JP2016024555A - Program and method for exchanging messages, and electronic apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To easily exchange messages with other vehicles during travel.SOLUTION: An electronic apparatus 2 includes: a radio communication part 20; a display part 11; and a first display mode control part 431 that provides a first display area located at the center of the display part 11 and a second display area located to surround the periphery of the first display area, displays message information received via the radio communication part in any one of the first display area and the second display area, and displays information on a transmitter that is a transmission source in the other of the first display area and the second display area.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to an electronic device (hereinafter also referred to as a “mobile device”) carried by a person who moves on a road, a person who moves by a moving means such as a motorcycle, a bicycle or a boat, and / or a pedestrian (person). The present invention relates to a program, a method, and an electronic device for performing communication (exchange of messages). Hereinafter, vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, pedestrians, boats, and the like are also referred to as “vehicles”.
For example, as mobile devices, portable terminal devices such as smart phones possessed by passengers of moving means such as vehicles, tablet terminals, PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants), notebook computers, mobile phones, and other portable devices equipped with wireless communication functions Electronic devices or navigation devices including PNDs (Portable / Personal Navigation Devices) and in-vehicle navigation devices.
In particular, a person (user) who is in a vehicle or the like intends to exchange short sentences (so-called chat) using character data with simple operation via electronic communication with another mobile device. The present invention relates to a program, a method, and an electronic device for exchanging messages that can communicate (message exchange).

There is a demand for a plurality of persons to be dispersed in a plurality of moving means such as a vehicle and to enjoy a conversation via wireless communication with a person on a different vehicle.
For example, when touring in a group, information on points with good scenery is set in the mobile device in advance, and when you come to that point while looking at the outside scenery, you want to immediately communicate between the groups (messages I want to send it). In addition, for example, there is a demand to communicate (send a message) between groups when approaching a predetermined break place.
In this way, the short text exchange conversation (hereinafter also referred to as “chat”) using character data is also a fun subject of reading / writing and transmission / reception itself. The types of information contained and the ease of viewing them increase the enjoyment.
For this reason, regardless of who speaks and who does not speak, chat can create an atmosphere in which all participants in the chat can enjoy the conversation by creating an atmosphere that exists in the circle of the conversation. desired.
In addition, when a group performs a certain action together, for example, a chat that can provide an atmosphere that can enjoy a sense of unity in touring in a car or motorcycle, a group feeling, and a sense of unity as a community is desired.

  Patent Document 1 discloses an invention related to a chat between users (moving people) via mobile phones set in a position information installation mode. The invention described in Patent Document 1 can be contacted even if the mail address is not communicated in advance. In the invention described in Patent Document 1, a chat display screen is provided in a lower part of the position display screen. The display unit 107 in the position display screen displays users 0 and users 1 to 3 at their respective positions (icons 500 and 501 to 503).

  Patent Document 2 discloses an invention related to a mobile communication terminal such as a mobile phone that implements a chat function using electronic mail. In the invention described in Patent Document 2, members who participate in chat are registered in advance in association with member images. By doing so, the text of the chat mail is displayed as a chat message along with the member images mp1 to mp4 in the chat screen D1 in chronological order. The chat screen D1 is a display screen in a liquid crystal display device mounted on the mobile phone 1.

  Patent Document 3 describes an invention related to an information processing apparatus in which a virtual life object (avatar), which is a user's alternation, and a chat text are associated in a virtual space. In the invention described in Patent Document 3, a speech data display area 151 is provided in the screen of the world screen 140 as a virtual space, a speech bubble is displayed at a position corresponding to the avatar, and the chat text is included therein. Display.

JP 2007-166189 A JP 2005-18423 A JP 2000-99225 A

In the invention described in Patent Document 1, since both the sender and the message are displayed in characters, in order to understand who the sender of the message is and what the contents are. It is necessary to read all characters. However, in the invention described in Patent Document 1, since messages are displayed in chronological order, if one user sends a message over and over again, for other users, not only the message but also the name of the user Even people are not displayed, and the presence of people who do not speak fades away. In addition, since the displayed information is only arranged in time series as rows, it is mechanical and poor in change.
Furthermore, in the invention described in Patent Document 1, although the user's position is displayed on the position display screen, the map information display screen and the transmission / reception display screen are arranged substantially equally above and below the display unit of the terminal. Therefore, the display area of the display unit cannot be fully utilized.
Moreover, although position information is displayed, there is no other information, and it was impossible to enjoy conversation other than text messages to be transmitted and received.

Since the invention described in Patent Document 2 displays a caller's image taken in advance, it is possible to easily determine who the message sender is. However, even in the invention described in Patent Document 2, since messages are displayed in time series, if one member sends a message over and over again, other members are members of that member as well as messages. Even images are not displayed, and the presence of non-speaking members fades away.
Furthermore, even in the invention described in Patent Document 2, a message to be transmitted / received is merely a line of a character string, and it is mechanical and devoid of personality. There wasn't.

  The invention described in Patent Document 3 is a game machine, and the game itself is realized by user participation. Therefore, the avatar moves according to the game rules, and does not provide a sense of unity and unity as a group, for example.

The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and an object thereof is to provide a program, a method, and an electronic apparatus that can display information particularly suitable for a small screen. In addition, when chat conversations using text data, an atmosphere is created in which people who are not speaking but who are not speaking can create an atmosphere that exists in the circle of conversation, and everyone is enjoying the conversation. It is an object to provide a program, a method, and an electronic device for creating messages and exchanging messages happily.
In addition, for example, when working together in a group such as touring in a car or motorcycle, a program, method, and electronic device that can create an atmosphere in which the group can feel a sense of unity, group, and unity as a community. The purpose is to provide.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a program, a method, and an electronic device that can provide a user with map information that can make use of the position of the own device and the position information of other devices that are transmitted and received.
In addition, the chat display on the map display screen where messages can be exchanged while checking the position of the own aircraft and other aircraft on the road map that is currently running, and those who do not speak when talking in chat format By creating an atmosphere that exists within the circle, creating an atmosphere where everyone enjoys conversations, and exchanging messages happily, users can switch between full-screen chat display and time An object of the present invention is to provide a program, a method, and an electronic device that provide a screen display suitable for a place, a case, and the like.
When there is a low demand for confirming the position of the aircraft and other aircraft on the road map that is currently running, such as touring with a car or motorcycle, for example, when performing certain actions together in a group, It is an object of the present invention to provide a program, a method, and an electronic device capable of switching to a chat display that can create an atmosphere in which a sense of unity as a community can be enjoyed.

  (1) An electronic device (for example, an electronic device 2 described later) including a display unit (for example, a display unit 11 described later) and a wireless communication unit (for example, a wireless communication unit 20 described later) displays information on the display unit. A display in which the electronic device displays information including user information related to a sender transmitted / received via the wireless communication unit and message information that the sender wants to convey to a communication partner on the display unit The display control step includes a first display region (for example, a first display region 111 described later) including a central portion of the display unit in the display unit, and a first display region. A second display area (for example, a second display area 112 to be described later) located in the periphery, and either the first display area or the second display area via the wireless communication unit. Sent and received How to display the owner information, includes a first display mode control step of displaying the message information to the other display region of the first display area and the second display area.

  According to the method of (1), by arranging the information divided into the central display part and its periphery, the message area to be transmitted and received can be imaged as a shared part, or the gathering feeling of the sender and receiver can be produced. An atmosphere where the sender and receiver enjoy a common conversation can be produced, and a chat conversation can be enjoyed.

  (2) In the first display mode control step, the message information is further displayed by a message icon or an in-frame character display, user information about the sender is displayed by a user icon, and the wireless communication unit (for example, described later) Communication connection between a plurality of users including itself via the wireless communication unit 20) and displaying a plurality of the user information or the message information in the second display area (for example, the second display area 112 described later). Allocating the user information or the message information to be displayed second or later based on the number of users including the user connected to the communication based on the arrangement of the user information or the message information displayed first. The method according to (1), characterized in that:

  According to the method (2), information can be effectively expressed by a display unit having a limited area by displaying message icons and user icons. Furthermore, since the arrangement positions of the message icon and the user icon are allocated based on the number of communication connections, the screen is organized, and it is easy to grasp information intuitively. Moreover, a pleasant atmosphere can be produced. Furthermore, since the arrangement positions of the message icon and the user icon change according to the increase / decrease in the number of communication connections, it can be easily understood that the screen has changed greatly and the number of communication connections has increased or decreased.

  (3) The first display mode control step further displays the second display area (for example, a second display area 112 described later) in at least an arc / U shape, preferably a circumferential shape, and the wireless communication. When a plurality of users including himself / herself are connected via a communication unit (for example, a wireless communication unit 20 to be described later) and a plurality of the user information or the message information are displayed in the second display area, the first displayed Based on the arrangement of user information or the message information, the arrangement of the user information or the message information displayed after the second is divided and allocated by the number of users including the communication-connected users. The method according to (2).

  According to the method (3), the arrangement of the central shared portion and the individual information surrounding the shared portion can produce an atmosphere in which the sender / receiver enjoys a common conversation and can enjoy a chat conversation.

  (4) In the first display mode control step, the second display area (for example, a second display area 112 to be described later) is divided and set in an arbitrary displayable number in advance, and the wireless communication unit (for example, In the case where a plurality of users including himself / herself are connected via a wireless communication unit 20) to be described later and a plurality of the user information or the message information is displayed in the second display area, the user displayed second or later The method according to (2), wherein the information or the arrangement of the message information is allocated to the second display area that is set to be divided.

  According to the method (4), since the arrangement pattern of the message icon and the user icon is determined in advance (the displayed position is fixed), the screen is arranged regardless of the connection, and the information can be grasped intuitively. easy. Also, even when new members participate in the chat, the new members will naturally create an atmosphere to join in the circle of conversation, create an atmosphere that everyone enjoys the conversation, and exchange messages happily be able to.

  (5) The display control step further displays map information on a central portion of the display unit based on the position information of the own device on the display unit (for example, a display unit 11 described later), and the own device and the communication A second display mode control step for displaying the current position of the other device of the connection partner, and a display mode switching step for switching between the first display mode control step and the second display mode control step in response to an instruction from the user. And the method according to any one of (1) to (4).

  According to the method of (5), since the first display mode control step and the second display mode control step can be switched, the display of map information and the display of message information to be transmitted / received are switched in any case. Can be displayed at the center of the display screen, the visibility is good and the information can be easily grasped. Further, for example, when the request for displaying the position of the own vehicle is low like a passenger in a car, the request for displaying the position of the own device is performed so as to execute the second display mode control step when the request for the position display is low. If it is high, it is possible to select according to time, place, case, etc. so as to execute the second display mode control step in which the positions of the own machine and the other machine on the currently running road map can be confirmed.

  (6) In the second display mode control step, map information is further displayed in a central part of the display unit (for example, a display unit 11 described later), and the user information and the message are displayed in a peripheral part of the display unit. Information is displayed, The method as described in (5) characterized by the above-mentioned.

  According to the method (6), information to be transmitted / received can be confirmed while map information is mainly displayed, the visibility is good, and the information can be easily grasped. In addition, the enjoyment of conversation can be continued.

  (7) In the second display mode control step, a widget (for example, a second button widget 114B to be described later) that can be slid in / out is further provided on a peripheral portion of the display unit (for example, a display unit 11 to be described later). The method according to (6), wherein the user information and the message information are selectively displayed by the widget.

  According to the method of (7), when it is not necessary to confirm the information including the user information about the sender and the message information that the sender wants to convey to the communication partner, the widget is slid out and hidden. The occupied area by the display of the information can be reduced, and the grasp of the map information is improved.

  (8) The second display mode control step further displays at least a part of user information relating to the sender and message information that the sender wants to convey to a communication partner by using an icon (6) or The method according to (7).

  According to the method (8), it is possible to suppress the occupied area in the display unit of the user information related to the sender and the message information that the sender wants to convey to the communication partner, the visibility is good, and the information is easily grasped. In addition, there is an effect that the enjoyment of conversation can be produced.

  (9) The method according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein the wireless communication unit (for example, a wireless communication unit 20 described later) performs direct wireless communication.

According to the method (9), since direct wireless communication is used, there is an effect that the communication cost is not increased or is reduced.

  (10) (1) to (1) to a computer of an electronic device (for example, an electronic device 2 described later) including a display unit (for example, a display unit 11 described later) and a wireless communication unit (for example, a wireless communication unit 20 described later). A computer program for executing each step of the method according to any one of 9).

  According to the program (10), the same effects as the methods (1) to (9) are obtained.

  (11) User information regarding a display unit (for example, a display unit 11 described later), a wireless communication unit (for example, a wireless communication unit 20 described later), and a sender transmitted to and received from the display unit via the wireless communication unit. And a display control unit (for example, a display control unit 43 described later) that displays information including message information that the sender wants to convey to the communication partner. The display control unit includes a first display region (for example, a first display region 111 described later) including a central portion of the display unit in the display unit, and a second display region positioned around the first display region. (For example, a second display area 112 described later), and displays user information transmitted and received via the wireless communication unit in one of the first display area and the second display area. , The first display area and An electronic device including a first display mode control unit for displaying the message information to the other display region of the serial second display area (e.g., the first display mode control section 431 to be described later).

  According to the electronic device of (11), the same effect as the method of (1) is produced.

  (12) The display control unit (for example, a display control unit 43 to be described later) further maps the display unit (for example, the display unit 11 to be described later) to the central portion of the display unit based on the position information of the own device. A second display mode control unit that displays information and displays the current position of the own device and the other device of the communication connection partner, and in response to an instruction from the user, the first display mode control unit (for example, described later) A display mode switching unit (for example, a display mode switching unit 433 described later) that switches between a display by the first display mode control unit 431) and a display by the second display mode control unit (for example, second display mode control unit 432 described later). The electronic device according to (11) (for example, an electronic device 2 described later).

  According to the electronic device of (12), the same effect as the method of (5) can be obtained.

According to the present invention, when a chat-type conversation based on character data is made, an atmosphere that exists in a circle of conversation is created for those who do not speak, creating an atmosphere that everyone is enjoying the conversation, and a fun message Can be exchanged.
In addition, according to the present invention, when performing certain actions together in a group such as touring in a car or motorcycle, for example, it is possible to create an atmosphere where the group can feel a sense of unity, group feeling, and unity as a community.
In addition, according to the present invention, since the first display mode and the second display mode can be switched, it is possible to display at the center of the display screen by switching both map information and information to be transmitted / received. , Making it easier to grasp information. Furthermore, for example, when the request for displaying the position of the aircraft is low, such as a passenger in a car, the message area to be transmitted / received can be imaged as a shared part, and a feeling of gathering of the sender / receiver can be produced. The first display mode in which a chat conversation is enjoyed. When the request for displaying the position of the own device is high, such as a car driver, the position of the own device and the other device on the road map on which the vehicle is currently traveling can be confirmed. Two display modes can be selected according to time, place, case, and the like.

It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of the electronic device 2 of 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the data structure which the memory | storage part 32 of 1st Embodiment memorize | stores. It is a figure which shows the example of a message icon. It is a figure which shows the example of a display in the display part 11 of the electronic device 2 of 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a display which displayed the button widget 114 on the display part 11 of the electronic device 2 of 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the operation example which slides in / out the button widget 114 on the display part 11 of the electronic device 2 of 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the relative position display area 115 displayed on the display part 11 of the electronic device 2 of 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a display by which a user icon is dynamically added and arrange | positioned to the 2nd display area 112 when there exists a connection of a new mobile apparatus with respect to the electronic device 2 of 1st Embodiment. When the electronic device 2 of 1st Embodiment receives a message, it is a figure which shows the example of a display in the 1st display area 111 of the said message. When the electronic device 2 of 1st Embodiment receives a text message, it is a figure which shows the example of a display in the 1st display area 111 of the said text message. It is a figure which shows the example of a screen transition in case the electronic device 2 of 1st Embodiment transmits a message. It is a figure which shows the example of a screen transition in case the electronic device 2 of 1st Embodiment transmits a voice mail. It is a figure which shows the example of a display in the display part 11 of the electronic device 2 of 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the relative position display area 115 displayed on the display part 11 of the electronic device 2 of 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the preceding vehicle displayed on the relative position display area 115 of 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the opposing vehicle displayed on the relative position display area 115 of 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the following vehicle displayed on the relative position display area 115 of 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the right front vehicle displayed on the relative position display area 115 of 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the left front vehicle displayed on the relative position display area 115 of 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a 2 lane display of the relative position display area 115 of 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the oncoming vehicle in the opposite lane of 2 lanes of the relative position display area 115 of 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a display which transfers to a several mobile apparatus list display screen by tapping the relative position display area 115 displayed on the display part 11 of the electronic device 2 of 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning display based on the relative distance of the user icon in the 2nd display area 112 of 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of the electronic device 2 of 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of the 2nd display (map display) in 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a display which displayed the 2nd button widget 114B on the 2nd display (map display) in 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows another example of a display which displayed the 2nd button widget 114B on the 2nd display (map display) in 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the operation example which slides in / out the 2nd button widget 114B to the 2nd display (map display) in 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure showing an example of operation concerning change of the 2nd display (map display) and the 1st display (full screen display) in a 2nd embodiment. In the 2nd display (map display) in 2nd Embodiment, when a new mobile device is connected, it is a figure which shows the example of a display in which a member icon is dynamically added and arranged on a map display. In the 2nd display (map display) in 2nd Embodiment, when the connected mobile device detaches, it is a figure showing an example where a member icon is not displayed on a map display. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the said text message, when a text message is received in the 2nd display (map display) in 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a screen transition in the case of transmitting a message in the 2nd display (map display) in 2nd Embodiment.

[First Embodiment]
Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of an electronic apparatus of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, an electronic apparatus according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[Functional Configuration of Electronic Device According to First Embodiment]
The vehicle etc. which concern on 1st Embodiment mean the own vehicle 1 which moves on a road, and another vehicle, a motorcycle, a bicycle, a pedestrian, a boat, etc.
Note that an electronic device (hereinafter also referred to as “mobile device”) provided in (or having, or inside) a vehicle or the like is provided with an identification ID for uniquely identifying the electronic device. With the ID, it is possible to identify whether the electronic device is equipped with a vehicle, a motorcycle, a boat, a bicycle, a pedestrian vehicle, or the like.

  The electronic device 2 according to the first embodiment includes an in-vehicle navigation device, a navigation device including a PND (Personal Navigation Device), a portable terminal device such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a PDA, a notebook computer, a mobile phone, and other wireless communication functions. Including portable electronic devices. In particular, it is suitable for an electronic device having a small screen display with a screen size of 10 inches or less, particularly 7 inches or less. However, the present invention can also be applied to an electronic device including a display having a screen size of 10 inches or more.

With reference to FIG. 1, the functional configuration of the electronic apparatus 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an electronic device 2 included in a vehicle or the like according to the first embodiment.
The electronic device 2 carried by the vehicle or the like according to the first embodiment (hereinafter, also referred to as “mobile device” or simply “own device” unless otherwise specified) includes a control unit 40, a radio communication unit 20, and GPS reception. And a GPS processing unit 31, a storage unit 32, a display unit 11, a speaker 12, a microphone 13, an operation unit 14, and a camera 15, and is brought into a moving means such as a vehicle.

<Message exchange>
Standard (and fixed form) text messages exchanged between the aircraft and other electronic devices carried by the vehicle (unless otherwise specified, also referred to as “other mobile devices” or simply “other devices”) As an example, when a group member is touring with multiple cars, he / she interacts with his / her car in real time. And a response message such as “OK”, and a response message such as “Thank you” that expresses gratitude for the response of the other party, and a proposal message such as a change of the destination in the group Response messages to
In addition, for example, a greeting such as "Hello" from the oncoming vehicle or the like, there is a fixed form (and non-standard-size) statement message is related to the previous traffic hazard that can not be seen.
In addition, for example, there is a fixed (and fixed) text message such as a pedestrian presence notification and a notification of crossing the road (for example, a fixed (and fixed) text message such as “I will cross”) at an intersection or the like.

  Note that messages exchanged between the own device and the other device may include, for example, messages such as camera images, text messages, and voice mails in addition to fixed (and fixed) text messages. Camera images, text messages, etc. can be displayed in the frame.

  Messages exchanged between the own device and other devices include identification information for uniquely identifying the own device and other mobile devices, GPS information, time information, and sender (user) in addition to message information Profile information (also referred to as “user information”), information type, information urgency, and information importance. Here, the profile information related to the caller (user) is also called caller (user) identification information (also called “member information” or “personal information”) and caller (user) attribute information (also called “unit information”). ) And the like. When the caller is in a vehicle, the vehicle type information of the vehicle can be included.

[Attribute information (unit information)]
The attribute information (unit information) of the sender (user) is information indicating which group the sender (user) belongs to. An example of sender (user) attribute information (unit information) is a vehicle on which the sender (user) rides.
For example, when a plurality of users share a plurality of vehicles and go out for touring, the user's attribute information (unit information) is set to the vehicle on which the user is boarded, and when chatting at the time of touring, It becomes possible to organize and display based on the vehicle on which the sender (speaker) is on board. In addition to the information of “who is the sender (speaker)”, the sender (speaker) It is possible to intuitively grasp which vehicle is on board. By doing so, it is easy to imagine the situation of the sender (speaker) at the time of chatting, and it can help to understand the received message information.
The attribute information (unit information) is not limited to the vehicle. For example, when touring with a plurality of families, each “family” can be used as unit information. Further, when a plurality of groups having different final destinations are touring, the “final destination” can be used as unit information. In this way, the unit information can be set according to time, place, situation, etc. when grouping a plurality of senders.
Hereinafter, the information is collectively referred to as “communication information” unless otherwise specified.

  In the case of transmission / reception with other mobile devices, the wireless communication unit 20 performs, for example, WiFi direct communication capable of one-to-N communication and one-to-one communication, and in the case of transmission / reception with a server, for example, a WiFi access point connection. Alternatively, a plurality of communication protocols can be implemented so that 3G / LTE (3rd Generation / Long Term Evolution) communication can be performed.

  By WiFi direct communication, the own device can directly perform wireless communication with other mobile devices in the vicinity within a communicable area separated by, for example, about 100 m. Also, wireless communication can be performed with other mobile devices in the communicable area of the mobile device, using the mobile device in the communicable area as an access point. By doing so, for example, the own device can expand the communicable area.

  Further, the device itself is configured to be able to perform wireless communication with a server such as a VICS (registered trademark) center or a navigation server through WiFi access point connection or 3G / LTE. The wireless communication unit 20 can receive data such as map information and traffic jam information from such a server.

  Note that the communication protocol included in the wireless communication unit 20 is not limited to WiFi direct communication, WiFi access point connection, or 3G / LTE. The wireless communication unit 20 may include a communication protocol capable of one-to-one communication and one-to-N communication for directly transmitting / receiving to / from other mobile devices, and a communication protocol for transmitting / receiving to / from a server or the like.

  The wireless communication unit 20 includes an information reception unit 21 that receives communication information from another mobile device, and an information transmission unit 22 that transmits communication information from the own device to the other mobile device.

  The GPS processing unit 31 receives radio waves including positioning data including the latitude and longitude of the current location from a plurality of GPS satellites via a GPS receiver (not shown), and the positioning data and a map of the road that is currently running. Based on the information, the current position of the aircraft is calculated.

<Display section>
The display unit 11 is configured by a liquid crystal display or the like provided on the front surface of the main body of the electronic device 2 such as a smartphone, and displays various icons representing communication information to the user by the display control unit 43 described later. Can do.
Next, how various types of information are displayed on the display unit 11 using icons will be described. Note that display on the display unit 11 described below is controlled by a display control unit 43 described later.

[Message icon]
Contact information within friends, such as standard (and regular) text messages, for example, “restroom break”, “coffee time”, “convenience store”, “break” suggestion message, response message such as “OK” to the proposal message, message to convey the gratitude of "thank you", and the like to convey the gratitude for the support of the other party, greeting such as "Hello", "traffic hazard information" such as a plurality of the standard (and non-standard-size, such as "ahead congestion" ) By associating a text message with an icon (hereinafter also referred to as a “message icon”) expressed as a message symbol, the display of the standard (and regular) text message received via the wireless communication unit 20 is, for example, illustrated in FIG. As shown as a message icon 501 in 4A, it can be simplified. An example of the message icon is shown in FIG.
In addition, messages exchanged between the own device and other devices can include messages such as camera images, text messages, and voice mails, for example. In this case, the camera image, text message, etc. can be displayed in a fixed frame image or character in a frame that is predetermined in size.

[Effect of message icon]
By doing so, for example, the following effects can be achieved.
(1) If the text message is displayed as it is, it will not be intuitively grasped, but it can be understood intuitively because it is graphic or graphic.
(2) When a character message is displayed as it is, the covering area protrudes toward the center of the screen. However, in the case of an icon-represented message, it can be set to a certain size, so that the protrusion can be suppressed accordingly.
(3) Prepare the message icon as a template common to the sender and receiver, store it in each machine, and use the identification information instead of the image data itself for the communication data. By calling up and displaying the data stored in (2), the transmitted / received data can be reduced by that amount, which is convenient in communication, particularly short-distance wireless direct communication.

[Member icon]
For example, as shown in FIG. 4A, when the identification information of the sender (user) participating in the chat is expressed on the display unit 11 as a character, the character is referred to as a member icon 502. The mobile device used by the sender can be represented by a member icon representing the sender.
Hereinafter, the member icon will be described using the user's face as an example unless otherwise specified, but the member information is not limited to the user's face. For example, a car picture may be used as a member icon.

[Unit icon]
When the attribute information (unit information) of the sender (user) participating in the chat is expressed on the display unit 11 as a character, the character is referred to as a unit icon. For example, when the attribute information (unit information) of the sender is used as a vehicle, it can be expressed by a unit icon representing the vehicle. In the present embodiment, a unit icon representing a vehicle will be described as an example.
Thus, of the user information of the sender (user), the user identification information (“member information”) is expressed by the member icon, and the user attribute information (“unit information”) is expressed by the unit icon. Can do.

Hereinafter, both the member icon and the unit icon are also referred to as user icons. In other words, the user icon indicates either a member icon or a unit icon.
User icons (member icons and unit icons) can be registered in advance using a setting screen displayed by pressing a setting button 1142 described later. The user can set a user icon by using a template created in advance. It can also be created by the user.
When the user registers a person's face as the member icon, the display unit 11 displays the person's face registered as the member icon. When the user registers a car as a unit icon, the display unit 11 displays the car registered as a unit icon.

  The user icon corresponding to the mobile device that is the message transmission source and the message icon corresponding to the message can be displayed in association with each other by a balloon 504 as shown in FIG. 4A, for example.

[full screen]
Next, an arrangement pattern for displaying message icons and user icons on the display unit 11 will be described.
In the present embodiment, when a chat is performed, a user icon and a message icon are displayed using the full screen of the display unit 11. The display form will be described below.
In FIGS. 4A to 4I and the like exemplified below, member icons are displayed as user icons. However, the present invention is not limited only to member icons.
For example, as shown in FIG. 4J, for users belonging to a unit group, unit icons 503 can be displayed as user icons instead of individual member icons.
More specifically, it can be set and registered in advance by the information setting unit 44, which will be described later, whether a member icon or a unit icon is displayed as the user icon of the sender on the receiving side.
On the transmission side, either the member icon or the unit icon can be transmitted as the user icon of the sender, or both of the icons can be transmitted, or the information setting unit 44 described later can be set and registered in advance. For example, when only the member icon or the unit icon is transmitted as the user icon of the sender on the transmission side, either the member icon or the unit icon transmitted as the user icon of the sender is displayed on the reception side. be able to. Further, when both icons are transmitted on the transmission side, it is possible to determine which of the member icon or the unit icon is displayed as the user icon of the sender by setting on the reception side.
When displaying the unit icon and the member icon, for example, the background color of the unit icon and / or the color of the outer periphery of the icon is set to a color different from that of the member icon.

[First display area]
As shown in FIG. 4A, a message icon corresponding to a fixed form (and fixed form) message received via the wireless communication unit 20 is provided, for example, in the center of the display unit 11 by a first display mode control unit 431 described later. For example, it is displayed in a circular area (hereinafter also referred to as “first display area 111”). The message icon can be appropriately sized when displayed on the screen. The first display area 111 is not limited to the area surrounded by the circle provided at the center on the display unit 11, and the first display area 111 is set as an arbitrary area including the central part on the display unit 11. Can do.

[Second display area]
As shown in FIG. 4A, user icons corresponding to other mobile devices that are currently communicable are, for example, a circular band-shaped display area (hereinafter referred to as “second display”) provided around the first display area 111 on the display unit 11. Display area 112 ”).
Note that the second display area 112 is not limited to a circular band-shaped display area. For example, the display area may be an arc, a U-shape or a circumference. Further, a square or tile icon may be arranged around the first display area 111.
In the second display area 112, a user icon corresponding to a user who is communicating using the own device (hereinafter, also referred to as “user icon corresponding to the own device”) may be displayed. In this case, the user icon corresponding to the user's own device is distinguished from the user icon corresponding to the user communicating with another mobile device (hereinafter also referred to as “user icon corresponding to another mobile device”). In order to do this, as shown in FIG. 4A, a user icon corresponding to the own device can be displayed at a predetermined location in the second display area 112 (for example, at the center left end of the second display area 112). The predetermined location is not limited to the center left end of the second display area 112. An information setting unit 44 described later can set an arbitrary position in the first display area 111.

A plurality of user icons corresponding to mobile devices participating in the chat (that is, currently in a communicable state) are provided in the second display area 112 with a predetermined interval by a first display mode control unit 431 described later. Can be placed on top.
For example, if the number of currently displayed user icons is n (> 1), the second display area 112 is divided into n areas at equal intervals by θ1 shown in Expression (1). Can be arranged.
θ1 = 360 degrees / n (Formula 1)

  In this case, as will be described later, in response to the establishment of the communication connection with the new mobile device via the wireless communication unit 20 by the first display mode control unit 431, for example, the second display region 112, for example. User icons corresponding to all mobile devices participating in the chat including user icons corresponding to new mobile devices are dynamically rearranged on the second display area 112 with a predetermined interval. be able to.

As another modification, the first display mode control unit 431 provides a predetermined interval in the second display area 112 so that a predetermined number (for example, M) of user icons can be arranged in advance. Prepare a place.
For example, by dividing the second display area 112 into M areas at an angle θ2 shown in (Expression 2), the second display area 112 can be arranged in a display area (screen position) determined in the order of connection.
θ2 = 360 degrees / M (Formula 2)
Note that the area to be divided and set is not limited to an arc, a U-shape, and a circumferential shape, but may be arranged in a tile shape.

  In this case, as will be described later, the first display mode control unit 431 vacates the second display area 112 in response to the establishment of a communication connection with a new mobile device via the wireless communication unit 20. A user icon corresponding to a new mobile device can be additionally arranged in the displayed area (screen position). By intentionally displaying “free” in this way, it can be clearly shown that there is no connection. For example, it can be intuitively understood that there is an allowable remaining number of connections or that there is a situation in which there is a partner who is disconnected once connected.

[Association between message icon and user icon]
As shown in FIG. 4A, for example, a user icon corresponding to a mobile device that is a message transmission source is displayed in the second display area 112, and a message icon corresponding to the message is displayed as a user icon in the first display area 111. It can be displayed in association with a balloon.

  By arranging user icons corresponding to all mobile devices participating in the chat (that is, currently in a communicable state) at a predetermined interval on the second display area 112, a chat-type conversation can be performed. When doing so, people who do not speak can create an atmosphere that exists in the circle of conversation, create an atmosphere that everyone enjoys conversation, and exchange messages happily. In addition, when performing certain actions together in a group, it is possible to create an atmosphere where the group can feel a sense of unity, group feeling, and unity as a community.

  In the above embodiment, a message icon is displayed in the first display area 111 provided in the center of the display unit 11, and the member icon is displayed in the second display area 112 provided around the first display area 111. However, the display location of the message icon and the user icon is not limited to the above. A user icon may be displayed in the first display area 111 and a message icon may be displayed in the second display area 112.

[List of selectable message icons]
As shown in FIG. 4A, for example, a message icon corresponding to a selectable fixed-form (and fixed-form) sentence message in a predetermined display area (hereinafter also referred to as “third display area 113”) provided on the lower portion of the display unit Can be displayed. The icon has a button function for selection and transmission. As will be described later, when the user transmits a standard (and regular) text message to the mobile device participating in the chat, the icon is displayed in the third display area 113. By selecting a message icon corresponding to the message to be transmitted from the list of the plurality of message icons, the message processing unit 45 described later can easily transmit the fixed form (and fixed form) message. .

  As shown in FIG. 4A, a button for selecting a message category (for example, convoy, traffic obstruction, etc.) is displayed at the top of the third display area 113, and the message category display location is tapped, for example. When selected, a list of message icons corresponding to messages belonging to the category can be displayed in the lower part of the third display area 113. Note that a hidden message icon can be displayed by scrolling the lower part of the third display area 113 left and right by a swipe operation. The message can be selected by clicking or tapping the message icon. In this embodiment, transmission processing is performed.

As another modification, the message icon can be displayed in two stages. In that case, one of the two levels can be set to a fixed format in which predetermined message icons are arranged, and the other can be set to a variable format that can be switched (scrolled) by flipping or the like. The operability can be improved by allocating a frequently used message or a message that can respond to an immediate response request to the fixed stage.
Note that the message icon displayed in the third display area is usually displayed small. Therefore, when the third display area is provided on the lower side of the display unit 11, for example, the message icon can be enlarged and displayed by a flip operation from the bottom to the top.

Further, by long-pressing a message icon displayed in the third display area 113, a registration screen for registering arbitrary content in the icon can be displayed.
The arrangement of the third display region 113 is not limited to the lower side on the display unit 11, and may be arranged at a predetermined position, such as the upper side on the display unit 11.
Further, when displaying the message icon in two stages, one may be arranged separately, for example, on the upper side of the display unit 11 and the other on the lower side of the display unit 11.

[Button widget]
As shown in FIG. 4B, a widget having various operation buttons (hereinafter also referred to as “button widget 114”) can be displayed on the display unit 11, for example, on the left side.
Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 4C, the button widget 114 can be slid in / out on the display unit 11 by a swipe operation (an operation of sliding the finger while the finger is touching the screen). Specifically, in a state where the button widget 114 is not displayed on the display unit 11, the button widget 114 is slid in the left side of the display unit 11 by sliding the finger to the display unit 11 and then sliding it to the right. Is done. Further, in a state where the button widget 114 is displayed on the display unit 11, the button widget 114 is slid out from the left side of the display unit 11 by causing the finger to contact the display unit 11 and sliding leftward.
Note that the slide-in / slide-out of the button widget 114 may be valid only in the case of a multi-touch slide operation, and may be invalid in the case of a single-touch slide operation.

  The button widget 114 includes a convoy button 1141, a setting button 1142, a voice mail button 1143, a camera image button 1144, a text button 1145, and the like.

The setting button 1142 is a button for displaying a setting screen for setting user profile information (user information) and the like. By pressing the setting button 1142, a setting screen is displayed on the display unit 11. For example, the vehicle type information of the own vehicle, user identification information (“member information”), and user attribute information (“unit information”) , Setting of greeting messages, etc. can be appropriately made according to time, place, situation and the like. As described above, a preset template can be used for setting. It can also be created by the user.
For example, one's own face photo (or picture) can be set as a member icon, and a car photo (or picture) can be set as a unit icon.
Further, when the received message is displayed, for example, either the member information or the unit information is displayed in the second display area 112 (or the first display area 111), and the member information or the unit information is displayed in the relative position display area 115. Which is displayed can be selected and set on the receiving side.
Similarly, on the transmission side, either the member icon or the unit icon can be transmitted as the user icon of the sender, or both can be transmitted, or can be preset and registered.

  The voice mail button 1143 is a button for the user to create a voice mail. By pressing or touching the voice mail button 1143, the user can create a voice mail according to the guidance displayed on the display unit 11 (or guided by voice). After the voice mail is created, the created voice mail can be transmitted to the mobile device participating in the chat (that is, currently in a communicable state) by the message processing unit 45 described later.

  The camera image button 1144 is a button for the user to create an image message from the built-in camera. By pressing or touching the camera image button 1144, an image shooting mode is entered, and an image message can be created. After the image message is created, the created message can be transmitted to a mobile device participating in the chat (that is, currently in a communicable state) by a message processing unit 45 described later.

  The text button 1145 is a button for creating a text message. By pressing or touching the text button 1145, the user can edit the text and create a text message. After the text message is created, the created message message can be transmitted to a mobile device participating in the chat (that is, currently in a communicable state) by a message processing unit 45 described later.

[Button widget shape]
The button widget 114 preferably has a shape that becomes narrower in the vertical center of the display unit 11. By doing so, it is preferable not to disturb the display of the message icon and the member icon on the first display unit 111 and the second display unit 112.
In addition, the button widget 114 is configured to include, for example, a right button widget provided on the right side of the display unit 11 and a left button widget provided on the left side of the display unit 11, and the buttons included in the button widget 114 are displayed as right button widgets or It may be provided in any of the left button widgets.
For example, the right button widget includes a convoy button 1141 and a setting button 1142, and the left button widget includes a voice mail button 1143, a camera image button 1144, and the like. The area in the center without the button can be made large.
By doing so, it is possible to prevent the display of the message icon and the member icon on the first display unit 111 and the second display unit 112 in a wider range.
The right button widget can be slid in / out from the right side, and the left button widget can be slid in / out from the left side.

[Relative position display area]
As shown in FIG. 5A, for example, in the upper part of the display unit 11, a display area for displaying the relative position of the mobile device participating in the chat (that is, currently in a communicable state) with respect to the own device. (Hereinafter also referred to as “relative position display area 115”) is displayed.
The relative position display area 115 is displayed, for example, in a bar shape extending in the left-right direction of the display unit 11. In the relative position display area 115, for example, a user icon corresponding to the own apparatus is arranged at the left and right center, and The left side is assigned to the front of the machine in the direction of travel and the right side is assigned to the back of the direction of travel according to the corresponding user icon, and the user icon corresponding to the mobile device located in front of the machine is placed on the left side. The user icon corresponding to the mobile device located at can be arranged on the right side. By arranging icons with one side in front of the display area 115 and the other side in the rear, the relative position of the mobile device with respect to the own apparatus can be intuitively grasped.
As will be described later, a user icon corresponding to another mobile device may be displayed in the relative position display area 115 when connected to the own device or when communication information is received from another mobile device. However, the user icon corresponding to the own device can be displayed in the relative position display area 115 as appropriate after activation.

The arrangement position of the relative position display area 115 is not limited to the upper part on the display unit 11 and may be arranged at an arbitrary position such as the lower part on the display unit 11.
On the receiving side, it is possible to select and set which member icon or unit icon is displayed in the relative position display area 115 as a user icon corresponding to another mobile device.
A unit icon may be displayed as a default setting. If no unit icon is transmitted, a member icon is displayed.

For example, FIG. 4A and the like describe an example in which a member icon is displayed in the relative position display area 115 as a user icon corresponding to another mobile device, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, FIG. 5A to FIG. 5I illustrate a case where the unit icon is set in advance to be displayed in the relative position display area 115. By setting in this way, a unit icon (for example, a car) can be displayed.
When the transmission side is transmitting member information and unit information, in the relative position display area 115, which of the member icon or the unit icon is displayed as a user icon in the relative position display area 115 is selected and set. If selected, the selected icon is displayed. If the selected icon is not set, unit information is displayed as a default. When unit information is not transmitted, member information is displayed.
On the receiving side, it can be set by selecting with the setting button 1142 whether to display member information or unit information.

When the relative position calculation unit 41 described later receives a connection request, a connection confirmation response, or communication information, a reception response, etc. from a mobile device participating in the chat, the relative position calculation unit 41 outputs the connection request, the connection confirmation response, the communication information, etc. Based on the included GPS information including latitude and longitude, and the GPS information of the own device, the relative position of the mobile device with respect to the own device, for example, the relative distance between the mobile device and the own device, the movement with respect to the own device The front / rear position of the device and the moving direction of the moving device relative to the direction of movement of the aircraft (e.g., forward in the same lane, backward in the same lane, forward in the opposite lane, backward in the opposite lane, forward right direction, forward left direction, backward right direction , Rear left direction, etc.) and the like can be calculated.
Next, how to display the relative position will be described with reference to FIGS. 5A to 5I. Note that a case where the unit icon is set to be displayed in the relative position display area 115 is illustrated. In the case where the member icon is set to be displayed in the relative position display area 115, a human face is displayed instead of the car pattern.

[Relative distance bar]
For example, as shown in FIG. 5A, when connecting to another mobile device or receiving communication information from another mobile device, a user icon corresponding to the other mobile device is displayed, and the other mobile device is displayed. The relative distance between the device and the device itself is displayed by a bar proportional to the distance in the relative distance bar display area 1 and the relative distance bar display area 2 provided in the relative position display area 115 (hereinafter also referred to as “relative distance bar”). can do. Here, the relative distance bar display area 1 and the relative distance bar display area 2 represent the relative distance to other mobile devices that board the preceding vehicle and the relative distance to other mobile devices that board the subsequent vehicle, respectively. . By doing so, it is possible to intuitively display the relative distance and the front-rear relationship between another mobile device and the own device.

[Context]
5B to 5D, the relative distance between the other mobile device and its own device and the relative front and rear positions when connecting to the other mobile device on the preceding vehicle or the oncoming vehicle or when receiving communication information. An example in which the relationship is displayed by the relative position display area 115 is shown.
As shown in FIG. 5B, when displaying a relative distance to another mobile device when connected to another mobile device boarding the preceding vehicle or receiving communication information, a user icon corresponding to the own device is displayed. The relative distance bar display area 1 can be displayed larger, and the relative distance bar display area 2 can be hidden or shortened by dynamically moving the display unit 11 from the horizontal center to the right.
At this time, in order to indicate the same moving direction as that of the own device with respect to the traveling direction of the other mobile device, an arrow directed to the left side can be displayed simultaneously. For example, when the user icon is a picture on the side of a vehicle or the like whose traveling direction is known, the direction of the user icon corresponding to the other mobile device can be displayed in the same direction as the own device.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 5C, when displaying a relative distance from another mobile device when connected to another mobile device on board the oncoming vehicle or when receiving communication information, it corresponds to the own device. The user icon is dynamically moved from the center in the left-right direction to the right to display the relative distance bar display area 1 in a larger size, and the relative distance bar display area 2 can be hidden or shortened. .
At that time, an arrow directed to the right side can be displayed at the same time in order to show that the traveling direction of the other mobile device is directed in the opposite direction to the own device. In addition, for example, when the user icon is a pattern on the side of a vehicle or the like in which the traveling direction is known, the user icon corresponding to the other mobile device can be displayed so as to face in the opposite direction to the own device.

On the contrary, as shown in FIG. 5D, when displaying the relative distance to other mobile devices when connecting to other mobile devices on the following vehicle or receiving communication information, etc. The user icon is dynamically moved from the center in the left-right direction to the left to display the relative distance bar display area 2 in a larger size, and the relative distance bar display area 1 can be hidden or shortened. .
At this time, in order to indicate the same moving direction as that of the own device with respect to the traveling direction of the other mobile device, an arrow directed to the left side can be displayed simultaneously. For example, when the user icon is a picture on the side of a vehicle or the like whose traveling direction is known, the direction of the user icon corresponding to the other mobile device can be displayed in the same direction as the own device.

Although not shown in the figure, the relative distance from the other mobile device when connected to another mobile device on the oncoming lane on the oncoming lane or behind the own aircraft or when receiving communication information. Is displayed, the user icon corresponding to the own device is dynamically moved from the center to the front, the relative distance bar display area 2 is displayed larger, and the relative distance bar display area 1 is not displayed or shortened. Can do.
At that time, an arrow directed to the right side can be displayed at the same time in order to show that the traveling direction of the other mobile device is directed in the opposite direction to the own device. For example, when the user icon is a vehicle, the direction of the user icon corresponding to the other mobile device can be displayed in the direction opposite to that of the own device.

  In addition, it corresponds to the color of the user icon corresponding to other mobile devices when other mobile devices are in the same lane as the own aircraft, and other mobile devices when other mobile devices are in the opposite lane of the own aircraft. You may distinguish and display whether it is in the same lane or an opposite lane by making the color of a user icon into a different color.

[Intersection left and right]
5E and 5F, the relative distance between the other mobile device and its own device when it is connected to another mobile device on the left or right front vehicle or when receiving communication information, etc. In addition, an example in which the relative position relationship between the left and right is displayed by the relative position display area 115 is shown.

As shown in FIG. 5E, when displaying a relative distance to another mobile device when connected to another mobile device riding in the right front vehicle or receiving communication information, the user icon corresponding to the own device Can be moved dynamically from the center in the left-right direction of the display unit 11 to the right to display the relative distance bar display area 1 in a larger size, and the relative distance bar display area 2 can be hidden or shortened.
At that time, an arrow pointing downward can be displayed at the same time in order to show that the moving direction of the other mobile device is located in the right front direction from the own device. For example, when the user icon is a vehicle, the user icon corresponding to the other mobile device can be displayed so as to face downward.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 5F, when displaying the relative distance to other mobile devices when connected to other mobile devices on the left front vehicle or when receiving communication information, etc. The user icon to be moved is dynamically moved from the horizontal center of the display unit 11 to the right to display the relative distance bar display area 1 in a larger size and to hide or shorten the relative distance bar display area 2. it can.
At this time, in order to show that the moving direction of the other mobile device is located in the left front direction from the own device, an arrow directed upward in the figure can be displayed at the same time. For example, when the user icon is a pattern on the side of a vehicle or the like whose traveling direction is known, the direction of the user icon corresponding to the other mobile device can be displayed so as to face upward in the drawing.

Although not shown, when displaying the relative distance to other mobile devices when connecting to other mobile devices on the right rear vehicle or left rear vehicle or receiving communication information, etc. The user icon to be moved is dynamically moved to the left from the center in the left-right direction of the display unit 11 so that the relative distance bar display area 2 is displayed larger, and the relative distance bar display area 1 can be hidden or shortened. .
At that time, in order to show that the moving direction of the other mobile device is located on the right rear side from the own device, an arrow directed downward in the figure can be displayed at the same time. Further, the user icon corresponding to the other mobile device can be displayed so as to face downward in the figure. For example, when the user icon is a picture on the side of a vehicle or the like whose traveling direction is known, when the user icon is located on the left rear side, the direction of the arrow and the user icon can be directed upward in the drawing.

Note that the color of the user icon corresponding to the mobile device when the other mobile device is located on the right front side from the own device and the user corresponding to the mobile device when the other mobile device is located on the left front side of the own device. By changing the color of the icon to a different color, it may be displayed by distinguishing whether it is located at the right front or left front.
When another mobile device is located at the right rear and the left rear from the own device, the user icon corresponding to the mobile device may be located at the right front by changing the color of the user icon to a different color, or You may distinguish and display whether it is located in the left front.

[Enlarged display when connected or received]
When connected to another mobile device or when receiving communication information from another mobile device, the other mobile device displayed in the relative position display area 115 for a predetermined time immediately after receiving a message, which will be described later. The user icon corresponding to can be emphasized by an enlarged display or the like.

[Overwrite display]
As described above, the relative position information of the other mobile device is displayed in the relative position display area 115 when connected to another mobile device or when communication information is received from another mobile device. Therefore, when connecting to a new mobile device or receiving communication information from another mobile device, the relative position information displayed most recently is replaced with the new mobile device or another mobile device. The relative position information of the mobile device is displayed with priority.
For mobile devices that are currently communicable, a user icon corresponding to the mobile device can be displayed in the relative position display area 115. That is, in the relative position display area 115, for example, a user icon corresponding to the own device is arranged in the center of the display unit 11 in the left-right direction, and the user icon corresponding to the mobile device positioned in front of the own device is displayed on the left side. The user icon corresponding to the mobile device located behind the own device can be arranged on the right side. In that case, the displayed user icon can be made small. By doing so, a plurality of user icons can be displayed. When the number of user icons that can be displayed is limited, it is preferable to prioritize a recently connected mobile device or a mobile device that has recently received communication information when displaying user icons.

[2-lane display]
As a modification, for example, as shown in FIG. 5G, a relative distance bar display area corresponding to each of the same lane and the opposite lane as the own aircraft can be provided in the relative position display area 115. By doing so, it is intuitive whether the aircraft is moving in the same lane, that is, in the same direction, or in the opposite lane, that is, moving in the opposite direction. Can be displayed.
In the case of two lane display, for example, as shown in FIG. 5H, the display method of the distance bar in the relative distance bar display area corresponding to the same lane of the own device and the user icon corresponding to other mobile devices located in the same lane As described above, the display method of the distance bar in the relative distance bar display area corresponding to the opposite lane of the aircraft and the display of the user icon corresponding to other mobile devices located in the opposite lane are described above. This is basically the same as the display method when a relative distance bar display area relating to one lane is provided in the relative position display area 115, and a description thereof will be omitted.

[List of relative position information]
The relative position display area 115 normally displays the relative position information of the most recently connected mobile device or the mobile device that has transmitted communication information most recently.
In order to display the position information of all mobile devices, as shown in FIG. 5I or FIG. 4D, for example, by tapping an area in the relative position display area 115, the user participates in the chat (that is, the current position is displayed). The location information of all mobile devices (in a communicable state) can be displayed as a list.
By doing so, the relative position display area 115 extends in the vertical direction, and the relative position information of each of the plurality of mobile devices is displayed. If the relative position information of all mobile devices does not fit in the vertical direction, the position information of the hidden mobile devices can be scrolled and displayed by swiping up and down, for example.

  In addition, when the position information of all the mobile devices is displayed as a list, by tapping the area in the screen where the position information of all the mobile devices is displayed as a list on the display unit 11, the most recent information is displayed. It is possible to return to the simple information display in which the relative position information of the mobile device connected to the mobile device or the mobile device that has transmitted communication information most recently is displayed.

[Arrangement based on relative distance of user icon in second display area]
When displaying a user icon corresponding to another mobile device that is currently communicable in a second display area 112 (for example, a circular belt-shaped display area) provided around the first display area 111 on the display unit 11, For example, the mobile device is arranged at the left end of the center in the up-down direction of the second display area 112, and the mobile device located in front of the mobile device is located in the upper half of the second display area 112 in the lower half of the second display area 112 A mobile device located at the rear of the machine may be arranged and displayed.
In this case, the relative distance to the mobile device located immediately before the own device and the relative distance to the mobile device located immediately after the own device may be displayed in meters.
Based on the relative distance to your own device, you can intuitively determine the position of other mobile devices that can communicate with your own device by placing a mobile device with a small relative distance to your own device in a location close to your own device. It becomes possible to grasp.
In this case, the user icons corresponding to the other mobile devices are dynamically rearranged as the own device and other mobile devices move.
FIG. 5J shows an example of an arrangement display based on the relative distance of the user icon in the second display area 112. In FIG. 1 to No. The user numbered 6 is No. A state in which one user (own device) moves forward and back in a line at intervals of approximately 50 m is shown.
When the user of No. 4 utters “I want to take a break” by pressing or clicking the (pause) button on the command bar, the No. No. 1 to show that the relative distance to the user (own machine) is about 30 m. The user icon of user No. 4 is No. It is dynamically rearranged so as to approach the user icon of one user (own device).
At this time, the columns from the speaker (No. 4 user) to the own user (No. 1 user) can be colored.
Next, when the user (No. 1 user) speaks “OK” by pressing or clicking the (OK) button on the command bar, the No. 1 user is further notified. When the relative distance to the user 1 (own machine) approaches, The user icon of user No. 4 is No. It is dynamically rearranged so as to approach the user icon of one user (own device).

  As described above, by displaying the relative positional relationship of the other mobile devices participating in the chat with the own device in the relative position display area 115, it is possible to grasp the relative positions of the other mobile devices and understand the message. Assistance and driving information assistance.

[Portrait display and landscape display]
As described above, the various display areas in the display unit 11 have been described by exemplifying the vertically long display screen, but are not limited to the vertically long display. Instead of being vertically long, it may be horizontally long. Further, for example, an automatic vertical / horizontal conversion that automatically switches between vertical and horizontal displays by tilting the electronic device may be performed by an acceleration sensor.

[Touch panel]
A touch panel is laminated on the surface of the display unit 11 and can accept user operations. The operations accepted by the touch panel in the present embodiment include a selection operation (so-called tap) for selecting an arbitrary position on the display unit 11 and a slide operation (so-called swipe, flick) for moving a finger after selecting an arbitrary position on the display unit 11. ) Is included. The touch panel is configured by a multi-touch panel that can sense a plurality of contact points simultaneously. The operation received via the touch panel is transmitted to the control unit 40 and processed.

  The speaker 12 outputs sound to the user, and the microphone 13 collects sound and the like emitted by the user.

The operation unit 14 can be configured by an operation button, a touch panel type input device, or the like, and various selections and instructions by the user are input. Note that a touch panel provided on the display screen of the display unit 11 also functions as the operation unit 14.
In addition, various selections and instructions by the user who are voice-input via the microphone 13 can be input by voice recognition technology.

<Storage unit 32>
The storage unit 32 includes a ROM, a RAM, and the like, stores a control program for controlling the electronic device 2, and stores data set by the user via the operation unit 14 in a readable manner. The work area is provided to the control unit 40.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the storage unit 32 includes a user profile (user information list) 321, a fixed form (and fixed form) message list 322, a connection table 323, a transmission information history unit 324, and a reception information history unit 325. And remember.

The user profile (user information list) 321 stores a plurality of records including user information (user identification information and user attribute information) and the like.
The user profile (user information list) 321 can be set and registered using a setting screen displayed by pressing the setting button 1142 in advance.

The fixed form (and fixed form) text message list 322 includes a fixed form (and fixed form) message ID, a fixed form (and fixed form) message message, an identification ID of a message icon associated with the fixed form (and fixed form) message, and A plurality of records composed of message icons and the like are stored.
The fixed form (and fixed form) sentence message list 322 may be installed in advance. Moreover, you may download suitably from a predetermined | prescribed server or a cloud. By doing so, the fixed form (and fixed form) message message and the message icon corresponding to the fixed form (and fixed form) message are stored in common in all the electronic devices 2.

  The connection table 323 includes communication address information (for example, IP address, MAC address, etc.) of the mobile device and other mobile devices that can be communicated with the mobile device, which is generated and updated by the connection processing unit 42 to be described later, and the mobile device that has been transmitted and received A plurality of records including user information (user identification information and / or user attribute information) corresponding to (user), time information, position information, and the like are stored.

The transmission information history unit 324 stores a history of communication information transmitted by the host vehicle 1.
The reception information history unit 325 stores a history of communication information received from other mobile devices.
By doing so, the user can make an inquiry according to the order of the received date and the order of the transmission source. In addition, the user can perform a text search on data included in the communication information.
Similarly, the transmitted communication information can be inquired in order of the date and time of transmission, the order of transmission destination, and the like, and text search of data included in the communication information is possible.
By doing so, it becomes possible to search and inquire about the exchange of communication information between friends.

  A map information database can be provided in the storage unit 32 to store map information such as 2D map information, 3D map information, road shape data, facility data, and store data. Moreover, you may download suitably from a predetermined | prescribed server or a cloud.

<Control unit>
The control unit 40 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and the like, and controls the entire electronic device 2. As shown in FIG. 1, the control unit 40 includes a relative position calculation unit 41, a connection processing unit 42, a display control unit 43, an information setting unit 44, and a message processing unit 45. The display control unit 43 includes a first display mode control unit 431.

<Relative position calculation unit>
When the relative position calculation unit 41 receives a connection request, connection confirmation response, communication information, or the like from another mobile device via the information reception unit 21, the GPS included in the connection request, connection confirmation response, communication information, or the like. Based on the information and the map information of the currently running road, the current position of the other mobile device is calculated. The relative position calculation unit 41 also determines the distance between the other mobile device and the own device, the relative position direction of the other mobile device with the own device (for example, the same lane front, the same lane rear, the opposite lane front, the opposite Lane rear, front right direction, front left direction, rear right direction, rear left direction, and the like).

<Connection processing unit>
The connection processing unit 42 includes communication address information (for example, IP address, MAC address, etc.) of other mobile devices that can communicate with its own device, user information (user identification information and / or user information) corresponding to the mobile device (user). Alternatively, user attribute information), time information, position information, and the like are stored in the connection table 323.

  More specifically, the connection processing unit 42 receives communication address information (for example, an IP address, a MAC address) for identifying the own device when transmitting a connection request or message to another mobile device according to a user instruction. And the like, and a connection request including user information (user identification information and / or user attribute information), time information, position information, and the like corresponding to the own device (user) is transmitted via the information transmission unit 22. Then, based on the connection confirmation from the other mobile device in response to the connection request, the communication address information of the other mobile device, user information corresponding to the mobile device, etc. (user identification information and / or user A record including attribute information), time information, position information, and the like is created in the connection table 323.

Upon receiving a connection request, message, reception response, or the like from another mobile device, the connection processing unit 42 receives communication address information of the other mobile device, user information corresponding to the mobile device (user identification information and / or Alternatively, a record including user attribute information), time information, position information, and the like is stored in the connection table 323.
Then, the connection processing unit 42 receives the address information of the own device, user information corresponding to the own device (user identification information and / or user attribute information), for other mobile devices that have received the connection request, A connection confirmation response including time information, position information, and the like is transmitted via the information transmission unit 22.

  The connection processing unit 42 appropriately updates connection information with other mobile devices created in the connection table 323 based on connection confirmation with other mobile devices and the like. By doing so, connection information (communication address information, user information (user identification information and / or user attribute information) corresponding to the mobile device, time information, and location information related to other mobile devices that can currently communicate. Etc.) can be kept up to date.

<Display control unit>
The display control unit 43 includes a first display mode control unit 431.
[full screen]
Based on the connection information with other mobile devices and the like stored in the connection table 323 created by the connection processing unit 42, the first display mode control unit 431, for example, on the display unit 11 as shown in FIG. 4A. In the second display area 112, user icons corresponding to other mobile devices that can currently communicate are displayed.
At that time, as shown in FIG. 4A, in order to distinguish between a user icon corresponding to the own device and a user icon corresponding to another mobile device, the first display mode control unit 431 corresponds to the own device, for example. The user icon to be displayed may be displayed at the left end of the second display area 112, for example.

  As described above, the first display mode control unit 431 displays a plurality of user icons corresponding to the mobile devices participating in the chat (that is, currently in a communicable state) with a predetermined interval. It is arranged on the area 112 and displayed.

“View new chat participants”
As shown in FIG. 4E, the first display mode control unit 431 responds that the connection processing unit 42 establishes a communication connection with a new mobile device via the wireless communication unit 20, for example, User icons corresponding to all mobile devices participating in the chat, including user icons corresponding to new mobile devices on the second display region 112, are moved at predetermined intervals on the second display region 112. Rearrange. Here, the predetermined interval may be equal.
As a modification of the rearrangement, for example, the user icon corresponding to the mobile device that is already displayed in the second display area 112 is left as it is, and only the user icon corresponding to the new mobile device is displayed in the second display area 112. You may make it insert in arbitrary upper places.
Further, user icons corresponding to new mobile devices may be additionally arranged in the order of connection.

  As another modification, the first display mode control unit 431 may divide the second display area 112 so that a predetermined number of user icons can be arranged in advance, and prepare user icon arrangement locations. . By doing so, the first display mode control unit 431 responds to the establishment of a communication connection with a new mobile device via the wireless communication unit 20, and a vacant user icon on the second display area 112. A user icon corresponding to a new mobile device may be additionally arranged at the arrangement location in the order of connection.

[Display of relative position]
In response to the establishment of the communication connection with the new mobile device, the first display mode control unit 431 calculates the relative position information of the new mobile device with respect to its own device calculated by the relative position calculation unit 41, In the relative position display area 115, the relative position information of the new mobile device connected for communication is displayed.

Note that a filtering function may be provided in which an information setting unit 44 (to be described later) can set in advance whether or not a message can be received from another mobile device and whether or not a message can be displayed from another mobile device. This filtering function may be performed in units of members or units.
In the above example, for example, if there is a setting that a new mobile device (user) can receive or a message can be displayed, it is displayed in the second display area 112.
By providing a filtering function, it is possible to perform closed message exchange limited to friends.

"Leave chat participants"
The first display mode control unit 431 corresponds to the mobile device in response to the connection processing unit 42 disconnecting the communication connection with the mobile device participating in the chat via the wireless communication unit 20. For example, the user icons corresponding to all the remaining mobile devices participating in the chat except for the user icon corresponding to the mobile device on the second display area 112 are displayed on the second display area 112. The display area 112 is dynamically rearranged at a predetermined interval. Here, the predetermined interval may be equal.
As a modification of the rearrangement, for example, the user icon corresponding to the mobile device already displayed in the second display area 112 is left as it is, and only the user icon corresponding to the mobile device is displayed on the second display area 112. You may make it erase from.

  As another modification, when the first display mode control unit 431 divides the second display area 112 so that a predetermined number of user icons can be arranged in advance and prepares a user icon arrangement place, In response to the disconnection of the communication connection with the mobile device via the wireless communication unit 20, the first display mode control unit 431 starts from the user icon placement location of the mobile device on the second display area 112. It may be erased. Further, user icons corresponding to all remaining mobile devices may be rearranged in the order of connection.

[Others]
As described above, as a variation of the full screen display, user icons corresponding to other mobile devices participating in the chat are displayed in the first display area 111 surrounded by a circle provided in the center of the display unit 11. A message icon corresponding to the message may be displayed in the second display area 112.

[Association between message icon and user icon]
For example, as shown in FIG. 4A, the first display mode control unit 431 displays a message icon corresponding to a message received from the other mobile device (L) participating in the chat via the information receiving unit 21. In association with each of the user icons (L) corresponding to the mobile device displayed in the display area 112, it is displayed in the first display area 111 by, for example, a balloon.

More specifically, it is processed as follows.
The connection processing unit 42 receives the user information (L) corresponding to the transmission source mobile device (L) from the communication record received via the information reception unit 21 from other communicable mobile devices (L) participating in the chat. User identification information and / or user attribute information), messages transmitted from the transmission source, time information, GPS information of the mobile device of the transmission source, and the like are extracted. The connection processing unit 42 may store the reception information in the reception information history unit 325 based on the communication record received via the information reception unit 21 from another mobile device (L) participating in the chat. it can.

[Receive message]
Based on the data extracted by the connection processing unit 42, the fixed form (and fixed form) sentence message list 322, and the like, the first display mode control unit 431 is displayed on the first display area 111 of the display unit 11 as shown in FIG. 4A, for example. The message icon corresponding to the message received from the other mobile device (L) is displayed in association with the user icon (L) displayed in the second display area 112.

As shown in FIG. 4F, the first display mode control unit 431 receives a new message by displaying a corresponding message icon large for a predetermined time immediately after reception in order to emphasize that the message has arrived. I can emphasize what I did.
In addition, the 1st display mode control part 431 can display a corresponding message icon large, when a message is received. Thereafter, the first display mode control unit 431 returns the message icon to a normal size after a predetermined time has elapsed.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 4G, when the first display mode control unit 431 receives a text message, the first display mode control unit 431 displays a corresponding message icon (“in-frame display”) to display the text or read the text. Can do. After displaying the text or reading the text, the message icon is returned to the normal size.
Similarly, when the first display mode control unit 431 receives a voice message, the first display mode control unit 431 can reproduce a sound by displaying a corresponding message icon (“in-frame display”). When the audio playback ends, the message icon is returned to the normal size.
Similarly, when the first display mode control unit 431 receives an image message, the first display mode control unit 431 can display a corresponding message icon (“in-frame display”) to display an image. Note that after the predetermined time has elapsed, the message icon is returned to the normal size.

  In addition, when a text message, a voice message, and an image message are each tapped by the user, the text message, the voice message, and the image message are respectively displayed in a large size, and the display of the text or the reading of the text, the playback of the voice, The image can be displayed and the image can be returned to the normal size after the processing is completed.

[Display of relative position]
As described above, when a message is received from another mobile device (L), the first display mode control unit 431 determines the relative position of the other mobile device (L) relative to its own device calculated by the relative position calculation unit 41. Information is calculated, and the relative position information of the other mobile device (L) that is the transmission source of the received message is displayed in the relative position display area 115.

  In addition, when the information setting unit 44 described later indicates whether or not reception from other mobile devices is possible and whether or not messages can be displayed from other mobile devices, for example, a certain mobile device (user) is not ready for reception. If the message cannot be displayed, the message from the mobile device is not received, or the message is not displayed in the second display area 112.

By doing this, when chatting conversations using text data, it creates an atmosphere where people who do not speak are present in the circle of conversation, creating an atmosphere where everyone enjoys the conversation, Exchanges can be made. In addition, when performing certain actions together in a group, it is possible to create an atmosphere where the group can feel a sense of unity, group feeling, and unity as a community.
Moreover, since the relative position information of the sender can be grasped together with the message, it becomes easy for the receiver to imagine the relationship with the sender and the situation of the sender, and can help the understanding of the message. .

[Overwrite display]
When the first display mode control unit 431 displays the message icon corresponding to the message received in association with the user icon (for example, L) in the first display area 111, the message icon corresponding to the previously received message is displayed. If so, the message icon corresponding to the received message can be overwritten with the message icon corresponding to the previously received message.

  Further, in the display of the message icon, the first display mode control unit 431 can highlight the message based on the attribute relating to the caller, the information type, the urgency of the information, the importance of the information, or the like.

<Information setting section>
The information setting unit 44 identifies the sender (user) who uses the electronic device by the user's specification, for example, by using a template created in advance or by the user creating it directly. Identification information ("member information") or attribute information ("unit information") to which the sender belongs, vehicle type information of the host vehicle, greeting message, etc. should be set and registered as appropriate according to time, place, situation, etc. Can do. Further, the user can set and register a member icon expressing the sender (user) identification information as a character and / or a unit icon expressing the sender (user) attribute information as a character.
For example, when a person's face is set and registered in the member icon, the face of the person registered as the member icon is displayed on the display unit 11. Further, when a car picture is registered as the unit icon, the display unit 11 displays the car registered as the unit icon.

  The information setting unit 44 displays the message icon in the first display area 111 or the second display area 112 according to the user's designation (the user icon is displayed on the other side of the first display area 111 or the second display area 112). Displayed) can be set in advance.

The information setting unit 44, when designated by the user, displays the user icon in the second display area 112 when displaying the user icon in the second display area 112, and displays the user icon in the first display area 111 when displaying the user icon. In the area 111, it can be set in advance whether a member icon or a unit icon is displayed as a user icon of the sender. Similarly, the information setting unit 44 can set in advance whether to display a member icon or a unit icon as a user icon of the sender in the relative position display area 115 according to the user's designation.
Further, the information setting unit 44 can set in advance whether to transmit either the member icon or the unit icon as the user icon of the sender, or to transmit both icons on the transmission side, as specified by the user. it can.

  The information setting unit 44 displays the display unit 11 (when the user icon is displayed in the second display region 112, the second display region 112 when the user icon is displayed in the second display region 112, and when the user icon is displayed in the first display region 111, The maximum number of user icons displayed in one display area 111) can be set in advance.

The information setting unit 44 can be provided with a filtering function for presetting whether or not reception from other mobile devices is possible and whether or not messages can be displayed from other mobile devices according to user designation. The filtering function may be performed in units of members or units.
By providing a filtering function, it is possible to perform closed message exchange limited to friends.

[Lane setting for relative position display]
The information setting unit 44 can be set to display one lane or two lanes in the relative position display area 115 as specified by the user.

[Arrangement setting based on relative distance of user icon in second display area]
When the information setting unit 44 displays a member icon corresponding to another mobile device that is currently communicable in the second display area 112 (for example, a circular belt-shaped display area) according to the user's specification, for example, A mobile device that is disposed at the left end of the center of the second display area 112, is located in the upper half of the second display area 112, and is located in the lower half of the second display area 112. Can be set so as to be displayed at a location close to the own device in proportion to the relative distance to the own device.

  The setting information set in advance by the information setting unit 44 can be changed as appropriate according to a user instruction while the first display mode control unit 431 is in operation. By doing so, the display method can be changed flexibly.

<Message processor>
The message processing unit 45 acquires the current position of the host vehicle 1 via the GPS processing unit 31 when transmitting communication information to other mobile devices participating in the chat in response to a user instruction. Time is acquired from a time measuring unit (not shown), communication information is generated based on the connection table 323, and the communication information is transmitted to other information transmission sources via the information transmission unit 22.

[Send Message]
The message processing unit 45 is based on the connection table 323 in response to selection of one message icon from the list of the plurality of message icons displayed in the third display area 113 described above, for example, by a user tap operation. Then, the selected message icon is displayed on the mobile device used by the user corresponding to the user icon displayed in the second display area 112 of the display unit 11 (hereinafter also referred to as “mobile device corresponding to the user icon”). A fixed-form (and fixed-form) sentence message corresponding to is transmitted via the wireless communication unit 20.

Further, the message processing unit 45 edits the text in response to the user pressing or tapping the text button 1145 on the button widget 114, creates a text message, and transmits the first message via the wireless communication unit 20. 2 can be transmitted to the mobile device corresponding to the user icon displayed in the display area 112.
The message processing unit 45 creates a voice mail in response to the user pressing or tapping the voice mail button 1143 on the button widget 114 and displays it in the second display area 112 via the wireless communication unit 20. Can be transmitted to the mobile device corresponding to the user icon.
In response to the user pressing or tapping the camera image button 1144 on the button widget 114, the message processing unit 45 creates an image message based on the user's image capture, and via the wireless communication unit 20 The mobile device corresponding to the user icon displayed in the second display area 112 can be transmitted.

[Destination Settings]
The message processing unit 45 sets a transmission destination by a user's tap operation. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 4H, when the center of the first display area is tapped by the user's tap operation, the transmission destination is set to the entire group displayed in the second display area 112. Further, when a specific user icon is pressed or tapped from the user icons arranged in the second display area by the user's tap operation, the transmission destination is set to the mobile device corresponding to the specific user icon. The
As a default setting, for example, when one message icon is selected from the list of the plurality of message icons displayed in the third display area 113 by the user's tap operation, the message is transmitted to the entire group. Good.

[Message setting and sending]
For example, when one message icon is selected from the list of the plurality of message icons displayed in the third display area 113 by the user's tap operation, the message processing unit 45, based on the connection table 323, sends a destination address. , Set the communication address of the device itself as the source address, identify the user information of the user who is using the device in the transmission data section, and identify the message icon corresponding to the selected standard (and fixed form) message A communication record in which ID, time information, GPS information of the own device, etc. are set is created, and the mobile device corresponding to the user icon displayed in the second display area of the display unit 11 is transmitted via the information transmission unit 22. Send.
As shown in FIG. 4H, when a message icon is selected, the message icon is the destination (that is, when the destination is the entire group, in the center of the first display area, and when the destination is a specific mobile device, the corresponding user icon The first display mode control unit 431 may be able to grasp the transmission of the message sensuously by executing an animation such as moving to the above-mentioned fixed (and fixed) sentence sent by the own device. The message icon corresponding to the message can be displayed by, for example, a balloon in association with the user icon corresponding to the own device displayed in the second display area, in order to emphasize that the message has been transmitted immediately after the message is transmitted. Display the sent message in a large size, and after a certain period of time, return the sent message to its normal size. It is possible.
The message processing unit 45 can store the transmission information in the transmission information history unit 324 as log information.
As shown in FIG. 4H, after the message is transmitted, the first display mode control unit 431 is closed, for example, in such a manner that the transmission state can be seen in the transmission destination user icon until a reception response is received from the transmission destination mobile device. An envelope icon (hereinafter referred to as “transmission icon”) can be displayed. When the message processing unit 45 receives the reception response, the first display mode control unit 431 hides the transmission icon from the corresponding mobile device. By doing so, the own device can intuitively grasp whether or not the transmission destination has received the transmitted message.
The first display mode control unit 431 returns the message icon to a normal size after a predetermined time has elapsed.

As illustrated in FIG. 4I, the message processing unit 45 causes the user to input voice when the voice mail button 1143 on the button widget 114 described above is pressed or tapped, and transmits the voice based on the connection table 323. Set the destination address, set the sender's communication address as the source address, and set the user information, voicemail, time information, and GPS information of the user's own equipment in the transmission data section. The communication record is created and transmitted to the mobile device corresponding to the user icon displayed in the second display area of the display unit 11 via the information transmission unit 22.
At that time, the message processing unit 45 can store the transmission information as log information in the transmission information history unit 324.

  In addition, when the user presses the text button 1145 or the camera image button 1144 on the button widget 114, the message processing unit 45 performs the same processing as the subsequent processing when the voice mail button 1143 is pressed or tapped. Can do.

[System configuration of electronic device 2]
Next, an example of the configuration of the electronic device 2 will be described.
The electronic device 2 is an in-vehicle navigation device, a navigation device including a PND (Personal Navigation Device), a portable terminal device such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a PDA, a notebook computer, a mobile phone, and other portable electronic devices having a wireless communication function. Including equipment. In particular, it is suitable for an electronic device having a small screen display with a screen size of 10 inches or less, particularly 7 inches or less. However, the present invention can also be applied to an electronic device including a display having a screen size of 10 inches or more.
In addition, when a vehicle etc. are a bicycle and a pedestrian, the electronic device 2 is comprised including a portable terminal etc. (smartphone etc.).

Functional units of these electronic devices 2, such as a wireless communication unit 20, a GPS processing unit 31, a control unit 40, a relative position calculation unit 41, a connection processing unit 42, a display control unit 43, a first display mode control unit 431, an information setting unit Embodiments such as 44 and message processor 45 can be implemented as a computer program for execution by a programmable processor or programmable computer.
It can also be implemented in the form of special purpose logic circuits, for example, FPGA or ASIC, firmware, digital electronic circuits.

  Alternatively, the program for realizing the function of the electronic device 2 may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded on the recording medium may be read by the computer and executed.

  The “computer” here includes an OS and hardware such as peripheral devices. The “computer-readable recording medium” includes a portable medium such as a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk, a ROM, and a CD-ROM, and a storage device such as a hard disk built in the computer system.

Also, the method steps of one embodiment of the present invention can be implemented by executing an electronic device 2 for performing the functions of one embodiment of the present invention.
Also, the method steps of one embodiment of the present invention may be performed by one or more programmable processors or computers that execute a computer program for performing the functions of one embodiment of the present invention. .
The method steps can also be performed by special purpose logic circuits, such as FPGA or ASIC, firmware, digital electronic circuits.

  As described above, by using the communication information of the present invention, when talking in a chat format, people who do not speak create an atmosphere that exists in the circle of conversation, and everyone enjoys the conversation. Create an atmosphere and exchange messages happily. In addition, when performing certain actions together in a group, it is possible to create an atmosphere where the group can feel a sense of unity, group feeling, and unity as a community.

[Effects of First Embodiment]
According to the program, method, and electronic apparatus 2 for exchanging messages of the above-described embodiment described above, the following effects are obtained.

By the program, method, and electronic device 2 for exchanging the fixed form (and fixed form) sentence message of the above embodiment, for example, the first display area 111 in the center of the display unit 11 of the electronic device 2 and the second in the vicinity thereof. A display area 112 is provided, for example, a user icon corresponding to the user (mobile device) is displayed in the second display area 112, and a message icon corresponding to the message is displayed in the central first display area 111 as a user icon (for example, by a balloon). ) Display in association.
Thus, for example, by displaying message icons corresponding to messages in the center, an atmosphere of “gathering and having conversation” can be created, and everyone can exchange messages happily. In addition, by distributing and displaying user icons corresponding to users (mobile devices) in the vicinity, the interval between the icons can be taken, which makes it easy to see.

Furthermore, when there are a plurality of user icons corresponding to the mobile device, the plurality of user icons are arranged and displayed at a predetermined interval in either the first display area 111 or the second display area 112. .
This makes it possible to create an atmosphere where people who do not speak are present in the circle of conversation when chatting with text data, creating an atmosphere where everyone enjoys the conversation and exchanging messages happily. It can be carried out. In addition, when performing certain actions together in a group, it is possible to create an atmosphere where the group can feel a sense of unity, group feeling, and unity as a community.
In addition, information can be effectively expressed by the display unit 11 having a limited area. Furthermore, since the arrangement positions are allocated based on the number of communication connections, the screen is organized and it is easy to intuitively grasp information. In addition, a fun atmosphere can be produced.

Further, in response to the establishment of the communication connection with the new mobile device via the wireless communication unit 20, the user icon corresponding to the new member is included in the circle of user icons of the previous chat members. Insert dynamically.
As a result, since the position changes each time the number of communication connections increases, the screen changes greatly, and it is easily understood intuitively that the number of connections has increased. By doing so, even when a new member participates in the chat, the new member naturally creates an atmosphere to join in the circle of conversation, creating an atmosphere that everyone is enjoying the conversation, Exchanges can be made.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the first embodiment of the present invention, the display control unit 43 performs display control (also referred to as “first display” or “full-screen display”) by the first display mode control unit 431. In the second embodiment, In addition to the display control (full screen display) by the first display mode control unit 431, the display control unit 43 displays the position of the device on the map by the second display mode control unit 432 ("second display"). Alternatively, display control can be performed. Furthermore, it is possible to switch between the first display (full screen display) and the second display (map display) in accordance with a user instruction.
Since the configuration related to the display control by the first display mode control unit 431 is the same as that of the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted. Here, the second display and display switching will be described. In addition, about the structure similar to 1st Embodiment, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted.

  As illustrated in FIG. 6, the control unit 40 according to the second embodiment includes a relative position calculation unit 41, a connection processing unit 42, a display control unit 43, an information setting unit 44, and a message processing unit 45. . The display control unit 43 includes a first display mode control unit 431, a second display mode control unit 432, and a display mode switching unit 431.

[Second display]
The map display by the second display mode control unit 432 will be described. In addition, about the structure similar to the display in a 1st display (full screen display), the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted.

FIG. 7A shows a second display screen (map display screen that prioritizes the display of its own position on the map) by the second display mode control unit 432.
In FIG. 7B illustrated below, a member icon is displayed as a user icon, but is not limited to the member icon.
FIG. 7C shows an example in which a unit icon is displayed as a user icon.
Thus, for users belonging to the unit group, unit icons can be displayed as user icons instead of individual member icons.
As in the case of full screen display, whether to display a member icon or a unit icon as the user icon of the sender on the map display screen is preset by the information setting unit 44 on the receiving side according to the user's designation. be able to.
Further, when the slide-in / slide-out is performed by the swipe operation of the second button widget 114B, the selection can be made according to the number of times the slide-in / slide-out is repeated continuously. For example, the member icon may be displayed by one operation, and the unit icon may be displayed by repeating the operation twice.

<Display on the currently running road map>
As shown in FIG. 7A, as in the first embodiment, mobile devices that are currently communicable are identified by a user icon expressed as a character, and are displayed on the road map on the currently running road displayed on the display unit 11. A user icon (L), a user icon (M), or the like corresponding to another mobile device that can communicate with the user icon (K) corresponding to the own device is displayed. The user icon (K) corresponding to the own device is displayed on the currently traveling road map based on the current position of the own device calculated by the GPS processing unit 31. In addition, the user icon (L), the user icon (M), and the like corresponding to other mobile devices are based on GPS information including the latitude and longitude of the other mobile devices received via the information receiving unit 21 of the wireless communication unit 20. Based on the current position of the other mobile device calculated in this way, it is displayed on the currently traveling road map.
Here, for example, in the case of north-up display, the user icon corresponding to the own device can be displayed so as to be positioned substantially at the center on the road map displayed on the display unit 11. In the case of head-up, it can be displayed on the lower side of the road map displayed on the display unit 11.

Further, as shown in FIG. 7A, a message icon (for example, “OK”) corresponding to a message received from another mobile device (L) is displayed on the road map currently being traveled displayed on the display unit 11. In association with the user icon (L) corresponding to the mobile device (L), for example, it is displayed on the user icon (L).
Further, a message icon (for example, “convenience store”) corresponding to the latest message transmitted by the own device is displayed on the road map currently being traveled displayed on the display unit 11 and corresponds to the own device displayed on the road map. For example, it can be displayed on the user icon in association with the user icon.

[Second button widget 114B]
As shown in FIG. 7B, in the second display, the second display mode control unit 432 displays a widget having various operation buttons on the display unit 11, for example, on the left side (hereinafter also referred to as “second button widget 114B”). can do.
As shown in FIG. 7D, the second button widget 114B can be slid in / out on the display unit 11 by, for example, a swipe operation with two fingers, like the button widget 114 in the first display.
The second button widget 114B can include, for example, a screen switching button 1141B, a message icon selection button (also referred to as “first icon selection button”) 1142B, a voice mail button 1143, a camera image button 1144, and the like. In addition, as will be described later, a user icon corresponding to a mobile device that is currently communicable is displayed in the central display area of the second button widget 114B (hereinafter also referred to as “user icon display area B”).
Note that the voice mail button 1143 and the camera image button 1144 are the same as the voice mail button 1143 and the camera image button 1144 of the button widget 114 in the first display, respectively, and a description thereof will be omitted.

[User icon display area B]
As shown in FIG. 7B, the user icon corresponding to the mobile device that can currently communicate is displayed in the user icon display area B of the second button widget 114 </ b> B on the display unit 11.
The user icon displayed in the user icon display area B may include a user icon corresponding to the own device. In this case, in order to distinguish between a user icon corresponding to the own device and a user icon corresponding to the other mobile device, for example, an area for displaying the user icon (K) corresponding to the own device corresponds to the other mobile device. The user icon (L), the user icon (M), etc. may be placed on the area for displaying. Moreover, you may display in order of a connection including an own machine (K).

[Display new chat participants]
As shown in FIG. 7F, in the second display, the second display mode control unit 432 responds that the connection processing unit 42 has established a communication connection with a new mobile device via the wireless communication unit 20. Then, a user icon corresponding to a new mobile device is dynamically added and arranged on the user icon display area B of the second button widget 114B. At the same time, a user icon corresponding to the new mobile device is additionally arranged on the currently running road map.

"Leave chat participants"
As shown in FIG. 7G, in the second display, the second display mode control unit 432 is disconnected from the mobile device participating in the chat by the connection processing unit 42 via the wireless communication unit 20. In response, the user icons corresponding to all the remaining mobile devices participating in the chat, except for the user icon corresponding to the mobile device, are moved on the user icon display area B of the second button widget 114B. Rearrange. At the same time, the user icon corresponding to the mobile device displayed on the currently running road map is hidden.
In the example shown in FIG. 7G, the user icon display area B is displayed in the order of connection including the own device (K).

  By doing so, the user can intuitively easily grasp the user who newly participated in the chat or the user who left the chat.

[Receive message]
In the second display, as shown in FIG. 7H, the second display mode control unit 432 can display a corresponding message icon large for a predetermined time immediately after reception in order to emphasize that the message has arrived. . Thereafter, the message icon is returned to a normal size after a predetermined time has elapsed.

Also in the second display, when receiving the text message (in-frame display), the second display mode control unit 432 displays the corresponding message icon (in-frame display) in a large manner, as in the first display mode. The text can be displayed or the text can be read out. After the text display or text reading is completed, the message icon (in-frame display) is returned to the normal size.
Even when a voice message or an image message is received, the second display mode control unit 432 is enlarged and displayed as in the case of the first display (full screen display).

[Overwrite display]
In the second display, the second display mode control unit 432 corresponds to the message received in association with the user icon (for example, L) displayed on the road map on the display unit 11 and the user icon display area B. If a message icon corresponding to a previously received message is displayed when the message icon to be displayed is displayed, the message icon corresponding to the received message is overwritten with the message icon corresponding to the previously received message. Can do.

  By doing so, the user can intuitively and easily grasp the positional relationship by displaying the standard (and fixed form) text message received from other mobile devices by associating the user icon with the message icon displayed on the road map. can do.

[Send Messege]
Next, message transmission processing in the second display mode will be described with reference to FIG. 7I. In addition, about the structure similar to the message transmission process in 1st display mode, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The message processing unit 45 acquires the current position of the host vehicle 1 via the GPS processing unit 31 and transmits the current time to a time measuring unit (see FIG. Communication information is generated, and the communication information is transmitted to another information transmission source via the information transmission unit 22.

[Message icon selection button 1142B]
When the message icon selection button 1142B provided on the second button widget 114B is pressed or tapped, a predetermined selection panel table (hereinafter also referred to as “message icon selection panel table”) is displayed on the display unit 11 and can be selected. A list of message icons corresponding to various standard (and regular) text messages is displayed.

When a user sends a standard (and regular) text message to another mobile device, the message corresponding to the standard (and regular) text message to be sent from the message icon list displayed in the message icon selection panel table. By selecting an icon, for example, by tapping, the message processing unit 45 displays a fixed (and fixed form) sentence message corresponding to the selected message icon in the user icon display area B via the wireless communication unit 20. Send to the mobile device corresponding to the user icon.
The message icon display in the message icon selection panel table can be displayed in two stages. In that case, one of the two levels can be set to a fixed format in which predetermined message icons are arranged, and the other can be set to a variable format that can be switched (scrolled) by flipping or the like. The operability can be improved by allocating a frequently used message or a message that can respond to an immediate response request to the fixed stage.

  The message processing unit 45 stores the transmission information as log information in the transmission information history unit 324.

The second display mode control unit 432 can rearrange the user icon display area B of the second button widget 114B in the latest time series including the own device (K).
In the second display, the second display mode control unit 432 displays a message icon corresponding to the above-mentioned fixed form (and fixed form) message transmitted by the user's own device as a user icon corresponding to the user's own device displayed in the user icon display area B. For example, it is displayed next to it. Immediately after transmission, in order to emphasize that the message has been transmitted, the transmitted message can be displayed in a large size, and the transmitted message can be returned to a normal size after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[Overwrite display]
In the second display, the second display mode control unit 432 corresponds to a message received in association with a user icon (for example, L) displayed on the currently running road map of the display unit 11 or in the user icon display area B. If a message icon corresponding to a previously received message is displayed when the message icon to be displayed is displayed, the message icon corresponding to the received message is overwritten with the message icon corresponding to the previously received message. Can do.
The message icon corresponding to the message transmitted by the own device can be overwritten in the same manner.

  In this way, while giving priority to the road map information that is currently running, the user icon corresponding to the mobile device including the own device that can currently communicate and the message icon corresponding to the latest message transmitted by the mobile device can be easily and intuitively performed. Can grasp.

<Display mode switching part>
As shown in FIG. 7E, the second button widget 114B is slid in the state where the map display screen giving priority to the display of the own device position is displayed on the road map by the second display mode control unit 432 on the display unit 11. By tapping (or clicking) the screen switching button 1141B, it is possible to switch to the display (full screen display) by the first display mode control unit 431.
Similarly, as shown in FIG. 7E, in the state where the full-screen display by the first display mode control unit 431 is displayed on the display unit 11, the second display is performed by tapping (or clicking) the back key described above. Switching to display (map display) by the mode mode control unit 432 can be performed.

As described above, the user can switch between the map display screen where messages can be exchanged and the chat display with full screen display while checking the position of the self-machine and other machines on the road map that is currently running. It is possible to enjoy a suitable screen display depending on the location, case, etc. In addition, it is possible to provide proper use of the case where priority is given to the display of chat information and the case where priority is given to the display of the own device position, and the convenience of the user can be improved.
Further, when it is desired to obtain detailed map information including the position of the own device, the screen can be switched from full screen display to map display by a tap operation by the user, so that the information can be viewed without interruption.
Further, when it is desired to obtain details of information to be transmitted / received, the screen can be switched from a map display to a full screen display by a tap operation by the user, so that message information is displayed larger than other information in the display unit 11. Therefore, visibility can be improved. Furthermore, since the relative position information can be known at the same time as the message, the receiver can grasp the relationship with the sender, the situation of the sender, etc., and can assist the message understanding and driving information. it can.

[System configuration of electronic device 2]
The system configuration of the electronic device 2 in the second embodiment is basically the same as the system configuration of the electronic device 2 in the first embodiment. Here, parts different from the system configuration of the electronic device 2 in the first embodiment will be described. The same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

  Functional units of the electronic device 2, for example, the wireless communication unit 20, GPS processing unit 31, control unit 40, relative position calculation unit 41, connection processing unit 42, display control unit 43, first display mode control unit 431, second display mode Embodiments such as the control unit 432, the display mode switching unit 433, the information setting unit 44, and the message processing unit 45 are implemented as a computer program for execution by a programmable processor or a programmable computer, for example. Can do.

Also, the method steps of one embodiment of the present invention can be implemented by executing an electronic device 2 for performing the functions of one embodiment of the present invention.
Also, the method steps of one embodiment of the present invention may be performed by one or more programmable processors or computers that execute a computer program for performing the functions of one embodiment of the present invention. .
The method steps can also be performed by special purpose logic circuits, such as FPGA or ASIC, firmware, digital electronic circuits.

[Effects of Second Embodiment]
According to 2nd Embodiment described above, there exist the following effects.

By the program, method, and electronic device 2 for exchanging the fixed form (and fixed form) text messages of the above embodiment, the own device position is displayed on the display unit 11 of the electronic device 2 on the chat display form by the full screen display and the road map The chat display form on the map display screen that prioritizes display can be switched by the user.
This allows the user to switch between the map display screen where messages can be exchanged and the chat display based on the full screen display while checking the position of the aircraft and other aircraft on the road map that is currently running. It is possible to enjoy a suitable screen display depending on the case.
In addition, it is possible to provide proper use of the case where priority is given to the display of chat information and the case where priority is given to the position display of the own device, thereby improving the convenience for the user.

  As mentioned above, although preferable embodiment of this invention was described, this invention is not restrict | limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, It can change suitably.

  Although the display example in the display unit 11 according to the first embodiment and the second embodiment takes a portrait screen as an example, it is not limited to a portrait screen. Instead of being vertically long, it may be horizontally long. Also, automatic vertical / horizontal conversion may be used. That is, the vertical / horizontal display may be automatically switched by tilting the electronic device 2.

  Although the messages in the first embodiment and the second embodiment are associated with icons, the messages are not limited to icons. A short message may be displayed directly on the display unit 11. For example, a message described in a balloon, a so-called framed character display may be used.

Although the display unit 11 of the electronic device 2 according to the second embodiment has one screen, as a modification, the display unit 11 may include at least two screens.
By doing so, the display control unit 43A displays the chat display screen in the first display mode (full screen display) on one screen of the display unit 11, and the second display mode control unit 432 displays the first display mode on the other screen. It is possible to display a chat display screen on the map display screen giving priority to the position display of the own device on the road map in the two display mode (road map display).
In this case, when the chat display on the map display screen that can confirm the position of the own machine and other machine on the road map that is currently running without switching the display mode in the display unit 11 and chat-style conversation, Creates an atmosphere that is present in the circle of conversation even for those who do not speak, creates an atmosphere where everyone enjoys conversations, and allows chat messages to be exchanged happily, in parallel with a full-screen chat display. Can be displayed.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Own vehicle 2 Electronic device 11 Display part 12 Speaker 13 Microphone 14 Operation part 15 Camera 20 Wireless communication part 21 Information reception part 22 Information transmission part 31 GPS processing part 32 Storage part 321 User profile (user information list)
322 Fixed (and fixed form) sentence message list 323 Connection table 324 Transmission information history unit 325 Reception information history unit 40 Control unit 41 Relative position calculation unit 42 Connection processing unit 43 Display control unit 431 First display mode control unit 432 Second display mode Control unit 433 Display mode switching unit 44 Information setting unit 45 Message processing unit

Claims (12)

An electronic device comprising a display unit and a wireless communication unit displays information on the display unit, the electronic device comprising:
A method including a display control step of displaying information including user information related to a transmitter transmitted and received via the wireless communication unit on the display unit and message information that the transmitter wants to convey to a communication partner,
The display control step includes:
The display unit includes a first display region including a central portion of the display unit, and a second display region located around the first display region, and the first display region and the second display region First display mode control for displaying user information transmitted and received via the wireless communication unit in any one display area and displaying the message information in the other display area of the first display area and the second display area A method comprising steps. The first display mode control step further includes:
Display the message information by icon or character display in the frame,
User information about the sender is displayed as an icon,
When communication connection is made between a plurality of users including itself via the wireless communication unit, and a plurality of the user information or the message information is displayed in the second display area,
Based on the arrangement of the user information or the message information displayed first, the arrangement of the user information or the message information displayed after the second is allocated based on the number of users including the communication-connected users. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The first display mode control step further includes:
Displaying the second display area at least in an arc / U-shape, preferably in a circumferential shape;
When communication connection is made between a plurality of users including itself via the wireless communication unit, and a plurality of the user information or the message information is displayed in the second display area,
Based on the arrangement of the user information or the message information displayed first, the arrangement of the user information or the message information displayed after the second is divided and allocated by the number of users including the communication-connected users. The method according to claim 2. The first display mode control step further includes:
The second display area is divided and set in an arbitrary displayable number in advance,
When communication connection is made between a plurality of users including itself via the wireless communication unit, and a plurality of the user information or the message information is displayed in the second display area,
The method according to claim 2, wherein an arrangement of the user information or the message information displayed after the second is allocated to the second display area that is set to be divided. The display control step further includes:
A second display mode control step for displaying map information on a central portion of the display unit based on the position information of the own device on the display unit, and displaying the current position of the own device and the other device of the communication connection partner;
A display mode switching step for switching between the first display mode control step and the second display mode control step in response to an instruction from the user;
The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: The second display mode control step further includes:
The method according to claim 5, wherein map information is displayed in a central part of the display unit, and the user information and the message information are displayed in a peripheral part of the display unit. The second display mode control step further includes:
The method according to claim 6, wherein a widget capable of sliding in / out is arranged in a peripheral portion of the display unit, and the user information and the message information are selectively displayed by the widget. The second display mode control step further includes:
The method according to claim 6 or 7, wherein at least a part of user information about the sender and message information that the sender wants to convey to a communication partner is displayed by an icon.   The method according to claim 1, wherein the wireless communication unit performs direct wireless communication.   A computer program for causing a computer of an electronic device including a display unit and a wireless communication unit to execute each step of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9. A display unit;
A wireless communication unit;
An electronic apparatus comprising: a display control unit that displays information including user information related to a transmitter transmitted and received via the wireless communication unit and message information that the transmitter wants to communicate with a communication partner on the display unit. ,
The display control unit
The display unit includes a first display region including a central portion of the display unit, and a second display region located around the first display region, and the first display region and the second display region First display mode control for displaying user information transmitted and received via the wireless communication unit in any one display area and displaying the message information in the other display area of the first display area and the second display area Electronic equipment including parts. The display control unit further includes:
A second display mode control unit for displaying map information on a central portion of the display unit based on the position information of the own device on the display unit and displaying a current position of the own device and the other device of the communication connection partner;
A display mode switching unit that switches between display by the first display mode control unit and display by the second display mode control unit in response to an instruction from the user;
The electronic apparatus according to claim 11, comprising:

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