JP2013106278A - Information supply system, acoustic signal output device, computer program, portable equipment program, data transmission method, and information acquisition method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an information supply system which can make even an indoor or underground space an operation environment, can respond to the movement of portable equipment as its user walks, and can supply position information, etc. to the portable equipment without impairing the landscape of the operation environment.SOLUTION: The information supply system includes: a plurality of acoustic signal output devices, each having the function to output an acoustic signal making use of an upper limit band of audible frequencies and installed apart from each other so that the ranges reachable by each acoustic signal will be different; and at least one management server which is used to specify for each of the acoustic signal output devices the data to be transmitted. The acoustic signal output devices each selects, from a prescribed number of frequencies included in the frequency band where the upper limit band of audible frequencies is used, one or more frequencies corresponding to the data specified by the management server, and output the sinusoidal wave of the selected frequency as an acoustic signal. The portable equipment, which has the function to receive an acoustic signal making use of the upper limit band of audible frequencies, detects the frequency of the received acoustic signal and finds information on the basis of the data represented by one or more frequencies detected.

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique for providing information (for example, position information) depending on the location of a mobile device to a mobile device that moves.

  Acquisition of location information using a mobile device (for example, a smartphone) is becoming increasingly important in the fields of augmented reality (AR), navigation, communication, maintenance work, sales support applications, and the like.

  Conventionally, position detection using GPS (Global Positioning System) has been used mainly in the outdoors, but in recent years, estimation based on collective intelligence of WiFi (wireless LAN) access points and position estimation based on WiFi received signal strength have also been performed. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

  GPS is a technique for acquiring position information using radio waves transmitted from a plurality of GPS satellites. Widely used in car navigation systems, outdoor map services, location games, etc. However, it is known that an error of more than a dozen meters occurs in consumer devices, and since radio signals transmitted from artificial satellites are used, use in indoor and underground spaces is limited. Even outdoors, depending on conditions, it may take a long time to acquire position information. For example, when A-GPS linked to a third-generation mobile phone system cannot be used, GPS satellite orbit data is transmitted at a transmission rate of 50 bps with a period of 30 seconds because of GPS specifications. Also gets longer.

  There are two types of position estimation techniques using WiFi: a BSSID system and an RSSI system. The BSSID method is a technique for presuming the position based on the BSSID detected at a place where the position is desired to be accumulated by previously collecting the BSSID information of the WiFi base station. The position detection accuracy depends on the degree of integration of the WiFi base stations. The RSSI method is a technique for estimating a position based on RSSI (received signal strength) between a target portable device and a WiFi base station in an available range. A database for mapping between RSSI and position information is constructed in advance, and Bayesian estimation (probability calculation) is performed based on RSSI measured when the position is acquired, thereby determining the position.

  However, in the case of WiFi, it is generally known that an error of about 3 to 10 meters occurs. In particular, in the method of acquiring the received signal strength between the WiFi access point and the portable device and estimating the position, an enormous work for registering the received signal strength in advance is required. Furthermore, when actually trying to estimate the position, the received signal strength with all access points is acquired and estimation is performed. Therefore, if 1 to 2 seconds are used per access point, 5 access points are used. In the estimation, a time of at least about 5 to 10 seconds is required.

  As another method, there is a two-dimensional code method in which a position is acquired using a camera built in a general smartphone or the like. Position information is embedded in a QR code (registered trademark), which is a kind of two-dimensional code, and the code is attached to a passage or a wall. This is a technique for acquiring position information by photographing the QR code (registered trademark) with a smartphone camera. Attached to the exhibit, it is also used for operations such as stamp rally to acquire location information. Two-dimensional codes are considered effective for obtaining absolute positions. However, in order to recognize the two-dimensional code, it is necessary to make optical adjustments such as restrictions on the positional relationship of the camera and focal length, and it takes time to detect the position.

  Furthermore, a technology that enables acquisition of position information by connecting an external device to a smartphone or the like via an external interface (USB, Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc.) is not incorporated in a general smartphone or the like. Exists.

  One is to use RFID, which is a technology that uses a small device that can transmit and receive radio as an ID. RFID can be identified by a distance from several millimeters to several meters, and is also used for grasping the position of an object. In order to use with a smartphone, it is necessary to connect a dedicated reader via an external interface. RFID is considered suitable for obtaining absolute position information.

  The other is a technique used for pedestrian autonomous navigation (PDR) using an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor. It integrates minute changes detected by the sensor to estimate distance and direction. Some of the latest smartphones are starting to ship products with these sensors. There is also a technology for estimating altitude using a barometric sensor, but since there are few products built into smartphones, they are connected via an external interface. Position detection using a sensor has attracted attention as a technique for acquiring a relative position.

Special table 2008-519495

  Among the conventional position information acquisition technologies described above, the GPS technology acquires the radio waves transmitted from a plurality of GPS satellites on the mobile device side and calculates the position, so it can be used in indoor and underground spaces where radio waves are difficult to reach. There is a problem of being restricted.

  In addition, the above-described conventional technique has a problem that it takes time to detect a position and there are restrictions on a target action or operation. For example, it is difficult for the user of the portable device to detect the position of the portable device in real time while walking.

  Specifically, in the case of acquiring position information by GPS, depending on the accuracy required, it may take several minutes to detect the position. In the case of position estimation using WiFi received signal strength, obtain received signal strength with all WiFi base stations available on the mobile device side, and perform Bayesian estimation etc. based on the received signal strength accumulated in the database prepared in advance It takes about 5 to 10 seconds to calculate the position information. Most of this time is the time taken to acquire the received signal strength, and the time taken to acquire increases as the number of available WiFi base stations increases.

  Further, in a method of performing image processing by a camera built in a smartphone or the like using a two-dimensional code or an AR marker and acquiring position information, a smartphone or the like is used to appropriately acquire the two-dimensional code or the AR marker. Since it is necessary to make it stand still and to recognize it, it is still difficult to make it recognize at walking speed.

  Among the above-described conventional techniques, the method of acquiring an absolute position using a two-dimensional code or an AR marker has a problem that the landscape of the operational environment is impaired. This is because it is necessary to affix a two-dimensional code or an AR marker on the floor, wall, ceiling, or the like. These two-dimensional codes, etc. depend on the expected accuracy, but it is desirable to install them every few meters, so the number of codes increases, and it may be pointed out that facility managers and users will harm the landscape Is expensive.

  Furthermore, the above-described conventional technique has a problem that the error is large. In the case of position estimation based on GPS or WiFi received signal strength, which takes time to acquire position information, the mobile device has already moved from the place to another place while acquiring the position information. As a result, the error is considered to increase. In addition, in the case of PDR using sensors such as acceleration and gyro, it has been clarified that positional information such as distance and direction greatly deviates from accumulation of small errors.

  Among the above-described conventional techniques, a method that requires connection of an external device may be provided only for a specific user, but generally has a difficulty in spreading. It can be expected to be widely used by general consumers if it can be realized only with devices built into smartphones from the beginning, but it will be connected to smartphones etc. by providing external devices separately for acquiring location information This operation is laborious and costly, and there is a high possibility that cooperation cannot be obtained.

  In view of the above circumstances, the present invention can make indoor or underground space an operating environment, can also be used for movement of a user of a portable device, and can be portable without harming the landscape of the operating environment. An object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism that can acquire position information and the like using a function that is generally built in a device.

  An example system in accordance with the principles of the present invention provides information to at least one portable device having a function of receiving an acoustic signal that utilizes an upper limit of audible frequencies. The system has a function of outputting an acoustic signal using an upper limit range of an audible frequency, and a plurality of acoustic signal output devices installed apart from each other so that each acoustic signal reaches a different range; And at least one management server for designating data to be transmitted by the acoustic signal output device using the acoustic signal for each acoustic signal output device. Each of the acoustic signal output devices selects and selects one or a plurality of frequencies corresponding to the data designated by the management server from a predetermined number of frequencies included in the frequency range using the upper limit range of the audible frequency. Means for outputting a sine wave having a frequency as an acoustic signal. The portable device detects a frequency of an acoustic signal received from a part of the plurality of acoustic signal output devices, and obtains the information based on data represented by the detected one or a plurality of frequencies. .

  This configuration uses acoustic marker technology that uses high-frequency acoustic signals that are difficult for humans to recognize, so it can also be used indoors and underground spaces, detects position information, etc. at high speed, and detects errors in the operating environment. It becomes possible to make it smaller to match. Since it is an acoustic signal, it does not harm the landscape of the operating environment, and the function of receiving an acoustic signal is generally built in a portable device.

  The acoustic marker technology in this system allows an acoustic signal output device to transmit a high-frequency sine wave with one or more frequencies superimposed without modulation / demodulation, and allows the portable device that has received the acoustic signal to analyze the signal. Based on the extracted data (for example, acoustic signal identification ID), information (position information, etc.) is provided to the portable device. Since the frequency detection of a high frequency sine wave can be performed at high speed in a portable device, position detection can be performed in real time not only in a stationary state but also at walking speed. The position information obtained based on the data represented by the detected frequency may be used as an absolute position as it is, or to correct the relative position information acquired by pedestrian autonomous navigation (PDR) or the like. It may be used.

  In the above system, the data may be represented by a predetermined number of bits, and the value of each bit may be represented by the presence or absence of output of each sine wave at the predetermined number of frequencies.

  Thereby, for example, a portable device that has detected the frequency of a sine wave in the high frequency range has a value of 1 for a detected frequency and a value of 0 for a frequency that has not been detected in a predetermined number of frequencies. By replacing with a bit string, data transmitted from the acoustic signal output device can be obtained, and higher-speed processing becomes possible.

  In the above system, a frequency range using the upper limit range of the audible frequency is divided into a plurality of sub-frequency ranges, and each of the acoustic signal output devices has a frequency corresponding to the data designated by the management server, The management server is configured to select a frequency included in one of the plurality of sub-frequency regions, and the management server includes the frequency within the sub-frequency region in which two or more acoustic signal output devices having overlapping acoustic signal ranges are different from each other. It is good also as what directs with respect to each said acoustic signal output device so that selection may be performed.

  As a result, even if the portable device receives the acoustic signals from two or more acoustic signal output devices at the same time, the frequencies selected in different sub-frequency regions are received, so the acoustic signals interfere. Can be prevented.

  In the above system, the data is represented by a combination of which of the frequencies included in one sub-frequency range is selected and which sub-frequency range is used. Also good.

  As a result, while preventing interference of the acoustic signal, the amount of information that can be transmitted by the acoustic signal is increased from the information amount of the number of bits corresponding to the number of frequencies constituting one sub-frequency region by the number of times of the frequency region. It becomes possible.

  In the above-described system, the management server may include means for controlling the number of acoustic signal output devices that overlap the ranges in which the acoustic signals reach so as not to exceed the number of the sub-frequency regions.

  As a result, it is possible to eliminate the place where the interference of the acoustic signal occurs throughout the system. The arrangement and / or output level of the acoustic signal output device is controlled so that the number of sub-frequency ranges is given and the number of the acoustic signal output devices that overlap the range in which the acoustic signal reaches is equal to or less than the given number. The number of acoustic signal output devices that overlap the range in which the acoustic signal can reach is given, and the number of sub-frequency ranges is adjusted to the given number, and the frequency range is controlled to be divided. Also good.

  In the above system, the management server may include means for designating an output level of an acoustic signal for each of the acoustic signal output devices based on a report from a monitor device that receives the acoustic signal. .

  This makes it possible to reliably match the range in which the acoustic signal reaches the range desired by the system administrator who wants to provide information to the portable device that has entered the range. In addition, for example, by using the above-described sub-frequency region, it is possible to prevent the ranges in which the acoustic signals reach from overlapping, except for allowing the ranges in which the acoustic signals reach to overlap.

  In the above system, the data is capable of identifying the information, and the portable device is connected to the management server via a network and transmits the information identified using the data. The information may be obtained by making a request to the management server and receiving the information transmitted in response to the request.

  As a result, the amount of information that can be transmitted by the acoustic signal has a limit depending on the number of frequencies included in the frequency range using the upper limit range of the audible frequency. By providing again from the management server to the mobile device, the amount of information that can be provided can be increased without limitation.

  In the above system, the management server designates the data to be transmitted by the acoustic signal output device by the acoustic signal so as to change with time, and stores the valid period of each data. And means for rejecting transmission of the information identified using the data when the time indicated by the request received from the portable device is not within the valid period for the data related to the request. You may make it prepare.

  As a result, if the request is not based on the data received by the portable device within the validity period, it is possible to fail attempts to obtain information illegally by recording an acoustic signal without giving any information. become. The time indicated by the request may be the time when the management server receives the request from the portable device, or the request signal transmitted from the portable device to the management server includes the acoustic signal that is the basis of the request, that is, the data. May be included.

  In the above system, the management server is received from the portable device, means for storing data to be transmitted by each acoustic signal output device by an acoustic signal, and information on an installation position of each acoustic signal output device. If it is determined that the position of the portable device indicated by the request is not within the range where the acoustic signal reaches from the installation position of the acoustic signal output device that transmitted the data related to the request, the data is used. And means for rejecting transmission of the identified information.

  As a result, if the request is not made by receiving data by the acoustic signal output device that actually transmits the data, the portable device does not give any information, and the acoustic signal from another person is in a different place. It is possible to fail attempts to obtain information illegally. As the position of the mobile device indicated by this request, for example, GPS information built in the mobile device may be included in the request that the mobile device transmits to the management server. Since the GPS position information is inaccurate as described above, it is determined whether or not the GPS position information is within a range in which an acoustic signal from the corresponding acoustic signal output device reaches.

  In the above-described system, the data transmitted by each acoustic signal output device using an acoustic signal includes data determined by a location where the acoustic signal output device is installed, and the portable device uses the location from the data. The information may be obtained by extracting information on the information.

  Thereby, even if the information identified by the data transmitted by the acoustic signal is not provided again from the management server to the portable device, the portable device detects the rough position only from the data transmitted by the acoustic signal. For example, it is possible to notify the user of the rough position, or to change the operation of acquiring detailed information depending on where the rough position is.

  In the above system, among the plurality of acoustic signal output devices, a certain part is installed in another part, another part is installed in another area, and the frequency range using the upper limit range of the audible frequency is a plurality of The acoustic signal output device is divided into individual sub-frequency regions and one common sub-frequency region, and the frequency corresponding to the data for identifying each area is selected from the frequencies included in the common sub-frequency region. The frequency corresponding to the data specified by the management server other than is selected from frequencies included in one of the plurality of individual sub-frequency bands, and the management server is installed in the same area. Instructing each of the acoustic signal output devices to perform selection of the frequency within different individual sub-frequency ranges for two or more acoustic signal output devices. It may be used as the.

  As a result, the same part of the data to be transmitted uses the common sub-frequency band, and the different sub-frequency bands are used for the different parts, so the number of frequencies included in the frequency band that uses the upper limit of the audible frequency. When there is a limit, it is possible to effectively use as much information as possible to be transmitted.

  In the above system, the data transmitted by each acoustic signal output device using the acoustic signal includes data for error correction of the data to be transmitted, and the portable device is detected from the received acoustic signal. The information may be obtained by performing error correction processing on data represented by one or a plurality of frequencies.

  Thereby, even when not all frequencies can be detected from a sine wave on which a plurality of frequencies are superimposed, correct data can be obtained by error correction.

  In the above system, a frequency range using the upper limit range of the audible frequency is divided into a plurality of sub-frequency ranges, and the frequency corresponding to the data to be transmitted is set to each of the acoustic signal output devices by the error correction. The frequency corresponding to the data to be selected is also selected from the frequencies included in the same one of the plurality of sub-frequency ranges, and the management server outputs two or more acoustic signal outputs that overlap the range in which the acoustic signal reaches The apparatus may instruct each of the acoustic signal output apparatuses to select the frequency within different sub-frequency ranges.

  As a result, in a situation where the portable device simultaneously receives acoustic signals from two or more acoustic signal output devices, both the data to be transmitted and the data for error correction are received in different sub-frequency regions. Therefore, the error correction can be performed while preventing the interference of the acoustic signal, and the portable device can reliably receive the data.

  In the above system, the management server can communicate with an information server that stores information about items arranged in the vicinity of each of the acoustic signal output devices, and from the acoustic signal output devices in the vicinity of the location of the items. It is good also as providing the information regarding the said item with respect to the said portable apparatus which received the acoustic signal of and transmitted the data transmitted by the said acoustic signal to the said management server.

  As a result, it is possible to notify the user who moves with the portable device in the operating environment where various items are arranged, information about the item that has passed by.

  In the above system, the management server can communicate with an information server that collects information indicating which acoustic signal output device the user of the portable device has moved through, and the user has passed. For the portable device that has received an acoustic signal from an acoustic signal output device in the vicinity of the place and has transmitted the data transmitted by the acoustic signal to the management server, information on the user and the location is stored in the information server. It is good also as what notifies.

  As a result, it is possible to collect information such as the locus of the user who moves with the portable device in the operating environment and notify the operation manager.

  The invention of the information providing system described above is not limited to the invention of the method of the entire system, the invention of the acoustic signal output apparatus constituting the system, the invention of the management server (apparatus), and the portable device ( As a device), a method corresponding to each device, and a program for operating a general-purpose computer or portable device as each device (or a recording medium storing the program). The invention is also valid.

  For example, an acoustic signal output device according to an example in accordance with the principles of the present invention may be configured to provide an audible signal to configure a system that provides information to at least one portable device having a function of receiving an acoustic signal that uses an upper limit of an audible frequency. It has a function of outputting an acoustic signal that uses the upper frequency range of the frequency, and the other acoustic signal output devices that constitute the system are installed apart from each other so that each acoustic signal reaches a different range. The apparatus comprises, for each acoustic signal output apparatus constituting the system, means for communicating with at least one management server for designating data to be transmitted by the acoustic signal output apparatus using an acoustic signal, and an audible frequency. One or a plurality of frequencies corresponding to the data designated by the management server is selected from a predetermined number of frequencies included in the frequency range using the upper limit range, and a sine wave of the selected frequency is output as an acoustic signal. Means. Then, the information can be obtained based on data represented by one or a plurality of frequencies of the acoustic signal received by the portable device.

  A computer program according to an example in accordance with the principle of the present invention is a system for providing information to at least one portable device that is installed in a computer and has a function of receiving an acoustic signal using an upper limit range of an audible frequency. The computer is operated as a management server. This program has a function of outputting an acoustic signal that uses the upper limit range of the audible frequency, and communicates with a plurality of acoustic signal output devices installed apart from each other so that each acoustic signal reaches a different range. And an instruction code for designating data to be transmitted by the acoustic signal output device by the acoustic signal for each acoustic signal output device. Each of the acoustic signal output devices selects one or a plurality of frequencies corresponding to the data designated by the management server from a predetermined number of frequencies included in a frequency range using the upper limit range of the audible frequency. Enables the output of a sine wave of a selected frequency as an acoustic signal, and the portable device detects and detects the frequency of the acoustic signal received from some of the plurality of acoustic signal output devices The information can be determined based on data represented by one or more frequencies.

  A portable device program according to an example according to the principle of the present invention is installed in a portable device and causes the portable device to acquire information provided from a system. The system has a function of outputting an acoustic signal using an upper limit range of an audible frequency, and a plurality of acoustic signal output devices installed apart from each other so that each acoustic signal reaches a different range; For each of the acoustic signal output devices, at least one management server for designating data to be transmitted by the acoustic signal output device. Each of the acoustic signal output devices selects and selects one or a plurality of frequencies corresponding to the data designated by the management server from a predetermined number of frequencies included in the frequency range using the upper limit range of the audible frequency. Means for outputting a sine wave having a frequency as an acoustic signal. The portable device program causes the portable device to receive an acoustic signal using an upper limit range of the audible frequency, and detects a frequency of the acoustic signal received from a part of the plurality of acoustic signal output devices. The information is obtained based on data represented by one or a plurality of detected frequencies.

  A data transmission method according to an example in accordance with the principle of the present invention is a method for transmitting data to at least one portable device having a function of receiving an acoustic signal using an upper limit range of an audible frequency, wherein the upper limit range of the audible frequency is set. A plurality of acoustic signal output devices having a function of outputting an acoustic signal to be used are installed apart from each other so that each acoustic signal reaches a different range, and the acoustic signal output device is provided to each acoustic signal output device. At least one management server for designating data to be transmitted by the device using an acoustic signal is connected, and each acoustic signal output device includes a predetermined number included in a frequency range using an upper limit range of an audible frequency. One or a plurality of frequencies corresponding to the data designated by the management server is selected from the frequencies of the frequency, and a sine wave of the frequency is output as an acoustic signal. So, the plurality of the part of the audio signal output device to a portable device that has received the acoustic signals, thereby detecting the data represented by the one or more frequencies the acoustic signal includes.

  An information acquisition method according to an example according to the principle of the present invention is a method for causing at least one portable device having a function of receiving an acoustic signal using an upper limit range of an audible frequency to acquire information, wherein the upper limit range of an audible frequency is set. A plurality of acoustic signal output devices having a function of outputting acoustic signals to be used are installed apart from each other so that each acoustic signal reaches different ranges, and the portable device can be connected to each acoustic signal. At least one management server that holds information identified by data transmitted by the output device through the sound signal is operating, and each of the sound signal output devices is included in a frequency range that uses an upper limit range of the audible frequency. One or a plurality of frequencies corresponding to the data to be transmitted are selected from a predetermined number of frequencies, and a sine wave of the frequency is output as an acoustic signal. The information identified by using the data that is detected by one or a plurality of frequencies included in the acoustic signal in a portable device that has received the acoustic signal from a part of the acoustic signal output device The management server is requested to transmit the information, and the information transmitted in response to the request is received.

  As described above, according to the present invention, indoor and underground spaces can be used as an operating environment, and the mobile device user can also be moved by walking, and the mobile phone can be portable without harming the landscape of the operating environment. It is possible to acquire position information and the like using a function that is generally built in the device.

The figure which shows the whole structure of the acoustic marker system which concerns on an example of embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows an example which allocated frequency (kHz) to the bit sequence of an acoustic signal according to a sound range group. The figure which shows an example which made acoustic signal identification ID list for every sound range group. The block diagram which shows the internal structure of the management server in this example. The figure which shows an example of an acoustic marker management table (management server). The figure which shows an example of an acoustic signal management table (management server). The figure which shows an example of an incidental information management table (management server). The flowchart which shows an example of the allocation process of the acoustic signal by a management server. The flowchart which shows an example of the reallocation process of the acoustic signal by a management server. The flowchart which shows an example of the adjustment process of the transmission range by a management server. The flowchart which shows an example of a provision process of the positional information etc. by a management server. The block diagram which shows the internal structure of the acoustic marker in this example. The flowchart which shows an example of the output process of the acoustic signal by an acoustic marker. The flowchart which shows an example of the adjustment process of the output level by an acoustic marker. The block diagram which shows the internal structure of the device in this example. The flowchart which shows an example of the process from the acoustic signal input by a device to acquisition of positional information etc. The figure which shows an example of the error detection and correction by an error correction code | symbol. The figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the acoustic marker at the time of using four sound range groups in the area (room etc.) where a cell spreads in two dimensions. The figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the acoustic marker at the time of using three sound range groups in the area (room etc.) where a cell spreads in two dimensions. The figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the acoustic marker at the time of using two sound range groups in the area (room etc.) where a cell spreads in two dimensions. The figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the acoustic marker at the time of using one sound range group in the area (room etc.) where a cell spreads in two dimensions. The figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the acoustic marker at the time of using four sound range groups in the area (passage etc.) where a cell extends in one dimension. The figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the acoustic marker at the time of using three sound range groups in the area (passage etc.) where a cell extends in one dimension. The figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the acoustic marker at the time of using two sound range groups in the area (passage etc.) where a cell extends in one dimension. The figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the acoustic marker at the time of using one sound range group in the area (passage etc.) where a cell extends in one dimension. The figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the acoustic marker at the time of using four sound range groups in the place divided | segmented into a some area. The figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the acoustic marker at the time of using three sound range groups in the place divided | segmented into a some area. The figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the acoustic marker at the time of using two sound range groups in the place divided | segmented into a several area. The figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the acoustic marker at the time of using one sound range group in the place divided | segmented into a several area. The figure for demonstrating an example of the system which performs entrance / exit determination in a pedestrian navigation service. The figure which shows one example which has arrange | positioned the acoustic marker in the shop in a pedestrian navigation service. The figure which shows another example which has arrange | positioned the acoustic marker in the shop in a pedestrian navigation service. The flowchart which shows an example of the process for a device to acquire a present position in a pedestrian navigation service. The flowchart which shows an example of the process for a device to display to the present area map in a pedestrian navigation service. The flowchart which shows an example of the process for a device to display item (goods, content) information in a pedestrian navigation service. The flowchart which shows an example of the process for a device to perform entrance / exit management in a pedestrian navigation service. The flowchart which shows an example of the process for a device to search merchandise information in a pedestrian navigation service. The flowchart which shows an example of the process for a device to perform walk guidance to goods in a pedestrian navigation service. The block diagram which shows the internal structural example of the management server in a pedestrian navigation service. The figure which shows an example of the acoustic marker management table (management server) in a pedestrian navigation service. The flowchart which shows an example of the shop information request | requirement process by the management server in a pedestrian navigation service. The block diagram which shows the example of an internal structure of the shop information management server for a pedestrian navigation service. The figure which shows an example of an item position management table (store information management server). The figure which shows an example of an item management table (store information management server). The figure which shows an example of an item information management table (store information management server). The figure which shows an example of an item classification management table (store information management server). The figure which shows an example of the map management table (store information management server) in a store. The figure which shows an example of a flow line management table (store information management server). The flowchart which shows an example of the shelf position registration process by a shop information management server. The flowchart which shows an example of the map registration process by a shop information management server. The flowchart which shows an example of the item information registration process by a shop information management server. The flowchart which shows an example of the entrance / exit registration process by a shop information management server. The flowchart which shows an example of the shop information request | requirement process by a shop information management server. The flowchart which shows an example of the store entrance status acquisition process by a store information management server. The flowchart which shows an example of the item information acquisition process by a shop information management server.

  Hereinafter, an information providing system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings for illustrative purposes.

  The information providing system according to this example is generally the following technology. From an “acoustic marker” composed of a computer connected to a network and an audio output device, a high-frequency audio signal (hereinafter referred to as an “acoustic signal”) that is difficult to hear by human ears is output. By inputting the acoustic signal to the microphone built in the device and inquiring the management server via the network based on the acoustic signal identification number (ID) extracted as a result of analyzing the acoustic signal, the location information and / or others (Both are information desired to be provided to a device that has received an acoustic signal from each acoustic marker, hereinafter referred to as position information and the like).

  The acoustic signal uses an upper limit range (also referred to as ultrasonic sound) of audible frequencies on the order of 15 kHz to 22 kHz. The sound in this range is a range that cannot be heard by ordinary humans, and can output a signal without being noticed by the surroundings. Of course, it does not appear in photos or videos, so the landscape of the operational environment is not impaired. Further, by using this frequency band, not a dedicated device for ultrasonic waves but a commercially available audio output device such as a speaker can be used.

  A system to which the present technology is applied (hereinafter also referred to as an acoustic marker system) includes, for example, a management server 10, N acoustic markers 20-1 to 20-N, and M devices (see FIG. 1). For example, a portable information device such as a smartphone) 30-1 to 30-M. Among these, since the device is used by each user who uses the information, for example, the system 60 including the management server and the acoustic marker may be called an information providing system.

  The management server 10 manages the acoustic markers 20 connected by a network (for example, an Internet protocol (IP) network) 40 and assigns acoustic signal identification IDs. In addition, it provides information requested from the device 30 connected by a network (for example, an Internet protocol (IP) network).

  Since the device 30 is used in such a form that the user moves while holding the device, the network 50 is preferably a network such as a wireless LAN or a mobile phone network. The network 40 may use a fixed communication network laid at a place where the acoustic marker group is installed. The network 40 and the network 50 may be mutually independent networks, or the network 40 and the network 50 may form one network.

  The acoustic marker 20 reproduces the acoustic signal including the acoustic signal identification ID designated from the management server 10 at the designated volume. A plurality of (N) acoustic markers 30 can be installed and operated at the same time, and the number thereof may be determined by the content of the information service that the operator of the information providing system wants to apply.

  The device 30 inputs the acoustic signal, extracts the acoustic signal identification ID using fast Fourier transform (FFT), sends it to the management server together with the acquisition date / time information, etc., and requests the provision of the positional information and the like. A plurality (M) of devices 30 can be simultaneously accommodated in the information providing system 60, and the number thereof can be increased by the number of users who want to use the service as long as the network 50 is not congested.

  The basic structure of the acoustic signal used in the present technology is, for example, as follows. In order to manage the arrangement of acoustic markers, the concept of location, area, and cell is provided, and each is assigned a unique ID for management.

  The smallest unit is a cell, and is a unit for installing one acoustic marker. The same space including a plurality of cells is called an area. An area refers to a passage, a living room, a shared space, etc. when indoors. A concept including a plurality of areas is a location, and refers to the same building or the like.

  It is assumed that the location is explicitly specified on the application side to be used, and it is possible to use multi-tenant by changing the location ID.

  One acoustic signal is composed of, for example, a total of 12 sine waves, and one sine wave is defined as 1 bit without modulation / demodulation. The interval between the sine waves is 200 Hz, and interference during analysis by fast Fourier transform is eliminated. The reason for not performing modulation / demodulation is to acquire and analyze signals at high speed.

  In this technology, since modulation / demodulation is not performed and a 12-bit signal is transmitted at a time, for example, even when walking for 80 m (1.33 m / sec) per minute, the acoustic signal emitted from the acoustic marker is transmitted to the device side. As long as it can be received by the mobile phone, there are no restrictions on the actions and operations of the person holding the device.

  In this example, a 12-bit acoustic signal is composed of three parts: area ID, unique ID, and error correction. For each of the 12 bits, when the bit value is 1, a sine wave having a frequency corresponding to the bit is output, and when the bit value is 0, a sine wave having a frequency corresponding to the bit is not output.

  The area ID secures 4 bits in binary (0 to 15 in decimal). Thereby, for example, the device can recognize that the user has moved from one room to another.

  The unique ID is a unique identification number in the area ID, and secures 4 bits in binary (1 to 15 in decimal). The 8 bits obtained by adding the unique ID to the area ID is a basic acoustic signal identification ID. However, since it is transmitted through free space, there may be a loss of signal.

  In order to prevent such an accident, 4 bits are added for error correction and used for error detection and correction. For this error detection and correction, an error detection and correction code method is used, and 2-bit error detection and 1-bit error correction are employed.

  In consideration of interference caused by using a plurality of acoustic signals in adjacent locations, the frequency band of ultrasonic sound is divided into, for example, four sound range groups. The area ID part uses a common frequency band, and the unique ID part and the error correction code part use different frequency bands for each sound range group. In adjacent cells, acoustic signals are assigned so that the same range group is not used. However, the lower the frequency range from the sound range group A to the sound range group D, the lower the frequency band, the sound signal may be heard by some people.

  FIG. 2 shows an example in which a sine wave frequency (kHz) is assigned to a bit string of an acoustic signal for each sound range group. The sound range column shows an example in which the sound range is divided into four groups A to D. (1) is used as the first bit, and (12) is arranged and recognized as an acoustic signal.

  For example, the frequency of the first bit of the tone range group A is 22.0 kHz, and the 12th bit is 19.8 kHz. The frequency from the first bit to the fourth bit of the sound range group B is the same as that of the sound range group A, the 5th bit is 19.6 kHz, and the 12th bit is 18.2 kHz. As described above, the unique ID and the error correction code part are assigned so that the frequencies to be used do not overlap between different sound range groups.

  As a result of the FFT, the device recognizes the bit as 1 when the frequency component can be acquired, and recognizes the bit as 0 when the frequency component cannot be acquired, and forms a bit array.

  FIG. 3 shows an example in which acoustic signal identification IDs are listed for each sound range group. An area ID and a unique ID are specified for each range group. One range group is divided into 16 areas, and 15 unique IDs exist for each area ID.

  When the frequency of ultrasonic sound is divided into four sound range groups A to D and all sound range groups are used, the maximum number of cells that can be divided within the same area ID is 60 cells with 4 sound range groups × 15 unique IDs. . When three sound range groups A to C are used, a maximum of 45 cells can be identified by 3 sound range groups × 15 unique IDs. When using two range groups A to B, a maximum of 30 cells can be identified with 2 range groups × 15 unique IDs, and when only the A range group is used, a maximum of 15 cells can be identified. .

  When requesting information from the device to the management server, an acoustic signal identification ID is designated in order to identify three elements: area ID, unique ID, and range group.

  FIG. 4 shows an internal configuration example of the management server 10. The management server 10 has a function of managing the acoustic marker 20 and the acoustic signal and transmitting an instruction to adjust the transmission range of the acoustic signal and a response to a request for position information by the device 30.

  The management server 10 includes an acoustic marker registration unit 100, an acoustic signal identification ID selection unit 105, and an acoustic signal instruction unit 110 in order to manage acoustic markers and assign an acoustic signal identification ID. In addition, in order to reselect an acoustic signal identification ID, an acoustic marker changing unit 120 and an acoustic signal identification ID reselecting unit 125 are provided.

  The management server 10 also includes a transmission range adjustment request acquisition unit 140 and an output level change instruction unit 145 in order to adjust the transmission range between the acoustic marker and the device. Further, in order to transmit position information and the like in response to a request from the device, a position information etc. acquisition unit 160, a position information etc. request confirmation unit 165, a position information etc. extraction unit 170, and a position information etc. transmission unit 175 are provided.

  In order to realize these functions, the management server 10 includes a database and includes an acoustic marker management table 150 (FIG. 5), an acoustic signal management table 130 (FIG. 6), and an incidental information management table 180 (FIG. 7).

  The management server 10 and each acoustic marker 20 are connected by a network 40, and the management server 10 and each device 30 are connected by a network 50 so that mutual communication is possible.

  FIG. 8 shows an example of a processing flow for the management server 10 to manage the acoustic markers 20-1 to 20-N and assign an acoustic signal identification ID to each.

  First, in the acoustic marker registration unit 100 of the management server, for the acoustic marker management table 150, the acoustic marker ID, name, area ID, X, Y, Z coordinates in the area, latitude / longitude of the acoustic marker, etc. Registration is performed (800).

  After registration of the acoustic marker, the acoustic signal identification ID selection unit 105 refers to the acoustic signal management table 130 to check whether there is an unused acoustic signal identification ID to which the designated area ID belongs (805). ). If there is an unused acoustic signal identification ID, it is checked whether there is an unused unique ID (810).

  If there is an unused unique ID, the acoustic signal identification ID is extracted as a candidate, and one ID is selected from the candidates (815). At this time, the sound range group may be automatically selected so as not to be the same as the sound range group of the adjacent acoustic marker, or may be arbitrarily selected by a registrant (such as an administrator of this system). .

  The acoustic signal identification ID selection unit 105 subsequently determines expiration date information (820), changes the in-use flag from 0 to 1 in the acoustic signal management table 130, and registers the acoustic marker ID and expiration date. .

  If there is no unused acoustic signal identification ID, or there is an unused acoustic signal identification ID, but there is no unique ID in the area, an error is returned (840).

  And the acoustic signal instruction | indication part 110 instruct | indicates acoustic signal identification ID and an output level via the network 40 with respect to the said acoustic marker 20-K.

  FIG. 9 shows an example of a processing flow for the management server 10 to reassign the acoustic signal identification ID to the designated acoustic marker. For example, this reallocation process is performed when another acoustic signal identification ID is desired to flow from the same acoustic marker after the expiration date of a certain acoustic signal identification ID has passed.

  First, the acoustic marker changing unit 120 of the management server receives an acoustic marker change request from the administrator of the system or a program of the corresponding service operating on the management server (900), and the acoustic marker and acoustic signal identification ID are received. It is confirmed whether or not has been registered (905). The acoustic marker change request includes the acoustic marker ID, the acoustic signal identification ID, and the sound range group information of the adjacent acoustic marker.

  The acoustic signal identification ID reselecting unit 125 belongs to the same area ID as the currently selected acoustic signal identification ID, and the sound range group is empty (910) and the unique ID is unused (915). A group is extracted and one ID is selected from the group (920). At this time, the sound range group may be automatically selected so as not to be the same as the sound range group of the adjacent acoustic marker, or may be arbitrarily selected by a registrant (such as an administrator of this system). .

  The acoustic signal identification ID reselecting unit 125 subsequently determines the expiration date information again (925), and sets the in-use flag from 0 to the newly selected record of the acoustic signal identification ID with respect to the acoustic signal management table 130. Change to 1 and register the acoustic marker ID and expiration date. Further, the in-use flag of the record of the acoustic signal identification ID allocated so far is changed from 1 to 0, and the record is updated after deleting the acoustic marker ID and the expiration date (930). If there is no acoustic marker or acoustic signal identification ID that is the target of the change request, or if a new acoustic signal identification ID cannot be allocated, an error is returned (950).

  And the acoustic signal instruction | indication part 110 instruct | indicates acoustic signal identification ID and an output level anew through the network 40 with respect to the said acoustic marker 20-J (940).

  FIG. 10 shows an example of processing for the management server 10 to adjust the output level (transmission range) of the acoustic signal of each acoustic marker. The adjustment of the transmission range is performed by each device 30-1 to 30-N that monitors an acoustic signal at a position where the acoustic signal from each acoustic marker 20-1 to 20-N is desired to be transmitted. This can be done based on information. A plurality of monitoring devices for one acoustic marker may be dispersed (for example, three 30-Cs, five 30-Es, etc.). The acoustic signal may be monitored.

  First, the transmission range adjustment request acquisition unit 140 of the management server 10 acquires a transmission range adjustment request from the device 30 through the network 50 (1000). The request includes information on the acoustic marker ID and the increase / decrease in output.

  The output level change instruction unit 145 refers to the acoustic marker management table 150 to check whether the received acoustic marker ID is correct (1005). If the acoustic marker exists, the output is changed according to the received request (1010). The level is increased (1015) or decreased (1020), the output level included in the record of the acoustic marker in the acoustic marker management table 150 is updated, and an instruction is given to the acoustic marker 20-K through the network 40 (1025). .

  Further, the output level change instruction unit 145 acquires (1040) the change result in the acoustic marker 20-K that has received the instruction from the acoustic marker 20-K through the network 40, and transmits the change result to the requesting device 30-K through the network 50. The result may be notified (1060). If the received acoustic marker ID is not correct, an error is returned (1050).

  FIG. 11 shows an example of processing for the management server 10 to provide location information and the like in response to a request from the device.

  The location information request acquisition unit 160 of the management server 10 receives a location information acquisition request from each device 30 through the network 50 (1100). The request includes an acoustic signal identification ID and latitude / longitude information of the device.

  The position information etc. request confirmation unit 165 refers to the acoustic signal management table 130 and confirms the validity of the acoustic signal identification ID included in the received request (1105). If the acoustic signal identification ID exists and the in-use flag is 1, it is determined whether the date and time related to the received request is within the expiration date of the record of the acoustic signal identification ID (1110). The date and time related to the request may be the date and time of reception of the acoustic signal included in the request by the device, but the safety is higher when the date and time when the management server receives the request.

  When the date and time related to the request is within the expiration date, the record of the acoustic marker shown in the acoustic signal management table 130 is extracted from the acoustic marker management table 150. Then, it is confirmed whether the latitude / longitude information of the device included in the received request matches the latitude / longitude information registered in the extracted acoustic marker record (1115). Note that both or one of the expiration date verification and the latitude / longitude verification may be omitted.

  The position information extraction unit 170 extracts the area ID, X, Y, and Z coordinates from the extracted record of the acoustic marker (1120). If the X, Y, Z coordinates are defined in the coordinate system within the area, they are extracted together with the area ID. However, if the position can be uniquely identified from only the X, Y, Z coordinates, only the X, Y, Z coordinates are extracted. May be extracted.

  If the incidental information is associated with the extracted position information in the incidental information management table 180 (1125), the position information extraction unit 170 also extracts the incidental information (1130). Depending on the content of the incidental information, various information services related to the position can be provided (various application examples will be described later). The provided information itself may be supplementary information, or the URL where the provided information is placed may be supplementary information.

  The position information transmission unit 175 transmits the extracted position information (area ID, X, Y, Z coordinates) and / or incidental information to the requesting device 30-I through the network 50 (1150). If the validity of the received request cannot be confirmed, an error is returned (1040), and a request processing impossible notification is also returned to the requesting device.

  FIG. 12 shows an internal configuration example of each acoustic marker 20. The acoustic marker 20 has a function of outputting an acoustic signal in cooperation with the management server 10.

  The acoustic marker 20 includes an acoustic signal identification ID acquisition unit 200, an acoustic signal file selection unit 210, an acoustic signal output management unit 220, and a speaker unit 230 in order to output an acoustic signal. The speaker unit 230 can output a high-frequency signal of approximately 15 kHz to 22 kHz. The acoustic marker 20 also includes an output level adjustment instruction acquisition unit 240 and an acoustic signal identification ID confirmation unit 250 in order to perform output level adjustment.

  Note that the acoustic marker 20 is connected to the management server 10 via the network 40 and can communicate with each other. However, the acoustic signal identification ID, the output level, and the like may be individually instructed to the acoustic marker 20 itself without using the network 40.

  FIG. 13 shows an example of a processing flow for the acoustic marker 20 to output an acoustic signal.

  The acoustic signal identification ID acquisition unit 200 of the acoustic marker 20 acquires the acoustic signal identification ID, the output level, and the output or stop instruction from the management server 10 through the network 40 (1300).

  The acoustic signal file selection unit 210 selects a file corresponding to the received acoustic signal identification ID from the acoustic signal files stored in advance (1305). However, a new acoustic signal file may be created based on the received acoustic signal identification ID information.

  When the received instruction does not include a stop instruction (1310), the acoustic signal output management unit 220 reproduces the selected acoustic signal file (1320) based on the instructed output level (1315), Output from the speaker unit 230. If the received instruction includes a stop instruction, playback of the currently reproduced sound signal file is stopped (1330). Then, the management server 10 is notified of the result of processing the instruction (1340).

  As described above, the management server 10 transmits an output level adjustment instruction through the network 40 to the acoustic marker 20 based on the output level adjustment request acquired from the device 30 via the network 50.

  For this reason, device 30-K is installed in the position (for example, distance 1m etc.) which wants to acquire an acoustic signal from acoustic marker 20-K, and detection of an acoustic signal is tried. If no signal is detected at this time, the device 30-K requests the management server 10 to adjust the output level. This output level increase request can be repeated until an acoustic signal can be detected.

  Next, for example, the device is moved to a position where a transmission limit of the acoustic signal (from which the acoustic signal should not be transmitted) is moved, and detection of the acoustic signal is attempted. If a signal is detected at this time, the device 30-K requests the management server 10 to reduce the output level. This output level reduction request can be repeated until no acoustic signal can be detected.

  Note that the above increase request and decrease request can be made not only manually by the user of the device but also automatically by the device itself.

  FIG. 14 shows an example of the processing flow for the acoustic marker 20 to adjust the output level of the acoustic signal.

  The output level adjustment instruction acquisition unit 240 of the acoustic marker 20 acquires an output level adjustment instruction from the management server 10 through the network 40 (1400).

  The acoustic signal identification ID confirmation unit 250 confirms whether or not the acoustic signal identification ID included in the received instruction is the same as the identification ID being used (1405). If they are different, an error is returned (1450).

  When the acoustic signal identification ID is appropriately designated, the acoustic signal file is designated by the acoustic signal file selection unit 210 except for the case where the acoustic signal file of the identification ID is already selected (1410). Select (1415).

  The audio signal output management unit 220 compares the current output level with the instructed output level (1420), increases (1425) or decreases (1430) the output level, and reproduces the audio signal file ( 1440), output from the speaker unit 230 and notify the management server 10 of the result of processing the instruction (1460).

  FIG. 15 illustrates an internal configuration example of each device 30. The device 30 cooperates with the management server 10 and has a function of acquiring position information (for example, three-dimensional coordinates in an area) based on an acoustic signal acquired from the acoustic marker 20.

  The device 30 is a portable terminal (for example, a smartphone) having a communication function, and in order to acquire position information and the like, an acoustic signal input unit 300, an acoustic signal extraction unit 310, a sound range group detection unit 320, an acoustic signal identification ID An acquisition unit 330, a position information etc. request unit 340, and a position information etc. acquisition unit 350 are included. In addition, an output level adjustment requesting unit 370 may be provided to perform output level adjustment.

  The device 30 is connected to the management server 10 via the network 50 and can communicate with each other.

  FIG. 16 shows an example of a processing flow for the device 30 to acquire position information and the like.

  The acoustic signal input unit 300 of the device 30 inputs an analog acoustic signal emitted from the acoustic marker 20 via free space (1600).

  When an acoustic signal is input (1605), the acoustic signal extraction unit 310 digitally samples the received analog signal using a sampling rate of, for example, 44.1 kHz (1610), and converts it into a digital signal. Subsequently, fast Fourier transform is performed (1615), and frequency components are extracted. The extracted frequency component is replaced with a bit arrangement based on FIG.

  Of the frequency components, the highest 22.0 kHz is used as the first bit of the area ID portion, the second bit is 21.8 kHz, the third bit is 21.6 kHz, and the fourth bit is 21.4 kHz.

  Next, the first bit of the unique ID part of the sound range group A is 21.2 kHz, the second bit is 21.0 kHz, the third bit is 20.8 kHz, and the fourth bit is 20.6 kHz. Subsequently, the first bit of the error correction code part of the same tone range group A is 20.4 kHz, the second bit is 20.2 kHz, the third bit is 20.0 kHz, and the fourth bit is 19.8 kHz.

  In any bit, when the frequency component exists, the value of the bit is set to 1, and when the frequency component does not exist, the value of the bit is set to 0.

  Similarly, the first bit of the unique ID part of the tone range group B is 19.6 kHz, the second bit is 19.4 kHz, the third bit is 19.2 kHz, and the fourth bit is 19.0 kHz. Subsequently, the first bit of the error correction code part of the same tone range group B is set to 18.8 kHz, the second bit is set to 18.6 kHz, the third bit is set to 18.4 kHz, and the fourth bit is set to 18.2 kHz.

  Similarly, the first bit of the unique ID portion of the tone range group C is 18.0 kHz, the second bit is 17.8 kHz, the third bit is 17.6 kHz, and the fourth bit is 17.4 kHz. Subsequently, the first bit of the error correction code part of the same tone group C is set to 17.2 kHz, the second bit is set to 17.0 kHz, the third bit is set to 16.8 kHz, and the fourth bit is set to 16.6 kHz.

  Similarly, the first bit of the unique ID part of the tone range group D is 16.4 kHz, the second bit is 16.2 kHz, the third bit is 16.0 kHz, and the fourth bit is 15.8 kHz. Subsequently, the first bit of the error correction code part of the same tone group D is set to 15.6 kHz, the second bit is set to 15.4 kHz, the third bit is set to 15.2 kHz, and the fourth bit is set to 15.0 kHz.

  By this conversion, a bit arrangement of the sound range groups A to D is generated, and an area ID portion is added as a prefix of the arrangement of A to D, thereby allowing the four types of acoustic signal bit arrangements (area ID portion + unique ID). Part + error correction code part = 12 bits) is completed.

  In this way, since it is possible to obtain information about the bit arrangement of the acoustic signal and the acoustic group of which acoustic range group from the frequency component obtained by the fast Fourier transform, the acoustic range group detection unit 320 of the device 30 A range group is detected (1620).

  The acoustic signal identification ID acquisition unit 330 acquires an acoustic signal identification ID from the detected sound range group and the 12-bit bit arrangement (1625). At this time, an error correction code is calculated from the area ID part and the unique ID part which are part of the obtained 12-bit bit array, and the error correction part which is the remaining part of the obtained 12-bit bit array is calculated. By comparing with the bit arrangement, error detection and error correction are performed for the area ID part and the unique ID part (error correction method will be described later) (1630).

  When it is confirmed that the acoustic signal identification ID has been normally obtained after the error correction (1635), the position information etc. requesting unit 340 of the device 30 makes a request for the position information etc. to the management server 10 through the network 50 (1640). ). The request sent to the management server 10 includes the obtained acoustic signal identification ID (sound range group + area ID + unique ID), and if the device 30 includes the GPS latitude / longitude acquisition unit 360, the latitude / longitude of the device Information may be included.

  The location information etc. acquiring unit 350 of the device 30 acquires location information etc. from the management server 10 through the network 50 as a response to the sent request (1650). The response that the device 30 receives from the management server 10 includes position information and / or incidental information, or a notification that the request cannot be processed. As the position information, since the area ID is obtained in the device 30, at least the three-dimensional coordinate information (X, Y, Z) in the area is sent from the management server 10.

FIG. 17 shows an example of an error correction method. The bit values of the data part from the beginning to the 8th bit of the obtained 12-bit bit array are D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6, D7, D8, and the error correction part up to the 9th to 12th bits When the bit value is H1, H2, H3, H4, and the error detection / correction code for verification is H1 ', H2', H3 ', H4',
H1 '= D1 XOR D2 XOR D3
H2 '= D4 XOR D5 XOR D6
H3 '= D1 XOR D4 XOR D7
H4 '= D2 XOR D5 XOR D8
It becomes.

  For example, if H1 and H3 of the 4 bits (error correction unit) after the obtained 12-bit bit array and the calculated bits H1 ′ and H3 ′ are H1 ≠ H1 ′ and H3 ≠ H3 ′, D1 Is an error, and the error can be corrected by inverting the bit of D1. Similarly, according to FIG. 17, if an error is detected, the bit is inverted.

  In the case of a pattern not shown in FIG. 17, since the error cannot be corrected, it is directly interpreted as an error. In other words, an error is returned assuming that a normal acoustic signal identification ID has not been obtained (1660).

  The bit array (area ID + unique ID) after error correction is converted from binary to decimal. A detected sound range group name (A to D) with a decimal area ID part and a unique ID part added (for example, “A-0-1”, “B-9-14”, etc.) As the signal identification ID, it may be used when requesting location information or the like to the management server 10.

  The device 30 described above acquires position information and / or incidental information by sending a request to the management server 10 based on the acoustic signal identification ID included in the acoustic signal received from the acoustic marker 20. However, regarding the area ID included in the acoustic signal received from the acoustic marker 20, it is possible to identify the area where the device is present in the device 30 without making an inquiry to the management server 10.

  That is, the device 30 makes an inquiry to the management server 10 in order to know the detailed position in the area, but it is possible to know the rough position such as which area it is by simply receiving the acoustic signal. . Therefore, for example, an application in which a different application program is activated in the device 30 based on the area ID detected by the device 30 is also possible.

  In the example of the system described above, the same management server 10 serves as both a server that manages the acoustic marker and a server that causes the device to acquire position information and the like, but may be realized by separate servers. In addition, a server that causes the device to acquire position information and the like is provided for each area, and the device 30 includes an acoustic signal identification ID with respect to the information providing server specified by the area ID in the acoustic signal identification ID. The position information or the like may be requested by sending the range group name and the unique ID part.

  Below, with reference to FIGS. 18-29, the example of arrangement | positioning of an acoustic marker is demonstrated. The acoustic marker is arranged for each cell in the area.

  FIG. 18 shows that when cells are spread two-dimensionally in a single area (for example, a room, etc.) and there are four types (A to D) of sound signal groups that can be used, acoustic markers can be arranged without gaps. Is shown. In order to prevent interference, adjacent cells are arranged not to use the same range. When there are four sound range groups assigned so that frequencies are not overlapped (for example, using four frequencies of 200 Hz from 15.0 kHz to 21.2 kHz and securing four groups for 8 bits), 60 in one area The cell can be identified. In this example, the area is logically divided into 6 × 6 cells. However, in the case where the area is divided into N × M (N and M are arbitrary natural numbers that can be identified), if there are four types, Similarly, it can be arranged without a gap. In this case, when the device is moved while being carried, information corresponding to the position can be continuously acquired.

  19, 20, and 21 are respectively two types (for example, A to C) in the case where there are three types (for example, A to C) of acoustic signal ranges that can be used in an area in which the same cells as in FIG. 18 spread two-dimensionally. In the case of B), in the case of one type (for example, only A), an example of arrangement of acoustic markers that is possible under the restriction that the same range group is not used in adjacent cells is shown. As the number of usable range groups decreases, the number of cells that cannot place acoustic markers (the devices there are unable to receive acoustic signals) increase, and even if you move while carrying the device, it will only change intermittently. Information cannot be obtained.

  22, 23, and 24, when a cell extends one-dimensionally in a single area (for example, a passage or the like), there are four types (A to D) and three types (for example, A) of acoustic signal sound range groups that can be used. C) Two types (for example, A to B) indicate that the acoustic markers can be arranged without gaps, and information can be continuously acquired while the device is moving. In order to prevent interference, adjacent cells are arranged not to use the same range. In this example, the area is logically divided into 1 × 6 cells, but the same applies to the case where the area is divided into 1 × N (N is an arbitrary natural number that can be identified).

  FIG. 25 shows that in the area where the same cells as in FIGS. 22 to 24 extend in one dimension, when the range of the acoustic signal that can be used is one type (for example, only A), the same range group is not used in adjacent cells. The example of the arrangement | positioning of the acoustic marker which can be carried out under the restrictions is shown. Since cells that can receive acoustic signals are skipped, information acquisition is intermittent while the device is moving.

  FIGS. 26, 27, 28, and 29 show that in a location composed of a plurality of areas, the range of acoustic signals that can be used is 4 types (A to D), and 3 types (for example, A to C), In the case of two types (for example, A to B), in the case of one type (for example, only A), an example of arrangement of acoustic markers that is possible under the restriction that the same range group is not used in adjacent cells is shown.

  In the examples of FIGS. 26 to 29, locations where three areas of 2 × 6, 1 × 2, and 2 × 6 are connected are taken up. Since there are adjacent cells in different areas in the connection portion, the cells are arranged so that different sound range groups are used between them.

  By using the acoustic marker system described in detail above, it is possible to acquire, for example, the position information of a smartphone user who is walking indoors or underground as well as outdoors in real time and with high accuracy (minimum of about 1 m). .

  Since a general smartphone is equipped with a microphone and a communication device and does not require connection of an additional device, it can be started by installing an application program without requiring a special external device. On the other hand, an acoustic marker to be installed can be easily obtained because a normal acoustic device can be used, and the landscape is not impaired as in the case of attaching a two-dimensional code.

  In addition, it takes 5 to 10 seconds to estimate the position based on the received WiFi signal strength. In this method, the position can be acquired almost in real time. it can. In addition, since a work such as calibration related to the WiFi reception signal strength in advance is unnecessary, the installation time can be shortened.

  Also, in this system, on the premise that sound signals (sound waves) are emitted and transmitted simultaneously from multiple sound sources, allocation is performed so that sound signals of different sound range groups flow from sound sources in adjacent locations. In spite of the use of sound waves as the transmission medium, the problem of information restoration failure due to interference of frequency components does not occur. Thereby, it is possible to use it for the purpose of providing positional information (coordinates) and the like by arranging sound sources densely.

  The application of the position information acquisition technique using the acoustic marker system described above as an example can be various, but typical examples will be described below.

  By constructing a position estimation base using acoustic markers in the indoor or underground space, navigation during walking in a place where GPS cannot reach, which has been difficult until now, becomes possible.

  As an indoor example, by installing an acoustic marker in the store, you can check the current position in real time while walking without holding the terminal stationary, so we will guide you to the products you are looking for and recommended products when entering the store In-store guidance service can be realized. In addition, when used in a store, it can also be used for entrance / exit management and flow line grasping.

  Furthermore, this service has a feature that even if there is a situation where a plurality of acoustic markers can be heard simultaneously, each can be recognized. For example, it is considered that the acoustic marker is linked to the location of the shelf where the product is placed and used as position information, but it is possible to attach multiple acoustic markers to the entrance, checkout location, toilet, etc. at the same time. Even if an acoustic signal from a marker is acquired, it can be distinguished and recognized. Furthermore, both can be recognized and distinguished when the signal output from the acoustic marker can be acquired simultaneously when placed on the shelf.

  The system for the service includes an acoustic marker, a device, a management server, and a store information management server. The following six points are listed as functions.

  i) Current position provision: When an application is started on a device such as a smartphone (hereinafter referred to as device), an acoustic signal can be acquired, and the current position is inquired to the management server every time an acoustic signal is recognized. Can be grasped. It is not necessary to stop and hold the terminal over the sound source to grasp the acoustic signal, and it can be passively recognized while walking. The current position is always displayed as a dot on the area map on the application acquired from the store information management server through the management server. Since the change of the area can be recognized by the device alone, when the change of the area ID is detected, the server can request and acquire a new area map, and the current location is always drawn on the map of the current area. When a plurality of acoustic signal identification IDs can be recognized simultaneously, coordinates corresponding to each acoustic signal identification ID are acquired, and the intermediate point of all the coordinates is set as the current location.

  ii) Product information search (product position acquisition, route search): Product search becomes possible when an application is activated on the device and the current position is recognized. When the product information (item code) is input, the product position is requested to the store management server through the management server, and the product coordinates are acquired. When the current location and the coordinates of the searched product are acquired, the store information management server calculates the route from the current position to the product shelf, draws it on the entire store map, and displays it on the application. The map where the route is displayed here always displays the entire area until the end of navigation, separately from the area map displaying the current location.

  iii) Provision of product and content information: When the application of the device acquires the current position, it inquires the store information management server via the management server for item (product, content) information associated with the coordinates, and acquires the information. All products and contents associated with the recognized acoustic signal identification ID can be displayed in real time. Moreover, what is displayed can be controlled on the store side, such as for each campaign.

  iv) Walking guidance to the product: Since the current position of the device can always be acquired by ii), the user walks based on the route displayed in ii) while grasping the current location. When the acoustic signal of the acoustic marker installed on the shelf on which the product is placed is recognized, a guidance end message is displayed.

  v) Store entry / exit management: By installing an acoustic marker at the entrance, if the device application is already running, it recognizes the acoustic signal identification ID of the entrance acoustic marker, makes an inquiry to the management server, and enters the store. Recognize stores and exits. At the entrance, acoustic marker output speakers are installed from the center of the entrance to the outside and inside of the store. The acoustic signal identification ID used by each acoustic marker is linked to the entrance by the store information management server.

  An example of a system for performing entrance / exit determination is shown in FIG. When the application of the device is activated at the time of entering the store, first the A acoustic marker signal is recognized, and then the B acoustic marker is recognized. When the application is activated after entering the store, there is no record of entering the store, but acquisition of the current location is started from the activated point. At the time of leaving the store, after the B acoustic marker signal is obtained, the exit is recognized by obtaining the A acoustic marker signal. Details will be described later. Further, when it is not recognized that the store has been closed, processing may be performed so that the store is considered to be closed when an acoustic signal is not detected even after a predetermined time has elapsed.

  Since these store entry / exit information is managed by the store information management server for each customer (hereinafter referred to as a user), the frequency of store visits, the staying time in the store, and in which area the customer stayed for a long time is a separate business. It can be recorded as a log for analysis by an intelligence (BI) system or the like.

  As an application example, it is possible to put out a product searched by the user last time when entering the store, a product checked before visiting the store, or the like.

  vi) Flow line management: User information is managed by the store information management server, and a log is accumulated in the store information management server every time the user acquires the current position. By viewing the log for each user, it is possible to grasp the flow line when the user visits the store. By searching the logs by time, it is possible to obtain detailed information such as which store has many people at any time. The product / content display terminal can display content information at a position associated with the acoustic signal identification ID acquired during walking or product information when the product arrives at the searched product shelf.

  In constructing a system for the above service, radio waves from GPS satellites cannot be acquired indoors or underground spaces, and therefore GPS cannot be used for acquiring current position information. In WiFi, location estimation using BSSID (identification name of wireless LAN base station) is difficult to identify with high accuracy within the same floor, and location estimation using RSSI (wireless LAN received signal strength) is stopped for a certain period of time. Otherwise, it is impossible to estimate the position, so it is impossible to guide while walking. Even in the case of a two-dimensional code, it cannot be used unless it is stopped to recognize it and the device is stopped and the two-dimensional code (marker) is read by the camera. For this reason, in-store guidance services at a detailed level such as merchandise guidance cannot be realized with other technologies that currently exist, and are considered possible only with this technology.

  The acoustic marker in the system for the service is as described above as the acoustic marker in the acoustic marker system. FIG. 31 and FIG. 32 show two installation examples of acoustic markers in the service. The installation of the acoustic marker assumes almost the entire area in the store, and the current position can be confirmed at any location in the store.

  According to the above-described example, the acoustic marker can be used in up to 15 areas (one sales floor in the store) in one store, and when the sound range group is divided into four, a maximum of 60 per one area can be used. Can be spot-installed. In other words, if it is installed in a store with 3 floors and 2 sales floors on each floor, there are 6 areas in total, and there are 60 items such as shelf location information, specific locations, and recommended products in each area. You can use acoustic markers.

  In one area, the acoustic markers of the same sound range group are not adjacent to the sound markers of each sound range group of A, B, C, and D. An example of installing an acoustic marker in one area is shown below. When sound is generated from the wall or shelf toward the passage with the speaker of the acoustic marker, the sound is emitted only in the front passage. If the acoustic signals are of different sound range groups, up to the number of sound range groups (four) can be identified simultaneously. For example, in FIG. 31, three acoustic signals can be heard at a circled number 1 position. In that case, the signals A-0-8, B-0-8, and D-0-8 are recognized at the same time, and the respective coordinates can be acquired.

  As an example of use of an acoustic marker, basically, any acoustic marker is associated with position information. However, it is possible not only for coordinate recognition but also for the purpose of providing content information. That is, even when an acoustic signal for providing content information is acquired during walking, it is not reflected in the current location, and only the content content can be displayed. I think that it is suitable for providing information from a variety of angles to a larger area than a cell, or providing information such as posters. Referring to FIG. 32, when it is desired to provide campaign information around the crossroads, a speaker is placed on the central shelf and an acoustic signal (D-1-1) is emitted at 360 degrees. D-1-1 does not provide location information, only offers campaign information. When the circled number in FIG. 32 is at position 2, the position information of D-1-1 is not used, and the intermediate point between the coordinates of A-1-3 and C-1-2 becomes the current position.

  As an application example, if the adjacent acoustic marker is recorded in the management server in addition to the position information of each acoustic marker, the acoustic signal identification ID that should be recognized next can be predicted. If acquired, it can be determined as an error, and the accuracy of the correction method can be increased.

  In addition to the basic functions described above as the device in the acoustic marker system, the device for the service system is installed with an application for in-store guidance service. The application has a graphical user interface (GUI) capable of searching for product information, walking guidance to the product, grasping the current position, browsing product / content information, and the like.

  As a configuration of the device, in addition to the basic unit described above, the position information acquisition has a position information analysis unit that analyzes the acquired position information, and further includes a product input unit related to product search, a product information request unit, a product position information acquisition unit, Route information request part, route information acquisition part, route display part, current area map selection part, current area map request part, current area map acquisition part, current area map display part, item (product Content) An item information request unit for display and selection, an item information acquisition unit, an item information analysis unit, and an item information display unit.

  Examples of device operation are shown in FIGS.

  FIG. 33 shows a process for acquiring the current position. The part for acquiring the acoustic signal identification ID and the position information is the same as the basic structure. Thereafter, the acquired position information is analyzed to determine whether one position information is recognized or a plurality of position information is recognized. When one piece of position information is acquired, if the position flag is 0, it is recognized as the coordinates of the current position as it is. When the flag is 1, it is recognized that it is not position information, and is not used as coordinates of the current position. When a plurality of pieces of position information are acquired, the value of the intermediate point obtained by adding all the coordinates of the position flag of 0 and dividing by the number of pieces of position information is recognized as the current position. When the current position is recognized, if the product search flag is false, it is changed to true, and the product can be searched on the application.

  FIG. 34 shows a process for displaying the acquired current position on the current area map. After acquiring the coordinates of the current position, if the previous area ID is nil or different from the current area ID, it is assumed that the current area has been reached for the first time, the area ID is sent, and the current area map is requested to the management server. If acquisition of the current area map is successful, the current position is displayed on the current area map.

  FIG. 35 shows a process for displaying item (product, content) information. After acquiring the current position, item information associated with the position information is acquired. Sends the current position coordinates to the management server and requests all item information associated with the coordinates. If the acquired item information count is not 0, an item list is created. In that case, only items of item type 3 (product) and 4 (content) are included in the list.

  FIG. 36 shows a process for managing entrance / exit. When the current position is acquired, item information associated with it is acquired. At that time, if the item type is 1 (outside the entrance) or 2 (inside the entrance), it is considered to be near the entrance, and therefore, the entry or exit is determined. When the first item type is 1, when the item type associated with the next acquired position information is 2, it is determined that the store has been entered. Further, when the first item type is 2, when the item type associated with the next acquired position information is 1, it is determined that the store is closed. When recognizing entry / exit, the store information management server is requested to register a log through the management server (see “entrance status acquisition processing flow of store management server” described later).

  FIG. 37 shows processing for performing product information search (product location acquisition, route search). Knowing the current position enables product search. When product information is input, the store information management server searches for products and acquires location information through the management server. When the product coordinates are acquired, the product coordinates are sent to the store information management server through the management server, and a route search to the product and a drawing on the in-store map are requested. When the in-store map on which the route to the searched product is drawn is acquired, it is displayed on the application.

  FIG. 38 shows a process for performing walking guidance to a product. When a product is searched, the product route and the current location are displayed on the in-store map and the current area map, respectively. While walking, it always acquires an acoustic signal and displays the current location. When the current location matches the coordinates of the searched product, the end of guidance is notified on the device application.

  The management server in the system for the service has a function of acquiring a request and a response to the store information management server in addition to the contents described above as the management server in the acoustic marker system. Specifically, a store information management server request unit, a store information management server response acquisition unit, and a data creation unit for a store information management server response are provided to inquire the store information management server when acquiring store-specific information.

  An example of the configuration of the management server in the system for the service is shown in FIG. In FIG. 39, the configuration of a part that obtains an acoustic signal from a device and provides position information and the like is the same as that of FIG. When receiving a request from a device for service-specific functions such as store entry / exit management, product information search (product location acquisition, route search), product / content information display, walking guidance to the product, and understanding of traffic lines In order to request the store information management server to acquire data, the management server includes a store information request creation unit 190, a store information request unit 192, a store information data acquisition unit 194, a store information data confirmation unit 196, and a store information transmission unit. 198.

  The management server for the service basically has the above-described table structure (FIGS. 5 to 7) as it is, but as shown in FIG. 40, the acoustic marker uses a position in the acoustic marker management table. A flag indicating whether it is a product (0) or a product or other content information (1) is added.

  The processing flow for providing location information and the like performed by the management server for the service is the same as that in FIG. However, since the position flag is added to the acoustic marker management table, when providing position information to the device (1150), the position flag is transmitted in addition to the coordinates and supplementary information.

  When the management server receives a store-specific information acquisition request from the device, the management server plays a role of a relay for making a request to the store management server. The store information request processing flow by this management server is shown in FIG.

  FIG. 42 shows a configuration example of a store information management server installed for the service.

  The store information management server 50 holds and manages information unique to the store. In order to manage the product, an item information registration unit 510 and an item information search unit 520 are provided. In order to manage the position of a shelf or the like, a shelf position information registration unit 530, an entrance / exit information registration unit 540, and a shelf position information search unit 550 are provided. In order to manage store map information, it has a store map information registration unit 560, a store map information search unit 570, and a route search unit. Moreover, in order to manage the information of recommended products, a recommended product registration unit and a recommended information search unit may be provided.

  The store information management server 50 further includes a store information request acquisition unit 500 and a store information response notification unit 580 for communicating with the management server 10. In addition, a user position management unit 590 that manages the flow line of each user is provided.

  The store information management server 50 includes a database for realizing these functions, and includes an item position management table 515 (FIG. 43), an item management table 525 (FIG. 44), an item information management table 535 (FIG. 45), and an item type management table. (FIG. 46), an in-store map information management table 545 (FIG. 47), and a flow line (user position information) management table 555 (FIG. 48).

  FIG. 49 shows an example of a shelf position registration process flow performed by the store information management server. The shelf position information registration unit 530 determines whether the coordinates are correct when a shelf position information registration request is acquired based on the coordinates and the shelf number, and if correct, registers the coordinates and the shelf number in the item position management table 515. Then, the coordinates in the store and the shelf number are linked. As shown in FIG. 43, the item type of the table is registered as 3 which means a product (because a product is displayed there when a shelf number is registered). The meaning of the item type is shown in the item type management table of FIG. If the coordinates are invalid, error processing is performed and a result indicating that registration is not possible is displayed. If the shelf number and doorway information are already registered at the same coordinates, the new item identification and the shelf number are registered after deleting the old item identification and the shelf number. When the registration process is completed, the shelf position information registration result is displayed.

  FIG. 50 shows an example of a map registration processing flow performed by the store information management server. When the map information registration request is acquired based on the area ID and the map data, the store map information registration unit 560 determines whether the area ID is correct, and registers the map data in the map information management table 545 if it is correct. The store area ID is associated with the map data. As shown in FIG. 47, the map data may be a URL for referring to map image data. If the area ID is invalid, error processing is performed and a result indicating that registration is not possible is displayed. If map data is already registered in the same area ID, new map data is registered after deleting old map data. When the registration process is completed, the map information registration result is displayed.

  FIG. 51 shows an example of an item information registration process flow performed by the store information management server. When the item information registration request is acquired based on the shelf number, the item code, and the item information, the item information registration unit 510 determines whether the shelf number is correct. If the shelf number is correct, the item information registration unit 510 returns to the item management table 525 (FIG. 44). An item code is registered, item information is registered in the item information management table 535 (FIG. 45), and a shelf number and an item code (product code, etc.) are associated with each other. If the shelf number is invalid, error processing is performed and a result indicating that registration is not possible is displayed. If the same item code is already registered on the same shelf, the new item code is registered after deleting the old item code. A plurality of item codes can be registered in the same shelf number. If the item code does not exist in the item information management table, an item code and item information are newly registered. When the registration process is completed, the item information registration result is displayed.

  FIG. 52 shows an example of the entrance / exit registration processing flow performed by the store information management server. The entrance / exit information registration unit 540 determines whether the coordinates are correct when acquiring the entrance / exit information registration request based on the coordinates and the entrance / exit type, and if correct, registers the entrance / exit information in the item position management table 515 to store The inside coordinates and the entrance / exit identification information (inside and outside) are linked. As shown in FIG. 43, as the item type of the table, 0 indicating the outside of the doorway or 1 indicating the inside is registered. The meaning of the item type is shown in the item type management table of FIG. If the coordinates are invalid, error processing is performed and a result indicating that registration is not possible is displayed. If shelf number information or doorway information is already registered at the same coordinates, the new item type is registered after deleting the old item type. When the registration process is completed, the entrance / exit information registration result is displayed.

  FIG. 53 shows an example of a store information request processing flow performed by the store information management server. Based on the request from the management server, the store information management server provides the door / door identification result, the product data, and the user's position based on the coordinate information.

  When the store information request acquisition unit 500 acquires the coordinates and user information from the management server 10, the store information request acquisition unit 500 determines whether the coordinates are correct. If the coordinates are correct, the store information request acquisition unit 500 extracts the item type associated with the coordinates from the item position management table 515. To do. If the coordinates are invalid, error processing is performed and a result indicating that the response cannot be made is displayed.

  When the item type is 1, the user location management unit 590 records the fact that the user location information management table 555 has passed outside the entrance / exit (FIG. 48), and requests the store information response notification unit 580 to notify. . When the item type is 2, the user location management unit 590 records the fact that the user location information management table 555 has passed through the inside of the doorway (FIG. 48), and requests the store information response notification unit 580 to notify. .

  When the item type is 3 or 4, the shelf position information extraction unit 550 extracts the shelf number from the item position management table 515 and transmits the shelf number to the item information extraction unit 520. However, the shelf number may not be specified when the item type is 4 (event, campaign). The item information extraction unit 520 extracts an item code from the item management table 525 based on the shelf number, and extracts item information from the item information management table 535. Subsequently, the user position management unit 590 is requested to register the user position. The user location management unit 590 records the fact that the user has passed the place such as the shelf in the user location information management table 555 (FIG. 48), and requests the store information response notification unit 580 to notify.

  The store information response notifying unit 580 notifies the management server 10 about the requested content.

  FIG. 54 shows an example of a store entrance status acquisition process flow performed by the store information management server. The store information management server manages store entry status for each user.

  When the user location management unit 590 acquires a user entry status request from the management server 10, it is determined whether or not user information is managed, and the user is correctly managed in the user location information management table 555. Extracts the store entry status at the time of the request and requests the store information response notification unit 580 for notification. However, the store entry status indicates that the store has recorded the fact that the last recorded for each user information has passed the outside of the entrance / exit, and the store entry status indicates that the store has passed the inside of the entrance / exit. It is determined that the store is currently being entered. If the user information is invalid, an error process is performed and a result indicating that the reply cannot be displayed. The store information response notifying unit 580 notifies the management server 10 about the requested content.

  FIG. 55 shows an example of an item information acquisition processing flow performed by the store information management server. The store management server manages item codes (product codes, etc.) and item information (product information, etc.).

  When the item information extraction unit 520 acquires an item code from the management server 10 and acquires an item information request, it determines whether the item code is correct. If it is correct, the item information is extracted from the item information management table 535. At the same time, a shelf number is extracted from the item management table 525 based on the item code, and a notification is requested to the store information response notification unit 580. If the item code is invalid, error processing is performed and a result indicating that it cannot be answered is displayed. The store information response notifying unit 580 notifies the management server 10 about the requested content.

  As described above, the pedestrian navigation service has been described using a store as an example, but in addition, for example, in a subway platform, the user is notified of which direction is closest to the destination. It can be used for such purposes as guiding a car parked in an underground parking lot.

  In addition, the position information acquisition technique using the above-described acoustic marker system can also be applied to uses such as augmented reality technology for providing supplementary information on exhibits such as museums, art galleries, and aquariums. It is possible to achieve systemization in an indoor environment that has been difficult to realize with the prior art.

  Like the store information management server described above, when information on the flow lines of each user in pedestrian navigation and augmented reality is collected, this information can be used as information for the service provider to improve the service. In addition, it is possible to use the system in such a manner that the manager grasps the current position regarding the security of the facility and the arrangement of the staff of the railway operator.

  If store management is performed like the store information management server described above, location information can be used to determine whether or not a store has been entered reliably for use as a point program for a retail store or for issuing coupons. I can grasp it. In the prior art, since position estimation is often performed by GPS or WiFi, it was possible for a user to check in without actually entering the store, but in this technique, a high-frequency audio signal is used. Therefore, it is easy to limit the area, and it is possible to restrict the check-in without entering the store. In addition, since the location can be acquired in real time, the store entry can be confirmed at the moment of passing through the entrance.

  By providing information on posters and other postings using this technology, there is no restriction that only one person can simultaneously acquire a two-dimensional code, as in the case of conventional two-dimensional code scanning. Can be acquired.

  Pedestrians holding devices that use this technology can acquire acoustic signals while walking, so for example, it is possible to identify booths that have passed in exhibitions, etc., and to automatically acquire materials it can. In addition, information such as advertisements distributed on the road and discount coupons can be obtained in the same manner.

  It is also possible to provide product introduction and purchase support in conjunction with pre-distributed applications by transmitting acoustic signals using this technology in television broadcasting and radio broadcasting. Since the acoustic signal can be changed from moment to moment, information such as the costumes and music of the performers can be provided.

The embodiment of the present invention has been described above, but it is needless to say that the above-described embodiment can be variously modified and applied by those skilled in the art within the scope of the present invention.

Claims (20)

A system for providing information to at least one portable device having a function of receiving an acoustic signal using an upper limit range of an audible frequency,
A plurality of acoustic signal output devices that have a function of outputting an acoustic signal using an upper limit range of an audible frequency, and are installed apart from each other so that each acoustic signal reaches a different range;
Including at least one management server connected to the plurality of acoustic signal output devices via a network, and for each of the acoustic signal output devices, the acoustic signal output device specifies data to be transmitted by the acoustic signal;
Each of the acoustic signal output devices selects and selects one or a plurality of frequencies corresponding to the data designated by the management server from a predetermined number of frequencies included in the frequency range using the upper limit range of the audible frequency. Means for outputting a sine wave of a specified frequency as an acoustic signal,
The portable device detects a frequency of an acoustic signal received from a part of the plurality of acoustic signal output devices, and obtains the information based on data represented by the detected one or a plurality of frequencies. An information provision system characterized by being a thing.   The information is provided according to claim 1, wherein the data is represented by a predetermined number of bits, and the value of each bit is represented by the presence or absence of an output of each sine wave of the predetermined number of frequencies. system. The frequency range using the upper limit range of the audible frequency is divided into a plurality of sub-frequency ranges,
Each of the acoustic signal output devices is configured to select a frequency corresponding to data designated by the management server from frequencies included in one of the plurality of sub-frequency ranges,
The management server instructs each of the acoustic signal output devices so that two or more acoustic signal output devices having overlapping acoustic signal ranges perform the selection of the frequency within different sub-frequency ranges. The information providing system according to claim 1, wherein the information providing system is provided.   4. The data is represented by a combination of which one of frequencies included in one sub-frequency region is selected and which sub-frequency region is used. Information providing system described in 1.   5. The information provision according to claim 3, wherein the management server includes means for controlling so that the number of acoustic signal output devices in which the ranges in which the acoustic signals reach overlap does not exceed the number of the sub-frequency regions. system.   The said management server is provided with the means to designate the output level of an acoustic signal with respect to each said acoustic signal output device based on the report from the monitoring apparatus which receives an acoustic signal. The information providing system according to any one of the above. The data is capable of identifying the information,
The portable device is connected to the management server via a network, requests the management server to transmit the information identified using the data, and receives the information transmitted in response to the request The information providing system according to claim 1, wherein the information is obtained by doing so. The management server is
Means for specifying the data to be transmitted by the acoustic signal by each of the acoustic signal output devices so as to change with the passage of time, and means for storing the effective period of each data;
Means for rejecting transmission of the information identified using the data when the time indicated by the request received from the portable device is not within the valid period for the data related to the request. The information providing system according to claim 7. The management server is
Means for storing data to be transmitted by each of the acoustic signal output devices by an acoustic signal, and information relating to an installation position of each acoustic signal output device;
When it is determined that the position of the portable device indicated by the request received from the portable device is not within the range in which the acoustic signal reaches from the installation position of the acoustic signal output device that transmitted the data related to the request The information providing system according to claim 7, further comprising: a unit that rejects transmission of the information identified using the data. The data transmitted by each acoustic signal output device by an acoustic signal includes data determined by the location where the acoustic signal output device is installed,
The information providing system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the portable device obtains the information by extracting information on the location from the data. Among some of the plurality of acoustic signal output devices, in some areas, another part is installed in another area,
The frequency range using the upper limit range of the audible frequency is divided into a plurality of individual sub frequency ranges and one common sub frequency range,
Each of the acoustic signal output devices selects a frequency corresponding to the data for identifying the area from frequencies included in the common sub-frequency range, and selects a frequency corresponding to the data specified by the other management server. , Selecting from frequencies included in one of the plurality of individual sub-frequency regions,
The management server instructs each of the acoustic signal output devices to select the frequencies within two different sub-frequency ranges for two or more acoustic signal output devices installed in the same area. The information providing system according to claim 10, wherein the information providing system is one. The data transmitted by each acoustic signal output device by an acoustic signal includes data for error correction of data to be transmitted,
The portable device performs error correction processing on data represented by one or more frequencies detected from a received acoustic signal to obtain the information. 11. The information providing system according to any one of 11 above. The frequency range using the upper limit range of the audible frequency is divided into a plurality of sub-frequency ranges,
Each of the acoustic signal output devices selects a frequency corresponding to the data to be transmitted and a frequency corresponding to the error correction data from frequencies included in the same one of the plurality of sub-frequency regions. Is what
The management server instructs each of the acoustic signal output devices so that two or more acoustic signal output devices having overlapping acoustic signal ranges perform the selection of the frequency within different sub-frequency ranges. The information providing system according to claim 12, wherein the information providing system is provided. The management server is communicable with an information server storing information about items arranged in the vicinity of each of the acoustic signal output devices;
Receives an acoustic signal from an acoustic signal output device in the vicinity of the item placement location, and provides information related to the item to the portable device that has transmitted the data transmitted by the acoustic signal to the management server The information providing system according to claim 1, wherein the information providing system is one. The management server can communicate with an information server that collects information indicating which acoustic signal output device the user of the portable device has moved through,
Receiving an acoustic signal from an acoustic signal output device in the vicinity of the place where the user has passed, and regarding the portable device that has transmitted the data transmitted by the acoustic signal to the management server, the user and the position The information providing system according to claim 1, wherein the information is notified to the information server. Sound having a function of outputting an acoustic signal using the upper limit range of the audible frequency in order to constitute a system for providing information to at least one portable device having a function of receiving an acoustic signal using the upper limit range of the audible frequency A signal output device,
Other acoustic signal output devices constituting the system are installed apart from each other so that each acoustic signal reaches a different range,
Means for communicating with at least one management server for designating data to be transmitted by an acoustic signal for each acoustic signal output device constituting the system;
One or more frequencies corresponding to the data designated by the management server are selected from a predetermined number of frequencies included in the frequency range using the upper limit range of the audible frequency, and the sine wave of the selected frequency is an acoustic signal. And means for outputting as
An acoustic signal output device that makes it possible to obtain the information based on data represented by one or more frequencies of an acoustic signal received by the portable device. A program installed on a computer to operate the computer as a management server in a system for providing information to at least one portable device having a function of receiving an acoustic signal using an upper limit range of an audible frequency,
Command code for communicating with a plurality of acoustic signal output devices that have a function of outputting an acoustic signal using the upper limit range of the audible frequency and are installed apart from each other so that each acoustic signal reaches a different range When,
For each acoustic signal output device, the acoustic signal output device includes a command code for designating data to be transmitted by the acoustic signal,
Each acoustic signal output device selects one or a plurality of frequencies corresponding to the data designated by the management server from a predetermined number of frequencies included in a frequency range using the upper limit range of the audible frequency, and selects It is possible to output a sine wave of a specified frequency as an acoustic signal,
The portable device detects a frequency of an acoustic signal received from a part of the plurality of acoustic signal output devices, and obtains the information based on data represented by the detected one or a plurality of frequencies. A computer program characterized by making it possible. A program that is installed in a mobile device and causes the mobile device to acquire information provided from a system,
The system has a function of outputting an acoustic signal using an upper limit range of an audible frequency, and a plurality of acoustic signal output devices installed apart from each other so that each acoustic signal reaches a different range; For each of the acoustic signal output devices, at least one management server for designating data to be transmitted by the acoustic signal output device according to the acoustic signal,
Each of the acoustic signal output devices selects and selects one or a plurality of frequencies corresponding to the data designated by the management server from a predetermined number of frequencies included in the frequency range using the upper limit range of the audible frequency. Means for outputting a sine wave of a specified frequency as an acoustic signal,
The program installed in the portable device is stored in the portable device.
Receive an acoustic signal that uses the upper limit of the audible frequency,
Detecting a frequency of an acoustic signal received from a part of the plurality of acoustic signal output devices;
A program for a mobile device, characterized in that the information is obtained based on data represented by one or a plurality of detected frequencies. A method of transmitting data to at least one portable device having a function of receiving an acoustic signal using an upper limit range of an audible frequency,
A plurality of acoustic signal output devices having a function of outputting an acoustic signal using the upper limit range of the audible frequency are installed apart from each other so that each acoustic signal reaches different ranges,
Each acoustic signal output device is connected to at least one management server for designating data to be transmitted by the acoustic signal output device using an acoustic signal,
Each of the acoustic signal output devices is made to select one or a plurality of frequencies corresponding to data designated by the management server from a predetermined number of frequencies included in a frequency range using an upper limit range of the audible frequency, Output a sine wave of frequency as an acoustic signal,
A data transmission method comprising causing a portable device that has received an acoustic signal from a part of the plurality of acoustic signal output devices to detect data represented by one or more frequencies included in the acoustic signal. A method for causing at least one portable device having a function of receiving an acoustic signal using an upper limit range of an audible frequency to acquire information,
A plurality of acoustic signal output devices having a function of outputting an acoustic signal using the upper limit range of the audible frequency are installed apart from each other so that each acoustic signal reaches different ranges,
The portable device is connectable, and at least one management server that holds information identified by data transmitted by each acoustic signal output device by an acoustic signal is operating,
Each of the acoustic signal output devices is made to select one or a plurality of frequencies corresponding to data to be transmitted from a predetermined number of frequencies included in a frequency range using an upper limit range of the audible frequency, and a sine wave of the frequency Is output as an acoustic signal,
A portable device that has received an acoustic signal from a part of the plurality of acoustic signal output devices is caused to detect data represented by one or a plurality of frequencies included in the acoustic signal, and is identified using the data. An information acquisition method comprising: causing the management server to request to transmit the information, and receiving the information transmitted in response to the request.