JP2005293193A - Agent device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provided an agent device for performing an action helpful for a user without generating any operational trouble by selecting a piece of music to be suitably provided to a user without generating any operational trouble from among a plurality of pieces of music stored in a large capacity storage device such as an HDD, or selecting television programs or radio programs or destination places or the like. <P>SOLUTION: A personified agent is set with profile information, and this agent device is provided with a processing means for performing processing specialized in the agent on the basis of the profile information set in the agent. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

The present invention relates to an agent device, and more particularly, an action useful to the user, such as selection of content suitable for provision to the user from selection target contents (for example, music, TV program, radio program, place). It is related with the agent apparatus which can perform.

It is preferable that the music listened to in the passenger compartment should be something that the driver or passenger wants to listen to or like for the driver to drive comfortably or to make the driving fun. Therefore, audio devices that provide music that matches the preferences of the driver and the mood at that time have been proposed (for example, see Patent Documents 1 and 2 below). Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-228688 analyzes audio preference based on past listening results, selects music that matches the driver's preference based on the analysis result, and provides the selected music to the driver An apparatus is disclosed.

However, it is not easy to analyze the preferences with high accuracy, and there is a possibility that there are many cases where the driver wants to listen to music that is not correctly selected. In addition, when selecting music that matches the driver's preference, it is highly likely that the same music is selected every time, and there is a high possibility that only music that is tired of listening will be provided.

Also, the music you want to listen to may change depending on your mood, and you may not want to listen to the song you wanted to hear today, or vice versa. I might want to listen to the song I had tomorrow. Therefore, it may be preferable that the music to be listened to is selected according to the mood of the user (for example, a driver).

However, if the user has to select all the songs, the operation becomes troublesome. In particular, mass storage devices such as HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) have recently become widespread, and data relating to a large number of songs (for example, 1000 songs) can be stored. It is not easy to select a desired piece of music. Therefore, it is important to reduce the user's operation.

For example, recently, as shown in FIG. 8, the data of the music itself recorded on CD2-1 to CD2-n (hereinafter referred to as music data) and TOC (Table Of Conte) are stored in HDD1.
nts) information (for example, the number of songs and the total performance time), and further information related to the CD (for example, the title name, the number of recorded songs, the total performance time of the recorded songs, the name of the singer,
The song name and performance time of each song are stored.

The music data and TOC information may be read from CD2-1 to CD2-n and stored in the HDD 1. Since there is a service institution 3 that provides information on the CD, the service institution 3 The provided information may be acquired and stored in the HDD 1. It can be determined from the number of recorded songs and the total performance time whether the information on the CD provided by the service organization 3 corresponds to which song data is stored in the HDD 1. The first information stored on the CD whose title name is “Large Invention” (16 songs, total performance time 51 minutes 12 seconds) is the second stored song data (CD2). 2 can be determined to correspond to the music data recorded in -2.
JP 2002-114107 A JP 2001-282847 A

Means for solving the problems and their effects

The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and selects music suitable for providing to a user without troublesome operation from among a large number of music stored in a mass storage device such as an HDD. In addition, the present invention aims to provide an agent device that can perform a useful action for the user without troublesome operations such as selecting a TV program, a radio program, a destination location, and the like.

In order to achieve the above object, the agent device (1) according to the present invention has profile information set in an anthropomorphic agent, and processing specialized for the agent based on the profile information set in the agent. It is characterized by comprising processing means for performing the above.

As described in the “Background Technology” item, the user's preference is set to profile information (for example,
Based on the past listening results), a technique of selecting music that matches the preference (that is, content such as music suitable for providing to the user based on the user's profile information) The technique of selecting is conventional.
However, in the content selection based on the user's profile information, the selected content is biased, for example, there is a possibility that only the music that the user is tired of is selected.

According to the agent device (1), processing specialized for the agent (for example, selection of contents such as music, broadcast program, place, etc.) is performed based on the profile information set for the agent. Thus, without bothering the user too much,
It becomes possible to select contents such as music.

In addition, since this process is performed based on the profile information set in the agent, not the profile information of the user, content that is not selected by the user's intention (for example, less commonly heard) It is conceivable that music) is selected.
Thereby, the range of interest of the user can be expanded.

In addition, when a plurality of the agents used for selection of music are prepared, the user does not select the music itself, but selects a favorite agent from among the plurality of set agents, You can also let the agent select a song.

In addition, the agent device (2) according to the present invention provides information on the virtual date of birth, blood type, sex, and property of the agent in the profile information set in the agent in the agent device (1). One of the above is included.

According to the agent device (2), the profile information set for the agent includes the virtual date of birth, blood type, sex, and property (for example,
This includes information on Enka lovers, Hiroshi Itsuki's fans). That is, it can be made the same as the profile information of the user, and a program for selecting content based on the profile information of the user can be used as it is. Therefore, it can be realized at a low cost.

In addition, if the profile information of the user is the same, it is possible to automatically select an agent that is common or similar to the user in some way without bothering the user. Become. For example, an agent having the same birthday as the user, an agent of the same age, or an agent having the same or similar preference can be selected.

Further, the agent device (3) according to the present invention includes the agent device (1) or (2
), The profile information set for the agent includes information related to the output form of the agent.

According to the agent device (3), the profile information set for the agent includes information relating to the output form (for example, appearance and way of speaking) of the agent. For example, as appearance, information about shape and clothes, as a way of speaking, dialect (for example,
Standard language, Kansai dialect), politeness, etc. are included. Thereby, not only content selection but also the output form of the agent can be provided with personality, and the user can be entertained.

The agent device (4) according to the present invention includes the agent devices (1) to (3).
In any of the above, the profile information set in the agent includes information indicating a function that can be performed by the agent as an operation subject and / or a function that cannot be performed by the agent.

According to the agent device (4), the profile information set for the agent includes information indicating a function that can be performed by the agent and / or a function that cannot be performed by the agent. For example, the function that can be performed with Agent A as the subject of action includes the selection, playback, recording, and deletion of music, and the function that can be performed with Agent B as the subject of action.
In the case where the selection and playback of music are included (not including recording and deletion), if the agent A is selected as the operating subject by the user, the music recording and deletion processes are performed. If the agent B is selected as the operation subject by the user, the music recording process and deletion process are not performed. In other words, a user who is only allowed to select Agent B cannot issue a command for recording or deleting music.

Therefore, by differentiating the functions that can be performed as the subject of action for each agent,
Agents with emphasized personality can be realized. Further, the security of the user can be improved by differentiating the selection of the agent for the user, for example, by preventing the child from selecting the agent that can delete the music.

The agent device (5) according to the present invention includes the agent devices (1) to (4).
In any of the above, the profile information set in the agent includes changeable information.

According to the agent device (5), the profile information set in the agent includes information that can be changed, so that the properties of the agent can be brought close to the user's preference, or the agent can be operated. You can add or delete functions that can be performed as

For example, even if the music prepared in advance for a certain agent A has a strong musical preference (five musical preference level 5 in five steps), if the user has a quiet musical preference, the intense musical preference level of agent A is set. It is possible to change to level 4, to change the agent's clothes from plain to flashy, and to make the agent's face aged according to the number of years elapsed. In other words, because the agent can grow,
Entertainment can be improved.

In the agent device (6) according to the present invention, in the agent device (5), an association is formed between pieces of information included in the profile information set in the agent, and based on a change of certain information. In addition, the information processing apparatus includes a first profile information changing unit that changes another information that is related to or highly related to the information.

According to the agent device (6), based on a change in certain information, another information that is related to or highly related to the information is changed. For example, even if the property prepared in advance for a certain agent B is not lock preference (lock preference level 1 in 5 steps),
If that level goes up, you can raise the flashy level of clothes to that up,
Conversely, the polite level of speaking is reduced. As a result, it is possible to prevent the agent from feeling uncomfortable.

Further, the agent device (7) according to the present invention includes the agent device (5) or (6
), Second profile information changing means for changing the profile information set in the agent based on the usage frequency of using the agent as an operation subject is provided.

According to the agent device (7), the profile information set in the agent is changed based on the usage frequency of using the agent as an operation subject, so that the change is differentiated. For example, it is not changed after 10 uses, and the change method can be different between 20 uses and 50 uses. Thereby, the growth of the agent can be made familiar to the user.

The agent device (8) according to the present invention includes the agent devices (5) to (7).
The third profile information change for changing the profile information by combining all or part of the profile information set for another different agent with the profile information set for the agent It is characterized by having means.

According to the agent device (8), it is possible to synthesize all or part of the profile information set for another different agent with the profile information set for the agent. New agents can be created instantly without waiting for growth. Also, for example, the driver's favorite agent,
This is a very effective function when it differs from the passenger's favorite agent.

Further, the agent device (9) according to the present invention is based on the pre-combination state storage means for storing information on the state before composition and the information stored in the pre-combination storage means in the agent device (8). And fourth profile information changing means for returning the profile information to the state before synthesis.

According to the agent device (9), the profile information can be returned to the state before the composition. Therefore, when the agent newly created by the composition is not desired, it can be immediately restored. .

The agent device (10) according to the present invention includes the agent devices (5) to (9).
), The profile information set in the agent is changed so that the agent reflects the personality of the user based on the user's intention information obtained from the input means. 5 profile information changing means.

According to the agent device (10), the profile information set in the agent is changed so that the agent reflects the personality of the user. For example, even if the property prepared in advance for an agent A is enka preference (enka preference level 1 in 5 steps), if engraving is frequently selected by the user, agent A's enka preference Increase the level. Accordingly, it is possible to increase the possibility that a content that matches the user's preference is selected in the selection of content based on the profile information of the agent.

The agent device (11) according to the present invention includes the agent devices (1) to (1).
0), profile information storage means for storing information obtained from a user's action and / or information obtained from an action performed based on the profile information of the agent as the profile information of the agent. It is characterized by having.

According to the agent device (11), information obtained from the user's action (for example, the contents of the listened music, the contents of the viewed TV program) and / or the action performed based on the profile information of the agent (For example, the content selection results) obtained from the above is stored as the profile information of the agent.
By accumulating information obtained from the user's actions as profile information,
It becomes easy to select contents suitable for the user's preference. Further, by accumulating past results, it is possible to prevent the same selection result from being repeated.

In the agent device (12) according to the present invention, in the agent device (11), the profile information storage means stores information as profile information of the agent selected as an operation subject. It is characterized by.

According to the agent device (12), information is stored as profile information of the agent selected as the operating subject. That is, even if a plurality of agents are prepared, the profile information of all these agents is not updated, but only the profile information of the agent selected as the operating subject is updated.

For example, in the case where an agent A that is the main subject of the navigation function and an agent B that is the main subject of the audio function are prepared, the profile information of the agent A is updated for information related to the navigation function, Agent B
The profile information is not updated. Thereby, the profile information can be appropriately updated.

The agent device (13) according to the present invention includes the agent devices (1) to (1).
In any one of 2), the processing means selects content to be provided to the user from selection target content.

According to the agent device (13), based on the profile information set in the agent (for example, “I like Ayumi Hamasaki's singing song)”, the content to be selected (for example, a song stored in the HDD) Content provided to the user from among ()
For example, the song sung by Ayumi Hamasaki) is selected.

Accordingly, it is possible to select contents such as music without much trouble for the user. In addition, since the selection of content is performed based on the profile information of the agent, not the profile information of the user, it is possible that music that is rarely heard is selected. Thereby, it is possible to reduce the possibility that only songs that are tired of being selected are selected.

In addition, the agent device (14) according to the present invention is the above-described agent device (13), wherein the processing means plays a piece of music to be played as content provided to the user,
It is characterized in that it selects either a broadcast program for receiving or a place for a destination.

According to the agent device (14), as contents to be provided to the user, music to be played, broadcast programs to be received (for example, TV programs, radio programs), and locations for destinations Either one is selected. This makes it possible to select music from a large number of music stored in a large-capacity storage medium such as a HDD, select a channel from a number of receivable channels, and make it clear without bothering the user. The destination is selected at the time of driving without a special purpose.

In addition, the agent device (15) according to the present invention is the agent device (13) or (14) in which selection conditions for selecting content are set based on profile information set in the agent. Including a condition setting unit, wherein the processing unit selects content satisfying the selection condition from the selection target content based on the selection condition set by the selection condition setting unit. .

According to the agent device (15), the selection condition (for example, “Ayumi Hamasaki” is set based on the profile information of the agent (for example, “Ayumi Hamasaki fan”, “I like good songs”). Content that is provided to the user from among the content to be selected (for example, music stored in the HDD) (for example, Ayumi Hamasaki) ) Is selected.
If the content is simply selected from the profile information, the load of the selection process may become too large. However, the selection target can be narrowed down by setting the selection condition, so the load of the selection process can be reduced. .

The agent device (16) according to the present invention includes the agent devices (1) to (1).
5), a plurality of the agents are set, and a first environment setting unit is provided for setting an environment in which a user can select an agent as an operation subject from the plurality of agents. When the user selects the agent in the environment set by the environment setting unit, the processing unit performs processing specialized for the agent based on the selected profile information of the agent. It is characterized by that.

According to the agent device (16), the user can freely select an agent as an operation subject. Accordingly, it is possible to receive provision of contents selected by the agent preferred by the user. Therefore, satisfaction of the user can be increased.

The agent device (17) according to the present invention includes the agent devices (1) to (1).
In any one of 6), the agent is set for each function to be an operation subject.

According to the agent device (17), the agent is set for each function to be an operation subject. For example, an agent that is the main subject of the navigation function,
An agent that is the main subject of the audio function is provided. Therefore, an agent suitable for each function can be prepared.

In the agent device (18) according to the present invention, the agent device (17) has a second environment in which a plurality of agents having different functions to be an operation subject are set and a user can select a function. An operation to set an agent to be an operation subject of the function as an operation subject when a function is selected by the user in the environment set by the environment setting means and the second environment setting means And a main body setting means.

According to the agent device (18), when a function is selected by the user (for example, when a navigation function such as destination setting is selected), an agent that is to be the subject of the function is: Set to the action subject. For example, when a CD is being played (that is, when an agent that is to be the subject of the audio function is the subject of action), when the user has instructed “set destination”, the subject of action Is switched to the agent who should be the main subject of the navigation function.
Thereby, even if the user does not select the agent one by one, the user switches to an agent suitable for the function only by performing an operation for switching the function, so that the operation can be simplified.

Embodiments of an agent device according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing a main part of an audio device having a navigation function, which is configured to include an agent device according to the embodiment (1). In the figure, reference numeral 11 denotes an audio device which is mounted on the vehicle M.

The audio device 11 includes a microcomputer 12 including an audio control unit 13 and a navigation control unit 14 which are main control units, a broadcast wave receiver 16 for receiving TV broadcast waves and radio broadcast waves from an antenna 15, and a map. A DVD drive 18 for reading map data or the like from a DVD-ROM 17 storing data, a remote control 19 having a button switch 19a, a display device 20 having a button switch 20a and a display panel 20b, A microphone 21 that converts the signal into a signal, a voice recognition unit 22 that processes the electrical signal converted by the microphone 21 and recognizes a voice, and a voice synthesizer that processes character data from the microcomputer 12 to generate synthesized voice data Unit 23 and amplifier 2 for amplifying the synthesized speech data generated by speech synthesis unit 23 When it is configured to include a speaker 25 for outputting as a voice the amplified synthesized voice data. Note that voice data such as music data, which is not character data, is output from the speaker 25 without going through the voice synthesizer 23. Further, the DVD drive 18 can also reproduce a CD.

In addition, a plurality of infrared LEDs (not shown) and a plurality of phototransistors (not shown) are arranged opposite to each other on the top, bottom, left, and right of the display panel 20b to detect a position where a finger touches the display panel 20b. The microcomputer 12 can obtain the detected result.

A mobile communication device 26 such as a mobile phone connected to the microcomputer 12 is used for receiving information from a server (not shown). The microcomputer 12 receives information from the server via the mobile communication device 26. Information (for example, information related to music or information indicating the contents of a broadcast program) can be acquired.

The GPS receiver 27 connected to the microcomputer 12 receives a GPS signal from the satellite via the antenna 28, and the microcomputer 12 can determine the current position of the vehicle M based on the GPS signal. It is like that. The microcomputer 12 includes a vehicle speed sensor 29 for detecting data related to the speed of the vehicle M, a gyro sensor 30 for acquiring data related to the traveling direction of the vehicle M, and a magnetic disk (not shown). Data can be read and written, and is connected to an HDD 31 in which various data such as profile data, music data, and data related to music information are stored. Here, the DVD-ROM 17 in which the map data is stored is adopted. However, in another embodiment, the DVD-RO is used.
Instead of M17, another storage medium or storage device may be employed, for example, an HDD in which map data is stored may be employed.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a part of data stored in the HDD 31. In the HDD 31, data (profile) relating to profile information input by the user himself such as the user's name, date of birth, blood type, and sex. Data D1) and information (for example, genre information of the broadcast program, performer information on the broadcast program, music information that flowed in the broadcast program) indicating the contents of the broadcast program viewed or listened to by the user, , Data about the music viewed by the user, location information visited by the user, etc., data related to the user's viewing history (profile data as history data D2), and characteristics specific to the user determined from the data related to the history Data related to information (for example, user preference) (learning data D
3), further, Japanese knowledge data D4, data of the music itself (music data D5), and music information data (music information data D6).
), Video data D7, character data D8 such as agent image data, dialogue scenario data D9, content data D10, speech recognition dictionary data D11, speech synthesis dictionary data D12, and a storage medium such as a memory card Data (various media data D13), agent profile data D14 (data prepared in advance, history data, learning data), and other saved data D15 are stored.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a part of music data stored in the HDD 31 and data related to the music information. The music data recorded in the HDD 31 on CD2-1 to CD2-n (see FIG. 18). And TOC information (for example, the number of songs recorded on the CD and the total performance time) are stored, and further information on the CD (for example, the title name, the number of recorded songs, the total number of recorded songs) Data relating to performance time, singer name, date of release, song name, performance time, genre, image of each recorded song is stored. Regarding the image, the intensity and speed of the music are expressed in five levels (level 1 to level 5). For example, the intensity of the music “patent a” is level 2 (gentle), and the speed is level 4
Since it is (fast), the song “patent a” has a sense of speed, but is a somewhat calm song.

The music data and the data related to the TOC information may be read from the CD2-1 to CD2-n and stored in the HDD 31. The information related to the CD (that is, the music information) is obtained from an organization that provides the information. What is necessary is just to acquire using the mobile communication device 26 and store it in the HDD 31. The information about the CD provided by the organization is H
Which music data is stored in the DD 31 can be determined from the number of recorded music and the total performance time. For example, the title name stored first is “ The information related to the CD (16 songs, total performance time 51 minutes 12 seconds) corresponding to the “large invention” corresponds to the music data stored second (music data recorded on CD2-2). Can be determined.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a part of the user profile data stored in the HDD 31. The user name, date of birth, blood type, gender, music preference information, TV / radio broadcast program preference information. , Visit place preference information, favorite artists, favorite songs, favorite TV / radio programs, favorite visit places. There are five levels of music preference information (severity of music, speed, rock, pop, jazz, classic, enka, etc.) (Level 1
~ Level 5).

For example, if the intensity of a song is level 4, it can be determined that the user likes the intense song relatively, and if the lock is level 4 and the enka is level 1, the user is more locked than the enka. It can be judged that he likes to listen. In addition, preference information for TV / radio broadcast programs includes news, sports, songs, variety, documents, etc. in five stages, and preference information for visited places includes parks, sports, temples / shrines, theme parks, movie theaters, etc. Expressed in stages.

FIG. 5-A and FIG. 5-B are diagrams showing a part of profile data of each agent (agents EA to ED in order from the top) stored in the HDD 31, and the name, date of birth are similar to the user. , Blood type, gender, music preference information, TV / radio broadcast program preference information,
Visit location preference information, favorite artist, favorite song, favorite TV / radio program, information about favorite visit location, and information indicating functions that can be performed as an operation subject (for example, navigation function, audio function, Air conditioner function), information on output form (
For example, dialect, politeness of speaking, flashy clothes, accessories, etc.) are stored.

What can be performed as an operation subject means that, when selected by the user, it is possible to assist the user in the operation of the function, and information indicating the function that can be performed as the operation subject is “1”, It is represented by “0”. Further, dialects of information relating to output forms are represented by “0”, “1”, “2”,..., “0” indicates a standard word, and “1” indicates Osaka dialect. The politeness of the information about the output form and the flashiness such as clothes are expressed in five levels (level 1 to level 5), and the accessories are expressed by “1” and “0”.

For example, the agent EA can support the operation of the navigation function or the like for the user, but cannot support the operation of the audio function or the like. Further, the agent EA speaks relatively carefully in the standard language. Also, clothes are not very flashy, and accessories that can be added are not added.

A processing operation [1-1] performed by the microcomputer 12 (audio control unit 13) in the audio apparatus 11 including the agent apparatus according to the embodiment (1) will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG. To do. This processing operation [1-1] is an operation performed when the power of the audio apparatus is turned on. First, as an initial setting, the dialogue scenario data D9 is read from the HDD 31 and stored in a memory (not shown) in the microcomputer 12 (step S1).

Next, the menu screen is displayed on the display panel 20b by outputting to the display device 20 the menu screen data constituting the menu screen (see FIG. 7) from which a plurality of agents can be selected (see FIG. 7). Step S2). The anthropomorphic image data of the agents EA to ED constituting the menu screen data is read from the character data D8, and the names of the agents EA to ED are read from the agent profile data D14. When the navigation function is included in the functions that can be performed as the operation subject, the vehicle mark ma is displayed near the agent image. When the audio function is included, the note mark mb is displayed near the agent image. It is displayed.

Next, predetermined guidance text data is created based on the dialogue scenario data D9, and the created guidance text data is output to the voice synthesizer 23, so that the guidance text is output by voice from the speaker 25 (step S3). . For example, a guidance sentence such as “We will assist you in the operation. Please select an agent?” Is output from the speaker 25. At this time, it is desirable to move the mouths of the agents EA to ED so that the agents EA to ED are guiding.

Thereafter, based on the information obtained from the microphone 21, it is determined whether or not there is a response for selecting an agent from the user (step S4). Depending on the selection, variable V is set to “1” to “4”.
(Step S5). Numbers “1” to “4” are agent E
A to ED, and when the agent EA is selected by the user (for example,
When there is an utterance of “hiroshi”), the variable V is set to “1”.

Next, a screen on which only the agent corresponding to the variable V (that is, the agent selected by the user) is displayed is displayed on the display panel 20b, and predetermined guidance text data is created based on the dialogue scenario data D9. In the same manner as described above, the agent is introduced by outputting a predetermined guidance sentence from the speaker 25 by voice (step S).
6). For example, the speaker 25 outputs a guidance sentence such as “Now, XX (agent name) will support the operation from now on” (basic sentence).

This is a basic sentence, dialect is "0" (standard language), politeness is "level 3" (standard)
If the dialect is set to a value other than “0”, the dialect is changed to the set dialect, and if the politeness is not “level 3”, It is designed to change to the level of politeness that has been set. For voice guidance, the same change process is performed thereafter.

Next, it is determined whether or not the function corresponding to the variable V (that is, the agent selected by the user) can be performed as an operation subject includes the navigation function (step S7), and the navigation function is included. If it is determined that the variable V
It is determined whether or not an audio function is included in a function that can be performed as an operation subject by an agent corresponding to (i.e., an agent selected by the user) (step S).
8).

If it is determined that the audio function is included, a screen on which either the navigation function or the audio function can be selected is displayed on the display panel 20b (step S9), and based on the dialogue scenario data D9. Then, predetermined guidance text data is created, and the predetermined guidance text is output by voice from the speaker 25 in the same manner as described above (step S10). For example, “Do you want to activate the navigation function or the audio function?
”(Basic text) is output from the speaker 25. Again, as above,
The guidance text is changed according to the dialect and politeness set for the selected agent.

Thereafter, based on the information obtained from the microphone 21, it is determined whether or not there is a response corresponding to “navigation” from the user (step S11).
If it is determined that there is a response corresponding to “navigation”, the navigation control unit 14 is instructed to perform “navigation processing” (see FIG. 8) such as destination setting (step S12).

Next, it is determined whether or not there has been an instruction from the user to activate the audio function (for example, whether or not a changeover switch for switching between a navigation function and an audio function provided on the remote controller 19 has been pressed) (step S40). If it is determined that there is an instruction to activate the audio function from the user, “audio processing” (see FIG. 11) is performed (step S14). On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no instruction to activate the audio function, the process directly returns to step S13.

By the way, when switching the function to be activated, such as switching from the navigation function to the audio function or switching from the audio function to the navigation function, the agent that was the main agent before the switch It is not always possible to become an action subject. For example, there may be a case where switching from the navigation function to the audio function is performed when an agent that cannot be the main subject of the audio function is the main subject.

In such a case, an agent that can be the main subject of the audio function may be automatically selected. Examples of the method of selecting an agent include a method of selecting at random, and a method of selecting an agent that is frequently used by a user (that is, a user that is highly likely to be used). In another embodiment, the user may be selected by, for example, listing candidate agents that can be the subject of action.
In addition, it is not necessary to perform agent switching for an agent EC that can be either the navigation function or the audio function.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S11 that there is no response corresponding to “navigation” from the user, it is then determined whether or not there is a response corresponding to “audio” from the user (step S15). If you determine that there is a response equivalent to
Audio processing "is performed (step S14). On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no response corresponding to “audio”, the process returns to step S11.

In step S7, the function corresponding to the variable V (that is, the agent selected by the user) does not include the navigation function (that is, the function that can be performed as the operation subject includes navigation). If it is determined that only the audio function is included among the functions and the audio functions), step S1
Go to step 4 to perform “audio processing”.

If it is determined in step S4 that there is no response for selecting an agent from the user, it is then determined whether there is a response corresponding to “No” from the user (step S16). If it is determined that there is a corresponding response, next, predetermined guidance text data is created based on the dialogue scenario data D9, and a predetermined guidance text is output from the speaker 25 by voice (step S17). For example, a guidance sentence such as “Please call us (agents EA to ED) if necessary” is output from the speaker 25. Thereafter, a process without assistance by the agent, that is, a “user operation process” (see FIG. 16) based only on a user operation (manual or voice) is performed (step S18).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S16 that there is no response corresponding to “No” from the user, the process returns to step S4. If there is neither a response for selecting an agent nor a “No” response even after a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds) elapses, the agent is selected based on a predetermined condition, and the process proceeds to step S5. You may make it go. Further, the agent selection and the “No” response are not limited to voice, and a touch operation on the display panel 20b may be employed.

Next, the processing operation [1-2] performed by the microcomputer 12 (navigation control unit 14) in the audio apparatus 11 configured to include the agent apparatus according to the embodiment (1) is shown in the flowchart shown in FIG. This will be explained based on. This processing operation [1-2] is an operation performed when an instruction to perform navigation processing is given from the audio control unit 13 which is the main control unit (step S12 in FIG. 6).

First, by limiting the speech recognition vocabulary to navigation (for example, removing the audio vocabulary), speech recognition is enhanced (step S21). In another embodiment,
The vocabulary for speech recognition is not limited but vocabulary weighting may be performed. For example, weighting is performed so as to reduce the hit probability of the vocabulary for audio.

Next, a menu screen for navigation is displayed on the display panel 20b (step S22), predetermined guidance text data is created based on the dialogue scenario data D9, and a predetermined guidance text is output from the speaker 25 by voice. (Step S23). For example, a guidance sentence such as “Are you sure you want to select a destination?” Is output from the speaker 25.

Then, based on the information obtained from the microphone 21, “Yes” from the user
It is determined whether or not there is a response corresponding to (Yes in step S24).
If it is determined that there is a response corresponding to, next, “destination selection processing” (see FIG. 9) is performed (see FIG. 9).
Step S25).

When the destination G selection process is completed, a guidance process for guiding the vehicle M to the destination G is performed (step S26), and then it is determined whether or not the vehicle M has reached the destination G (step S27).
). If it is determined that the vehicle M has not reached the destination G, a time Ta required for the vehicle M to reach the destination G is calculated (step S28), and then the process returns to step S26. on the other hand,
If it is determined that the vehicle M has reached the destination G, the time Ta is set to 0 (step S29).
Then, the processing operation [1-2] is terminated.

If it is determined in step S24 that there is no response corresponding to “Yes” from the user, it is then determined whether or not there is a response corresponding to “No” from the user (step S30). If it is determined that there is a response corresponding to “”, another navigation process other than the destination selection is performed (step S31).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S30 that there is no response corresponding to “No” from the user, the process returns to step S24. Even if a predetermined time (for example, 6 seconds) elapses, “Y
If there is no response of “es” or “No”, it is determined as “Yes” and step S25 is performed.
You may make it go to. Further, the responses “Yes” and “No” are not limited to voice, and a touch operation on the display panel 20b may be employed.

Next, a “destination selection process” performed by the microcomputer 12 (the navigation control unit 14) in the audio device 11 configured to include the content selection device according to the embodiment (1).
(Step S25 in FIG. 8) will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG. First, profile information used for selecting the destination G is set, and the set profile information is stored in the HDD.
Perform “profile information setting / reading processing” (see FIG. 10) such as reading from 31 (see FIG. 10).
Step S41), and then the process proceeds to Step S42.

The usable profile information includes user profile information, agent profile information, and the like. If the user's profile information is used for selecting the destination G, for example, a place estimated to be preferred by the user can be selected as the destination G based on the user's preference.

In step S42, a selection condition for selecting the destination G is set based on the profile information read from the HDD 31. For example, if the user prefers to go to a theme park or park, “theme park” and “park” are set as selection conditions. Also, if you like to go to “Oxland” more specifically, you may make it a selection condition. Also, if you ’ve recently visited a theme park based on your visit history data,
“Other than theme park” may be set as a selection condition.

Next, the destination G is selected based on the facility data read from the DVD-ROM 17, the content data stored in the HDD 31, and the set selection conditions (step S43), and information on the selected location ( For example, the facility name, location, genre) and who used the profile information are stored in the HDD 31 (history data D2) as visit history information in association with the current time (for example, date, time). (Step S4
4) The same user visit history information as described above is stored in the profile data D14 (HDD 31) of the agent corresponding to the variable V (that is, the agent selected by the user and acting as the operating subject) ( Step S45).

It ’s important to note that you ’re not sure if the user will actually visit the selected location,
In another embodiment, when the location is reached, information regarding the location may be stored in the HDD 31 as visit history information. In yet another embodiment, when the destination G is changed by the user, it is determined that the user does not like the location, and the determination result is stored in the HDD 31 as user history information. good. If this history information is used, it is possible to reduce the possibility of selecting a place that the user does not like as the destination G.

Next, “profile information reading / setting process” (step S41 in FIG. 9) performed by the microcomputer 12 (the navigation control unit 14) in the audio apparatus 11 including the agent apparatus according to the embodiment (1). ) Will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG. First, profile information used for selecting the destination G is set based on a predetermined condition (step S51). Usable profile information includes user profile information and agent profile information. In addition, as a setting method of the profile information used for selection of the destination G, a method of setting at random, a method of setting based on the past profile information setting history (for example, avoiding the profile information used last time), etc. Can be mentioned. In addition, the user may be allowed to select which profile information should be used.

Next, predetermined guidance text data is created based on the dialogue scenario data D9, and the predetermined guidance text is output by voice from the speaker 25 in the same manner as described above (step S52). For example, "
Use my (agent selected by user) profile information. is this good? "(Basic sentence)" or "Your profile information will be used.
is this good? ”(Basic text) is output from the speaker 25.

Then, based on the information obtained from the microphone 21, “Yes” from the user
(Step S53). If it is determined that there is a response corresponding to “Yes”, the profile information set in step S51 is read from the HDD 31 (step S54).

On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no response corresponding to “Yes” from the user, it is then determined whether or not there is a response corresponding to “No” from the user (step S55), which corresponds to “No”. If it is determined that there is a response, profile information different from the profile information set in step S51 is read from the HDD 31 (step S56). On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no response corresponding to “No” from the user, the process returns to step S53. If there is no response “Yes” or “No” after a predetermined time (for example, 6 seconds),
It may be determined as “Yes” and proceed to Step S54. Also, “Yes”, “
The response “No” is not limited to voice, and a touch operation on the display panel 20b may be employed.

Based on agent profile information, not user profile information,
If the destination G is selected, it becomes possible to visit places that are rarely visited, and driving can be made more enjoyable. Here, the profile information of the agent is listed as profile information other than the user used for selecting the destination G. However, in another embodiment, the user's family / friends, celebrity (for example, the user's favorite information) Such as profile information of other artists).

In yet another embodiment, an imaginary person (for example, a character created by a manufacturer), an average person created based on statistical data (for example, an average male in his twenties living in Osaka, Profile information such as women who like sports in their 30s) may be used.

Next, “audio processing” performed by the microcomputer 12 (the audio control unit 13) in the audio apparatus 11 configured to include the agent apparatus according to the embodiment (1) (FIG. 6).
Step S14) will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG. First, the speech recognition ability is enhanced by limiting the speech recognition vocabulary to audio (for example, removing the navigation vocabulary) (step S61). In another embodiment, vocabulary weighting may be performed instead of limiting the vocabulary for speech recognition. For example, weighting is performed so as to reduce the hit probability of the navigation vocabulary.

Next, an audio menu screen is displayed on the display panel 20b (step S62), predetermined guidance text data is created based on the dialogue scenario data D9, and a predetermined guidance text is output from the speaker 25 by voice. (Step S63). For example, a guidance sentence such as “Do you want to play music? Or do you want to play a TV program or a radio program?” (Basic sentence) is output from the speaker 25.

Thereafter, based on the information obtained from the microphone 21, it is determined whether or not there is a response corresponding to “music” from the user (step S64), and if it is determined that there is a response corresponding to “music” from the user. Next, “music reproduction processing” (see FIG. 12) is performed (step S65).

On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no response corresponding to “music” from the user, it is then determined whether or not there is a response corresponding to “TV” from the user (step S66).
If it is determined that a response corresponding to is received, “television broadcast reception processing” (see FIG. 15) is performed (step S67).

If it is determined that there is no response corresponding to “TV” from the user, it is then determined whether or not there is a response corresponding to “radio” from the user (step S68). If it is determined that there is, then “radio broadcast reception processing” is performed (step S6).
9). The “radio broadcast reception process” is the same as the “television broadcast reception process” described in FIG.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S68 that there is no response corresponding to “radio” from the user, the process returns to step S64. Even if a predetermined time (for example, 6 seconds) elapses,
If there is no response of “music”, “television”, or “radio”, it may be determined as “music” and the process may proceed to step S65. Further, the response of “music”, “TV”, and “radio” is not limited to voice, and a touch operation on the display panel 20b may be adopted.

Next, “music reproduction processing” performed by the microcomputer 12 (audio control unit 13) in the audio apparatus 11 including the agent apparatus according to the embodiment (1) (FIG. 11).
Step S65) will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG. First, “profile information setting / reading processing” such as setting profile information used for creating a playlist (selecting music) and reading the set profile information from the HDD 31 is performed (step S71), and then step S72. Proceed to

The “profile information setting / reading process” here is the same as the “profile information setting / reading process” shown in FIG. 10, and the profile information used to select the music is the user's profile information. However, the information may be profile information other than the user himself / herself, such as an agent. For example, based on the profile information of the agent selected by the user, the music preferred by the agent can be selected.

In step S72, based on the profile information read from the HDD 31, selection conditions for creating a playlist (that is, selection conditions for selecting music) are set. For example, if the agent prefers to listen to music without a sense of speed (slow music) or enka, “speed level 2 or lower” and “enka” are set as selection conditions. In addition, if the user likes to listen to the song “xxx” more specifically, it may be set as a selection condition. Further, if the user listens to the song “□ △ ☆” yesterday based on the user's past listening history, “other than □ △ ☆” may be set as the selection condition.
Next, “playlist creation processing” (see FIG. 13) for creating a playlist is performed based on the set selection conditions (see FIG. 13) (step S73). Processing "(see FIG. 14) is performed (step S74).

Next, “play list creation processing” (by the audio control unit 13) in the audio apparatus 11 configured to include the agent apparatus according to the embodiment (1) (
Step S73 in FIG. 12 will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG. First,
Information on the driving environment conditions of the vehicle M (for example, date, day of the week, time, time zone, season, weather, type of road being traveled) is acquired (step S81), and music playback is performed based on the acquired information. A reproduction order condition relating to the order is set (step S82). For example, if the season is spring or summer, the playback order conditions are set so that the songs are played in an order of increasing excitement, or if the season is autumn and winter, it will become increasingly mature The reproduction order condition is set so that the music is reproduced in a proper order.

Next, based on the selection condition for selecting the music and the playback order condition, the music that is recorded on the HDD 31 should be played first, satisfying the selection condition and the playback order condition. A music piece is selected (step S83). Next, based on the selection condition for selecting a song and the playback order condition, the selection condition and the playback order condition are satisfied from the songs recorded in the HDD 31 and should be played back last. A music piece is selected (step S84).

Next, it is determined whether or not the destination G is set and guidance processing to the destination G is performed (step S85). If it is determined that the guidance process to the destination G has been performed, in order to end the reproduction of the music during driving (that is, to end the reproduction of the music before reaching the destination G), Based on the time Ta required to reach the ground G, the playback time of the first song, and the playback time of the last song, the remaining playable time (= time Ta-1 playback time-last song playback time) Calculate (step S86), and then proceed to step S88.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the guidance process to the destination G has not been performed, the total playback time is set to 60 minutes, and the remaining playback time (= 60 minutes—the playback time of the first song—the playback of the last song) Time) is calculated (step S87), and then the process proceeds to step S88. The total playback time may be set by the user in advance or may be freely set at any time.

In step S88, the second and subsequent songs (excluding the last song) are selected based on the selection condition, the reproduction order condition, and the remaining playable time, and a reproduction list is displayed based on the selection result. By displaying on the panel 20b, the reproduction list is introduced to the user (step S89). Next, predetermined guidance text data is created based on the dialogue scenario data D9, and the predetermined guidance text is output by voice from the speaker 25 (step S90). For example, the speaker 2 may display a guidance sentence such as “Are you sure you want to play list?” (Basic sentence).
5 is output.

Then, based on the information obtained from the microphone 21, “Yes” from the user
If it is determined whether or not there is a response corresponding to “Yes” (step S91), and if it is determined that there is a response corresponding to “Yes”, then information on the selected music (for example, music name, singer name, genre) And which profile information is used is associated with the current time (for example, date, time) and stored in the HDD 31 (history data D2) as the user's music listening history information (step S92). ), The user's music listening history information similar to the above is stored in the profile data D14 (HDD 31) of the agent corresponding to the variable V (that is, the agent selected by the user and acting as the main subject) ( Step S93).

As for the selected song, the user is not sure whether to actually listen,
In another embodiment, when the music actually starts to be reproduced (or completed), the music information may be stored in the HDD 31 as music listening history information. In still another embodiment, when playback is stopped by the user, it may be determined that the user does not like the music and the determination result is stored in the HDD 31 as user history information. If this history information is used, it is possible to reduce the possibility of selecting music that the user does not like.

On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no response corresponding to “Yes”, then “No” from the user
(Step S94). If it is determined that there is a response corresponding to “No”, an environment in which the playlist can be changed is set (step S95). If it is determined that the change instruction has been completed (step S96), the playlist is changed based on the change instruction (step S97), and then the process returns to step S89.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S94 that there is no response corresponding to “No” from the user, the process returns to step S91. Even if a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds) elapses,
If there is no response “Yes” or “No”, it is determined as “Yes”, and step S9 is performed.
You may make it progress to 2. Further, the responses “Yes”, “No”, “navigation”, and “audio” are not limited to voice, and a touch operation on the display panel 20b may be adopted.

Next, “list reproduction processing” performed by the microcomputer 12 (audio control unit 13) in the audio apparatus 11 configured to include the agent apparatus according to the embodiment (1) (FIG. 1).
Step 2 in step S74) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. First, it is determined whether the destination G is set and guidance processing to the destination G is performed (step S101).

If it is determined that the guidance process to the destination G is performed, it is necessary to play the unplayed portion of the music included in the play list based on the play list and the play status of the music. Time Tb is calculated (step S102), and then whether or not the time Ta required to reach the destination G is equal to or longer than the time Tb (that is, the music that was scheduled to be played is played during driving) Whether or not it can be performed) is determined (step S103).

If it is determined that reproduction is possible (Ta ≧ Tb), then the time Ta becomes the time Tc (= time Tb).
It is determined whether or not it is greater than + time α) (step S104). For example, the time α is set to 10 minutes, and it is determined whether or not the reproduction of the music ends much before the arrival at the destination G. If it is determined that the time Ta is larger than the time Tc (that is, the reproduction of the music is finished much before the arrival at the destination G), the reproduction speed is reduced (step S10).
5) Then, it progresses to step S107. On the other hand, if it is determined that the time Ta is not greater than the time Tc, the process directly proceeds to step S107.

Here, the playback speed is reduced to avoid the occurrence of a situation where the playback of the music ends much before the arrival at the destination G. The method of doing is not limited to this, and in another embodiment, for example, the waiting time between each piece of music may be extended, or the end part of each piece of music may be repeated.

If it is determined in step S103 that the time Ta is not equal to or longer than the time Tb (that is, the destination G arrives at the destination G before playing the music in the playlist), the playback speed is increased (step S106). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S107. It should be noted that here, the playback speed is increased to avoid a situation in which the music that was scheduled to be played is not played during the drive, but the method of avoiding the situation is limited to this. Without
In another embodiment, for example, the waiting time between music pieces may be shortened or cut, or the end part of each music piece may be cut or faded out.

In step S107, the music data is read from the HDD 31, and the music is reproduced according to the reproduction list. Next, it is determined whether or not the reproduction of all the music in the reproduction list is completed (step S108). If it is determined that the reproduction of is completed, the “list reproduction process” is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the process has not been completed, the process returns to step S101.

Note that, here, a case has been described in which music is played in the order in accordance with the playback order of the playlist (including the playlist after the change), but in another embodiment, according to the playback order of the playlist. Rather than setting the environment in which the user can perform playback instructions in a random order, and if there is a playback instruction in a random order, songs in a random order rather than in the playback order of the playlist You may make it perform reproduction | regeneration. This means that, for example, a good piece of music is played at the beginning, a quiet piece of music is played on the way, and a ballad is played at the end. You will be able to enjoy the performance in the form of no.

Next, “television broadcast reception processing” performed by the microcomputer 12 (the audio control unit 13) in the audio device 11 including the agent device according to the embodiment (1) (
Step S67) in FIG. 11 will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG. First,
Set profile information to be used for selecting TV programs, and set the profile information to H
Reading from the DD 31 or the like (step S111), the process proceeds to step S112. The “profile information setting / reading processing” here is the same as the processing shown in FIG.

In step S112, selection conditions for selecting a television program are set based on the profile information read from the HDD 31. For example, if the agent prefers to watch a sports program, “sport level 4 or higher” is set as the selection condition. Also,
More specifically, if the user likes to watch the television program “Sports XX”, it may be set as a selection condition.

Next, the mobile communication device 26 is used to acquire the information from a server that provides information about the contents of the TV program (step S113), and reception is possible based on the acquired information and the selection condition. A program satisfying the selection condition is selected from the programs (step S114).
) In order to view the selected program, the reception frequency in the broadcast wave receiver 16 is adjusted, the video of the received television program is displayed on the display panel 20b, and the sound is output from the speaker 25 (step S115).

Thereafter, the information regarding the contents of the viewed TV program and who profile information is used are associated with the current time (for example, year, month, day), and the HDD 31 ( (History data D2) and stored (step S116)
), The TV program viewing history information of the user similar to the above is stored in the profile data D14 (HDD 31) of the agent corresponding to the variable V (that is, the agent selected by the user and acting as the subject). (Step S117). In addition,
Regarding the time, not only the reception start time but also the reception end time may be stored in the HDD 31 as history information.

Further, here, information related to the contents of the program is stored in the HDD 31 as viewing history information. However, in another embodiment, information related to a broadcasting station broadcasting the viewed broadcast program (for example, a broadcasting station) Name, frequency, and genre) as viewing history information.
1 may be stored.

Next, “user operation processing” (step S18 in FIG. 6) performed by the microcomputer 12 (audio control unit 13) in the audio apparatus 11 configured to include the agent apparatus according to the embodiment (1) is shown in FIG. It demonstrates based on the flowchart shown in FIG. First, the display panel 20 displays a screen on which either the navigation function or the audio function can be selected.
b is displayed (step S121).

Next, it is determined whether or not an instruction to operate the navigation function by the user has been performed (step S122), and if it is determined that an instruction to operate the navigation function has been performed by the user, the navigation control unit 14 is An instruction is given to perform navigation processing (see FIG. 17) such as ground setting (step S123).

Next, it is determined whether or not there has been an instruction from the user to activate the audio function (for example, whether or not a changeover switch for switching between a navigation function and an audio function provided on the remote controller 19 has been pressed) (step S40). If it is determined that there is an instruction to activate the audio function from the user, the process proceeds to step S126.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S122 that an instruction to operate the navigation function has not been issued, it is then determined whether or not an instruction to operate the audio function has been issued by the user (step S125). If it is determined that an instruction to operate is issued, the process proceeds to step S126. On the other hand, if it is determined that the instruction to activate the audio function has not been given, the process returns to step S122.

In step S126, it is determined whether or not the user has performed an operation of reproducing music (for example, whether or not an operation of reproducing music stored on a CD or an operation of reproducing music stored in the HDD 31 has been performed). ). If it is determined that the operation for reproducing the music has been performed, the music desired by the user is reproduced based on the operation (step S127).
Information related to the reproduced music (for example, music name, singer name, genre) is stored in the HDD 31 (history data D2) as the user's music listening history information in association with the current time (for example, date, time). (Step S131), the user's music listening history information similar to the above is selected by the agent corresponding to the variable V (that is, selected by the user,
The data is stored in the profile data D14 (HDD 31) of the agent that is the operation subject (step S132).

On the other hand, if it is determined that the operation for reproducing the music has not been performed, it is next determined whether or not an operation for receiving a television broadcast or a radio broadcast by the user has been performed (step S128).
If it is determined that the operation has been performed, the television broadcast or radio broadcast desired by the user is received based on the operation, and the video is displayed on the display panel 20b.
Audio is output from the speaker 25 (step S129).

Next, information about the contents of the received program (for example, genre, performer, flow in the program) from the server that provides information about the contents of the TV program or radio program using the mobile communication device 26. (Step S130), the acquired information (that is, information on the contents of the watched TV program or the listened radio program) is associated with the current time (for example, date, time), The program viewing history information is stored in the HDD 31 as the program viewing history information (step S131), and the user's program viewing history information similar to the above is stored in the agent corresponding to the variable V (that is, the agent selected by the user and acting as the operating subject). Stored in the profile data D14 (HDD 31) (step S13).
2).

Here, information related to the contents of the program is stored in the HDD 31 as viewing history information. However, in another embodiment, information related to a broadcasting station that broadcasts a broadcast program that has been viewed or listened to (for example, The broadcast station name, frequency, and genre) may be stored in the HDD 31 as viewing history information.

Next, the processing operation [1-3] performed by the microcomputer 12 (the navigation control unit 14) in the audio apparatus 11 configured to include the agent apparatus according to the embodiment (1) is shown in the flowchart shown in FIG. This will be explained based on. This processing operation [1-3] is an operation performed when an instruction to perform navigation processing is given from the audio control unit 13 which is the main control unit (step S123 in FIG. 16).

First, a menu screen for navigation is displayed on the display panel 20b (step S1).
41) Next, it is determined whether or not the user has performed a destination setting operation (step S142). If it is determined that the destination setting operation has been performed, the information related to the destination G set by the user (for example, the facility name, location, and genre) is associated with the current time (for example, date, time). The visit history information is stored in the HDD 31 (step S143), and the visit history information of the user similar to the above is stored in the agent (
That is, it is stored in the profile data D14 (HDD 31) of the agent selected by the user and acting as the operation subject (step S144). In addition, since it is not known whether or not the user actually visits the place set as the destination G, in another embodiment, when the destination is reached, information on the place is sent to the HDD 31 as visit history information. You may make it memorize | store.

Next, a guidance process for guiding the vehicle M to the destination G is performed (step S145), and it is determined whether or not the vehicle M has reached the destination G (step S146). If it is determined that the vehicle M has reached the destination G, the processing operation [1-3] is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the vehicle M has not reached the destination G, the process returns to step S145. If it is determined in step S142 that the user has not performed a destination setting operation, another process is performed based on another instruction from the user (step S147).

Audio device 1 configured to include the agent device according to embodiment (1) above
1 describes a case where the profile information of the agent is updated by storing various history information (that is, when new information is accumulated). However, in another embodiment, the profile information of the agent is described. In addition, a changeable item may be provided so that profile information (for example, agent preference information, information indicating a function that can be performed as an operation subject, and information regarding an output form) may be changed.

For example, the agent preference information may be changed based on the user preference obtained from the user history information or the like so that the agent preference is the same as or close to the user preference. For example, even if the music prepared in advance for a certain agent A has a strong musical preference (five musical preference level 4 in 5 steps), if the user likes a quiet musical preference, the agent A's intense musical preference level is set. Change to 3. However, if the user's preference is endlessly matched, the personality of the agent may be lost. Therefore, it is possible to limit the changeable range (for example, only the upper and lower levels 1 can be changed) ).

Also, not only according to the user's preference etc., but also the profile information of the agent based on the usage frequency (for example, the number of times the user has chosen to use) each agent was used as the subject of operation, the age of the agent, etc. You may make it change. For example, for an agent that is frequently used by the user, the number of functions that can be performed as an operating subject is increased (for example, information indicating the function that can be performed as the operating subject is changed from 0 to 1). According to the age of the agent, the information regarding the output form may be changed to make the agent old. As described above, the change of the profile information of the agent that is anthropomorphic appears to the user as the agent has grown or evolved. Therefore, entertainment property can be made very high.

In yet another embodiment, another information that is related to or highly related to the information may be changed based on a change in certain information. For example, even if the pre-prepared property of an agent is not a lock preference (lock preference level 1 in 5 steps), if the level increases according to the user's preference, the clothes will be flashy according to the increase. You may make it raise a level, and conversely the politeness level of the way of speaking may be lowered. As a result, it is possible to prevent the agent from feeling uncomfortable. In addition, when the functions that can be performed as an action subject increase, as the agent rises, the politeness level of speaking is lowered, the flashy level of clothes is increased,
You may make it have an item or add an accessory.

Up to this point, the change of profile information for an agent alone has been described. However, the change of the profile information of an agent is not limited to the change of an agent alone. In another embodiment, the profile information of another agent is changed. The profile information may be changed by combining all or a part thereof. For example, when synthesizing agent preference information, the average level of both or the predetermined conditions,
The power relationship may be determined and set to the strong side level.

Such composition of agent profile information is a very effective function when, for example, the driver's favorite agent is different from the passenger's favorite agent. In still another embodiment, profile information before synthesis may be stored, and if necessary, it may be possible to return to the state before synthesis.

Audio device 1 configured to include the agent device according to embodiment (1) above
1, information obtained from an individual's actions (for example, information on a place visited, information on a facility name, location, genre, music, information on a song name, singer name, genre, and contents of a TV program viewed) (Program name, genre, performer, played music) and information obtained from the action performed based on the profile information of the agent are described as profile information. In another embodiment, Based on the information obtained from the personal actions, the specific property of the individual is obtained, information indicating the property is collected as profile information, and the content to be provided to the user is selected based on the information. May be.

For example, based on the information “I often watch a program in which classical music flows” obtained from the personal action, a characteristic “I like classical music” peculiar to the individual can be obtained, and this can be obtained from the learning data D3. (See FIG. 2) may be stored in the HDD 31, or the user profile data D1 and the agent profile data D14 may be updated.

Moreover, in the audio apparatus 11 comprised including the agent apparatus which concerns on the said embodiment (1), among the information obtained from an individual action, the information regarding the place visited, the information regarding the listened music, Although the case where information on the broadcast program that has been listened to is collected as profile information has been described, the information obtained from the individual's actions is not limited to such information. In another embodiment, for example, the individual may By paying
It may be information on purchased products or received services, information on the type of vehicles owned or used by the individual, and the like.

For example, a person who often purchases a music CD can be presumed to like listening to music, and a person in a luxury car can be presumed to be high-end oriented. If an artist's CD is often purchased, it can be estimated that the individual likes the artist.

Further, in the audio device 11 configured to include the agent device according to the above embodiment (1), the profile information includes the information about the visited place, the information about the listened music, and the information about the broadcast program that has been viewed or listened to. Therefore, it is possible to count the number of visits, the number of times of listening, and the number of times of viewing for each place, song, and broadcast program.

In another embodiment, the number of visits, the number of times of listening, and the number of times of viewing may be counted for each place, song, and broadcast program. As a result, it is possible to more accurately determine the characteristics unique to the individual, such as the personal preference. In addition, it is possible to more appropriately and efficiently select content to be provided to the user.

Furthermore, in another embodiment, when a music recorded on a CD or the like is played,
Not only when the music stored in the DD 31 is played, but also when the music flows in a television program or a radio program, the number of times the individual listens may be counted. Thereby, the number of times of actual listening can be counted exactly.

In digital broadcasting, data indicating information related to music transmitted along with the data of the music itself (audio data) is used. In analog broadcasting, multiplex transmission data in multiplex broadcasting is used. For example, it is possible to recognize which music is played from a radio program or the like (that is, which music the user has listened to).

In addition, here, a case has been described where the number of visits, listening, and viewing is simply counted (for example, when counting up one by one), but in another embodiment, it is not simply counted up. A weight may be added. For example, the reproduced music is “+1”, while the music whose reproduction is stopped is “−2”. Thereby, the importance in an individual for every music can be calculated | required.

In still another embodiment, when the music is played by the individual's intention,
It may be set to “+1”, and may be set to “+0.5” when the music is reproduced separately from the individual's intention (for example, when played by the agent). Thereby, the accuracy of the importance can be further increased.

In addition, we have explained the case of growing or evolving an agent by setting profile information for each agent so that the agent has individuality or can change the profile information of the agent. However, in another embodiment, a point or the like is set for the agent based on the profile information of the agent, and a battle game (for example, competing for points) using the point with another agent is realized. You may do it.

For example, the points are set based on the type or number of functions that can be performed as an action subject, and give some advantage to the game winner (for example, addition of functions that can be performed as an action subject). The loser may be given some deduction (for example, reduction of functions that can be performed as an operation subject).

It is the block diagram which showed roughly the principal part of the audio apparatus with a navigation function comprised including the agent apparatus which concerns on embodiment (1) of this invention. It is the figure which showed a part of data memorize | stored in HDD. It is the figure which showed a part of data regarding the music data memorize | stored in HDD and music information. It is the figure which showed a part of user's profile data memorize | stored in HDD. It is the figure which showed a part of the profile data of the agent memorize | stored in HDD. It is the figure which showed a part of the profile data of the agent memorize | stored in HDD. It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the microcomputer (audio control part) in an audio apparatus comprised including the agent apparatus which concerns on embodiment (1) performs. It is the figure which showed the example of a display of the screen displayed on a display panel. It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the microcomputer (navigation control part) in an audio apparatus comprised including the agent apparatus which concerns on embodiment (1) performs. It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the microcomputer (navigation control part) in an audio apparatus comprised including the agent apparatus which concerns on embodiment (1) performs. It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the microcomputer (navigation control part) in an audio apparatus comprised including the agent apparatus which concerns on embodiment (1) performs. It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the microcomputer (audio control part) in an audio apparatus comprised including the agent apparatus which concerns on embodiment (1) performs. It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the microcomputer (audio control part) in an audio apparatus comprised including the agent apparatus which concerns on embodiment (1) performs. It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the microcomputer (audio control part) in an audio apparatus comprised including the agent apparatus which concerns on embodiment (1) performs. It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the microcomputer (audio control part) in an audio apparatus comprised including the agent apparatus which concerns on embodiment (1) performs. It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the microcomputer (audio control part) in an audio apparatus comprised including the agent apparatus which concerns on embodiment (1) performs. It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the microcomputer (audio control part) in an audio apparatus comprised including the agent apparatus which concerns on embodiment (1) performs. It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the microcomputer (navigation control part) in an audio apparatus comprised including the agent apparatus which concerns on embodiment (1) performs. It is the figure which showed a part of data memorize | stored in HDD.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 Audio apparatus 12 Microcomputer 13 Audio control part 14 Navigation control part 16 Broadcast wave receiver 22 Speech recognition part 23 Speech synthesis part 31 HDD

Claims (18)

Profile information is set on the anthropomorphic agent,
An agent device comprising processing means for performing processing specialized for the agent based on profile information set for the agent. In the profile information set for the agent,
2. The agent device according to claim 1, wherein any one of information on a virtual date of birth, blood type, sex, and property of the agent is included. In the profile information set for the agent,
The agent apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein information on an output form of the agent is included. The profile information set for the agent includes information indicating a function that can be performed by the agent as an operation subject and / or a function that cannot be performed by the agent. Agent device according to item. 5. The agent device according to claim 1, wherein the profile information set for the agent includes changeable information. A relationship is formed between each piece of information included in the profile information set in the agent,
6. The agent device according to claim 5, further comprising first profile information changing means for changing another information that is related to or highly related to the information based on a change of the information. . 7. The apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising second profile information changing means for changing profile information set in the agent based on a use frequency of using the agent as an operation subject. Agent device. Third profile information changing means for changing the profile information by combining all or part of the profile information set for another different agent with the profile information set for the agent. The agent device according to claim 5, wherein the agent device is a device. Pre-combination state storage means for storing information on the state before composition;
9. The agent device according to claim 8, further comprising fourth profile information changing means for returning profile information to a state before composition based on information stored in the pre-composition storage means. Fifth profile information changing means for changing the profile information set in the agent based on the user's intention information obtained from the input means so that the agent reflects the individuality of the user. It is provided with the above-mentioned.
The agent device according to any one of the above items. Profile information storage means for storing, as profile information of the agent, information obtained from an action of a user and / or information obtained from an action performed based on the profile information of the agent The agent device according to any one of claims 1 to 10. 12. The agent device according to claim 11, wherein the profile information storage means stores information as profile information of the agent selected as an operation subject. The agent device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the processing means selects content to be provided to a user from selection target content. The processing means selects, as content to be provided to the user, one of music to be played, a broadcast program to be received, and a place to be a destination. Item 14. The agent device according to Item 13. A selection condition setting means for setting a selection condition for selecting content based on profile information set in the agent;
The said processing means selects the content which satisfy | fills the said selection conditions from the said selection object content based on the selection conditions set by the said selection condition setting means, The Claim 13 or Claim characterized by the above-mentioned. 14. The agent device according to 14. A plurality of the agents are set,
A first environment setting means for setting an environment in which a user can select an agent as an operation agent from the plurality of agents;
When the agent is selected by the user in the environment set by the first environment setting means,
The agent device according to claim 1, wherein the processing unit performs processing specialized for the agent based on profile information of the selected agent. The agent device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the agent is set for each function to be an operation subject. Multiple agents with different functions that should be the subject of operation are set,
A second environment setting means for setting an environment in which a user can select a function;
An operation subject setting means for setting an agent to be an operation subject of the function as an operation subject when a function is selected by the user in the environment set by the second environment setting means; The agent device according to claim 17, wherein

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