Walking information processing system, walking information processing device, walking information processing program, and shoe for walking information processing

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a walking information processing system for making it possible to detect the location and state of a subject with high power efficiency and accuracy without requiring the subject to carry or operate a portable information terminal. [Solution] A subject terminal 10 transmits identification information via short-range wireless communication. A detection terminal 20b is carried by a person in charge of monitoring who detects and monitors a subject, and transmits, to a server 30, the identification information transmitted from the subject terminal 10, which is capable of communication. The server 30 identifies the location of the subject terminal 10 on the basis of information transmitted from a detection terminal 20, acquires monitoring needs information regarding the need for monitoring by the person in charge of monitoring, and outputs an instruction regarding monitoring to the detection terminal 20b on the basis of the monitoring needs information.

Description

Walking information processing system, walking information processing device, walking information processing program, and shoes for walking information processing

[0001] The present invention relates to a walking information processing system, a walking information processing device, a walking information processing program, and shoes for walking information processing, which accurately grasp the position information and walking information of care recipients such as elderly people and children and other people to be monitored, and take appropriate action.

[0002] In recent years, technologies have been proposed for determining the locations of care recipients such as elderly people and people being monitored such as children. Many of these technologies utilize a GPS function installed in a portable information terminal such as a smartphone (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-14747

[0004] However, for elderly people, smartphones and other portable information terminals require some kind of button operation or screen operation, making them extremely difficult to use for elderly people who require care, and preventing them from using them appropriately. Furthermore, for children, smartphones and other portable information terminals are generally expensive in terms of device price and communication fees, and it may also be necessary to limit their use for educational reasons, making it difficult to give each child a smartphone or other portable information terminal.

[0005] Furthermore, there is a problem that the accuracy of the location detected by the GPS function is not sufficiently high. For example, an elderly person may be detected as being on a road outside their home when they are actually at home, which can cause concern or discomfort to family members who check the elderly person's location.

[0006] Furthermore, because the GPS function consumes a lot of power, if you constantly use the GPS function to detect location, you need to charge your smartphone or other device at least every few days. This means that if you forget to charge it, you will not be able to find the target person's location in an emergency. Even if you use a GPS tracker or other device that is dedicated to location detection using the GPS function instead of a smartphone, you will need to charge it every one to two months, which will cause the above problem.

[0007] Furthermore, if the subject is given a portable information terminal, there is a problem that if the subject forgets to take the portable information terminal with them when they go out, the subject's location cannot be confirmed. This problem is particularly noticeable in the case of elderly people who tend to forget things or children who tend to forget things.

[0008] Furthermore, even if the location of the subject can be confirmed, there is the problem that it is not possible to confirm the subject's condition.

[0009] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances. That is, an object of the present invention is to provide a walking information processing system, a walking information processing device, a walking information processing program, and shoes for walking information processing that enable the position and state of a subject to be detected with high power efficiency and accuracy without requiring the subject to carry or operate a portable information terminal.

[0010] The above object can be achieved by the following means.

[0011] The walking information processing system includes shoes wearable by a subject, a subject terminal embedded in the sole of the shoe, a detection terminal that detects the subject terminal capable of communicating via short-range wireless communication, and a server that registers information transmitted from the detection terminal. The subject terminal includes an acceleration sensor, a step counting unit that counts the subject's steps based on the detection results of the acceleration sensor, and a short-range wireless communication unit that transmits, via short-range wireless communication, identification information for identifying the subject and step count information related to the number of steps counted within a predetermined period by the step counting unit. The detection terminal includes a detection unit that detects the subject terminal capable of communication, and a transmission unit that, when the detection unit detects the subject terminal, acquires the identification information and step count information transmitted from the subject terminal and transmits them to the server. The server has an acquisition unit that acquires the identification information and step count information transmitted from the detection terminal and information relating to the location of the detection terminal, an identification unit that identifies the location of the target terminal based on the identification information and information relating to the location of the detection terminal acquired by the acquisition unit, and an output unit that outputs the location of the target terminal identified by the identification unit in association with the step count information acquired at that location.

[0012] a target person terminal that is embedded in the sole of a shoe that can be worn by the target person and has: an acceleration sensor; a step counting unit that measures the number of steps taken by the target person based on the detection results of the acceleration sensor; a short-range wireless communication unit that transmits, via short-range wireless communication, identification information for identifying the target person and step count information related to the number of steps measured within a predetermined period by the step counting unit; a detection terminal that has: a detection unit that detects target person terminals that can communicate via short-range wireless communication; and a transmission unit that, when the target person terminal is detected by the detection unit, acquires the identification information and step count information transmitted from the target person terminal and transmits them to a server; the walking information processing device is applicable to a walking information processing system that includes: a target person terminal that is embedded in the sole of a shoe that can be worn by the target person and has: an acceleration sensor; a step counting unit that measures the number of steps taken by the target person based on the detection results of the acceleration sensor;

[0013] The walking information processing program is configured to cause the information processing device to function as the walking information processing device described above.

[0014] The walking information processing shoes are wearable by a subject and have a subject terminal embedded in the sole. The subject terminal has an acceleration sensor, a step counting unit that counts the subject's steps based on the detection results of the acceleration sensor, and a short-range wireless communication unit that transmits, via short-range wireless communication, identification information for identifying the subject and step count information related to the number of steps counted within a predetermined period by the step counting unit. The identification information and step count information transmitted via short-range wireless communication are acquired by a detecting terminal that detects the subject terminal and transmitted to a server. The location of the subject terminal is identified based on the identification information and step count information transmitted to the server and information related to the location of the detecting terminal, and the identified location of the subject terminal is then output in association with the step count information acquired at that location.

[0015] The walking information processing system of the present invention includes shoes wearable by a subject, a subject terminal embedded in the sole of the shoe, a detection terminal that detects the subject terminal capable of communicating via short-range wireless communication, and a server that registers information transmitted from the detection terminal. The subject terminal measures the subject's steps based on the detection results of the acceleration sensor and transmits, via short-range wireless communication, identification information for identifying the subject and step count information relating to the number of steps measured within a predetermined period by the step count measurement unit. The detection terminal detects a subject terminal with which it can communicate, and when a subject terminal is detected, acquires the identification information and step count information transmitted from the subject terminal and transmits them to the server. The server acquires the identification information and step count information transmitted from the detection terminal and information relating to the location of the detection terminal, and identifies the location of the subject terminal based on the acquired identification information and information relating to the location of the detection terminal. The server then outputs the identified location of the subject terminal in association with the step count information acquired at that location. This makes it possible to detect and output the subject's position and walking state with high power efficiency and accuracy, without requiring the subject to carry or operate a portable information terminal.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a walking information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a subject terminal. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a detection terminal. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a server. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the server. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a guardian terminal. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an administrator terminal. FIG. 8 is a sequence chart showing the flow of a position identification process executed in the walking information processing system. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displaying information output by the server.

[0017] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicate explanations will be omitted. Furthermore, the dimensional proportions in the drawings are exaggerated for the convenience of explanation and may differ from the actual proportions.

[0018] <Configuration of Walking Information Processing System> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a walking information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] 1, the walking information processing system includes a subject terminal 10, detection terminals 20 (20a, 20b), a server 30, a guardian terminal 40, and an administrator terminal 50. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the detection terminal 20a and the detection terminal 20b, they will be collectively referred to as the detection terminals 20.

[0020] The subject terminal 10 communicates with the detecting terminals 20 (20a, 20b) via short-range wireless communication.

[0021] The detection terminals 20 (20a, 20b) communicate with the subject terminal 10 via short-range wireless communication, and are connected to the server 30 via a network via wired or wireless communication.

[0022] The server 30 is configured to be able to communicate with the detecting terminals 20 (20a, 20b), the guardian terminal 40, and the administrator terminal 50 via a network.

[0023] The parent terminal 40 and the administrator terminal 50 are connected to the server 30 via a network through wired or wireless communication. Each component will be described in detail below.

[0024] <Subject Person Terminal 10> The subject person terminal 10 is a terminal to be embedded in the sole of a shoe of a person to be cared for, such as an elderly person, or a person to be watched over, such as a child (hereinafter referred to as subject).

[0025] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the target person terminal.

[0026] 2, the subject terminal 10 includes a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, a short-range wireless communication unit 13, and a sensor unit 14. The components are connected to each other via a bus so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0027] The control unit 11 has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and controls the above-mentioned components and executes various arithmetic processing in accordance with a program.

[0028] The storage unit 12 stores various programs and data in advance in a read-only memory (ROM), and various programs and data in a random access memory (RAM) that temporarily stores programs and data as a working area.

[0029] The storage unit 12 also stores identification information for identifying the target user terminal 10, information indicating the time interval at which the short-range wireless communication unit 13 transmits the identification information, and the like.

[0030] The short-range wireless communication unit 13 outputs a signal for short-range wireless communication using, for example, the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard, and communicates with other nearby terminals, devices, etc. via short-range wireless communication. For example, Bluetooth 4.0 (also known as Bluetooth Low Energy or BLE) is used as the short-range wireless communication standard. This standard does not pursue high communication speeds but instead aims for significant power savings, and is therefore preferably used in this embodiment. The short-range wireless communication unit 13 performs short-range wireless communication at relatively short time intervals, for example, on the order of several tens of milliseconds to several seconds, and transmits identification information for identifying the target terminal 10 to the surrounding area. The time interval may be set to, for example, about three seconds.

[0031] The sensor unit 14 has various sensors such as an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor, and detects the movement and tilt of the subject terminal 10.

[0032] The control unit 11 functions as a step counting unit to count the number of steps taken by the subject based on the detection result of the sensor unit 14 and acquire step count information.

[0033] The short-range wireless communication unit 13 transmits, via short-range wireless communication, identification information for identifying the subject and step count information relating to the number of steps measured within a predetermined period.

[0034] The subject terminal 10 in this embodiment is powered by a built-in battery. The subject terminal 10 in this embodiment does not have a GPS function or a long-distance wireless communication function, and is designed to be power-saving, so it can operate for more than one year (approximately three to four years) without charging using a battery with a capacity of 200 mAh to 300 mAh.

[0035] <Detector Terminal 20 (20a, 20b)> The detector terminal 20 is a terminal that is present in a detection area in which a target person (target terminal 10) can be detected and detects the target terminal 10 with which communication is possible via short-range wireless communication. The detector terminal 20a is a fixed terminal installed in a predetermined indoor or outdoor location included in the detection area. The detector terminal 20b is a mobile terminal installed on a moving body such as a person or vehicle that moves within an area including the detection area. Examples of the above vehicles include various types of vehicles such as private cars, taxis, buses, and trains. For example, the detector terminal 20 may be configured by installing a dedicated application on a general-purpose information terminal such as a smartphone or tablet PC, or may be configured as a dedicated terminal with the minimum configuration described below.

[0036] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the detecting terminal.

[0037] 3, the detection terminal 20 has a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, a communication unit 23, a detection unit 24, an operation display unit 25, and a voice input / output unit 26. The components are connected to each other via a bus so that they can communicate with each other. The control unit 21 and the storage unit 22 of the detection terminal 20 have the same configuration as the control unit 11 and the storage unit 12 of the subject terminal 10, respectively, and therefore will not be described here.

[0038] The communication unit 23 is configured to communicate with other terminals, devices, etc. via a network. The communication unit 23 transmits and receives various information to and from the server 30, for example.

[0039] The detection unit 24 is configured to detect a subject terminal 10 with which communication is possible via short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth. As described above, the subject terminal 10 communicates via short-range wireless communication using the short-range wireless communication unit 13. For example, when the detection unit 24 receives identification information transmitted by the short-range wireless communication unit 13 of the subject terminal 10, it can detect the subject terminal 10 as a subject terminal 10 with which communication is possible.

[0040] The operation display unit 25 is, for example, a touch panel display, which displays various information and accepts various inputs.

[0041] The audio input / output unit 26 is composed of a microphone or audio input terminal for inputting audio, and a speaker or audio output terminal for outputting audio.

[0042] When the detection unit 24 detects the subject person terminal 10 , the control unit 21 acquires the identification information and step count information transmitted from the subject person terminal 10 and transmits them to the server 30 as a transmission unit.

[0043] Because the detectors 20a are fixed terminals, information regarding the location of each detector 20a is associated with information for identifying the detector 20a and stored in advance in the storage unit 32 of the server 30. When the detector 20a transmits identification information of the subject terminal 10 detected by the detector 24 to the server 30, the detector 20a also transmits information for identifying the detector 20a to the server 30. As a result, when the server 30 receives the identification information of the subject terminal 10 from the detector 20a, it can acquire information regarding the location of the detector 20a from the storage unit 32 using the information for identifying the detector 20a that has also been received.

[0044] On the other hand, because the detector terminals 20b are mobile terminals, information regarding the location of each detector terminal 20b is acquired based on signals from GPS satellites using the GPS function of each detector terminal 20b. When transmitting identification information of the subject terminal 10 detected by the detection unit 24 to the server 30, the detector terminal 20b also transmits information indicating the location of the detector terminal 20b. As a result, when the server 30 receives the identification information of the subject terminal 10 from the detector terminal 20b, it can acquire information indicating the location of the detector terminal 20b based on the also received information.

[0045] For example, when the detecting terminal 20b, which is a mobile terminal, is configured as a smartphone, a tablet PC, or the like, the detecting terminal 20b can also be used as a parent terminal 40 and an administrator terminal 50, which will be described later.

[0046] The detection terminal 20a also functions as a signage panel (information display terminal) at a spot or station where the subject can view various information such as identification information and step count information transmitted from the subject's own subject terminal 10, and step count ranking information transmitted from the server 30.

[0047] In this case, the detection terminal 20a is provided with a seat on which the subject can sit, and the seat is provided with an antenna for receiving radio waves for short-range wireless communication from the subject terminal 10. The seat may be anything that the subject can sit on or be present in and that can fix the subject's position within a predetermined range, and may be a mat, a panel, a box, an area partitioned by a marker, an area illuminated by a light, or the like.

[0048] When the detection terminal 20a receives information such as identification information from multiple subject terminals 10, it displays the identification information, step count information, etc. transmitted from the subject terminal 10 that received the strongest radio waves on the operation display unit 25. As a result, even if multiple subjects are present near the detection terminal 20a, the information transmitted from the subject terminal 10 of the subject occupant of the seat is reliably displayed, allowing the subject to easily and reliably know whose information is being displayed.

[0049] <Server 30> The server 30 is an information processing device operated by a service provider that acquires and provides walking information, for example. In this embodiment, the server 30 functions as a walking information processing device.

[0050] Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the server, and Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the server.

[0051] 4, the server 30 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, and a communication unit 33. The components are connected to each other via a bus so that they can communicate with each other. The configurations of the control unit 31, storage unit 32, and communication unit 33 of the server 30 are similar to those of the control unit 21, storage unit 22, and communication unit 23 of the detecting terminal 20, respectively, and therefore will not be described again.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 31 functions as an acquisition unit 311, an identification unit 312, an output unit 313, and an estimation unit 314 by reading a program and executing a process.

[0053] The acquisition unit 311 acquires the identification information and step count information transmitted from the detector terminal 20 , and information relating to the location of the detector terminal 20 .

[0054] The specifying unit 312 specifies the location of the subject terminal 10 based on the identification information acquired by the acquiring unit 311 and information relating to the location of the detecting terminal 20 .

[0055] The output unit 313 outputs the position of the subject terminal 10 identified by the identification unit 312 and the step count information acquired at that position in association with each other.

[0056] The estimation unit 314 estimates the outdoor stay time that the subject person stays outdoors based on information relating to the change in the subject person's position and step count information.

[0057] In addition, the output unit 313 may calculate and output the number of steps and time taken by the subject to move between the first location and the second location based on the time when the subject was at the first location and the first step count information acquired at the first location, and the time when the subject was at the second location and the second step count information acquired at the second location.

[0058] The acquisition unit 311 may also acquire a plurality of pieces of identification information and step count information transmitted from a plurality of subject terminals 10. In this case, the output unit 313 may generate and output ranking information indicating a ranking of the step counts of subjects in a predetermined group including a plurality of subjects corresponding to a plurality of pieces of identification information.

[0059] The acquisition unit 311 may further acquire weather information related to the weather or a weather forecast. In this case, the estimation unit 314 may estimate the amount of ultraviolet rays to which the subject is exposed from sunlight, based on the time spent outdoors and the weather information.

[0060] Furthermore, when the amount of ultraviolet rays estimated by the estimation unit 314 is less than a predetermined threshold, the output unit 313 may output notification information for notifying the subject.

[0061] Furthermore, the output unit 313 may set the notification information in association with the identification information of the subject. In this case, when acquiring the identification information from the subject terminal 10, the detection terminal 20 may check whether the notification information is set in association with the identification information, and if so, output the notification information to the subject.

[0062] The acquisition unit 311 may further acquire location information related to the address or residence of the subject. In this case, the estimation unit 314 may estimate whether the subject is out or not based on the location information, information related to the subject's position, and step count information.

[0063] The memory unit 32 stores information relating to the subject and the subject terminal 10, such as identification information of the subject terminal 10, attribute information such as the name and age of the subject who owns the subject terminal 10, and attribute information such as the name and contact details of the subject's guardian, in association with each other.

[0064] In addition, the memory unit 32 stores information related to the detection terminal 20, such as identification information of the detection terminal 20, attribute information indicating whether the detection terminal 20 is a fixed terminal or a mobile terminal, and, if the detection terminal 20 is a fixed terminal, information related to the location of the detection terminal 20.

[0065] The memory unit 32 also stores various information acquired by the acquisition unit 311, information regarding the location identified by the identification unit 312, step count information acquired at the location, ranking information generated by the output unit 313, various information estimated by the estimation unit 314, etc.

[0066] <Guardian Terminal 40> The guardian terminal 40 is a terminal used by a guardian who has the subject carry the subject terminal 10 and obtains information about the location of the subject terminal 10 to protect and manage the subject. The guardian terminal 40 receives notifications from the server 30 and notifies the guardian, and accesses the server 30 to obtain and display information stored in the server 30. The guardian terminal 40 can also be used as a detection terminal 20b, for example, by installing a dedicated application on it.

[0067] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the parent terminal.

[0068] 6, the parent terminal 40 includes a control unit 41, a storage unit 42, a communication unit 43, an operation display unit 44, and an audio input / output unit 45. The components are connected to each other via a bus so that they can communicate with each other. The configurations of the control unit 41, storage unit 42, communication unit 43, operation display unit 44, and audio input / output unit 45 of the parent terminal 40 are similar to the configurations of the control unit 21, storage unit 22, communication unit 23, operation display unit 25, and audio input / output unit 26 of the detection terminal 20, respectively, and therefore will not be described again.

[0069] <Administrator Terminal 50> The administrator terminal 50 is a terminal used by an administrator of a service that acquires and provides walking information.

[0070] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the administrator terminal.

[0071] 7, the administrator terminal 50 includes a control unit 51, a storage unit 52, a communication unit 53, an operation display unit 54, and an audio input / output unit 55. The components are connected to each other via a bus so that they can communicate with each other. The configurations of the control unit 51, storage unit 52, communication unit 53, operation display unit 54, and audio input / output unit 55 of the administrator terminal 50 are similar to the configurations of the control unit 41, storage unit 42, communication unit 43, operation display unit 44, and audio input / output unit 45 of the parent terminal 40, respectively, and therefore will not be described here.

[0072] In addition, each of the subject terminal 10, detection terminal 20, server 30, guardian terminal 40, and administrator terminal 50 may have components other than those described above, or may not have some of the components described above.

[0073] <Processing Overview> Next, the processing flow in the walking information processing system will be described.

[0074] Fig. 8 is a sequence chart showing the flow of processing executed in the walking information processing system Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for displaying information output by the server.

[0075] <Processing in Subject Terminal 10> First, processing in the subject terminal 10 will be described.

[0076] 8, the subject terminal 10 counts the number of steps of the subject based on the output of the sensor unit 14 (step S101). The number of steps can be counted by a known method using an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, or the like.

[0077] Next, the subject terminal 10 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed (step S102). The predetermined time can be set appropriately to, for example, several seconds depending on the frequency with which the subject terminal 10 transmits information via short-range wireless communication.

[0078] If the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S102: NO), the subject terminal 10 continues the step counting process of step S101.

[0079] If the predetermined time has elapsed (step S102: NO), the subject terminal 10 outputs a signal for short-range wireless communication and transmits, via short-range wireless communication, identification information for identifying the subject terminal 10 and step count information indicating the number of steps taken to the surrounding area (step S103). The step count information includes information indicating the number of steps taken within a predetermined period, information indicating the cumulative number of steps taken from a predetermined starting point, etc.

[0080] The subject terminal 10 repeatedly executes the processes of steps S101 to S103.

[0081] <Information Acquisition and Information Transmission Processes in the Detector Terminal 20> Next, information acquisition and information transmission processes in the detector terminal 20 will be described.

[0082] The detector terminal 20 detects a communicable subject terminal 10 and determines whether or not information (identification information and step count information) has been acquired from the subject terminal 10 (step S201). If information has not been acquired from the subject terminal 10 (step S201: NO), the detector terminal 20 continues the process of detecting the subject terminal 10 and acquiring information until information can be acquired.

[0083] When the detection terminal 20 has acquired the identification information and the step count information transmitted from the subject terminal 10 (step S201: YES), the detection terminal 20 transmits the acquired information to the server 30 (step S202). Note that when the detection terminal 20 acquires only the identification information from the subject terminal 10 and is unable to acquire the step count information, the detection terminal 20 may transmit only the identification information to the server 30.

[0084] Here, when the detector 20 is a fixed terminal (detector terminal 20a), the detector terminal 20a transmits information for identifying the detector terminal 20a together with the identification information to the server 30. This is because information regarding the location of each detector terminal 20a is associated with information for identifying the detector terminal 20a and stored in advance in the storage unit 32 of the server 30. As a result, when the server 30 receives the identification information of the subject terminal 10 from the detector terminal 20a, it can acquire information regarding the location of the detector terminal 20a from the storage unit 32 using the information for identifying the detector terminal 20a that was also received.

[0085] On the other hand, if the detector terminal 20 is a mobile terminal (detector terminal 20b), the detector terminal 20b uses the GPS function to acquire information about the position of each detector terminal 20b based on signals from GPS satellites, and transmits this information together with the identification information to the server 30. As a result, when the server 30 receives the identification information of the subject terminal 10 from the detector terminal 20b, it can acquire information indicating the position of the detector terminal 20b based on the also received information.

[0086] <Processing in Server 30> Next, processing in the server 30 will be described.

[0087] The server 30 determines whether or not information such as identification information of the subject terminal 10 has been received from the detection terminal 20 (step S301).

[0088] If the information has not been received (step S301: NO), the server 30 waits until the information is received.

[0089] If the information is received (step S301: YES), the server 30 identifies the location of the subject terminal 10 corresponding to the identification information based on the acquired information, and outputs walking information regarding the walking of the subject (step S302).

[0090] Specifically, the server 30 associates the acquired identification information of the subject device 10, location information indicating the identified location, step count information acquired at that location, and time information indicating the time each piece of information was acquired or registered, and registers the associated information in the storage unit 32. The server 30 checks the information associated with the identification information and registered in the storage unit 32, and if any information has been registered within a predetermined period, executes a process of calculating the number of steps and time required for movement. Specifically, the server 30 acquires the time when the subject was located at a certain location (first location) and step count information acquired at that location (first step count information), and the time when the subject was located at another location (second location) and step count information acquired at that location (second step count information). For example, the server 30 can calculate the number of steps required for the subject to move from the first location to the second location by calculating the difference between the first step count information and the second step count information, and output the calculated walking information. Similarly, the server 30 can calculate the difference between the time when the subject was at the first location and the time when the subject was at the second location, thereby calculating the time required for the subject to move between the first location and the second location, and output this as walking information. Furthermore, the server 30 can calculate, as walking information, the subject's average walking speed based on the travel distance and travel time, the subject's average pace based on the step count information and travel time, or the subject's average stride based on the travel distance and step count information.

[0091] The server 30 outputs walking information using, for example, a screen such as that shown in Fig. 9(a). On the screen of Fig. 9(a), walking information such as the distance traveled, the travel time, the number of steps, the average speed, the average pitch, and the average stride when the subject A moves from one point to another is output. In addition, a suggestion such as "Try walking a little faster next time" may be displayed based on the result of comparing the calculated walking information with a predetermined threshold.

[0092] Next, the server 30 executes a process for generating ranking information for the number of steps (step S303). Specifically, the server 30 acquires multiple pieces of identification information and step count information transmitted from multiple subject terminals 10. The server 30 generates and outputs ranking information indicating a ranking of the number of steps taken by subjects in a predetermined group including multiple subjects corresponding to the multiple identification information. Here, various types of predetermined groups may be set, for example, by region (e.g., prefecture, city, ward, town, or village) of residence or location, by attribute (e.g., age group), or by affiliation (e.g., workplace, school, team, or hobby club). For example, the storage unit 32 associates and stores group identification information indicating which group the subject belongs to with each piece of identification information. Multiple group identification information may be associated with one piece of identification information. The ranking information is, for example, information in which multiple subjects belonging to each group are sorted in descending order of the number of steps measured within a predetermined period.

[0093] The server 30 outputs ranking information using, for example, a screen such as that shown in FIG. 9(b). The screen in FIG. 9(b) displays the names and step counts of subjects in a ranking format, in descending order of the number of steps measured that day, for each predetermined group, such as nationwide, regional, or group. For example, a subject can send a message to other subjects displayed in the ranking via the screen in FIG. 9(b). An explanation or suggestion such as "Mr. A's step count today was XXX steps, placing him / her in XXX place nationwide. He / she is YYY steps away from XXX place" may also be displayed.

[0094] Next, the server 30 executes an estimation process to estimate the subject's outdoor time, the amount of ultraviolet light the subject was exposed to from sunlight, whether the subject went outside, etc. (step S304).

[0095] Specifically, the server 30 estimates the outdoor time spent by the subject, which is the time the subject spends outdoors, based on information regarding the subject's location transitions acquired from information regarding the subject's location and step count information. For example, the server 30 basically determines whether the subject is staying outdoors based on information regarding the subject's location or location transitions, and may further utilize step count information to reinforce the accuracy of the determination. For example, when the subject moves from one location to another, if the number of steps corresponding to the distance traveled is recorded as step count information, the subject is presumed to have walked outdoors, and the travel time can be estimated as the outdoor time spent. On the other hand, if the number of steps corresponding to the distance traveled is not recorded as step count information, the subject is presumed to have traveled by vehicle, such as a car, bus, or train, and the travel time can be estimated as not being the outdoor time spent.

[0096] The server 30 also acquires weather information related to weather or weather forecasts from an external server or the like that can be connected via a network, and estimates the amount of UV rays the subject has received from sunlight based on the estimated outdoor time and the weather information. For example, if the weather is sunny during the outdoor time, the amount of UV rays the subject has received from sunlight can be estimated by multiplying the amount of UV rays received per unit time by the outdoor time. If it is rainy or cloudy during a certain period of the outdoor time, the amount of UV rays the subject has received from sunlight can be estimated by multiplying the sunny period by the amount of UV rays received per unit time as described above, excluding the rainy period from the outdoor time, and applying a predetermined multiplication coefficient or the like to the cloudy period.

[0097] When the amount of ultraviolet rays estimated as described above is less than a predetermined threshold, the server 30 may output notification information to notify the subject. In this case, the server 30 sets the notification information in association with the subject's identification information and stores it in the storage unit 32. As will be described later, when the detection terminal 20 receives an instruction from the subject to display information and acquires the identification information from the subject's terminal 10, the detection terminal 20 accesses the server 30 to check whether notification information is set in association with the identification information, and if so, outputs the notification information to the subject.

[0098] The server 30 outputs information regarding the estimated amount of UV rays using, for example, a screen such as that shown in FIG. 9( c). The screen of FIG. 9( c) displays the estimated amount of time that subject A spent outdoors that day and the amount of time he / she was exposed to sunlight. A value obtained by converting the amount of UV rays that A spent in sunlight into the amount of UV rays that A received from sunlight may also be displayed. In the example of FIG. 9( c), because the amount of UV rays that A received was less than a predetermined threshold, notification information for A is generated and displayed. Specifically, the amount of UV rays that is insufficient is converted into the amount of sunshine exposure, i.e., the amount of time spent outdoors (XX minutes), and the resulting value is displayed as notification information stating, "Walk outdoors for another XX minutes."

[0099] The server 30 may also acquire location information regarding the address or residence of the subject, and estimate whether the subject is out or not based on the location information, information regarding the subject's location, and step count information. For example, the server 30 can estimate that the subject is out or not from a predetermined location such as their home if the location indicated by the location information is far from the location indicated by the subject's location information, or if the step count information detects that the subject is walking while wearing shoes. This allows, for example, a visiting caregiver or the like to confirm in advance whether the subject is at home, thereby avoiding a situation where the caregiver visits only to find that the subject is out and unable to provide care.

[0100] The server 30 stores the various pieces of information calculated, generated, and estimated in the processes of steps S302 to S304 in the storage unit 32, and outputs the stored information based on requests from the detection terminal 20, the guardian terminal 40, the administrator terminal 50, etc. (step S305). This allows, for example, family members, caregivers, system / service administrators, etc. who are using the guardian terminal 40 or the administrator terminal 50 in remote locations to grasp the walking status, activity status, outing status, health status, etc. of the subject in more detail.

[0101] <Information Display Processing in Detector Terminal 20> Next, information display processing in the detector terminal 20 will be described.

[0102] The detection terminal 20 determines whether an instruction to display information has been received (step S203). The instruction to display information is automatically received, for example, when the detection terminal 20 acquires the identification information and step count information transmitted from the subject terminal 10. Alternatively, the instruction to display information may be received by operating the operation display unit 25 or by voice input to the voice input / output unit, or may be transmitted from another terminal or the like via the communication unit 23 or the like.

[0103] If an instruction to display information has not been received (step S203: NO), the detecting terminal 20 returns to the processing of step S201.

[0104] If an instruction to display information is received (step S203: YES), the detector terminal 20 identifies the target identification information for which information is to be displayed (step S204). For example, if the detector terminal 20 acquires the identification information of one subject terminal 10 within a predetermined processing time, that identification information is identified as the identification information for which information is to be displayed. Alternatively, if the detector terminal 20 acquires the identification information of multiple subject terminals 10 within the predetermined processing time, the identification information transmitted from the subject terminal 10 with the strongest radio wave received by the detector terminal 20 is identified as the identification information for which information is to be displayed.

[0105] The detection terminal 20 acquires various information such as walking information, ranking information, estimated information on the amount of ultraviolet radiation received, and notification information from the server 30 regarding the identification information of the target for which information is to be displayed (steps S205 to S207).

[0106] The detection terminal 20 displays various information on the operation and display unit 25 based on the information acquired from the server 30 (step S208). Specifically, the detection terminal 20 displays screens such as those shown in Figures 9(a) to 9(c) on the operation and display unit 25. As a result, the subject can check detailed information about his or her own walking, various walking rankings, the amount of time exposed to sunlight, various advice about walking and health, and the like, simply by standing near the detection terminal 20a set as a spot or station, for example, and can make, for example, daily walks more enjoyable and meaningful, and further improve his or her health.

[0107] 9(a) to 9(c) and information regarding whether the subject is out or not can also be displayed on the guardian terminal 40, administrator terminal 50, etc. that have appropriate access rights. Therefore, family members and caregivers who are in distant locations can also check the subject's walking, exercise, lifestyle, and other conditions in detail, which can lead to appropriate responses to the subject and also improve communication with the subject.

[0108] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, but can be modified in various ways within the scope of the claims.

[0109] For example, in the above embodiment, an example was described in which each component, such as the server 30, included in the walking information processing system is configured as a single independent device, but the device configuration is not limited to this. Each component may be configured as a plurality of devices, or may be configured as part of a device having other functions. For example, the server 30 may be configured as a distributed server on a cloud server consisting of multiple servers. Alternatively, an application having the functions of the server 30 may be installed on each device, such as the detection terminal 20, the guardian terminal 40, and the administrator terminal 50, and the processing of the server 30 may be executed on each device.

[0110] Furthermore, the processing of the walking information processing system according to the above-described embodiment may include steps other than those described above, or may not include some of the steps described above. The order of the steps is not limited to that of the above-described embodiment. Furthermore, each step may be combined with other steps and executed as a single step, may be included in other steps and executed, or may be divided into multiple steps and executed.

[0111] The means and methods for performing various processes in the gait information processing system according to the above-described embodiments can be realized by either a dedicated hardware circuit or a programmed computer. The program may be provided, for example, on a computer-readable recording medium such as a flexible disk or CD-ROM, or online via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the program recorded on the computer-readable recording medium is typically transferred and stored in a storage unit such as a hard disk. The program may also be provided as standalone application software, or may be incorporated into the software of the gait information processing system as a function of the system.

[0112] The walking information processing system of this embodiment, configured as described above, includes shoes wearable by a subject, a subject terminal 10 embedded in the sole of the shoe, a detector terminal 20 that detects the subject terminal 10 capable of communicating via short-range wireless communication, and a server 30 that registers information transmitted from the detector terminal 20. The subject terminal 10 measures the subject's steps based on the detection results of the acceleration sensor and transmits, via short-range wireless communication, identification information for identifying the subject and step count information relating to the number of steps measured within a predetermined period. When a communicable subject terminal 10 is detected, the detector terminal 20 acquires the identification information and step count information transmitted from the subject terminal 10 and transmits them to the server 30. The server 30 acquires the identification information and step count information transmitted from the detector terminal 20 and information relating to the location of the detector terminal 20, identifies the location of the subject terminal 10 based on the acquired identification information and information relating to the location of the detector terminal 20, and outputs the identified location of the subject terminal 10 in association with the step count information acquired at that location.

[0113] This allows the subject's location and walking status to be detected and output with high power efficiency and accuracy, without requiring the subject to carry or operate a portable information terminal. Conventionally, devices capable of checking step counts and location information have existed. However, devices such as smartphones and GPS trackers equipped with GPS functionality, for example, are difficult to set up and operate, making them difficult for elderly people and children to use. Furthermore, they require frequent charging, which poses the problem of tedious tasks such as setting up a charger, plugging the device into the charger when returning home, and unplugging it from the charger when going out. Furthermore, because the device must be carried with the subject when going out, if the subject forgets to take the device with them, the subject's walking information and location cannot be confirmed. This problem is particularly pronounced in the case of elderly people who tend to forget things or children who tend to forget things. In the walking information processing system of this embodiment, the subject's location information and walking information can be detected simply by going out wearing shoes with the subject terminal 10 embedded in them. Therefore, the subject's location and walking status can be detected and output with high accuracy without requiring the subject to carry or operate a portable information terminal. Furthermore, since the subject terminal 10 does not have a GPS function or a long-distance wireless communication function, it is power efficient and can detect and output the subject's location and walking status without requiring charging for a long period of time.

[0114] Furthermore, the subject's terminal 10 does not have a GPS function or a long-distance wireless communication function, and can operate for more than a year using a battery with a capacity of 200mAh to 300mAh. This allows the subject to use the subject's terminal 10 for an extended period of time simply by putting on shoes, without having to charge the subject's terminal 10 or turn the power on and off, and various information is provided by the walking information processing system. Therefore, the subject can easily and continuously use the walking information processing system.

[0115] Furthermore, the server 30 calculates and outputs the number of steps and time required for the subject to travel between the first location and the second location based on the time when the subject was at the first location and the first step count information acquired at the first location, and the time when the subject was at the second location and the second step count information acquired at the second location. This allows the subject's walking status to be understood in detail. More specifically, the walking information can include the subject's walking distance, walking time, number of steps, average speed, average pace, average stride, etc. Furthermore, in addition to normal walking, for example, when the subject participates in a marathon, a relay race, a race walking competition, or the like, or when jogging or walking as training, detailed running or walking status can be confirmed, which can be useful for analyzing the current situation and improving abilities, performance, etc.

[0116] The detection terminal 20 is installed in a predetermined location indoors or outdoors and displays information transmitted from the subject terminal 10. This allows the detection terminal 20 to function as a signage panel at a spot or station where subjects gather to check information about their walking. This makes it possible to create a place where people can gather in the community for health purposes, such as checking and sharing walking information, which can lead to the revitalization of the community and the creation of a healthy society.

[0117] The server 30 also acquires multiple pieces of identification information and step count information transmitted from multiple subject terminals 10, and generates and outputs ranking information indicating the step count rankings of the subjects in a predetermined group including multiple subjects corresponding to the multiple identification information. The detection terminal 20 acquires the ranking information from the server 30, and upon receiving identification information from the subject terminal 10, displays the ranking of the subject corresponding to the identification information in the predetermined group. This allows each subject, even when walking alone, to check their ranking among users nationwide, local users, users of the same age, and users with different attributes, thereby motivating them to walk with a sense of competition and goal awareness. Furthermore, rising in the ranking can also provide a sense of accomplishment. Furthermore, since walking status can be shared with other users, feelings of loneliness are reduced and communication about walking between users can be promoted. Furthermore, since users can check each other's walking information, they can motivate each other and promote competition, thereby promoting walking. Furthermore, walking can become a common activity or topic of conversation, promoting and enriching communication between elderly people, for example. As a result, it will be possible to resolve major concerns and anxieties that the elderly have, such as a fulfilling life, a sense of purpose in life, connections with society, loneliness, and health.

[0118] Furthermore, the detection terminal 20 has a seat on which the subject can sit, and the seat has an antenna for receiving radio waves for short-range wireless communication from the subject terminal 10. When the detection terminal 20 receives identification information from multiple subject terminals 10, it displays information related to the identification information transmitted from the subject terminal 10 that received the strongest radio waves. This allows the subject to easily check information related to their own walking simply by sitting on the seat provided on the detection terminal 20. Furthermore, even if multiple subjects are present near the detection terminal 20, the information displayed is clearly that of the subject sitting on the seat, so each subject can immediately understand whose information is being displayed.

[0119] The server 30 also estimates the amount of time the subject spends outdoors based on information about the subject's location transition and step count information. The server 30 also acquires weather information about the weather or weather forecast, and estimates the amount of UV radiation the subject has received from sunlight based on the amount of time spent outdoors and the weather information. This allows the subject to clearly understand the amount of time they have spent outdoors in numerical form. The subject's guardian or other caregiver can also understand the amount of time the subject has spent outdoors, and, for example, even if they are far away, can know that the subject has gone out and the amount of time they spent outdoors, thereby understanding the subject's condition. Furthermore, the subject can obtain an estimated amount of UV radiation they have received from sunlight. Sunlight exposure is known to significantly contribute to the production of vitamin D and the secretion of serotonin in the human body, and to have various beneficial effects on human physical and mental health. For example, the amount of UV radiation received from sunlight is known to affect bone density. Therefore, if the amount of UV radiation received from sunlight can be estimated, it can be useful for preventing and improving osteoporosis, which is a major problem for the elderly, for example. Furthermore, it is known that producing vitamin D through exposure to sunlight is effective in improving brain function, preventing dementia, improving immunity, preventing depression, and preventing insomnia, etc. Therefore, if the amount of UV radiation received from sunlight can be estimated, it can be useful for preventing and improving dementia, depression, insomnia, etc., which are major problems for the elderly, for example.

[0120] Furthermore, the server 30 outputs notification information to notify the subject when the estimated amount of UV radiation is lower than a predetermined threshold. The server 30 then associates the notification information with the subject's identification information. When the detection terminal 20 receives an instruction to acquire and display the identification information from the subject's terminal, it accesses the server 30 to confirm whether the notification information is associated with the identification information. If so, the server 30 outputs the notification information to the subject. As described above, the amount of UV radiation received from sunlight affects bone density, brain function, mental health, and other factors. Therefore, if the amount of UV radiation received from sunlight is low, various adverse effects on physical and mental health may occur. Therefore, for example, if the estimated amount of UV radiation received by the subject on a given day is lower than a predetermined threshold, the server 30 can be notified and encouraged to sunbathe, thereby reducing the risk of various adverse effects on physical and mental health.

[0121] The server 30 also acquires location information about the address or residence of the subject, and estimates whether the subject is out or not based on the location information, information about the subject's location, and step count information. This allows, for example, a visiting care staff member to confirm in advance whether the subject is at home, and can avoid a situation where the care staff visits the subject only to find that the subject is out and is unable to provide care.

[0122] This application is based on a Japanese patent application (Patent Application No. 2023-183046) filed on October 25, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0123] 10 Subject terminal, 11 Control unit, 12 Memory unit, 13 Short-range wireless communication unit, 14 Sensor unit, 20, 20a, 20b Detection terminal, 21 Control unit, 22 Memory unit, 23 Communication unit, 24 Detection unit, 25 Operation display unit, 26 Audio input / output unit, 30 Server, 31 Control unit, 311 Acquisition unit, 312 Identification unit, 313 Output unit, 314 Estimation unit, 32 Memory unit, 33 Communication unit, 40 Parent terminal, 41 Control unit, 42 Memory unit, 43 Communication unit, 44 Operation display unit, 45 Audio input / output unit, 50 Administrator terminal, 51 Control unit, 52 Memory unit, 53 Communication unit, 54 Operation display unit, 55 Audio input / output unit.

Claims

1. A system comprising: a pair of shoes wearable by a subject; a subject terminal embedded in a sole of the shoe; a detection terminal for detecting the subject terminal capable of communicating via short-range wireless communication; and a server for registering information transmitted from the detection terminal, wherein the subject terminal comprises: an acceleration sensor; a step counting unit for measuring the number of steps taken by the subject based on the detection results of the acceleration sensor; and a short-range wireless communication unit for transmitting, via short-range wireless communication, identification information for identifying the subject and step count information relating to the number of steps measured within a predetermined period by the step counting unit, wherein the detection terminal comprises: a detection unit for detecting the subject terminal capable of communication; and a transmission unit for acquiring the identification information and the step count information transmitted from the subject terminal and transmitting the information to the server when the subject terminal is detected by the detection unit, wherein the server comprises: an acquisition unit for acquiring the identification information and the step count information transmitted from the detection terminal, and information relating to the position of the detection terminal, A walking information processing system comprising: an identification unit that identifies a position of the subject terminal based on the identification information and information regarding the position of the detection terminal acquired by the acquisition unit; and an output unit that outputs the position of the subject terminal identified by the identification unit in association with the step count information acquired at the position.

2. The walking information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the subject terminal does not have a GPS function or a long-distance wireless communication function, and can operate for one year or more using a battery having a capacity of 200mAh to 300mAh.

3. The walking information processing system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the output unit calculates and outputs the number of steps and time taken by the subject to move between the first location and the second location based on the time when the subject was at a first location and the first step count information acquired at the first location, and the time when the subject was at a second location and the second step count information acquired at the second location.

4. A walking information processing system as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the detection terminal is installed at a specified location indoors or outdoors, and further has a display unit that displays information transmitted from the subject terminal.

5. The walking information processing system of claim 4, wherein the acquisition unit acquires the identification information and the step count information transmitted from the subject terminals, the output unit generates and outputs ranking information indicating a ranking of the steps of the subjects in a predetermined group including the subjects corresponding to the identification information, and the detection terminal acquires the ranking information from the server and, upon receiving the identification information from the subject terminal, causes the display unit to display the ranking of the subject corresponding to the identification information in the predetermined group.

6. A walking information processing system as described in claim 5, wherein the detection terminal has a seat on which the subject can sit, the seat having an antenna for receiving short-range wireless communication radio waves from the subject terminal, and when the detection terminal receives the identification information from a plurality of the subject terminals, the detection terminal displays on the display information regarding the identification information transmitted from the subject terminal receiving the strongest radio waves.

7. A walking information processing system as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the server further has an estimation unit that estimates an outdoor stay time that the subject stays outdoors based on information regarding the change in the subject's position and the step count information.

8. The walking information processing system of claim 7, wherein the acquisition unit further acquires weather information relating to the weather or a weather forecast, and the estimation unit estimates the amount of ultraviolet rays that the subject has been exposed to from sunlight based on the outdoor time spent and the weather information.

9. A walking information processing system as described in claim 8, wherein the output unit outputs notification information to notify the subject when the amount of ultraviolet rays estimated by the estimation unit is less than a predetermined threshold value.

10. The walking information processing system of claim 9, wherein the output unit sets the notification information in association with the identification information of the subject, and when the detection terminal receives an instruction to obtain the identification information from the subject terminal and display the information, the detection terminal accesses the server to check whether the notification information is set in association with the identification information, and if so, outputs the notification information to the subject.

11. The walking information processing system of claim 7, wherein the acquisition unit further acquires location information regarding the address or residence of the subject, and the estimation unit estimates whether the subject is outside based on the location information, information regarding the subject's position, and the step count information.

12. A walking information processing device applied to a walking information processing system including a subject terminal that is embedded in a sole of a shoe that can be worn by a subject, the subject terminal having an acceleration sensor, a step counting unit that measures the number of steps of the subject based on the detection result of the acceleration sensor, and a short-range wireless communication unit that transmits, via short-range wireless communication, identification information for identifying the subject and step count information related to the number of steps measured within a predetermined period by the step counting unit, and a detection terminal having a detection unit that detects the subject terminal that can communicate via short-range wireless communication, and a transmission unit that acquires the identification information and the step count information transmitted from the subject terminal and transmits it to a server when the subject terminal is detected by the detection unit, comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires the identification information and the step count information transmitted from the detection terminal and information regarding the position of the detection terminal; an identification unit that identifies the position of the subject terminal based on the identification information and information regarding the position of the detection terminal acquired by the acquisition unit; and an output unit that outputs the position of the subject identified by the identification unit in association with the step count information acquired at the position; A walking information processing device having the above configuration.

13. A walking information processing program for causing an information processing device to function as the walking information processing device according to claim 12.

14. Shoes for processing walking information that can be worn by a subject and has a subject terminal embedded in the sole, wherein the subject terminal has: an acceleration sensor; a step counting unit that measures the number of steps taken by the subject based on detection results of the acceleration sensor; and a short-range wireless communication unit that transmits, via short-range wireless communication, identification information for identifying the subject and step count information related to the number of steps measured within a predetermined period by the step counting unit, the identification information and step count information transmitted via short-range wireless communication are acquired by a detection terminal for detecting the subject terminal and transmitted to a server, the position of the subject terminal is identified based on the identification information and the step count information transmitted to the server and information related to the position of the detection terminal, and the identified position of the subject terminal and the step count information acquired at that position are output in association with each other.

15. The walking information processing shoes according to claim 14, wherein the subject terminal does not have a GPS function or a long-distance wireless communication function, and can operate for one year or more using a battery having a capacity of 200mAh to 300mAh.

Images