JP2019107414A - Walking support device - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a walking support device enabling a visually impaired person to safely and easily arrive at a destination.SOLUTION: A user of a walking support device 1 utters speech information related to a destination to a microphone 2 at first. The walking support device 1 performs processing to determine that the speech information is input, and the walking support device 1 performs processing to analyze the speech information, and sets destination information when recognizing the speech information. The walking support device 1 acquires current position information of the user with GPS 3, sets monitoring information with a camera 5, and sets route information on the basis of the current position information and the destination information. Furthermore, the walking support device 1 outputs the set route information and monitoring information to a bone-conduction loudspeaker 6b, amplifies sounds collected from the outside, and outputs to an earphone 6d.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a walking support device that supports the walking of a user.

  Conventionally, in order to support the walking of a visually impaired person, a walking support that supports walking of a visually impaired person by notifying the visually impaired person of the distance between the visually impaired person and an object present in the periphery thereof. An apparatus is known (for example, patent document 1).

  Such a walking support device includes an optical sensor including a light emitting element and a light receiving element, and based on the time from when the light emitting element emits light to when the light receiving element receives the light reflected by the object, The distance to the object is measured, and the first notification sound is output. Then, after a time corresponding to the distance to the measured object has elapsed since the first alarm sound is output, the first alarm sound is stopped from being output and the second alarm sound is output. Thereby, the distance between the visually impaired person and the object present in the periphery can be notified to the visually impaired person in real time.

Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 2006-276595

  However, in the walking support device as disclosed in Patent Document 1, the visually impaired person can recognize the distance between the visually impaired person and the object present in the periphery, so that he can walk safely. Although it can, there is a problem that it is difficult to reach the destination.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a walking support device that allows a visually impaired person to reach a destination safely and easily in view of such problems.

  In order to solve such a problem, the walk supporting device according to the present invention comprises: voice information input means for inputting voice information of a user; position information obtaining means for obtaining current position information; Route information setting means for setting route information to a destination based on the position information acquired by the means and the voice information inputted by the voice information input means, and monitoring the front of the user And monitoring information generation means for generating monitoring information, and information output means for outputting the monitoring information generated by the monitoring information generating means, and the path information set by the path information setting means, The information output means is configured to increase a sound collected from the outside, a main body portion mounted between the auricle and the scalp, the monitoring information, and a first output portion to which the route information is output. And, characterized in that it is constituted and a second output unit for outputting, by.

  Further, the walking support device further comprises a right shoulder vibrating portion formed in a clothes shape and provided on the right shoulder and a left shoulder vibrating portion provided on the left shoulder, and the information output unit is configured to When guiding the user in the right direction, control is performed to vibrate the right shoulder vibration unit, and when guiding the user in the left direction, control is performed to vibrate the left shoulder vibration unit. It features.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a walking support device that allows a visually impaired person to easily reach a destination.

It is a figure which shows an example of the external view of the walk assistance apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the fixing method of the camera in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the attachment method of the long sleeve part in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the specific aspect of the hearing aid in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the block diagram in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure showing an example of the main processing in a 1st embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the process at the time of the audio | voice information input in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the mounting | wearing aspect of the walk assistance apparatus in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the external view of the walk assistance apparatus in 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the external view of the walk assistance apparatus in 3rd Embodiment.

First Embodiment
First, the first embodiment of the walking support device 1 according to the present invention will be specifically described using FIGS. 1 to 4.

(Appearance of the walking support device 1)
The appearance of the walking support device 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, FIG. 1 (A) is a figure which shows an example of the front view of the walk assistance apparatus 1 in 1st Embodiment, Comprising: FIG. 1 (B) is a rear view of the walk assistance apparatus 1 in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example.

(Walking support device 1)
The walking support device 1 is in the shape of a sleeveless clothing and is for supporting the user's walking. Further, the walking support device 1 is waterproofed and can withstand even when it is used on a rainy day or a snowy day.

  In addition, although the walking assistance apparatus 1 in 1st Embodiment becomes a sleeveless clothing-like shape, it is not limited to this, It can set suitably. For example, it may be in the shape of glasses or other shapes.

(Mike 2)
The microphone 2 is provided to input voice information of the user. The microphone 2 in the first embodiment is configured by the right microphone 2 a and the left microphone 2 b. The microphone 2 is provided at the center of the front of the walking support device 1 so that the user's voice information can be easily recognized. Here, as the microphone 2 in the present embodiment, a condenser microphone with high sensitivity is used so that voice information of the user can be easily recognized. Although the characteristic of the condenser microphone is that it has an advantage of high sensitivity, there is a problem that it is not suitable in the case of rain because it is weak to vibration and moisture. Therefore, it is possible to use a dynamic microphone that is stronger and more resistant to humidity than a condenser microphone. The microphone 2 may be a bone conduction microphone.

(GPS3)
The GPS 3 is provided to obtain the current position of the user of the walking support device 1. Specifically, the GPS 3 includes a receiver that receives a signal from the global positioning system, and is provided to obtain the current position of the user of the walking support device 1 on the map. Also, the GPS 3 is provided above the microphone 2.

(Control device 4)
The control device 4 is provided to control the operation of the hearing aid 6. Further, in the control device 4, a CPU 4a, a ROM 4b, a RAM 4c, and an artificial intelligence 4d are connected via an internal bus 4e.

(Camera 5)
The camera 5 is provided to monitor the front of the user of the walking support device 1. Further, the camera 5 in the first embodiment is configured by the right camera 5 a and the left camera 5 b, and is provided below the GPS 3. Here, the camera 5 in the present invention is a CCD camera having high sensitivity to light and excellent image quality. The camera 5 may not be a CCD camera but a CMOS camera or the like.

  Further, the camera 5 in the present embodiment is provided to project forward. Thereby, as compared with the case where the camera 5 is parallel to the front surface of the walking support device 1, the viewing angle of the camera 5 can be widened. In particular, when the camera 5 is projected forward, it is possible to monitor up, in front of and in the foot of the user of the walking support device 1, so when a visually impaired person uses the walking support device 1, You can walk safely.

  In the first embodiment, the right camera 5a and the left camera 5b are provided so as to project forward, but the right camera 5a and the left camera 5b may be inclined in different directions. . Thereby, the view angle of the camera 5 can be widened. The camera 5 may be movably provided.

  Further, in the first embodiment, although a plurality of cameras 5 are provided, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be singular.

(Hearing aid 6)
The hearing aid 6 is provided to output voice information to the user of the walking support device 1. Moreover, the hearing aid 6 is provided in order to make it easy for the user who is deaf to recognize the sound. The hearing aid 6 will be described later in detail with reference to FIG.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the hearing aid 6 provided in the walking support device 1 is singular. Thereby, compared with the case where a plurality of hearing aids 6 are provided, the walking support device 1 can be provided at low cost.

(Power supply device 7)
The power supply device 7 is provided to supply power to the walking support device 1. Further, the power supply device 7 is provided at the collar of the walking support device 1. Here, the power supply device 7 is composed of a battery (not shown) and an adapter insertion port (not shown), and an adapter (not shown) is inserted into the adapter insertion port to charge the battery. It will be done.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the walking support device 1 is made of a flame retardant material. As a result, it is possible to prevent the power supply device 7 from being heated and burning the walking assistance device 1. In the walking support device 1, at least the surface in contact with the power supply device 7 may be made of a flame retardant material. In addition, the walking support device 1 may be a flameproof material instead of the flame retardant material.

(Fastener part 8)
The fastener portion 8 is provided to attach a long sleeve portion 13 described later to the walking support device 1 in the first embodiment. Further, the fastener portion 8 is constituted by a right side fastener portion 8a to which a right side long sleeve portion 13a described later is attached and a left side fastener portion 8b to which a left side long sleeve portion 13b described later is attached. By attaching the part 13, it can be used even in the season when the temperature is low.

(Transmission device 9)
The transmission device 9 is provided to transmit information of the walking support device 1 to the outside, and is provided on the right shoulder of the walking support device 1. Specifically, the transmission device 9 is provided to transmit current position information and the like to the outside of the walking support device 1.

(Receiver 10)
The receiving device 10 is provided to receive information from the outside into the walking support device 1 and is provided on the left shoulder of the walking support device 1. Specifically, the receiving device 10 is provided to receive external information regarding an earthquake or the like.

(Drawstring section 11)
The drawstring portion 11 is provided so that the waist portion can be adjusted when the user uses the walking support device 1. Specifically, the waist portion can be narrowed by pulling a string (not shown) provided in the draw string portion 11.

(How to fix the camera 5)
Next, a method of fixing the camera 5 will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, FIG. 2 is a figure which shows an example of the fixing method of the camera 5. As shown in FIG.

(Fixing plate 12)
The fixing plate 12 is provided to attach the camera 5. The fixing plate 12 is configured by a right fixing plate 12a for mounting the right camera 5a and a left fixing plate 12b for mounting the left camera 5b. Here, the right camera 5a is attached to the walking support device 1 in a state of being attached to the right fixing plate 12a. The left camera 5b is attached to the walking support device 1 in a state of being attached to the left fixing plate 12b.

  In addition, it is good also as attaching to the walk support device 1 in the state which provided the cover part which covers the camera 5 and the fixed plate 12, and exposed the lens part of the camera 5 from this cover part. A pocket may be provided, and the fixed plate 12 to which the camera 5 is attached may be placed inside the pocket to expose the lens portion of the camera 5 from the pocket. Thereby, even when the walking support device 1 is used on a rainy day, it is possible to prevent the camera 5 and the fixing plate 12 from getting wet as much as possible.

(How to attach the long sleeve part 13)
Next, a method of attaching the long sleeve portion 13 will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, FIG. 3 is a figure which shows an example of the attachment method of the long sleeve part 13. As shown in FIG.

(Long sleeve part 13)
The long sleeve portion 13 is provided in order to convert the sleeveless clothing-like walking support device 1 shown in FIG. 1 into a long sleeve clothing-like walking support device 1. Further, the long sleeve part 13 is constituted by a right long sleeve part 13 a and a left long sleeve part 13 b.

(Mounting bracket 14)
The mounting bracket 14 is provided to attach the long sleeve portion to the fastener portion 8 of the walking support device 1. Moreover, the mounting bracket 14 is comprised by the right side mounting bracket 14a and the left side mounting bracket 14b.

  Here, the right side fastener portion 8a and the right side long sleeve portion 13a are attached by the right side attachment bracket 14a, and the left side fastener portion 8b and the left long sleeve portion 13b are attached by the left side attachment bracket 14b.

(Specific embodiment of the hearing aid 6)
Next, a specific mode of the hearing aid 6 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a view showing an example of a specific mode of the hearing aid 6.

  The hearing aid 6 in the present embodiment is composed of a main body 6a, a bone conduction speaker 6b, an earphone jack 6c, and an earphone 6d.

(Body part 6a)
When the user uses the walking support device 1, the main body portion 6 a is provided to be sandwiched and worn between the auricle and the scalp. Here, in the present embodiment, the main body 6 a includes a microphone that collects sounds from the outside, and an amplifier that amplifies and processes the sound collected by the microphone. In the present embodiment, the main body 6a is waterproofed.

(Bone conduction speaker 6b)
The bone conduction speaker 6 b is provided to output voice information to the user of the walking support device 1. Here, the bone conduction speaker 6b transmits the vibration of the direct sound to the spiral tube of the inner ear without passing through the outer ear and the middle ear, and the sound can be heard by shaking the auditory nerve floating in the lymph fluid.

(Earphone jack 6c)
The earphone jack 6c is provided to insert the earphone 6d. Here, by providing the earphone jack 6c in the main body portion 6a of the hearing aid 6, even if the earphone 6d breaks down, it is only necessary to replace the earphone 6d, compared to the case where the entire hearing aid 6 is replaced. Repair costs are low.

(Earphone 6d)
The earphone 6 d is provided to output a sound that has been amplified and processed by an amplifier provided in the main body 6 a.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the hearing aid 6 outputs the audio information by the bone conduction speaker 6b, and outputs the sound from the outside by the earphone 6d. Note that without providing the bone conduction speaker 6b, sound information and external sound may be output by the earphone 6d.

(Block diagram of the walking support device 1)
Next, a block diagram of the walking support device 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a view showing an example of a block diagram of the walking support device 1.

  In the present embodiment, the microphone 2, the GPS 3, the camera 5, the hearing aid 6, the power supply device 7, the transmission device 9, and the reception device 10 are connected to the control device 4.

(CPU 4a)
The CPU 4a is provided to read a program stored in the ROM 4b and perform predetermined arithmetic processing.

(ROM 4b)
The ROM 4 b is provided to store a program or the like executed by the CPU 4 a.

(RAM 4c)
The RAM 4 c is provided to store various data determined by execution of a program by the CPU 4 a.

(Artificial intelligence 4d)
The artificial intelligence 4d is provided to enable the user of the walking support device 1 to reach the destination safely and efficiently. Specifically, the artificial intelligence 4 d performs a process of inferring that the object captured by the camera 5 is an obstacle to the walking of the user of the walking support device 1.

(Internal bus 4e)
The internal bus 4e is provided to connect the CPU 4a, the ROM 4b, the RAM 4c, and the artificial intelligence 4d.

  In the present embodiment, although the hearing aid 6 is supplied with power by the power supply device 7, the present invention is not limited to this, and the power supply unit may be provided to the main body 6a of the hearing aid 6. It may be

(Main processing in the walking support device 1)
Next, main processing in the walking support device 1 will be described using FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of main processing in the walking support device 1.

(Step S1)
In step S1, the CPU 4a performs processing to determine whether or not voice information has been input. Specifically, the CPU 4a first performs a process of determining whether or not audio information is input by the right side microphone 2a, and determines that audio information is input when the audio information is input by the right side microphone 2a. If the voice information is not input by the right side microphone 2a, it is determined whether the voice information is input by the left side microphone 2b, and the voice information is input by the left side microphone 2b. If it is determined that the voice information has been input (step S1 = YES), and if no voice information has been input by the left microphone 2b, it is determined that the voice information has not been input (step S1 = NO). When it is determined that the voice information is input (step S1 = YES), the process proceeds to step S2, and when it is determined that the voice information is not input (step S1 = NO), The process proceeds to step S3.

(Step S2)
In step S2, the CPU 4a performs processing at the time of voice information input which will be described in detail later using FIG. In the processing, processing such as storing input voice information is performed. And if the process of step S2 is complete | finished, a process will be transfered to step S3.

(Step S3)
In step S3, the CPU 4a performs position information update processing. Specifically, the CPU 4a first calculates the traveling direction and the estimated current position based on the GPS3. Next, the CPU 4a performs a process of calculating the current position based on the GPS 3. Then, processing is performed to determine whether the distance from the estimated current position to the current position is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance, and if it is determined that the distance from the estimated current position is greater than or equal to the predetermined distance, A process of storing the information in the RAM 4c is performed. On the other hand, when it is determined that the user is not separated by the predetermined distance or more, the information concerning the estimated current position is stored in the RAM 4c as the current position information. And if the process of step S3 is complete | finished, a process will be transfered to step S4.

(Step S4)
In step S4, the CPU 4a performs monitoring information generation processing. Specifically, the CPU 4a first performs processing for storing, in the RAM 4c, the shooting information shot by the right camera 5a and the shooting information shot by the left camera 5b. Next, the CPU 4a uses the artificial intelligence 4d to infer from the monitoring information stored in the RAM 4c that the user of the walking support device 1 becomes an obstacle to walking, and as a result of the inference, the walking is as follows. When it is inferred that the user's walking of the support apparatus 1 is an obstacle, processing of storing the monitoring information in the RAM 4c is performed. And if the process of step S4 is complete | finished, a process will be transfered to step S5.

(Step S5)
In step S5, the CPU 4a performs route information setting processing. Specifically, the CPU 4a sets the route information in the RAM 4c based on the destination information stored in the RAM 4c and the current position information stored in the RAM 4c. And if the process of step S5 is complete | finished, a process will be transfered to step S6.

(Step S6)
In step S6, the CPU 4a performs artificial intelligence learning processing. Specifically, the CPU 4a performs a process of learning voice information inferred by the artificial intelligence 4d and a process of learning the inferred monitoring information. And if the process of step S6 is complete | finished, a process will be transfered to step S7.

(Step S7)
In step S7, the CPU 4a performs an information reception process. Specifically, the CPU 4a performs a process of receiving external information, and performs a process of storing the received external information in the RAM 4c. And if the process of step S7 is complete | finished, a process will be transfered to step S8.

(Step S8)
In step S8, the CPU 4a performs an information transmission process. Specifically, the CPU 4a transmits the information acquired by the walking support device 1 to the outside. And if the process of step S8 is complete | finished, a process will be transfered to step S9.

(Step S9)
In step S9, the CPU 4a performs an information output process. Specifically, the CPU 4a performs a process of outputting the monitoring information generated by the monitoring information generation process of step S4 and the path information set by the path information setting process of step S5 to the bone conduction speaker 6b. And if the process of step S9 is complete | finished, a process will be transfered to step S1.

(Processing when inputting voice information)
Next, processing at the time of voice information input will be described using FIG. FIG. 7 is a view showing an example of a subroutine of processing at the time of voice information input.

(Step S11)
In step S11, the CPU 4a performs audio information analysis processing. Specifically, the CPU 4a analyzes the voice information input from the microphone 2 by inferring voice information using the artificial intelligence 4d. And if the process of step S11 is complete | finished, a process will be transfered to step S12.

  The artificial intelligence 4d may be configured to infer the synthesized speech information by synthesizing the speech information input from the right side microphone 2a and the speech information input from the left side microphone 2b. Thereby, the recognition system of speech information can be improved.

(Step S12)
In step S12, the CPU 4a performs processing to determine whether or not voice information has been recognized. Specifically, the CPU 4a performs a process of determining whether or not the speech information input from the microphone 2 has been recognized by the speech information analysis process of step S11. When it is determined that the voice information is recognized (step S12 = YES), the process proceeds to step S13, and when it is determined that the voice information is not recognized (step S12 = NO), The process proceeds to step S14.

(Step S13)
In step S13, the CPU 4a performs various setting storage processing. Specifically, the CPU 4a performs processing of storing voice information analyzed by the voice information analysis processing of step S11 in the RAM 4c as destination information. Then, when the process of step S13 is completed, the subroutine of the process at the time of voice information input is ended, and the process proceeds to step S3 of the main process in the walking assistance device 1.

(Step S14)
In step S14, the CPU 4a performs an error information storage process. Specifically, since the CPU 4a could not analyze voice information by the voice information analysis process of step S11 (step S12 = NO), it performs a process of storing error information in the RAM 4c. Then, when the process of step S14 is completed, the subroutine of the process at the time of voice information input is ended, and the process proceeds to step S3 of the main process in the walking assistance device 1.

(First usage mode of the first embodiment)
Next, the first utilization aspect of the first embodiment will be described.

  First, the user of the walking support device 1 utters voice information relating to the destination to the microphone 2. Then, the CPU 4a performs a process of determining that voice information has been input (step S1 = YES). Then, the CPU 4a performs processing of analyzing voice information (step S11), and sets destination information (step S13) when voice information is recognized (step S12 = YES).

  Then, the CPU 4a acquires the current position information of the user by the GPS 3 (Step S3), sets the monitoring information by the camera 5 (Step S4), and sets the route information based on the current position information and the destination information. (Step S5). Then, the CPU 4a performs a process of outputting the set path information and the monitoring information to the bone conduction speaker 6b (step S9).

  On the other hand, the CPU 4a performs a process of analyzing voice information (step S11), and stores error information (step S14) if voice information can not be recognized (step S12 = NO). Then, the CPU 4a performs a process of outputting the set error information to the bone conduction speaker 6b (step S9).

(Second usage mode of the first embodiment)
Next, the second usage mode of the first embodiment will be described.

  First, the user of the walking support device 1 utters voice information to the microphone 2 that there is an object that is an obstacle to walking. Then, the CPU 4a performs a process of determining that voice information has been input (step S1 = YES). Then, the CPU 4a performs processing of analyzing voice information (step S11), and when voice information is recognized (step S12 = YES), processing of storing information to the effect that there is an object that is an obstacle to walking in the RAM 4c. (Step S13).

  Then, the CPU 4a acquires current position information of the user by the GPS 3 (step S3), and sets monitoring information by the camera 5 (step S4). Then, the CPU 4a uses the artificial intelligence 4d to infer and learn an object that is an obstacle to walking based on the current position information and the monitoring information (step S6). And CPU4a performs the process which outputs the information to the effect of the object which becomes an obstacle of a walk by the bone conduction speaker 6b (step S9).

(Third usage mode of the first embodiment)
Next, a third usage aspect of the first embodiment will be described.

  In the third usage form of the first embodiment, a more specific usage scene will be described.

  For example, it is assumed that the user of the walking support device 1 walks in front of the signal. Then, the CPU 4a acquires current position information of the user by the GPS 3 (step S3), and sets monitoring information by the camera 5 (step S4). At this time, the artificial intelligence 4d is used to infer that the signal is an obstacle to walking. Then, the CPU 4a uses the artificial intelligence 4d to perform processing to learn that the signal is an obstacle to walking (step S6), and outputs information indicating that there is a signal to be an obstacle to walking through the bone conduction speaker 6b. A process is performed (step S9).

  Here, more specifically, when the distance from the user of the walking support device 1 to the signal becomes a predetermined distance, a voice such as "There is a signal at about ○ step ahead." Output. In this case, the CPU 4a uses the artificial intelligence 4d to infer the distance (the number of steps) to the signal based on the information captured by the camera 5 and the current position information updated by the GPS 3. This makes it easier for the user of the walking support device 1 with visual impairment to understand than outputting the distance to the signal as it is to the bone conduction speaker 6b by means of a voice such as "There is a signal about another ○ meters ahead". Informing can be performed.

  In addition, other voices such as "Stop. Please come in front of the signal.", Voices such as "We have started crossing the pedestrian crossing." Voices saying "We are crossing the pedestrian crossing." The voice has passed over the pedestrian crossing. "Is output by the bone conduction speaker 6b.

  Next, it is assumed that the user of the walking support device 1 walks in the station yard. Then, the CPU 4a acquires current position information of the user by the GPS 3 (step S3), and sets monitoring information by the camera 5 (step S4). At this time, using artificial intelligence 4d, it is inferred that the Braille block becomes an obstacle to walking. Then, the CPU 4a uses the artificial intelligence 4d to perform processing to learn when the Braille block becomes an obstacle to walking (step S6). And CPU4a performs the process which outputs the information to the effect of the braille block which becomes an obstacle of a walk by the bone conduction speaker 6b (step S9).

  Here, more specifically, when the distance from the user of the walking support device 1 to the braille block becomes a predetermined distance, “Please be careful. There is a braille block on the left side about ○ step ahead. "" Is output by the bone conduction speaker 6b. In this case, the CPU 4a uses the artificial intelligence 4d to infer the distance (the number of steps) to the Braille block on the basis of the information captured by the camera 5 and the current position information updated by the GPS 3. Thus, rather than outputting a voice such as “there is a Braille block about another O meters ahead” to the bone conduction speaker 6b, it is possible to perform an alert that is easy for the user of the walking support device 1 with visual impairment to understand.

  In addition, other voices such as "I'm going up in the next step" and voices like "I'm going down in the second step" and voices such as "I'm going to turn on the next step" are output by the bone conduction speaker 6b The Rukoto.

(Fourth Use Mode of the First Embodiment)
Next, a fourth usage aspect of the first embodiment will be described.

  First, it is assumed that the user of the walking support device 1 first utters voice information to the microphone 2 to the effect that he / she wants to come to pick up, for example, because he is lost. At this time, the user utters destination information to be transmitted to the outside of the walking support device 1. Then, the CPU 4a performs a process of determining that voice information has been input (step S1 = YES). And CPU4a performs processing which analyzes voice information (Step S11), and when voice information is recognized (Step S12 = YES), sets up transmission information for transmitting to the exterior of walk supporting device 1 ( Step S13). The “transmission information” referred to here is a lost child, and thus includes information indicating that the user wants me to come to pick him up, the current position information acquired by the GPS 3, and information on the destination.

  Then, the CPU 4a transmits the current position information and the information to the effect that the user wants to come to the pick-up to the set destination (step S8). Thereby, the person who has received the transmission information can pick up the user of the walk supporting device 1 who has become lost.

  In addition, since the child is lost with respect to the set destination, the information taken by the camera 5 may be transmitted together when transmitting the information to the effect that the user wants to be picked up. Thereby, a person who has seen the photographed information may be able to pick up the user of the walking support device 1 without looking at the current position information.

(Fifth Use Mode of the First Embodiment)
Next, the fifth usage aspect of the first embodiment will be described.

  First, it is assumed that the walk support device 1 in the second embodiment receives the information on the earthquake (step S7). Then, the CPU 4a rewrites the destination information stored in the RAM 4c. Specifically, the CPU 4a performs a process of searching for an evacuation site near the current position based on the current position information stored in the RAM 4c. Then, the CPU 4a performs a process of storing the retrieved evacuation site as the destination information in the RAM 4c.

  Next, the CPU 4a sets the route information based on the current position information and the destination information stored in the RAM 4c (step S5), and outputs the monitoring information and the route information to the bone conduction speaker 6b. Perform (step S7). By these processes, the user of the walking support device 1 can be guided to the evacuation site.

(Attachment mode of the walking support device 1)
Next, a mounting mode of the walking support device 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, FIG. 8 is a figure which shows an example of the mounting | wearing aspect of the walk assistance apparatus 1. As shown in FIG.

  First, the user wears the walking support device 1 and fastens the button. Next, the main body 6a of the hearing aid 6 is mounted between the auricle and the scalp. Then, the earphone 6d of the hearing aid 6 is attached to the ear hole. Then, by pulling a string provided in the drawstring portion 11, the waist portion is narrowed to adjust the waist portion.

  On the other hand, when taking off the walking support device 1 worn, first, the cord provided in the drawstring portion 11 is loosened, and the hearing aid 6 worn is removed. Then, the user holds the button and takes off the walking support device 1.

Second Embodiment
Next, a second embodiment will be described using FIG. 9A is a view showing an example of a front view of the walking support device 1 in the second embodiment, and FIG. 9B is a rear view of the walking support device 1 in the second embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example.

  The walking support device 1 in the first embodiment is in the shape of a sleeveless clothing, whereas the walking support device 1 in the second embodiment is in the shape of a long sleeved clothing with a hat There is.

  The walking support device 1 according to the second embodiment includes a front vibrating portion 15 provided on the front portion, a back vibrating portion 16 provided on the back portion, and a right shoulder vibrating portion 17 provided on the right shoulder portion. , And a left shoulder vibrating portion 18 provided in the left shoulder portion.

  Moreover, the language selection button 19 is provided in the left arm part of the walking assistance device 1 in the second embodiment.

(Front vibration unit 15)
The front vibration unit 15 is provided on the front of the walking support device 1 and is provided to guide the user of the walking support device 1 in the forward direction. Specifically, the CPU 4a guides the user of the walking support device 1 forward by performing control to vibrate the front vibrating unit 15 when guiding the user in the forward direction. The front vibration unit 15 may be provided at any position as long as it is provided in front of the walking support device 1.

(Back vibration unit 16)
The back surface vibration unit 16 is provided on the back surface of the walking support device 1 and is provided to guide the user of the walking support device 1 in the backward direction. Specifically, the CPU 4a guides the user of the walking support device 1 in the backward direction by performing control to vibrate the back surface vibrating unit 16 when guiding the user in the backward direction. In addition, as long as the back surface vibration part 16 is provided in the back surface of the walk assistance apparatus 1, you may be provided in what kind of position.

(Right shoulder vibrator 17)
The right shoulder vibration unit 17 is provided on the right shoulder of the walking support device 1 and is provided to guide the user of the walking support device 1 in the right direction. Specifically, the CPU 4a guides the user of the walking support device 1 in the right direction by performing control to vibrate the right shoulder vibration unit 17 when guiding the user in the right direction. The right shoulder vibration unit 17 may be provided at any position as long as the right shoulder vibration unit 17 is provided on the right side of the walking support device 1. For example, it may be provided on the right arm.

(Left shoulder vibrator 18)
The left shoulder vibration unit 18 is provided on the left shoulder of the walking support device 1 and is provided to guide the user of the walking support device 1 in the left direction. Specifically, the CPU 4a guides the user of the walking support device 1 in the left direction by performing control to vibrate the left shoulder vibration unit 18 when guiding the user in the left direction. The left shoulder vibration unit 18 may be provided at any position as long as it is provided on the left side of the walking support device 1. For example, it may be provided on the left arm.

(Language selection button 19)
The language selection button 19 is provided on the left arm of the walking support device 1 in the second embodiment, and is provided to switch between Japanese and English. Specifically, in the walking support device 1, Japanese is selected as the initial value of the language. When the user of the walking support device 1 operates the language selection button 19 in a state where Japanese is selected, control to switch from Japanese to English is performed. On the other hand, when the user of the walking support device 1 operates the language selection button 19 in a state where English is selected, control to switch from English to Japanese is performed. The position where the language selection button 19 is provided can be set as appropriate.

  In the second embodiment, Japanese and English can be selected by operating the language selection button 19, but other languages may be selected. For example, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, etc. may be selectable.

(First usage mode in the second embodiment)
Next, the first utilization aspect of the second embodiment will be described.

  First, the user of the walking support device 1 utters voice information relating to the destination to the microphone 2. Then, the CPU 4a performs a process of determining that voice information has been input (step S1 = YES). Then, the CPU 4a performs processing of analyzing voice information (step S11), and sets destination information (step S13) when voice information is recognized (step S12 = YES).

  Then, the CPU 4a acquires the current position information of the user by the GPS 3 (Step S3), sets the monitoring information by the camera 5 (Step S4), and sets the route information based on the current position information and the destination information. (Step S5). Then, the CPU 4a performs a process of outputting the set path information and the monitoring information to the bone conduction speaker 6b (step S9).

  Here, when the CPU 4a outputs the set path information and the monitoring information to the bone conduction speaker 6b in the information output process of step S9, the front vibration unit 15, the back vibration unit 16, the right shoulder vibration unit 17, Control to vibrate the left shoulder vibration unit 18 is performed. Specifically, in the case of guiding the user of the walking support device 1 in the forward direction, control is made to vibrate the front vibrating unit 15, and in the case of guiding the user of the walking support device 1 in the backward direction, When the back vibration unit 16 is controlled to vibrate and the user of the walking support device 1 is guided in the right direction, the right shoulder vibration unit 17 is controlled to vibrate and the user of the walking support device 1 is moved to the left In the case of guiding to the left, the control to vibrate the left shoulder vibration unit 18 is performed.

  When it is desired to stop the walking of the user of the walking support device 1, control is performed to simultaneously vibrate the front vibration unit 15, the back vibration unit 16, the right shoulder vibration unit 17, and the left shoulder vibration unit 18.

  Moreover, since the walking support device 1 in the second embodiment can wear the hearing aid 6 in a state of wearing a hat, the hearing aid 6 gets wet even on rainy days or snow days. Can be prevented.

(Second Usage Mode in Second Embodiment)
Next, the second utilization mode of the second embodiment will be described.

  First, the user of the walking support device 1 utters voice information relating to the destination to the microphone 2. Then, the CPU 4a performs a process of determining that voice information has been input (step S1 = YES). Then, the CPU 4a performs processing for analyzing voice information based on the language set by the language selection button 19 (step S11), and when voice information is recognized (step S12 = YES), destination information Are set (step S13).

  Then, the CPU 4a acquires the current position information of the user by the GPS 3 (Step S3), sets the monitoring information by the camera 5 (Step S4), and sets the route information based on the current position information and the destination information. (Step S5). Then, based on the language set by the language selection button 19, the CPU 4a performs processing for outputting the set path information and the monitoring information to the bone conduction speaker 6b (step S9).

Third Embodiment
Next, a third embodiment will be described using FIG. In addition, FIG. 10 (A) is a figure which shows an example of the front view of the walk assistance apparatus 1 in 3rd Embodiment, Comprising: FIG. 10 (B) is a rear view of the walk assistance apparatus 1 in 3rd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example.

  The walking support device 1 in the third embodiment is provided with a hearing aid 6 and a second hearing aid 20.

(2nd hearing aid 20)
Similar to the hearing aid 6, the second hearing aid 20 is provided to output audio information to the user of the walking support device 1. In addition, the second hearing aid 20 is provided in order to make it easier for the user who is deaf to recognize the sound.

  Further, the second hearing aid 20, like the hearing aid 6, includes a second hearing aid main body 20a (not shown), a second hearing aid bone conduction speaker 20b (not shown), and a second hearing aid earphone jack 20c (not shown). And a second hearing aid earphone 20d (not shown).

(Second hearing aid main body 20a)
The second hearing aid main body portion 20 a is provided to be held between the auricle and the scalp when the user uses the walking support device 1. Here, in the present embodiment, the second hearing aid main body 20a includes a microphone unit that collects sounds from the outside, and an amplifier unit that amplifies and processes the sound collected by the microphone unit. In the present embodiment, the second hearing aid main body 20a is waterproofed.

(Second hearing aid bone conduction speaker 20b)
The second hearing aid bone conduction speaker 20 b is provided to output voice information to the user of the walking support device 1. Here, the second hearing aid bone conduction speaker 20b transmits the vibration of the direct sound to the spiral tube of the inner ear without passing through the outer ear and the middle ear, and can hear the sound by shaking the auditory nerve floating in the lymph fluid and Become.

(2nd hearing aid earphone jack 20c)
The second hearing aid earphone jack 20c is provided to insert a second hearing aid earphone 20d. Here, by providing the second hearing aid earphone jack 20c in the second hearing aid main body portion 20a of the second hearing aid 20, even if the second hearing aid earphone 20d breaks down, it is only by replacing the second hearing aid earphone 20d. Since the process is finished, the repair cost can be reduced compared to the case where the entire second hearing aid 20 is replaced.

(2nd hearing aid earphone 20d)
The second hearing aid earphone 20 d is provided to output the sound that has been amplified and processed by the amplifier unit provided in the second hearing aid main body unit 20 a.

  In the third embodiment, the hearing aid 6 and the second hearing aid 20 are connected to the control device 4 by different connectors, respectively. However, the present invention is not limited to this and one bifurcated one It is possible to use a connector of Thereby, one connector is connected to the control device 4.

  As described above, in the third embodiment, the second hearing aid 20 outputs audio information by the second hearing aid bone conduction speaker 20 b and outputs an external sound by the second hearing aid earphone 20 d. In addition, it is good also as outputting audio | voice information and the sound from the outside by 2nd hearing aid earphone 20d, without providing 2nd hearing aid bone conduction speaker 20b.

  In the third embodiment, the hearing aid 6 is to be worn on the left ear of the user, and the second hearing aid 20 is to be worn on the right ear of the user. Thereby, even when both ears are deaf, the use of the walking support device 1 becomes possible.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the route information acquired by the GPS 3 and the information captured by the camera 5 are output to the bone conduction speaker 6 b. As a result, the user of the walking support device 1 can easily reach the destination even when there is visual impairment.

  Further, according to the present invention, the sound amplified and processed by the amplifier unit provided in the main unit 6a is output to the earphone 6d, which is a case where the user is deaf. Even in this case, the sound can be easily recognized.

  Furthermore, in the present invention, the walking support device 1 is in the shape of a garment, and is provided with the right shoulder vibrating portion 17 and the left shoulder vibrating portion 18, and when guiding the user in the right direction, the right shoulder When performing control to vibrate the vibrating portion 17 and performing control to vibrate the left shoulder vibrating portion 18 when guiding the user in the left direction, the user of the walking support device 1 can not see the eye and Even if you can not hear your ear, you can guide you to the destination.

  In the present embodiment, the "microphone 2" constitutes the "voice information input means" of the present invention.

  Further, in the present embodiment, "GPS 3" constitutes "position information acquisition means" of the present invention.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the "control device 4" constitutes "route information setting means" of the present invention.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the "camera 5" constitutes the "monitoring information generating means" of the present invention.

  Moreover, in the present embodiment, the "hearing aid 6" constitutes the "information output means" of the present invention.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the "main portion 6a" constitutes the "main portion" of the present invention.

  Moreover, in the present embodiment, the "bone conduction speaker 6b" constitutes the "first output portion" of the present invention.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the “earphone 6 d” constitutes the “second output unit” of the present invention.

  In the present embodiment, the “right shoulder vibration part 17” constitutes the “right shoulder vibration part” of the present invention.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the "left shoulder vibration unit 18" constitutes the "left shoulder vibration unit" of the present invention.

  In addition, the matter shown by the said embodiment and modification is only an example to the last, and can be suitably changed in the range which does not deviate from the scope of the present invention.

1 walking support device 2 microphone 2a right side microphone 2b left side microphone 3 GPS
3a Right GPS
3b Left GPS
4 Controller 4a CPU
4b ROM
4c RAM
4d artificial intelligence 4e internal bus 5 camera 5a right camera 5b left camera 6 hearing aid 6a body 6b bone conduction speaker 6c earphone jack 6d earphone 7 power supply device 8 fastener 8a right fastener 8b left fastener 9 transmitter 10 receiver 11 Drawstring part 12 Fixing plate 12a Right fixing plate 12b Left fixing plate 13 Long sleeve part 13a Right long sleeve part 13b Left long sleeve part 14 Mounting bracket 14a Right mounting bracket 14b Left mounting bracket 15 Front vibrating unit 16 Rear vibrating unit 17 Right shoulder vibrating unit 18 Left shoulder vibrator 19 language selection button 20 second hearing aid 20a second hearing aid main body 20b second hearing aid bone conduction speaker 20c second hearing aid earphone jack 20d second hearing aid earphone

In order to solve such a problem, the walk supporting device according to the present invention comprises: voice information input means for inputting voice information of a user; position information obtaining means for obtaining current position information; Route information setting means for setting route information to a destination based on the position information acquired by the means and the voice information inputted by the voice information input means, and monitoring the front of the user A monitoring information generation unit that generates monitoring information; an information output unit that outputs the monitoring information generated by the monitoring information generating unit; and the route information set by the route information setting unit ; comprising an external information receiving means for receiving external information, and the information output means includes a main body portion which is mounted across between the pinna and the scalp, the monitoring information, and the route information A first output unit to be outputted, amplifies the sound collected from the outside, and a second output unit for outputting are constituted by the path information setting means, the external information by the external information reception means It is characterized in that the destination is rewritten to the evacuation site when it is received .

Claims (2)

Voice information input means for inputting voice information of the user;
Position information acquisition means for acquiring current position information;
Route information setting means for setting route information to a destination based on the position information acquired by the position information acquisition means and the voice information inputted by the voice information input means;
Monitoring information generation means for generating monitoring information by monitoring in front of the user;
Information output means for outputting the monitoring information generated by the monitoring information generation means and the path information set by the path information setting means;
Equipped with
The information output means is
A main body that is mounted between the auricle and the scalp;
A first output unit to which the monitoring information and the route information are output;
A second output unit that amplifies and outputs a sound collected from the outside;
A walk supporting device comprising: The walking support device is
It has a clothing-like shape,
A right shoulder vibrator provided on the right shoulder,
A left shoulder vibrator provided on the left shoulder;
And further
The information output means is
When guiding the user in the right direction, control is performed to vibrate the right shoulder vibration unit, and when guiding the user in the left direction, control is performed to vibrate the left shoulder vibration unit. The walking support device according to claim 1, characterized in that