JP2017102849A - Electronic instrument - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electronic instrument that is user friendly.SOLUTION: An electronic instrument (40) comprises: an input unit (44) that inputs information about a way an instrument is used; and a comparison unit (42) that compares the information about the way the instrument is used with information about specifications of the instrument.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to an electronic device.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, it has been proposed to ask a user's preference regarding an electronic device such as a camera and to make a custom setting of the electronic device (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2005-117478 A

  However, conventional proposals are not sufficient for both users and manufacturers.

  The electronic device (40) according to the present invention includes an input unit (44) for inputting information on how the device is used, a comparison unit for comparing information on how the device is used and information on the specification of the device ( 42).

  In this case, the input unit may input information on how the device is used from the device (10) via the network (20). In addition, the input unit may input information on at least one of a place where the device (10) is used and an environment. In addition, the input unit may input information related to heat generation of the device when the device is used, and the comparison unit may compare the information related to heat generation and specifications related to heat generation of the device.

  In addition, a first extraction unit (42) may be provided that extracts a function whose use frequency satisfies a predetermined condition among the functions of the device based on information on how the device is used. In addition, based on information on how the device is used, at least one of the functions of the device, a function that is used less frequently, a function that is used more frequently, and a function that is used less frequently A second extraction unit (42) for extracting Further, a determination unit (42) may be provided that determines a value related to durability of the device based on information on how the device is used.

  Moreover, you may provide the prediction part (42) which estimates the malfunction occurrence of the said apparatus based on the information regarding how the said apparatus is used. Moreover, you may provide the specific | specification part (42) which specifies the components which need replacement | exchange or repair based on the prediction result of the said prediction part. In addition, the input unit may include an output unit (42) that inputs information related to a trend and outputs information related to the design of the device based on the information related to the trend.

  In addition, in order to explain the present invention in an easy-to-understand manner, the above description has been made in association with the reference numerals of the drawings representing one embodiment. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the configuration of an embodiment described later is provided. May be modified as appropriate, and at least a part of the structure may be replaced with another component. Further, the configuration requirements that are not particularly limited with respect to the arrangement are not limited to the arrangement disclosed in the embodiment, and can be arranged at a position where the function can be achieved.

It is a functional block diagram which shows the structure of the electronic device system which concerns on one Embodiment. FIG. 2A is a diagram showing product information associated with user attribute information, FIG. 2B is a diagram showing use place / environment information associated with heat generation information, and FIG. It is a figure which shows repair information. FIG. 3A is a diagram showing operation information, FIG. 3B is a diagram showing setting information, and FIG. 3C is a diagram showing movable monitor posture information. It is a figure which shows the SNS information which an SNS server transmits to a server. It is a figure which shows product specification information. It is a flowchart of analysis and prediction which an analysis part with which a server is provided, and a control part. It is a figure for demonstrating an example of environmental analysis. It is a figure for demonstrating an example of an endurance analysis. It is a figure for demonstrating an example of a function and setting analysis. It is a figure for demonstrating another example of a function and setting analysis. It is a figure for demonstrating an example of the prediction of replacement | exchange or repair.

  Hereinafter, an electronic device system according to an embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an electronic device system 100 according to an embodiment. The electronic device system 100 uses a plurality of cameras 10, a network 20, an SNS server 30, and a server 40. As shown in FIG. 1, the electronic device system 100 includes a plurality of cameras 10, an SNS (Social Network Service) server 30, and a server 40. The plurality of cameras 10, the SNS server 30, and the server 40 are connected to a network 20 such as the Internet or a LAN (Local Area Network). The server 40 acquires information regarding how the camera 10 is used, such as a history regarding the use of the camera 10.

(Camera 10)
In the present embodiment, the camera 10 includes a plurality of cameras that can be connected to the network 20, but FIG. Each camera 10 captures a subject and is a variety of cameras such as a compact camera, a single-lens camera, a camera built in a smartphone, a mobile phone, or the like. The plurality of cameras 10 may include cameras of different manufacturers and product grades (introductory machines, intermediate machines, and high-end machines).

  As an example, the camera 10 includes an imaging unit 11, a display unit 12, an operation unit 13, a GPS (Global Positioning System) 14, a thermometer 15, a gyro sensor 16, a storage unit 17, and a communication unit 18. The control unit 19 is provided. Depending on the type of the camera 10 and the like, there may be a case where a part of the configuration of FIG. 1 is not provided.

  The imaging unit 11 includes an optical system and an imaging element. In single-lens cameras and the like, the optical system is replaceable.

  The display unit 12 is provided on the back surface of the main body of the camera 10 and has a liquid crystal display element. The display unit 12 displays an image (still image, moving image, live view image) captured by the imaging unit 11, or displays an operation menu. The display unit 12 may be a movable monitor (for example, a vari-angle monitor) that is attached to the camera body by a biaxial hinge and can change its posture.

  When such a movable monitor is adopted, in the camera 10, a magnet is provided in the movable monitor or in the main body of the camera 10, and a change in the magnetic field due to the magnet is detected by a detection unit (not shown) provided in the camera 10. Detected. Based on the change in the magnetic field detected by the detection unit, the control unit 19 can acquire the attitude of the movable monitor, that is, in what state the user is using the movable monitor, as movable monitor attitude information. it can. The movable monitor posture information includes, for example, information used as a monitor for confirmation during self-shooting, used for high-angle shooting, used for low-angle shooting, and information about the number of times the hinge was used. Etc. are included.

  In addition, the display unit 12 may be separated from the display unit 12 by using a detachable unit that is detachable from the main body of the camera 10 or the imaging unit 11. In this case, the display unit 12 is provided with a communication unit capable of communicating with the main body of the camera 10 or the imaging unit 11. In this case, the control unit 19 acquires information on the attachment / detachment history indicating whether the display unit 12 is used separately or whether the display unit 12 is used integrally (without being separated). In addition to the display unit 12, when the camera 10 is provided with a finder for visually recognizing an optical image, a sensor for detecting that the user's face (or eyes) is close to the finder is provided. The control unit 19 may acquire information related to the viewfinder usage history detected by the sensor.

  The operation unit 13 includes various switches such as a mechanical shutter, a power switch, a release switch, and a mode setting switch, and a touch panel that performs operations by touching the display unit 12. When the user operates the operation unit 13, the control unit 19 executes an adjustment function such as AF (Auto Focus) or AE (Auto Exposure), or performs various settings (mode setting, shutter speed setting, image quality setting, special effect). For example).

  The GPS 14 is a position detection device that detects the position (latitude, longitude, etc.) of the camera 10. In addition to the GPS 14, the camera 10 may be provided with an orientation sensor for detecting the imaging orientation.

  The thermometer 15 measures temperature. In the present embodiment, the temperature of the above-described imaging device or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) (not shown) that performs image processing is measured. In addition, it is assumed that the camera 10 is also provided with a thermometer for detecting the outside air temperature at the place where the camera 10 performs shooting. Instead of providing a thermometer for detecting the temperature of the outside air temperature, the control unit 19 can detect the position where the camera 10 exists (position detected by the GPS 14) from a website such as the Japan Meteorological Agency via the communication unit 18. You may make it acquire the temperature information of outside temperature.

  The gyro sensor 16 detects the angular velocity of the optical system described above. For example, the gyro sensor 16 detects camera shake by detecting an angular velocity when performing shooting by operating a mechanical shutter. Note that a gyro sensor 16 may be provided in the vicinity of the image sensor to detect vibration of the imaging surface. The control unit 19 drives an optical system and an image sensor with an anti-vibration mechanism (not shown) and executes electronic shake correction in order to reduce the influence of camera shake detected by the gyro sensor 16.

  The storage unit 17 is a non-volatile semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, for example. The storage unit 17 stores product information related to products in advance, and also stores image data captured by the imaging unit 11 and display data displayed on the display unit 12. In addition, the storage unit 17 stores user attribute information set by the user operating the camera 10 in association with product information, and includes a use location / environment including an imaging position and an imaging direction when the imaging unit 11 captures an image. The information is stored in association with the measurement target device of the thermometer 15 and the heat generation information including the temperature. The storage unit 17 also stores repair information related to the repair of the camera 10, operation information related to operations performed on the camera 10, setting information set in the camera 10, movable monitor posture information related to the posture of the movable monitor, and the like. To do.

  An example of various types of information stored in the storage unit 17 is shown in FIGS. Hereinafter, various information will be specifically described. 2 and 3 is input target information input to the server 40.

  FIG. 2A shows user attribute information associated with product information. Product information includes information on manufacturer, product ID, product grade, and the like. The manufacturer information includes, for example, the name of the manufacturer of the camera 10 and the manufacturer code. The product ID information includes a product identification number and the like, and the product grade information includes information such as whether the camera 10 corresponds to an advanced machine, an intermediate machine, or an elementary machine. The user attribute information includes information such as age and sex. The product information is information registered in advance in the storage unit 17 before the camera 10 is shipped. The user attribute information is information registered by the user who purchased the camera 10 as an initial setting. When registering the user attribute information, for example, the display unit 12 displays gender and age (may be displayed such as 20's, 17-27 years old so as not to specify the actual age), and the user is displayed. Prompt for input. Thereby, the control unit 19 stores the user attribute information input by the user in the storage unit 17 in association with the product information.

  FIG. 2B shows the use location / environment information associated with the heat generation information. The usage location / environment information includes information such as an imaging position, an imaging orientation, an imaging date, an imaging time, an imaging time, and an outside temperature. Each information included in the usage location / environment information is information acquired at the timing when the imaging unit 11 performs imaging. Here, the imaging position is detected by the GPS 14, and the imaging direction is detected by the direction sensor. The imaging date and imaging time are acquired by a calendar function (not shown) included in the camera 10. The imaging time is acquired by a timer function (not shown) included in the camera 10 when the mode set in the camera 10 is the moving image mode. The outside air temperature is detected by a thermometer for measuring the outside air temperature. Depending on the type of the camera 10 and the like, some of the usage location / environment information may not be acquired. On the other hand, the heat generation information includes information on the measurement target and information on the temperature of the measurement target (equipment temperature). As described above, the measurement target includes an image sensor and an ASIC, but is not necessarily limited thereto. Note that the temperature information (equipment temperature) of the measurement target is measured according to the timing at which the imaging unit 11 executes imaging.

  FIG. 2 (c) shows repair information. The repair information includes information such as a repair date and a repair location. The repair information is registered, for example, by the person in charge of the manufacturer of the camera 10 or a repair company when the repair of the malfunctioning camera 10 is completed. The repair information may be directly transmitted to the server 40 from a manufacturer or repair company terminal or the like in a state associated with the product information of the camera 10.

  FIG. 3A shows operation information. The operation information includes information related to the operation history such as operation date and operation content. The control unit 19 sequentially registers operation information in the storage unit 17 every time the user operates the operation unit 13.

  FIG. 3B shows setting information. The setting information includes information such as a setting date and setting contents. The control unit 19 registers setting information in the storage unit 17 when the user performs various settings using the operation unit 13. For example, according to FIGS. 3A and 3B, it can be seen that the mode setting switch was operated on May 2, 2014, and the moving image mode was set. Also, on July 21, 2014, in addition to the mode setting switch, operations such as image quality setting and special effect setting were performed, and it can be seen that auto mode, high image quality, miniature effect, etc. were set based on these operations. .

  FIG. 3C shows movable monitor posture information. The movable monitor posture information includes information such as the posture detection date and the detected posture. The control unit 19 registers movable monitor posture information in the storage unit 17 each time the posture of the movable monitor changes. In addition, according to FIG.3 (c), the frequency | count etc. which used the hinge of the movable monitor can also be known now.

  Returning to FIG. 1, the communication unit 18 communicates with other devices, and in this embodiment, communicates with the server 40 via the network 20.

  The control unit 19 controls the entire camera 10 and includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), and the like. In the present embodiment, the control unit 19 stores control information for the camera 10 in the storage unit 17 and performs control for transmitting the operation information to the server 40. For example, when the power switch is turned on by the operation of the operation unit 13, the control unit 19 stores operation information and the like in the storage unit 17, and until the power switch is turned off and the power is turned off (shut down). The operation information stored in the storage unit 17 is transmitted to the server 40 by the communication unit 18.

  In addition to the optical system described above, accessories such as a flash device and an underwater housing may be attached to the camera 10. In such a case, the control part 19 should just acquire the information (type, model) which accessory was attached using the predetermined | prescribed electrical contact. Further, the control unit 19 may be provided with a short-range communication unit in the camera 10 and acquire information (type and model) of attached accessories by the short-range communication unit.

  When the camera 10 or the imaging unit 11 is provided with an attachment part for attaching to another part (bicycle, bike, surfboard, helmet), an IC tag or the like is also provided on the other part (tool). Thus, it may be possible to acquire data such as what part (tool) is attached.

(SNS server 30)
The SNS server 30 is a management server that manages reviews and tweets, and transmits SNS information including reviews and tweets related to the camera to the server 40 via the network 20. In addition to the SNS information related to the camera, the SNS server 30 also has SNS information (for example, fashion information, popular characters) that has a trend (for example, a color that is popular or will be popular in the future, shape, type, etc.) or a trend sign. , Social conditions, etc.) are transmitted to the server 40.

  FIG. 4 shows SNS information that the SNS server 30 transmits to the server 40. This SNS information is also input target information input to the server 40 as in FIGS. The SNS information includes information such as a comment ID, a comment, and a positive / negative (P / N) type. The comment ID is identification information given for each comment. The comment is, for example, a word of mouth or a tweet written in SNS such as Facebook (registered trademark) or Twitter (registered trademark). The P / N type is a comment type that is determined depending on whether or not a predetermined character is included in the comment. For example, the SNS server 30 registers “P” if a character such as “good” is included in the comment, and “N” if the character includes “bad” or “not good” in the comment. be registered. In addition, when a user's emotion can be estimated from the pictograph, image, stamp, etc. which the SNS user uses, it is good also as determining P / N type from the information of the estimated emotion.

(Server 40)
The server 40 is a server provided in an information analysis company or a camera manufacturer. The server 40 collects and analyzes information on how the camera 10 is used in various parts of the world. The analysis result by the server 40 is used as data for development of the next model, market prediction, and the like.

  As illustrated in FIG. 1, the server 40 includes a communication unit 41, an analysis unit 42, a storage unit 43, and a control unit 44.

  The communication unit 41 communicates with a plurality of cameras 10 and the SNS server 30, and receives operation information of the camera 10, SNS information such as reviews and tweets about the camera 10, and the like as input target information. In addition to the SNS server 30, the communication unit 41 uses second-hand information (information about cameras brought in and information about cameras sold) as input target information from a server of a company that sells second-hand cameras 10. You may make it receive. As a result, the server 40 can use the ratio and time when a certain model is brought into a second-hand store, the use history of the camera (release times, repair history, etc.), and the like for analysis.

  The analysis unit 42 analyzes the input target information received by the communication unit 41 based on an instruction from the control unit 44. The analysis unit 42 displays signs related to the use of the camera 10 (increase in the number of releases, changes in frequently used functions), functions that are not used, the number of times each component (motor, shutter unit) is used, and the place of use (the sea, mountains, Etc.). Further, the analysis unit 42 determines the user attributes such as age and gender, the product grade of the camera 10, the region and place where the camera 10 is used, the imaging direction, the time zone, and the camera 10 based on the extracted information. The contents of operations and settings being performed and functions used in the camera 10 are analyzed.

  The storage unit 43 is, for example, a nonvolatile semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, and stores various types of information received as input target information by the communication unit 41 and analysis results by the analysis unit 42. The storage unit 43 also stores various programs for the control unit 19 to cause the analysis unit 42 to perform analysis and prediction. In addition, the storage unit 43 stores product specification information related to the specification (spec) of the camera 10. The product specification information may be stored in the storage unit 43 at any time before the analysis process by the analysis unit 42 starts. For example, the product specification information of a camera already sold is newly sold when the system is started up. It is assumed that the product specification information of the camera is stored in the storage unit 43 at timings such as before and after the start of sales.

  FIG. 5 shows product specification information. The product specification information includes information such as manufacturer, product ID, product grade, mounting function, and allowable maximum temperature. The manufacturer, product ID, and product grade are the same as the information included in the product information of FIG. The information on the installed function is information on the function installed in the camera 10 specified by the product ID. For example, the camera 10 having the product ID “1234” of the manufacturer “N” is equipped with “auto mode”, “moving image mode”, and “fireworks mode”. The allowable maximum temperature information is information on the allowable maximum temperature of a device that generates heat (such as an image sensor or an ASIC). For example, the maximum allowable temperature of the image sensor and the ASIC included in the camera 10 having the product ID “1234” of the manufacturer “N” is 70 ° C.

  The control unit 44 controls the entire server 40 and includes a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and the like. In the present embodiment, the control unit 44 transmits various types of information received as input target information by the communication unit 41 to the analysis unit 42, and causes the analysis unit 42 to perform various types of analysis and prediction using the input target information. Note that the control unit 44 and the analysis unit 42 may be realized by the same hardware.

(Processing of server 40)
Next, the process of the server 40 will be described in detail along the flowchart of FIG.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart of analysis / prediction executed by the analysis unit 42 and the control unit 44 included in the server 40. Assuming that the process of FIG. 6 is executed, it is assumed that the user using the camera 10 has approved using the operation unit 13 to send operation information of the camera 10 to the server 40. In order to allow many users to consent to the transmission of information, the operating company or camera manufacturer that owns the server 40 provides points, discount coupons, etc. to the authorized user in return for providing operation information. It is good also as giving.

  In the process of FIG. 6, first, in step S <b> 1, the control unit 44 sets analysis conditions in the analysis unit 42 based on an instruction (input) from the outside of the server 40. Analysis conditions include region, age, gender, product grade (introductory, intermediate, and high-end models), analysis period, and analysis target. Operation information, setting information, use location / environment information, etc. that satisfy the analysis conditions of step S 1 are extracted from the storage unit 43.

  Next, in step S <b> 2, the control unit 44 performs an imaging environment analysis using the analysis unit 42. Specifically, the analysis unit 42 analyzes the heat generation state of the image sensor or ASIC included in the heat generation information, the imaging time included in the use position / environment information, based on the use location / environment information associated with the heat generation information. To do.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the analysis unit 42 is included in the maximum allowable temperature included in the product specification information of a certain product (camera) set as the analysis target in step S1 and the heat generation information of the product (camera). The device temperatures are compared, and the degree to which the imaging device and the ASIC rise to near the maximum allowable temperature (for example, 70 ° C.) over 30 minutes is analyzed. In this case, the analysis unit 42 analyzes that, as a result of the analysis, if a user who uses the same product grade as the product tends to capture a moving image for a long time, the exhaust heat treatment is listed as a future development subject. . On the other hand, the analysis unit 42 analyzes that the exhaust heat treatment is sufficient as it is when the moving image shooting by a certain product (camera) is often about several minutes. The analysis result of the analysis unit 42 is stored in the storage unit 43 by the control unit 44.

  Moreover, the analysis part 42 specifies whether the imaging was performed in the daytime or at night based on the imaging date and the calendar function included in the usage location / environment information, for example. The analysis unit 42 may acquire sunrise and sunset information from a website such as the Japan Meteorological Agency and specify whether the imaging time is daytime or nighttime. Note that when the usage location / environment information includes information on white balance, the analysis unit 42 may specify whether the imaging location is indoor or outdoor using the information. Good. Further, the analysis unit 42 calculates the ratio of shooting between daytime and nighttime, or the ratio of shooting indoors and outdoors, and recognizes the change by comparison with past data. For example, if the analysis unit 42 determines that the ratio of shooting indoors at night is increasing, and if it is found from the SNS information or the like that the LED has become widespread, the white balance of the LED is adjusted. Analyzes that it is better to develop a mode suitable for development and indoor shooting. The control unit 44 stores the analysis result in the storage unit 43.

  Moreover, the analysis part 42 analyzed the environment where the camera 10 of a certain specification set as the analysis object in step S1 is used based on the outside air temperature included in the use location / environment information. If it is found that the temperature is about the same, it is analyzed that the resistance to the environment of the introductory machine and the resistance temperature of the inexpensive interchangeable lens (optical system) should be matched with the information. For example, the controller 44 can avoid an excessively high specification of the introductory machine by making a recommendation to the manufacturer based on the analysis result. As a result, manufacturers and the like can reduce the manufacturing cost of introductory machines and inexpensive interchangeable lenses (optical systems).

  Next, in step S <b> 3, the control unit 44 uses the analysis unit 42 to perform durability analysis based on the operation information. In the endurance analysis, the analysis unit 42 uses the number of uses of the mechanical shutter of the camera set as the analysis target in step S1, the number of uses of various switches such as a release switch, a power switch, and a mode setting switch, the number of uses of the hinge, and a pop-up. Get the number of pop-ups of the built-in flash of the expression. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the analysis unit 42 obtains the average number of uses of various switches per year for each product based on the operation information. Note that the table on the right side of FIG. 8 indicates the average number of times the release switch of the middle-class camera of the single lens camera is used. From Fig. 8, the annual average release switch used up to the third year is 5000 times, the fourth year is 4000 times, the fifth year is 3000 times, and the release switch is used 8 to 10 years after release. It turns out that the number of times decreases drastically. In this case, based on the table in FIG. 8, the analysis unit 42 may determine the expiration date of the intermediate machine that is to be released in the future from 8 to 10 years. In addition, the analysis unit 42 determines the endurance number of each switch of the model to be released in the future based on the history of the number of times each switch such as the release switch, the power switch, and the mode setting switch is used within the period set as the expiration date. Just decide. For example, when the sum of the average number of times the release switch is used in the first to tenth years is about 27000 to 28000 times in the intermediate-class machine, the analysis unit 42 will set the release switch of the intermediate-level machine that is going to be released in the future. What is necessary is just to determine the durable frequency as 30000 times. This avoids setting the specifications of models that are going to be released in the future too high. Further, the analysis unit 42 indicates that the number of times the compact camera is shot decreases as the number of shooting opportunities with the built-in camera of a smartphone or mobile phone of a different category increases from the input target information and SNS information received from each camera 10. If the analysis result is obtained, the years of use and the number of durability of the compact camera may be reviewed. Further, the analysis unit 42 may predict the number of years of use and the number of endurances from used store information in step S3.

  Next, in step S <b> 4, the control unit 44 performs function / setting analysis using the analysis unit 42. In this case, the analysis unit 42 specifies corresponding product specification information based on the product information of the camera set as the analysis target in step S1, and compares the specified product specification information with the setting information. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, when the product specification of the product ID “1234” of the manufacturer “N” is specified as the product specification information, the specified product specification information and the model within the preset analysis period To the setting information (see FIG. 3B). In this case, the analysis unit 42 extracts a function satisfying a predetermined condition (for example, one or more times) from among the setting contents included in the setting information corresponding to the mounted function included in the product specification information. . Accordingly, for example, the auto mode, the moving image mode, and the fireworks mode are extracted, and therefore the analysis unit 42 has a function that tends to increase in use frequency (for example, auto mode) and a function that tends to decrease the number of times of use (for example, moving image). Mode) and analyze that it is preferable to continue developing functions with increasing trends. Further, the analysis unit 42 may extract a function (for example, fireworks mode) whose use frequency is less than a predetermined frequency (for example, 5 times) even if the function has been adopted once as a deletion function candidate. In this way, by actually extracting the development items and deletion items based on the usage status of the user, the manufacturer considers the objective analysis results based on the usage results of the user and determines the appropriate product development direction. It becomes possible to launch.

  Further, in step S4, the analysis unit 42 determines that the self-shooting is increasing from the movable monitor posture information as shown in the left table of FIG. 10, or as shown in the right table of FIG. When it is found from SNS information that an increase in self-portraits is predicted, it is analyzed that it is preferable to strengthen self-portrait and development of accessories as development items. If the cooperation between the camera and the portable terminal is increased by the proximity communication function based on the analysis result, the analysis unit 42 analyzes that it is preferable to strengthen the proximity communication function as a development item. Or, conversely, when it is extracted from the analysis result that a function used only by a certain manufacturer is not actually used by the user, the analyzing unit 42 is used only by a certain manufacturer. Analyze that development related to the function is not necessary.

  Next, in step S <b> 5, the control unit 44 uses the analysis unit 42 to perform segment analysis based on user attribute information and use location / environment information. The segment analysis is, for example, an analysis of whether or not a product whose specification is set targeting an active woman in the 20s (such as an outdoor woman) sold to a woman in the 20s as expected.

  When the analysis unit 42 determines that the segments do not match (for example, the usage rate of women in their 20s is about 25% of the total), the analysis unit 42 also analyzes which segment the user is using. The analysis unit 42 may determine whether or not it is active based on the imaging position that is the output of the GPS 14 included in the use location / environment information (FIG. 2B). For example, if the analysis unit 42 specifies that the imaging location is Mt. Fuji from the imaging position (N35, E138), it is determined that the user is active because he likes climbing. If the analysis unit 42 determines that the segments do not match, it analyzes that it is preferable to review the color variations of the camera 10 together. Thus, the manufacturer can determine the future increase / decrease in the number of units sold and the color variation of the next model based on the analysis result. The analysis unit 42 extracts the information on other products used by women in their 20s when there is no segment, so that the specifications of products targeted at women in their 20s (what kind of You may make it analyze whether a specification is preferred.

  Next, in step S6, the analysis unit 42 predicts parts that need replacement or repair. In the prediction of this part, the durability analysis result obtained in step S3 can be used. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, the analysis unit 42 extracts the number of times the release switch is used for a predetermined number of years (for example, three years) based on the operation information (the left table of FIG. 11) (right side of FIG. 11). table). Further, as shown in the right table of FIG. 11, it is assumed that the durability of the release switch is 30000 times determined by the durability analysis performed in step S3. In this case, the analysis unit 42 analyzes that the release switch is used more than the number of times assumed, and predicts that a malfunction will occur in the release switch earlier than the expected time. In this case, the analysis unit 42 identifies the release switch of the model as a part that needs replacement or repair, and notifies the manufacturer or the like. Based on such notification, the manufacturer or the like may determine that it is necessary to manufacture or stock more release switches specified as parts that need replacement or repair than the planned number. Conversely, if the analysis unit 42 analyzes that the number of malfunctions occurring in the release switch is less than planned, the manufacturer or the like may reduce the number of release switches to be stocked. As a result, it is possible to properly keep an inventory of parts that require replacement or repair. Further, a user who may need a part may be guided to the user via the communication unit 41, the communication unit 18, or using other means (e-mail, mail, etc.). .

  Next, in step S <b> 7, the control unit 44 performs demand prediction using the analysis unit 42. Specifically, the analysis unit 42 may predict the presence / absence of the production of the next lot and the number of produced products based on the usage frequency of the user and the SNS information for the sold products. Further, the analysis unit 42, for new products to be released in the future, sells and uses the previous model, SNS information from the SNS server 30 when the new product is announced (contents of comments, number of comments, positive The production volume may be predicted or adjusted based on the ratio of comments to negative comments. For example, if there are more positive comments than negative comments, the analysis unit 42 analyzes that it is preferable to increase the number of production because it is predicted that the number of purchasers of new products will increase. The analysis unit 42 also analyzes regional preferences (color variations and the like) based on SNS information and the like. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, if there is SNS information indicating that the trendy color in the Kyushu region is purple, the analysis unit 42 may analyze that it is better to add purple to the color design of the new product. it can. Note that the analysis unit 42 may analyze that it is better to add purple as a Kyushu limited color in consideration of SNS information of other regions (for example, trendy colors in China and Shikoku).

Next, in step S8, the control unit 44 presents an analysis result based on an instruction from the user, and determines whether or not to continue the analysis by the analysis unit 42. The control unit 44 returns to step S1 when changing the analysis conditions by the analysis unit 42 and continuing, and ends this flowchart when not continuing.
In addition, the processing order of FIG. 6 of this embodiment is an example. That is, the control unit 44 (analysis unit 42) may execute the processing in steps S2 to S7 by appropriately changing the processing order.

  As described above in detail, according to the present embodiment, the control unit 44 inputs information regarding how the camera 10 is used, and the analysis unit 42 compares the information with information regarding the specifications of the camera 10. (S2 to S6). As a result, a comparison result between information on how the camera 10 is used (use environment, use frequency, setting, etc. of the camera 10) and information on the specifications of the device can be obtained. By providing the comparison result to the manufacturer, The manufacturer can perform various examinations regarding the product itself, product sales, repairs, and the like.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, since the control part 44 acquires input object information (FIG. 2, FIG. 3) from the camera 10 via the network 20, it collects a user's use results, without performing a questionnaire etc. Is possible.

  In the present embodiment, the control unit 44 acquires information (FIG. 2B) on at least one of the location and environment where the camera is used and uses it for analysis (S2), so that the camera is actually used. It is possible to determine the specifications of the camera to be developed in the future based on the information on the location and environment.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the control unit 44 acquires information on the heat generation of the camera when the camera is used (for example, the temperature of the image sensor or the ASIC), and the analysis unit 42 acquires the information on the heat generation and the information on the camera. Compare specifications with heat generation. As a result, the manufacturer or the like can consider measures for heat generation of the next model based on the heat generation information when the user actually uses the camera 10.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, the analysis part 42 extracts the function with which usage frequency satisfy | fills predetermined conditions among the functions of the camera 10 based on input object information (S4, FIG. 9). As a result, the manufacturer can know the functions that are frequently used, the functions that are used frequently, the functions that are frequently used, the functions that are increasing in frequency, the functions that are decreasing, and so on. Can be used as a reference when considering

  Moreover, in this embodiment, the analysis part 42 determines the value (endurance number etc.) regarding the durability of a camera based on input object information (S3, FIG. 8). Thereby, the analysis part 42 can determine appropriately the durable frequency etc. of each part of a camera based on the track record which the user actually used.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the analysis unit 42 predicts the occurrence of a camera malfunction based on the input target information (S6, FIG. 11). ) Can be predicted.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the analysis unit 42 identifies a part that needs replacement or repair based on the prediction result of the occurrence of the failure, so that the manufacturer or the like can appropriately manage the inventory of the part. .

  In the present embodiment, the control unit 44 acquires information about the fashion from the SNS server 30 and identifies information about the design of the camera 10 based on the information. Therefore, the information about the fashion scattered on the Internet. Based on the above, it is possible to provide the manufacturer with an appropriate design suitable for the fashion.

  In the above embodiment, an analysis other than the items analyzed in the above embodiment may be performed based on the position where the camera 10 is used. For example, for a model that has been analyzed as being frequently used overseas, the manufacturer may design the next model so that dry cells can be used in order to cope with sudden battery charging.

  The manufacturer may also be designed to automatically set the airplane mode in the airplane. In addition, for example, when the user performs a common setting in the camera settings (for example, when the brightness of the display unit 12 is set slightly darker than the default brightness), the common setting is performed. It may be adjusted in advance so that (dark setting) becomes the default setting in the next model.

  In addition, for example, when it is determined from the detection result of the sensor that detects whether or not the finder is used, the analysis unit 42 should not provide the finder in the next model when it is determined that the user hardly uses the finder. The analysis result may be output.

  If the analysis unit 42 obtains an analysis result that the camera 10 or the imaging unit 11 is frequently provided in another part (bicycle, helmet, etc.) in a certain model, the manufacturer or the like However, it is also possible to take measures such as reducing the weight or increasing the impact resistance.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where the server 40 acquires information from the SNS server 30 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. That is, the server 40 does not have to acquire information from the SNS server 30.

  In addition, the server 40 may acquire information related to a trend from a magazine (for example, an electronic book) instead of the SNS server 30, or may acquire information written on an electronic bulletin board or a shopping site.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the analysis target by the analysis unit 42 of the server 40 is a camera has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. As an analysis target by the analysis unit 42, other devices (a variety of devices such as automobiles, vehicles, machine tools, sports equipment, etc., in addition to general home appliances) can be used.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the analysis is performed using the input target information as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 is described. However, the information in FIGS. 2 and 3 is an example and includes various other data. You may go out.

  In the above embodiment, the case has been described in which the server 40 acquires the input target information via the network 20. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and information using other communication such as proximity communication or a medium such as an SD card is used. The input target information may be acquired by exchanging information. When exchanging information using a medium, input target information such as user operation information is stored in the medium.

  Note that the processing functions in the above embodiments can be realized by a computer. In that case, a program describing the processing contents of the functions that the processing device (CPU) should have is provided. By executing the program on a computer, the above processing functions are realized on the computer. The program describing the processing contents can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium (except for a carrier wave).

  When the program is distributed, for example, it is sold in the form of a portable recording medium such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) or a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory) on which the program is recorded. It is also possible to store the program in a storage device of a server computer and transfer the program from the server computer to another computer via a network.

  The computer that executes the program stores, for example, the program recorded on the portable recording medium or the program transferred from the server computer in its own storage device. Then, the computer reads the program from its own storage device and executes processing according to the program.

  The computer can also read the program directly from the portable recording medium and execute processing according to the program. Further, each time the program is transferred from the server computer, the computer can sequentially execute processing according to the received program.

  The above-described embodiment is an example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Camera 20 Network 30 SNS server 40 Server 41 Communication part 42 Analysis part 43 Memory | storage part 44 Control part

Claims (10)

An input section for inputting information on how the device is used;
An electronic device comprising: a comparison unit that compares information relating to how the device is used and information relating to specifications of the device.   The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the input unit inputs information on how the device is used from the device via a network.   The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein the input unit inputs information on at least one of a place where the device is used and an environment. The input unit inputs information related to heat generation of the device when the device is used,
The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the comparison unit compares the information related to the heat generation with a specification related to the heat generation of the device.   5. The electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising: a first extraction unit configured to extract a function whose usage frequency satisfies a predetermined condition from functions of the device based on information on how the device is used.   Based on information on how the device is used, extract at least one of the functions of the device that has a frequency of use less than a predetermined frequency, a function whose frequency of use is increasing, and a function whose frequency of use is decreasing The electronic device as described in any one of Claim 1 to 4 provided with the 2nd extraction part to do.   The electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising a determination unit that determines a value related to durability of the device based on information on how the device is used.   The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a prediction unit that predicts occurrence of a malfunction of the device based on information on how the device is used.   The electronic device according to claim 8, further comprising a specifying unit that specifies a part that needs to be replaced or repaired based on a prediction result of the prediction unit. The input unit inputs information about a fashion,
The electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising: an output unit that outputs information related to the design of the device based on the information related to the fashion.

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