) In any one embodiment of (1) to (7) above, in the second state, the control unit switches the notification unit to the first state when the current position is no longer in the predetermined geographical relationship with the second set position.

[0014] (9) In any one embodiment of (1) to (8) above, in the first state or the second state, the control unit switches the terminal to a third state in which the operation of the position acquisition unit or the detection unit is reduced or suspended if the position acquisition unit does not acquire that the current position acquired by the position acquisition unit is moving for a predetermined period of time, or if the motion acquisition unit that acquires the motion of the terminal does not acquire that the terminal is moving for a predetermined period of time.

[0015] (10) In the embodiment of (9) above, the predetermined elapsed time in the second state is shorter than the predetermined elapsed time in the first state.

[0016] (11): In any one embodiment of (1) to (10) above, the first setting position is a geographical location set in advance so that a predetermined action is performed by the person moving.

[0017] (12): In the embodiment of (11) above, the predetermined action is an action that enhances the traffic safety of the person traveling.

[0018] (13): A terminal control method according to one aspect of the present invention is a terminal control method carried by a person on the move, comprising at least one of the following steps: acquiring the current location; notifying the person on the move when the current location is in a predetermined geographical relationship with a first set location which is a pre-set geographical location; and notifying the person on the move when a detection unit that detects surrounding objects detects an approaching object; and a step of switching between acquiring the current location; a first state in which the person on the move is notified with a first level of notification; and a second state in which the person on the move is notified with a second level of notification which is smaller than the first level of notification when the current location is in a predetermined geographical relationship with a second set location which is a pre-set geographical location.

[0019] (14): A terminal control program according to one aspect of the present invention is a terminal control program carried by a mobile person, which causes a computer provided in the terminal to execute at least one of the following steps: acquiring the current location; notifying the mobile person when the current location has a predetermined geographical relationship with a first set location which is a pre-set geographical location; and notifying the mobile person when a detection unit that detects surrounding objects detects an approaching object; and switching between acquiring the current location; a first state in which the mobile person is notified with a first level of notification; and a second state in which the mobile person is notified with a second level of notification smaller than the first level when the current location has a predetermined geographical relationship with a second set location which is a pre-set geographical location.

[0020] (15): A recording medium according to one aspect of the present invention is a computer-readable recording medium that records the control program of the terminal in the aspect of (14) described above. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] According to the embodiments of (1), (13) to (15), the operation of the notification unit can be reduced in facilities such as schools. According to the aspect of (2), the operation of the notification unit can be disabled in a facility such as a school. According to the aspect of (3), when the current position acquired by the position acquisition unit or the terminal starts moving, the light emitting unit can be caused to emit light at a first light emission intensity. According to the aspect of (4), in a first state in which the notification unit notifies a mover at a first notification intensity, the light emitting unit can be caused to emit light at a second light emission intensity that is greater than the first light emission intensity. According to the aspect of (5), in the first state, the light emitting unit can be caused to emit light at a second light emission intensity having a higher light emission intensity than the first light emission intensity. According to the aspect of (6), in the first state, the light emitting unit can be caused to emit light at a second light emission intensity having a higher light emission frequency than the first light emission intensity. According to the aspect of (7), the design of the terminal can be improved. According to the aspect of (8), when a child departs from a facility such as a school, the notification to the mover by the notification unit can be resumed. According to the aspect of (9), power consumption of the terminal can be suppressed. According to the aspect of (10), in a facility such as a school, the power consumption of the terminal can be suppressed more reliably. According to the aspect of (11), when the current position and the geographical position preset to allow a predetermined operation to be performed by the mover have a predetermined geographical relationship, the mover can be notified of that fact. According to the aspect of (12), traffic safety can be achieved and traffic accidents can be prevented. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] [Figure 1] It is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the notification system according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram showing the configuration of essential parts of the child terminal according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] It is a diagram showing possible states of the child terminal according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4]This diagram shows the state switching of a child terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a block diagram showing the main components of a parent terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This figure shows how the current location of a child terminal, acquired by the location acquisition unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, has a predetermined geographical relationship with the second set location. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0023] The information processing device, terminal control method, terminal control program, and recording medium of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0024] <Notification System> Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of a notification system according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 1, the notification system NS according to this embodiment comprises a child terminal 1, a parent terminal 2, and a server 3. The child terminal 1, parent terminal 2, and server 3 are interconnected via a network N. The network N is, for example, a mobile communication network. The mobile communication network is, for example, a fourth-generation mobile communication network or a fifth-generation mobile communication network. The network N includes base stations, etc.

[0025] Child terminal 1 is a terminal carried by the person being monitored (for example, a child). Child terminal 1 is a robot equipped with communication functions and is used by being attached, for example, to the shoulder strap of a school bag. Child terminal 1 transmits various information obtained by child terminal 1 (for example, location information indicating the location of child terminal 1) to server 3 via network N. Child terminal 1 receives various information transmitted by server 3 (for example, first setting location information SP1 indicating a first setting location PT1 which is a geographical location set in advance so that a predetermined action is performed by the person carrying child terminal 1, and second setting location information SP2 indicating a second setting location PT2 which is a geographical location set in advance) via network N. In this embodiment, child terminal 1 corresponds to the information processing device and terminal of the present invention. Details of child terminal 1 will be described later.

[0026] Parent terminal 2 is a device held by the guardian of the person being monitored (for example, a child). Parent terminal 2 can be, for example, a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch. Parent terminal 2 transmits various information corresponding to the instructions entered into parent terminal 2 to server 3 via network N. Examples of information transmitted from parent terminal 2 to server 3 include the first set location information SP1 and the second set location information SP2 mentioned above. Examples of information transmitted from server 3 to parent terminal 2 include child terminal location information regarding the location of child terminal 1. Further details about parent terminal 2 will be described later.

[0027] Server 3 associates child terminal 1 with parent terminal 2 to assist in traffic safety education for travelers carrying child terminal 1. For example, Server 3 uses location information and map information transmitted from child terminal 1 to generate a travel trajectory of the traveler carrying child terminal 1, and generates child terminal location information by combining the travel trajectory with the map information. Server 3 transmits the generated child terminal location information to parent terminal 2.

[0028] Server 3 comprises a communication unit 31, a control unit 32, and a storage unit 33.

[0029] The communication unit 31 receives various information (e.g., location information) transmitted from the child terminal 1 via the network N and outputs it to the control unit 32. The communication unit 31 receives various information (e.g., first set location information SP1, second set location information SP2) transmitted from the parent terminal 2 via the network N and outputs it to the control unit 32. The communication unit 31 transmits the information output from the control unit 32 (e.g., first set location information SP1, second set location information SP2) to the child terminal 1 via the network N. The communication unit 31 transmits the information output from the control unit 32 (e.g., child terminal location information) to the parent terminal 2 via the network N.

[0030] The control unit 32 comprehensively controls the operation of the server 3. Specifically, the control unit 32 stores information output from the communication unit 31 (various information received from the child terminal 1 and the parent terminal 2) in the storage unit 33. The control unit 32 also performs control or processing according to the instructions indicated by the instruction information received from the parent terminal 2. For example, if the instruction indicates setting the child terminal 1 to a first setting location PT1 (a geographical location pre-set so that a predetermined operation can be performed by a mobile person carrying the child terminal 1), the control unit 32 controls the communication unit 31 to transmit the first setting location information SP1 read from the storage unit 33 to the child terminal 1. If the instruction indicates setting the parent terminal 2 to a second setting location PT2 (a geographical location pre-set), the control unit 32 controls the communication unit 31 to transmit the second setting location information SP2 read from the storage unit 33 to the child terminal 1.

[0031] Furthermore, if the above instruction indicates a request for child terminal location information, the control unit 32 generates child terminal location information using the location information and map information stored in the storage unit 33, and controls the communication unit 31 to transmit it to the parent terminal 2.

[0032] Furthermore, the control unit 32 associates the child terminal 1 carried by the mobile user with the parent terminal 2 held by the guardian, based on the telephone number or identification information, and stores this information in the storage unit 33. As a result, the server 3 processes multiple sets of child terminals 1 and parent terminals 2.

[0033] The memory unit 33 stores various information received from the child terminal 1 and the parent terminal 2. The memory unit 33 also stores map information. This map information includes, for example, a map showing the route from home to school and location information for places like cram schools visited before returning home. The map information also includes information such as the route network (junctions, branches) of sidewalks and roads.

[0034] <child terminal> Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main components of a child terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 2, the child terminal 1 includes a position acquisition unit 11, a detection unit 12, a motion acquisition unit 13, a microphone 14, a light-emitting unit 15, a notification unit 16, a communication unit 17, a memory 18, and a control unit 19. The child terminal 1 may also include an operation unit.

[0035] The position acquisition unit 11 acquires the location information of the child terminal 1. The position acquisition unit 11 outputs the acquired location information to the control unit 19. The position acquisition unit 11 is equipped with a positioning signal receiving antenna that receives positioning signals from satellites, for example, and outputs the received positioning signals to the control unit 19. The child terminal 1 may also acquire information indicating its current location based on communication with a base station, for example. If the child terminal 1 is in the third state ST3 (described later), the position acquisition unit 11 is inactive and does not acquire the location information of the child terminal 1.

[0036] The detection unit 12 is a radar. The detection unit 12 detects objects in the vicinity of the child terminal 1. The detection unit 12 includes, for example, a front radar that detects objects in front of the child terminal 1 and a rear radar that detects objects behind the child terminal 1 (for example, behind the front radar). The front radar and rear radar are, for example, millimeter-wave radars. The detection unit 12 outputs detection signals to the control unit 19, for example, the distance, relative velocity, relative position, and direction of external objects. When the child terminal 1 is in the third state ST3 (described later), the detection unit 12 is inactive and does not detect objects in the vicinity of the child terminal 1.

[0037] The motion acquisition unit 13 acquires the motion of the child terminal 1. For example, the motion acquisition unit 13 is an acceleration sensor. The motion acquisition unit 13 detects the acceleration acting on the child terminal 1 and outputs the detected acceleration signal to the control unit 19. Specifically, the motion acquisition unit 13 detects the acceleration of the child terminal 1 in three directions: the X axis, Y axis, and Z axis, and outputs the detected acceleration signals in these three directions to the control unit 19.

[0038] The microphone 14 outputs the signal obtained by sound pickup (for example, an audio signal) to the control unit 19. The microphone 14 may also be a microphone array composed of multiple microphones.

[0039] The light-emitting unit 15 emits light at a degree of illumination (intensity, frequency, etc.) corresponding to the light emission instruction information output by the control unit 19. The light-emitting unit 15 is equipped with, for example, three LEDs (light-emitting diodes) that emit red, green, and blue light. As shown in Figure 1, the light-emitting unit 15 is provided so that it can be seen from outside the child terminal 1. The light-emitting unit 15 is configured to emit light in a shape that mimics the eyes of an animal or character. For example, as shown in Figure 1, the light-emitting unit 15 has two annular light-emitting parts LP. Each light-emitting part LP is divided into an upper and a lower part, and it is possible to emit light from only the upper part, only the lower part, or both the upper and lower parts. The colors in which the upper and lower parts of the light-emitting part LP emit light are arbitrary. The light-emitting unit 15 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display device, an organic EL (electroluminescent) display device, or an electronic ink display device. In this case, the light-emitting unit 15 may be configured to display a shape that mimics the eyes of an animal or character on the liquid crystal display device, etc.

[0040] The notification unit 16 includes a speaker 16a and a vibrator 16b. The speaker 16a converts a signal output by the control unit 19 (e.g., an audio signal) into sound. The vibrator 16b is an oscillator that generates vibrations according to the notification information output by the control unit 19. The notification unit 16 operates with a notification level (volume, vibration intensity, etc.) according to the notification information output by the control unit 19, and provides notification to the person carrying the child terminal 1.

[0041] The communication unit 17 includes, for example, a communication IC card, a communication antenna, and a communication module, and performs communication (wireless communication) under the control of the control unit 19. The communication unit 17 transmits information output by the control unit 19 (for example, location information, etc.) to the server 3 via the network N. The communication unit 17 receives information transmitted by the server 3 (for example, first set location information SP1, second set location information SP2) and outputs the received information to the control unit 19. Note that if the child terminal 1 is in the third state ST3 (described later), the communication unit 17 will be inactive and will not perform communication.

[0042] Memory 18 stores various information and programs used by the child terminal 1. For example, memory 18 stores the first setting location information SP1 and the second setting location information SP2 transmitted from server 3. The first setting location PT1 defined in the first setting location information SP1 is a geographical location set in response to an operation input to the parent terminal 2. Similarly, the second setting location PT2 defined in the second setting location information SP2 is a geographical location set in response to an operation input to the parent terminal 2.

[0043] Furthermore, the first designated location PT1 is a geographical location (e.g., a safety check point) that has been pre-set to ensure that a predetermined action is taken to enhance the traffic safety of the person carrying the child terminal 1. A "predetermined action to enhance the traffic safety of the person carrying the child terminal 1" is, for example, a stopping action, a left and right check action, a hand-raising action, etc. Specifically, the first designated location PT1 is a location on the route taken by the person carrying the child terminal 1, for example, a location where there is a possibility of danger to children. The first designated location PT1 includes, for example, intersections on the route, locations on sidewalks separated from roadways, and the vicinity of structures that pose a risk.

[0044] Furthermore, the second setting position PT2 is a location within the target facility TF (see also Figure 6) where it is desirable to reduce the emission of light from the light-emitting unit 15 and the notification from the notification unit 16. Specifically, the target facility TF is, for example, a school or cram school attended by a mobile user carrying the child terminal 1.

[0045] Furthermore, the memory 18 stores a program that implements the functions of the control unit 19 (for example, the functions of the position determination unit 19a).

[0046] The control unit 19 comprehensively controls the operation of the child terminal 1. The control unit 19 acquires positioning information output by the position acquisition unit 11, detection signals output by the detection unit 12, detection values ​​output by the motion acquisition unit 13, and audio signals output by the microphone 14. The control unit 19 controls the communication unit 17 to transmit position information based on the positioning information acquired from the position acquisition unit 11, detection signals acquired from the detection unit 12, detection values ​​acquired from the motion acquisition unit 13, and audio signals acquired from the microphone 14 to the server 3.

[0047] The control unit 19 includes a location determination unit 19a. The location determination unit 19a uses the first set location information SP1 stored in the memory 18 and location information based on positioning information acquired from the location acquisition unit 11 to determine whether the first set location PT1 indicated by the first set location information SP1 and the current location of the child terminal 1 indicated by the location information are in a predetermined geographical relationship. For example, the location determination unit 19a determines whether the distance between the current location of the child terminal 1 and the first set location PT1 has become shorter than a predetermined distance (for example, a distance of several meters). The location determination unit 19a also uses the second set location information SP2 stored in the memory 18 and location information based on positioning information acquired from the location acquisition unit 11 to determine whether the second set location PT2 indicated by the second set location information SP2 and the current location of the child terminal 1 indicated by the location information are in a predetermined geographical relationship. For example, the position determination unit 19a determines whether the distance between the current position of the child terminal 1 and the second set position PT2 has become shorter than a predetermined distance (for example, a distance of several tens of meters).

[0048] Here, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the child terminal 1 according to this embodiment can take on three states: a first state ST1, a second state ST2, and a third state ST3. Furthermore, the second state ST2 is subdivided into two states: a main state ST2a and an auxiliary state ST2b. As shown in Figure 3, in the first state ST1, the communication unit 17, position acquisition unit 11, detection unit 12, motion acquisition unit 13, light-emitting unit 15, speaker 16a, and vibrator 16b are all operational (ON). In the auxiliary state ST2b of the second state ST2, the communication unit 17, position acquisition unit 11, detection unit 12, motion acquisition unit 13, and light-emitting unit 15 are operational (ON), while the speaker 16a and vibrator 16b are inoperable (OFF). In the main state ST2a of the second state ST2, the communication unit 17, position acquisition unit 11, detection unit 12, and motion acquisition unit 13 are operational (ON), while the light-emitting unit 15, speaker 16a, and vibrator 16b are inactive (OFF). In the third state ST3, only the motion acquisition unit 13 is operational (ON), while the communication unit 17, position acquisition unit 11, detection unit 12, light-emitting unit 15, speaker 16a, and vibrator 16b are inactive (OFF).

[0049] The control unit 19 switches (transitions) the state of the child terminal 1 between the first state ST1, the second state ST2 (main state ST2a, auxiliary state ST2b), and the third state ST3, based on the positioning information output by the position acquisition unit 11, the detected values ​​output by the motion acquisition unit 13, and the determination result of the position determination unit 19a. Details of the conditions under which the control unit 19 switches the state of the child terminal 1 between each state will be described later.

[0050] When the child terminal 1 is in the first state ST1, the control unit 19 outputs notification information and activates the notification unit 16 when the position determination unit 19a determines that the distance between the child terminal 1's current position and the first set position PT1 has become shorter than a predetermined distance. Specifically, "activating the notification unit 16" means emitting sound from the speaker 16a or vibrating the vibrator 16b. The reason for activating the notification unit 16 in such cases is to notify the person carrying the child terminal 1 that they are approaching the first set position PT1.

[0051] When the child terminal 1 is in the first state ST1, the control unit 19 outputs notification information and operates the notification unit 16 when the detection unit 12 detects an object approaching the child terminal 1. This allows the person carrying the child terminal 1 to be notified of the approaching object. The control unit 19 may also use known recognition information to determine whether a person or a vehicle is included in the detection signal obtained from the detection unit 12. In this case, the control unit 19 may be configured to output notification information and operate the notification unit 16 when it determines that a vehicle is included in the detection signal. This allows the person carrying the child terminal 1 to be notified of the approaching vehicle. When the control unit 19 vibrates the vibrator 16b, it may change the vibration interval or the vibration intensity according to the content to be notified. Hereinafter, the degree of notification performed by the notification unit 16 in the first state may be referred to as the "first notification degree".

[0052] On the other hand, when the child terminal 1 is in the second state ST2, the control unit 19 outputs notification information when the position determination unit 19a determines that the distance between the child terminal 1's current position and the first set position PT1 has become shorter than a predetermined distance, causing the notification unit 16 to provide notification at a second notification level smaller than the first notification level. More specifically in this embodiment, when the child terminal 1 is in the second state ST2, the control unit 19 does not cause the notification unit 16 to provide notification. Similarly, when the child terminal 1 is in the second state ST2, the control unit 19 outputs notification information when the detection unit 12 detects an object approaching the child terminal 1, causing the notification unit 16 to provide notification at a second notification level smaller than the first notification level. More specifically in this embodiment, when the child terminal 1 is in the second state ST2, the control unit 19 does not cause the notification unit 16 to provide notification. When child terminal 1 is in the second state ST2, the control unit 19 will not have the notification unit 16 (speaker 16a, vibrator 16b) make a notification, even if it has acquired various information from the communication unit 17.

[0053] Furthermore, when the child terminal 1 is in the first state ST1, the control unit 19 outputs light emission instruction information to cause the light-emitting unit 15 to emit light at the second level of emission. On the other hand, when the child terminal 1 is in the auxiliary state ST2b, the control unit 19 outputs light emission instruction information to cause the light-emitting unit 15 to emit light at the first level of emission. Here, the second level of emission is greater than the first level of emission. Specifically, when the child terminal 1 is in the first state ST1, the light-emitting unit 15 emits light with a stronger intensity compared to when the child terminal 1 is in the auxiliary state ST2b. Alternatively, when the child terminal 1 is in the first state ST1, the light-emitting unit 15 emits light at a higher frequency compared to when the child terminal 1 is in the auxiliary state ST2b. Note that when the child terminal 1 is in the first state ST1, the light-emitting unit 15 may emit light with a stronger intensity and at a higher frequency compared to when the child terminal 1 is in the auxiliary state ST2b. Furthermore, when the child terminal 1 is in the main state ST2a, the control unit 19 does not output light emission instruction information and does not emit light from the light emission unit 15.

[0054] <Parent device> Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the main components of a master terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 5, the master terminal 2 includes an operation unit 21, a display unit 22, a microphone 23, a speaker 24, a vibrator 25, a communication unit 26, a memory 27, and a control unit 28. Note that the master terminal 2 does not necessarily have to include a microphone 23, a speaker 24, or a vibrator 25.

[0055] The operation unit 21 is operated by a guardian who possesses the parent terminal 2, and outputs a signal to the control unit 28 in accordance with the guardian's operation. The operation unit 21 is, for example, a touch panel sensor provided on the display unit 22. The display unit 22 displays various information (for example, child terminal location information) output by the control unit 28. The display unit 22 is, for example, a liquid crystal display device, an organic EL display device, or an electronic ink display device.

[0056] Microphone 23 outputs the signal obtained by sound pickup (e.g., an audio signal) to the control unit 28. Microphone 23 may be a microphone array composed of multiple microphones. Speaker 24 converts the signal output by the control unit 28 (e.g., an audio signal) into sound. Vibrator 25 is an oscillator that generates vibrations in accordance with the notification information output by the control unit 28.

[0057] The communication unit 26 includes, for example, a communication IC card, a communication antenna, and a communication module, and performs communication (wireless communication) under the control of the control unit 28. The communication unit 26 transmits information output by the control unit 28 (for example, first set location information SP1, second set location information SP2) to the server 3 via the network N. The communication unit 26 receives various information transmitted by the server 3 (for example, child terminal location information, etc.) and outputs it to the control unit 28. The memory 27 stores various information and programs used by the parent terminal 2.

[0058] The control unit 28 comprehensively controls the operation of the parent terminal 2. The control unit 28 acquires signals output by the operation unit 21 and performs control or processing according to the acquired signals. For example, if the acquired signal is an instruction to set the first setting position PT1 to the child terminal 1, the control unit 28 outputs first setting position information SP1, which indicates the first setting position PT1 input by the operation unit 21, to the communication unit 26. Also, if the acquired signal is an instruction to set the second setting position PT2 to the child terminal 1, the control unit 28 outputs second setting position information SP2, which indicates the second setting position PT2 input by the operation unit 21, to the communication unit 26. Furthermore, if the acquired signal is an instruction to request child terminal position information, the control unit 28 outputs instruction information indicating that to the communication unit 26. When child terminal position information is output from the communication unit 26, the control unit 28 outputs that child terminal position information to the display unit 22.

[0059] Furthermore, among the components of the child terminal 1, parent terminal 2, and server 3, for example, the functions of the control unit 19 (e.g., position determination unit 19a), control unit 28, and control unit 32 may be realized by a hardware processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) executing a program (software). Some or all of these components may be realized by hardware (including circuitry) such as an LSI (Large Scale Integration), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or by the cooperation of software and hardware. The program may be stored in advance in a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or flash memory (a storage device equipped with a non-transient storage medium), or it may be stored in a removable storage medium such as a DVD or CD-ROM (a non-transient storage medium) and installed when the storage medium is inserted into a drive device.

[0060] <Processing performed by the notification system> Next, the processing performed by the notification system NS according to this embodiment will be described. Specifically, the process of switching the state of the child terminal 1 between the first state ST1, the second state ST2 (main state ST2a, auxiliary state ST2b), and the third state ST3 (state switching process) will be described. Figure 4 is a diagram showing the state switching (state transition) of the child terminal 1 according to this embodiment.

[0061] ≪Switching from the first state ST1 to the second state ST2≫ When the child terminal 1 is in the first state ST1, the control unit 19 determines whether the following condition C1 is met based on the result of the determination by the position determination unit 19a. If the control unit 19 determines that condition C1 is met, it switches the state of the child terminal 1 from the first state ST1 to the second state ST2 (switching step). In this embodiment, when the state of the child terminal 1 switches from the first state ST1 to the second state ST2, the state of the child terminal 1 switches to the main state ST2a of the second state ST2. Condition C1: "The current location of the child terminal 1 acquired by the location acquisition unit 11 is in a predetermined geographical relationship with the second set location PT2." Note that "being geographically related to the second setting location PT2" means, for example, that the current location of child terminal 1 is within a predetermined distance R from the second setting location PT2 (see also Figure 6) (the same applies in the following explanation). The value of distance R may be set according to the operation input to parent terminal 2.

[0062] By switching the state of the child terminal 1 from the first state ST1 to the second state ST2 (main state ST2a) in this way, the light-emitting unit 15, speaker 16a, and vibrator 16b are turned OFF (see also Figure 3). This reduces (prohibits) the light emission of the light-emitting unit 15 and the operation of the notification unit 16 in target facilities TF such as schools and cram schools, thereby preventing problems such as disruption of lessons. The first state ST1 is also called the active mode. The second state ST2 (main state ST2a) is also called the silent mode.

[0063] ≪Switching from the second state (ST2) to the third state (ST3)≫ When the child terminal 1 is in the second state ST2 (main state ST2a or auxiliary state ST2b), the control unit 19 determines whether the following condition C2 is met based on the position information of the child terminal 1 output by the position acquisition unit 11 and the detected value output by the motion acquisition unit 13. If the control unit 19 determines that condition C2 is met, it switches the state of the child terminal 1 from the second state ST2 to the third state ST3. Condition C2: "During a predetermined elapsed time T2, the position acquisition unit 11 does not acquire that the current position of the child terminal 1 is moving" or "During a predetermined elapsed time T2, the motion acquisition unit 13 does not acquire that the child terminal 1 is moving" The elapsed time T2 is, for example, about 60 seconds.

[0064] By switching the state of the child terminal 1 from the second state ST2 to the third state ST3 in this way, the communication unit 17, the position acquisition unit 11, and the detection unit 12 (and the light-emitting unit 15) are turned OFF (see also Figure 3). Therefore, the power consumption of the child terminal 1 can be suppressed. The third state ST3 is also called sleep mode.

[0065] ≪Switching from the 3rd state ST3 to the 2nd state ST2≫ When the child terminal 1 is in the third state ST3, the control unit 19 determines whether the following condition C3 is met based on the detected value output by the motion acquisition unit 13. If the control unit 19 determines that condition C3 is met, it switches the state of the child terminal 1 from the third state ST3 to the second state ST2. In this embodiment, when the state of the child terminal 1 switches from the third state ST3 to the second state ST2, the state of the child terminal 1 switches to the main state ST2a of the second state ST2. Condition C3: "The motion acquisition unit 13 has acquired that child terminal 1 is moving" AND "The state of child terminal 1 immediately before switching to the third state ST3 was the second state ST2".

[0066] By switching the state of the child terminal 1 from the third state ST3 to the second state ST2 in this way, the communication unit 17, the position acquisition unit 11, and the detection unit 12 are turned ON (see also Figure 3). This allows the notification system NS to prepare for the departure of the person carrying the child terminal 1 from the target facility TF. Also, similarly to the above, problems such as the class being disrupted by the light-emitting unit 15 or the notification unit 16 can be prevented.

[0067] ≪Switching from primary state ST2a to auxiliary state ST2b≫ When the child terminal 1 is in the main state ST2a of the second state ST2, the control unit 19 determines whether the following condition C4 is met based on the position information of the child terminal 1 output by the position acquisition unit 11, the detected value output by the motion acquisition unit 13, and the result of the determination by the position determination unit 19a. If the control unit 19 determines that condition C4 is met, it switches the state of the child terminal 1 from the main state ST2a to the auxiliary state ST2b. Condition C4: "The position acquisition unit 11 has acquired that the current position of the child terminal 1 has changed from a stationary state to a moving state" or "The motion acquisition unit 13 has acquired that the child terminal 1 has changed from a stationary state to a moving state", AND "The current position of the child terminal 1 acquired by the position acquisition unit 11 is in a predetermined geographical relationship with the second set position PT2".

[0068] By switching the state of the child terminal 1 from the main state ST2a to the auxiliary state ST2b in this way, the light-emitting unit 15 turns ON and emits light at a first light intensity that is lower than the second light intensity (see also Figure 3). As a result, when a person carrying the child terminal 1 starts moving within the target facility TF in preparation for leaving the facility TF, the person can visually confirm that the child terminal 1 is functioning correctly. The auxiliary state ST2b is also called the wake-up mode.

[0069] ≪Switching from the second state ST2 to the first state ST1≫ When child terminal 1 is in the second state ST2 (main state ST2a or auxiliary state ST2b), the control unit 19 determines whether the following condition C5 is met based on the result of the determination by the position determination unit 19a. If the control unit 19 determines that condition C5 is met, it switches the state of child terminal 1 from the second state ST2 to the first state ST1. Condition C5: "The current location of the child terminal 1 acquired by the location acquisition unit 11 is no longer in a predetermined geographical relationship with the second set location PT2."

[0070] By switching the state of the child terminal 1 from the second state ST2 to the first state ST1 in this way, the speaker 16a and vibrator 16b are turned ON, and the light-emitting unit 15 emits light at the second level of illumination (see also Figure 3). This enables notification by the notification unit 16 when the child terminal 1 approaches the first set location information SP1 or when a vehicle or the like approaches the child terminal 1. In other words, when the person carrying the child terminal 1 departs from the target facility TF, notification to the person by the notification unit 16 can be resumed.

[0071] ≪Switching from the first state ST1 to the third state ST3≫ When the child terminal 1 is in the first state ST1, the control unit 19 determines whether the following condition C6 is met based on the position information of the child terminal 1 output by the position acquisition unit 11 and the detected value output by the motion acquisition unit 13. If the control unit 19 determines that condition C6 is met, it switches the state of the child terminal 1 from the first state ST1 to the third state ST3. Condition C6: "During a predetermined elapsed time T6, the position acquisition unit 11 does not acquire that the current position of the child terminal 1 is moving" or "During a predetermined elapsed time T6, the motion acquisition unit 13 does not acquire that the child terminal 1 is moving" The elapsed time T6 is, for example, about 300 seconds. It is desirable that the aforementioned elapsed time T2 (for example, about 60 seconds) is shorter than this elapsed time T6.

[0072] By switching the state of the child terminal 1 from the first state ST1 to the third state ST3 in this way, the communication unit 17, position acquisition unit 11, detection unit 12, light-emitting unit 15, speaker 16a, and vibrator 16b are turned OFF (see also Figure 3). Therefore, the power consumption of the child terminal 1 can be suppressed. In addition, by making the elapsed time T2 shorter than the elapsed time T6, the following advantages can be obtained. That is, even if a child accidentally touches the child terminal 1 in the target facility TF and the state of the child terminal 1 switches from the third state ST3 to the second state ST2, the state of the child terminal 1 can be returned to the third state ST3 relatively quickly. This makes it possible to more reliably suppress the power consumption of the child terminal 1.

[0073] ≪Switching from the 3rd state ST3 to the 1st state ST1≫ When the child terminal 1 is in the third state ST3, the control unit 19 determines whether the following condition C3 is met based on the detected value output by the motion acquisition unit 13. If the control unit 19 determines that condition C7 is met, it switches the state of the child terminal 1 from the third state ST3 to the first state ST1. Condition C7: "The motion acquisition unit 13 has acquired that the child terminal 1 is moving" AND "The state of the child terminal 1 immediately before switching to the third state ST3 was the first state ST1".

[0074] By switching the state of the child terminal 1 from the third state ST3 to the first state ST1 in this way, the communication unit 17, position acquisition unit 11, detection unit 12, light-emitting unit 15, speaker 16a, and vibrator 16b are turned ON (see also Figure 3). This allows the notification unit 16 to resume notifying the person on the move.

[0075] As described above, according to this embodiment, for example, when the child terminal 1 enters the target facility TF as shown in Figure 6, the operation of the notification unit 16 is reduced (prohibited). This makes it possible to prevent problems such as disruption of classes.

[0076] The technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0077] For example, in the above embodiment, when the child terminal 1 is in the third state ST3, the operation of the position acquisition unit 11, the detection unit 12, and the communication unit 17 is suspended. However, when the child terminal 1 is in the third state ST3, these operations may be reduced rather than suspended. For example, when the child terminal 1 is in the third state ST3, the position acquisition unit 11 may acquire the current position of the child terminal 1 at a lower frequency than when the child terminal 1 is in the first state ST1. Also, when the child terminal 1 is in the third state ST3, the detection unit 12 may detect surrounding objects at a lower frequency than when the child terminal 1 is in the first state ST1. Also, when the child terminal 1 is in the third state ST3, the communication unit 17 may communicate at a lower frequency than when the child terminal 1 is in the first state ST1.

[0078] Furthermore, without departing from the spirit of the present invention, the components in the above-described embodiments may be replaced with well-known components as appropriate, and the above-described embodiments and modifications may be combined as appropriate. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0079] 1...Child terminal (information processing device, terminal) 11...Position acquisition unit 12...Detection unit 13...Motion acquisition unit 15...Light emission unit 16...Notification unit 19...Control unit

Claims

1. A terminal carried by a person on the move, Control unit and A position acquisition unit that acquires the current position, It has a notification unit that notifies the aforementioned person who is moving, The control unit switches the operating state of the terminal between at least a first state and a second state in which the operating state of the notification unit is reduced. When the terminal is in the first state, the control unit switches the terminal from the first state to the second state when the current location acquired by the location acquisition unit has a predetermined geographical relationship with a second set location which is a pre-set geographical location. Regardless of whether the terminal is in the first state or the second state, the control unit causes the notification unit to make the notification when the current position acquired by the position acquisition unit is in a predetermined geographical relationship with a first set position which is a pre-set geographical location, or when it acquires information indicating that an object approaching the terminal has been detected. The second notification degree, which is the degree of notification when the terminal is in the second state, is smaller than the first notification degree, which is the degree of notification when the terminal is in the first state. Terminal.

2. The second notification level is when the notification unit does not notify the person moving. The terminal according to claim 1.

3. In the second state, the control unit, When the position acquisition unit acquires that the current position has changed from a stationary state to a moving state, or, When the motion acquisition unit that acquires the motion of the terminal acquires that the terminal has changed from a state of not moving to a state of moving, A light-emitting part, which is visible from the outside of the terminal, is made to emit light at a first level of illumination. The terminal according to claim 1 or 2.

4. In the first state, the control unit causes the light-emitting unit to emit light at a second level of emission greater than the first level of emission. The terminal according to claim 3.

5. The first luminescence level is stronger in intensity than the second luminescence level. The terminal according to claim 4.

6. The first luminescence level is characterized by a higher frequency of emission than the second luminescence level. The terminal according to claim 4.

7. The light-emitting part is configured to emit light in a shape resembling the eyes of an animal or character. The terminal according to claim 3.

8. In the second state, the control unit switches the operating state of the terminal to the first state when the current position is no longer in the predetermined geographical relationship with the second set position. The terminal according to claim 1 or 2.

9. The system further includes a detection unit that, upon detecting an object in the vicinity, outputs information indicating that an object has been detected to the control unit. In the first state or the second state, the control unit shall If the position acquisition unit does not acquire the information that the current position acquired is moving during a predetermined elapsed time, or If the motion acquisition unit, which acquires the motion of the terminal, does not acquire the information that the terminal is moving during a predetermined elapsed time, Switching the operating state of the terminal to a third state in which the operation of the position acquisition unit or the detection unit is reduced or suspended. The terminal according to claim 1 or 2.

10. The predetermined elapsed time in the second state is shorter than the predetermined elapsed time in the first state. The terminal according to claim 9.

11. The first setting position is a geographical location that has been set in advance so that a predetermined action can be performed by the person moving. The terminal according to claim 1 or 2.

12. The aforementioned predetermined action is an action that enhances the traffic safety of the person traveling. The terminal according to claim 11.

13. A control method for a terminal carried by a person on the move, comprising a control unit, a location acquisition unit for acquiring the current location, and a notification unit for notifying the person on the move, The control unit, A step of switching the operating state of the terminal between at least a first state and a second state in which the operating state of the notification unit is reduced, wherein when the terminal is in the first state, the terminal is switched from the first state to the second state when the current location acquired by the location acquisition unit has a predetermined geographical relationship with a second set location which is a pre-set geographical location. Regardless of whether the terminal is in the first state or the second state, when the current location acquired by the position acquisition unit is in a predetermined geographical relationship with a first set location which is a pre-set geographical location, or when information indicating that an object approaching the terminal has been detected is acquired, the notification unit is instructed to make the notification, and the steps are performed. The second notification degree, which is the degree of notification when the terminal is in the second state, is smaller than the first notification degree, which is the degree of notification when the terminal is in the first state. Control method.

14. A control program for a terminal carried by a person on the move, comprising a control unit, a location acquisition unit for acquiring the current location, and a notification unit for notifying the person on the move, With respect to the control unit, A step of switching the operating state of the terminal between at least a first state and a second state in which the operating state of the notification unit is reduced, wherein when the terminal is in the first state, the terminal is switched from the first state to the second state when the current location acquired by the location acquisition unit has a predetermined geographical relationship with a second set location which is a pre-set geographical location. Regardless of whether the terminal is in the first state or the second state, the control program causes the notification unit to perform the notification when the current location acquired by the location acquisition unit has a predetermined geographical relationship with a first set location which is a pre-set geographical location, or when information indicating that an object approaching the terminal has been detected is acquired. The second notification degree, which is the degree of notification when the terminal is in the second state, is smaller than the first notification degree, which is the degree of notification when the terminal is in the first state. Control program.

15. A computer-readable recording medium that stores the control program described in claim 14.

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