JP2024003047A - System and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a system that is funny, easily attracts users' attention, and be friendly.

SOLUTION: The system has a control unit which displays a predetermined warning in a main display region R1 of a display unit 5 when there is a predetermined proximity relation between the position specified by positional information of a warning target acquired from a database storing the positional information of the warning target and the acquired current position of a vehicle. The predetermined warning is an animated display of a character 300 unrelated to the warning target.

SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

COPYRIGHT: (C)2024,JPO&INPIT

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a system and a program for notifying information regarding the approach, for example, when the current location is in a predetermined proximity relationship with the alarm target.

In recent years, a large number of speed measuring devices that measure the speed of automobiles have been installed around roads and the like. An example of a speed measuring device is one that emits microwaves in a predetermined frequency band toward a vehicle, receives reflected waves, and measures the traveling speed of the vehicle.

On the other hand, in order to detect the presence of such a speed measuring device, a microwave detector configured to detect microwaves emitted from the speed measuring device and output an alarm is conventionally known. However, depending on the installation location of the speed measurement device, road conditions, and other surrounding environments, conventional microwave detectors may be able to detect from a relatively far distance, or may be difficult to detect until relatively close. .

Also, some speed measurement devices cannot be detected by conventional microwave detectors. For example, there is a so-called loop-type system that embeds a loop-shaped coil in the ground and detects when a vehicle passes over the coil and also determines the vehicle speed. There are also devices that detect the speed of a vehicle using light other than microwaves.

Therefore, recently, the installation position information of the speed measuring device is stored in advance, and using GPS (Global Positioning System) information, when the current position approaches the memorized installation position (when a predetermined relationship is established) There is an in-vehicle electronic device that issues a warning regardless of whether microwaves are detected (Patent Document 1).

For example, the first warning will be issued when the current location is within 1000m from the installation location of the speed measurement device, and the first warning will be issued when the current location is within 500m from the installation location of the speed measurement device. , and issue a second warning.

Specific notification formats include, for example, relative positional relationships such as "1km to the left is the expressway H system" or "immediately ahead is the local road N system", as well as content that specifies the purpose as audio information. The alarm may be output from a speaker, or characters or images directly representing the alarm target may be displayed on the display. Examples of images that directly represent the alarm target include an actual photograph taken of the alarm target such as a speed measuring device, and an image imitating the same.

JP2008-64588A

Warnings using real photographs or images imitating the warning target are easy to understand, but lack interest. Additionally, there are systems that display enlarged images of the warning target as the user approaches the warning target, but the problem is that the image only gets larger and there is little movement, making it difficult to draw attention to it.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the system according to the present invention has the following features: (1) The position specified by the position information of the warning target obtained from the position storage means that stores the position information of the warning target and the acquired vehicle. In a system comprising a control means for displaying a predetermined alarm on the screen of a display means when the current position has a predetermined approach relationship, the predetermined alarm is an animation display of a character unrelated to the alarm target. I took it as a thing.

In the embodiment, the animation display is a moving image by displaying two-dimensional still images at unit time intervals (for example, 0.1 seconds). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and an animation may be generated by calculation using, for example, various moving image files, 3D model data, and 3D motion data. The character should preferably have an appearance that the user can relate to and that makes it easy for the user to listen to the character's warnings.It is best to use a character that resembles a human, such as a human or a humanoid android, or a pet animal such as a dog or cat. It is better to use something based on As in the embodiment, when the humanoid character is based on a young woman, if the user is male, the user will feel close to the user, such as a younger sister, lover, or maid, so the user may be concerned about her presence and overlook the occurrence of an alarm. This is good because it makes it easier to listen to the warning without worrying about it. In this way, the character is preferably a character whose existence makes the user interested, for example, a character that is attractive in itself and is unrelated to the target of the alarm.

By displaying an animation of a character unrelated to the alarm target, in addition to the charm of the character itself that attracts the user, the animation action makes it easier for the user to pay attention, ensuring that the user knows the existence of the alarm target without overlooking it. Can be done. Furthermore, since the warning target is not a real photograph or an image directly representing it, but a predetermined character's movement, it is more interesting and less likely to get boring.

In addition, although the character is unrelated to the alarm target, it is sufficient if the character itself is unrelated to the alarm target, such as the above-mentioned person or pet.For example, the character may wear costumes, accessories, belongings, etc. When wearing something, it does not prevent the person from wearing something that is related to the subject of the alarm.

(2) The animation display when the predetermined approach relationship includes a first approach relationship and a second approach relationship that is closer than the first approach relationship and satisfies the first approach relationship (a) It is preferable that the animation display (b) is different when the second approach relationship is satisfied. In the embodiment, the animation display (a) includes a warning animation a that changes from a normal state to a battle state 1 in the case of constant display, a warning animation a' that appears in a place where it does not exist and changes to a battle state 1, etc. corresponds to In the embodiment, the animation display (b) corresponds to warning animations b, b', etc. that change from battle state 1 to battle state 2. By displaying different animations, you can understand the current proximity relationship. In particular, for example, if the content of the animation display during the second approach relationship is content that indicates a more urgent/approaching state, the user can easily see the animation display without knowing the relative relationship between the approach relationship and the animation. It can be inferred from the content given. In the embodiment, the contents indicating a highly urgent/approaching situation include pointing the muzzle of a gun, which is a weapon, forward or firing a gun. The animation display (a), which shows that the situation is less urgent, shows a costume being changed into a battle uniform or a weapon being loaded. The approach relationship may be determined simply based on the distance, or may be determined based on a criterion other than the distance (relationship with the direction of travel).

(3) It is preferable that the animation display when the second approach relationship is satisfied be performed in a shorter time than the animation display when the first approach relationship is satisfied. There is less time when the user is in the second approach relationship, which is closer to the alarm target, than when the user is in the first approach relationship. Therefore, by displaying the animation for a short time when the second approach relationship is satisfied, the possibility of passing the warning target is suppressed as much as possible. For example, if you prepare multiple frames of two-dimensional images and display them as an animation by playing them frame by frame, you can reduce the number of frames that make up one video file to display the animation. This can be achieved by shortening the display time per frame.

(4) The predetermined approach relationship includes a first approach relationship and a second approach relationship that is closer than the first approach relationship, and satisfies the second approach relationship through the first approach relationship. It is preferable that the animation display (c) for the case where the second approach relationship is satisfied without passing through the first approach relationship be different.

For example, the animation display when the first close relationship becomes the second close relationship is because a predetermined animation is displayed as a result of the first close relationship. When displaying an animation in a close relationship, the animation operation is performed smoothly from the end of the predetermined animation. On the other hand, if the second approach relationship suddenly occurs, the previous state is not the end of the above-mentioned predetermined animation, but the display content in the normal state (predetermined image or non-existence). If the animation is displayed when the first approach relationship is changed to the second approach relationship, the actions will not flow smoothly. Therefore, if the second approaching relationship suddenly occurs, for example, by making the animation display such that the animation movement is performed smoothly from the display content in the normal state, the movement will not feel strange in either case. can do.

As shown in (5) below, by determining the approach relationship based on the first condition based on distance and the second condition that is different from the first condition (for example, the relationship with the direction of travel), the second condition can be suddenly realized. There may be close relationships. Further, even when determining the close relationship based only on distance, for example, when the second close relationship exists, when the power is turned on and the system starts operating, the second close relationship suddenly becomes the second close relationship.

(5) Based on the invention of (4), the approach relationship may be determined based on a first condition based on distance and a second condition different from the first condition. In the embodiment, the second condition is whether the angle is within a predetermined angle range with respect to the traveling direction of the vehicle.

(6) Based on the invention of (4) or (5), when the second approach relationship is satisfied without going through the first approach relationship, the animation display is performed after passing through the first approach relationship. It is preferable to include a shortened version in which a part of the animation display is omitted when the second approach relationship is satisfied. By using the shortened version, it can be understood that since there are some images in common, the second proximity relationship is present in any case, regardless of whether or not the first proximity relationship has passed.

(7) The control means may display an animation of the character that is different from the animation of the predetermined warning when the character passes through the warning target. Different animation displays allow the character to easily understand that the character has passed the warning target by, for example, disappearing or changing the character's appearance to return to a normal state in which the warning target does not exist.

(8) If the character is equipped with an item, the item may be related to the target of the warning. Wearing items include things that are worn all over the body like costumes, things that are worn on a part of the body like accessories, bags, weapons, and other various belongings that can be carried in the hand or hung on the shoulder for comparison. There are many different types, including those that can be easily removed (temporary attachments). In this way, the user is attracted to the character that the user is interested in, and the equipment worn by the character that the user is interested in is displayed as related to the alarm target, so that the user can pay more attention to the alarm target. It is desirable because it attracts people.

(9) The control means may have a function of displaying an animation of the character when receiving a predetermined radio wave, and the animation display may be in a different form from the animation based on the proximity relationship. In this way, it is possible to recognize that there is a warning target based on reception of radio waves that is not based on location information just by looking at the animation display. The predetermined radio waves include, for example, radar waves emitted from a vehicle speed measurement device, and radio waves at frequencies used in car locator systems, police radios, and the like.

(10) The animation display of the character performed when the predetermined radio wave is received may be such that the character receives the radio wave with an ear imitating an antenna. This is good because you can intuitively understand that radio waves are being received. Ears imitating antennas are preferable because, in the case of a character whose ears are not visible in a normal state, if the character performs an action that causes the ears to appear (grow out), more attention will be drawn to the ears.

(11) Based on the invention of (9) or (10), the character is humanoid, and the animation display of the character when the predetermined radio wave is received is attire that is related to the type of alarm target. It is recommended that the For example, the costume can be changed to the uniform of a police officer or policewoman. It becomes easier to estimate the type of alert target based on the costume.

(12) The control means displays the character even during normal times when there is no alarm target around, and the animation display that is the predetermined warning changes from the normal appearance to another appearance. good. There are no warning targets nearby, for example, when there is no warning target that has a predetermined approach relationship with the current position information, or when a predetermined radio wave that requires an alarm is not received. Appearance transformations include not only changing the figure itself, but also changing the costume as shown in the embodiment, changing the presence or absence of weapons and accessories, and changing the color of the eyes and other external appearance. There are various aspects such as.

(13) Assuming the invention of (12) above, the character's normal appearance and appearance at the time of alarm are at least the first part (for example, a part of the character (for example, the "ears" in the embodiment). (Ear-shaped antenna 301)") and a second part (for example, a part that covers the entire character (for example, "whole body, costume" in the embodiment), and the appearance changes from the normal state to the alarm state. , it is preferable that the transformation from the alarm state to the normal state is performed from the first part.In this way, in any state change, the change in the first part (the ear in the above example) is the trigger for the state change ( This is preferable because it is easy to see that the state has changed by focusing on the first part (the ear in the above example).

(14) Based on the inventions (12) and (13) above, if the animation of the character is displayed even during normal times, and the animation during normal times is one randomly selected from a plurality of different movement patterns. good. That is, in a simple motion sequence in which one motion pattern is repeatedly reproduced, the user easily knows what motion will be performed next, and the user becomes bored. On the other hand, as in the present invention, animations of movement patterns that differ in the content of the normal character animation display are played randomly, so it is impossible to predict which movement pattern will be played next, which prevents the character from getting bored. It becomes like this. For example, animations of a plurality of different motion patterns are stored in a storage means (database 19 in the embodiment), and the control means reads out and reproduces any of the motion patterns stored in the storage means, and controls the control means to read out and reproduce any of the motion patterns currently being played. When the middle movement pattern is completed, a randomly selected movement pattern is read out and reproduced repeatedly. Animation patterns can be composed of multiple still images, videos, 3D motion data, etc.

Each motion pattern may be formed by one animation (file), or multiple files (A1 to B5 in the embodiment) of unit motions that perform a predetermined animation may be created and the multiple unit motions may be formed as one or It may be constructed by extracting a predetermined number and combining them in a predetermined permutation. When the motion pattern is composed of a combination of unit motions, for example, the control means is provided with playback information that defines the playback order of the files of the unit motions, and the control means is configured to play the corresponding unit motions stored in the storage means according to the playback information. By calling and reproducing the files in that order, one motion pattern can be reproduced.

(15) Based on the invention of (14) above, the control means displays the randomly selected motion pattern as an animation after displaying a still image during normal times, and displays the motion pattern at the end of the motion pattern. It is preferable that the movement of the still image and the still image be connected smoothly, and that the display time of the still image be randomly set.

The control image displayed by the control means may be obtained by storing data (data of the still image itself, or information capable of generating a still image such as a moving image) that is the source of the still image in a storage means, for example. When displaying a still image, the control means reads the data from the storage means and displays it on the display means.

For example, if the image displayed at the end of the movement pattern and the still image are the same, or even if they are different, there will be little change, and movements that are acceptable for the character movement will be displayed. . For example, if the image displayed at the end of a movement pattern is with the character facing forward, but the next still image is with the character facing sideways or backwards, the movements will connect smoothly. I can't say that. Also, if the camera work changes, such as when the last image displayed in a movement pattern is the character's whole body but the next still image is a close-up of the character's face, the displayed screen may suddenly change. It cannot be said that the movements are connected smoothly. It is preferable that the still image and the first image displayed in the next motion pattern to be reproduced be smoothly connected in motion. By pausing the image displayed at the end of the motion pattern video, it may be used as a still image. That is, instead of separately preparing a still image, the image displayed at the end of the video (the final frame) itself is displayed as a still image. In this way, there is no need to prepare a separate still image and read the still image after playing the video, and you can display the animation in normal times by playing or pausing the video that makes up the specified animation. I can do it.

By randomly setting the display time of still images, the time it takes to transition from playing one motion pattern to the next motion pattern changes (the pause time is undefined), so the video that is displayed during normal times changes. There are countless motion patterns, and the user cannot predict the motion pattern that will be played next, nor can the user predict the timing when the pause is announced and the next motion will start, making the next motion unpredictable. In the embodiment, the pause time is automatically selected randomly in 1 second increments between 1 second and 15 seconds, but it is possible to set a time longer than 15 seconds or to set a time other than 1 second increments. It may also be something that is automatically selected.

A still image and one motion pattern are repeatedly reproduced (the motion pattern reproduced each time is undefined), and at this time, it is preferable that the ratio of the reproduction time of the still image be made longer. If there are no still images and a moving image is constantly being played, there is a risk that moving characters will always be in the driver's field of view, causing an eyesore. Therefore, by appropriately inserting still images, this problem can be prevented. In particular, the display time of still images and the display time of animation displays are adjusted so that the ratio between the total display time of still images and the total display time of animation displays in normal times is higher for still images. It is good to decide.

(16) Based on the inventions of (14) and (15), the unit actions of the animation performed during normal times include an animation that moves in the first state, an animation that moves in the second state, and an animation that moves in the first state. An animation for transitioning to the second state and an animation for transitioning from the second state to the first state are prepared, and the motion pattern is composed of a predetermined number of unit motions and a plurality of unit motions. It is preferable that the final state of a unit operation is the same as the beginning state of the next unit operation. The same state means first states or second states.

The first and second states are, for example, zoomed up (character up) and zoomed down (retracted), or changed the position of the camera relative to the character (front facing vs. sideways). The display conditions, such as the orientation and size of the characters being displayed, differ greatly.

By preparing a unit action that transitions between a first state and a second state, and playing an animation of a unit action that transitions between states between unit actions in different states, one The state at the end of a unit motion (first/second) is the same as the state at the beginning of the next unit motion (first/second), and the series of motion patterns is reproduced as smooth motion. Moreover, since there are different states, there are many variations in the operation pattern, and the user does not get bored.

(17) Based on the inventions of (12) to (16), if an alarm condition is met when the animation is displayed during normal times, an animation for screen switching is displayed, and then an animation is displayed according to the alarm condition. It is a good idea to do this. If an alarm condition is met while displaying a normal animation, an alarm animation corresponding to the fulfilled alarm condition will be displayed, but in this case, the last frame of the normal animation will not necessarily be displayed. This does not necessarily mean that the frames of the alarm animation that are played next will be connected well. For example, the warning animation starts from a close-up state, whereas the normal animation display is a pulled state (full body display), or if the alarm condition is met while transitioning from a close-up state to a pulled state (zoom down). There are cases. In such a case, a screen switching animation is displayed between the normal animation display and the alarm animation to resolve the situation where the screen does not connect smoothly. A good example of this screen switching animation would be an animation that makes the character wonder, ``Isn't something strange?'' or ``Huh?''.

(18) Based on the invention set forth in (16) above, if an alarm condition is met when the animation is being displayed during normal times, the animation for switching the screen is displayed, and then the animation is displayed according to the alarm condition. After the alarm condition is satisfied, the unit operation may be continuously played until the last frame of the unit operation is in the same state as the first frame of the screen switching animation, and then the screen switching animation may be played. The same states include first states and second states. By doing so, it is possible to smoothly switch to the screen switching animation. Furthermore, it is better to configure the operation pattern so that the state of the last frame of the screen switching animation is the same as the state of the first frame of the animation according to the alarm condition.

(19) The control means preferably displays an icon indicating the position of the warning target and an icon indicating the position of the own vehicle on the screen of the display means, and displays the character so that the icons do not overlap with both icons. This is preferable because it is possible to confirm the positional relationship between the vehicle position and the warning target even while the character animation is being displayed. For example, if the position of your vehicle and the position of the warning target are located diagonally on the screen, and if you display the characters as they are, they will overlap, then the icon indicating the position of your vehicle and the icon indicating the position of the warning target will be displayed. ” and the “character” or by changing the display dimensions of the character.

(20) The control means includes a first character and a second character, and the control means displays an animation indicating that the second character has detected the alarm target when the alarm condition is met, and the first character It is preferable that the character is called and a predetermined animation is displayed. In the embodiment, the first character corresponds to a human-shaped first character 300, and the second character corresponds to a cat-shaped second character 400.

(21) The second character may perform an animation in which the first character appears and then disappears before the first character. The second character senses that the alarm condition is met and calls the first character, and therefore disappears because its role is completed when the first character appears.

(22) The control means may display characters in a superimposed manner on the characters. By always displaying the characters on top of the characters, there is no need to provide an area for the characters and it is not necessary to arrange the characters to avoid the characters, which is preferable because the characters can be arranged up to the very edge of the frame of the display screen. The text is displayed above the character so that the user can read it.

(23) It is preferable that the control means issue a warning by audio output in accordance with the animation display of the character. By using mixed output notification together, the content can be conveyed to the user more reliably. The voice will feel more realistic if you use a voice that suits the character.

(24) The program of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to realize the function as the control means in the system described in any one of (1) to (23) above.

According to the present invention, since the character displays a predetermined animation when the alarm condition is met, the character is interesting, easily attracts the user's attention, and becomes familiar to the user.

1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a navigation device that is a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a block diagram of a navigation device. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a warning screen displayed on the display unit. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a warning screen displayed on the display unit. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a warning screen displayed on the display unit. It is a figure showing a character. 3 is a flowchart showing the functions of a control section. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. It is an explanatory view showing an example of a display of a display part. 3 is a flowchart showing the functions of a control section. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. It is a figure explaining animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating animation of a character.

"Basic configuration of electronic equipment"
FIGS. 1 and 2 show the configuration of a radar detector, which is a preferred embodiment of the electronic device constituting the system of the present invention. The radar detector 1 includes a thin rectangular case body 2, and is fixed to a vehicle dashboard or the like using a bracket 3 attached to the lower back side of the case body 2.

A display section 5 is provided on the front surface of the case body 2 (the surface facing the rear of the vehicle (driver side)). The display section 5 is composed of a 3.2-inch color TFT liquid crystal display. A touch panel 6 is provided on the display section 5 to detect which part of the display section 5 is touched. Further, a volume adjustment button 7 is arranged on the right side of the front surface of the case body 2, and various work buttons 8 are arranged on the left side.

The right side of the case body 2 is provided with a card insertion slot 9 for inserting a memory card as a removable recording medium, and a memory card reader 10 is built inside the card insertion slot 9 inside the case body 2. . By inserting the memory card 11 through the card insertion slot 9, the memory card 11 is attached to the memory card reader 10. The memory card reader 10 takes in data stored in the attached memory card 11. More specifically, the data stored in the memory card 11 includes updated information such as new alarm target information (location information such as longitude and latitude, type information, etc.), and the updated information is transmitted via the control unit 18. The data is stored (downloaded) in the database 19 built into the device, and the data is updated.

The database 19 can be realized by a nonvolatile memory (eg, EEPROM) inside the microcomputer of the control unit 18 or externally attached to the microcomputer. Note that map data and information regarding certain warning targets are registered in the database 19 at the time of shipment, and data regarding warning targets added thereafter are updated as described above.

A GPS receiver 13 is placed inside the upper center of the back side of the case body 2, and a microwave receiver 14 and a wireless receiver 15 are placed next to it. The GPS receiver 13 receives GPS signals from GPS satellites and outputs current position (longitude/latitude) information. The microwave receiver 14 receives microwaves of a predetermined frequency emitted from the speed measuring device. The radio receiver 15 receives incoming radio waves of a predetermined frequency. A speaker 16 is also built into the lower part of the case body 2. A speaker port is provided on the bottom surface of the case body 2.

A DC jack 16 is arranged at the lower part of the back side of the case body 2. This DC jack 16 is for connecting a cigarette plug cord (not shown), and is connected to a cigarette socket of a vehicle via the cigarette plug cord to receive power supply.

Further, the control unit 18 is a microcomputer equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, nonvolatile memory, I/O, etc., and is connected to each unit described above as shown in FIG. A predetermined process is executed based on information input from a GPS receiver 13, a microwave receiver 14, a wireless receiver 15, etc.), and a predetermined alarm is issued using output devices (display unit 5, speaker 16, etc.). Output a message. These basic configurations can be basically the same as conventional ones.

The functions of the radar detector 1 of this embodiment are realized by being stored in the EEPROM of the control unit 18 as a program executed by the computer included in the control unit 18, and executed by the computer included in the control unit 18. Functions realized by the computer by the program included in the control unit 18 include a GPS log function, a standby screen display function, a radar scope display function, a GPS alarm function, a radar wave alarm function, a radio alarm function, and the like.

The GPS log function is a function in which the control unit 18 associates the current position detected by the GPS receiver 8 with the detected time and speed (vehicle speed) every second and stores it in a nonvolatile memory as a position history. This position history is recorded, for example, in NMEA format.

The standby screen display function is a function that displays a predetermined standby screen on the display unit 5. FIG. 3A shows an example of a standby screen, which shows the speed, latitude, longitude, and altitude of the own vehicle detected by the GPS receiver 13.

The MAP display function is a function that accesses the database 19 based on the current position detected by the GPS receiver 13, reads out and displays map data stored therein, as shown in FIG. 3(b). In addition, the MAP display function searches for warning targets around the current location based on the location information stored in the database 19, and if there are warning targets around, displays the warning target at the corresponding position on the map. It also has a function to display information (target icon 112, etc.) in an overlapping manner. The specific display mode is as follows.

The control unit 18 displays a map on the main display area R1 covering almost the entire surface of the display unit 5 so that the traveling direction of the vehicle always faces upward. The control unit 18 displays the map so that the lower center of the main display area R1 is the current vehicle position, and displays the vehicle icon 111 at the current position.

The control unit 18 displays status information in a status area R2 set above the main display area R1. The status information displayed in status area R2 is, from the left, the current time 121 (in the figure, "15:10"), the GPS radio reception level display icon 122 (in the figure, three straight lines of different lengths are arranged in parallel) maximum reception level), no-parking area icon 123 (displayed when in the most important parking area or within the most important parking area), reception sensitivity mode display icon 124 indicating the radar reception sensitivity (in the figure, "SE", the highest sensitivity) ), vehicle speed 125 ("30 km/h" in the figure), and magnetic compass 126. The status area R2 is a transparent area and is arranged using a layer above that of the main display area R1. As a result, even within the status area R2, the map located below can be visually recognized at locations where status information is not displayed.

The control unit 18 displays current scale information (reduced scale) in a scale display area R3 set on the left side of the main display area R1. The scale assumes that the own vehicle position is 0 m, and displays the distance from the own vehicle position to the vertically intermediate position of main area R1 ("500" in the figure) and the distance to the upper position ("1000" in the figure) do. The unit is "m". When the control unit 18 detects that the main display area R1 has been touched twice consecutively, it displays a map scale change button at a predetermined position in the main display area R1 (a position along the scale display area R3) (as shown in the figure). (omitted), the map scale is changed according to the touch on the map scale change button. That is, the control unit 18 changes the scale of the map displayed in the main display area R1 according to the changed map scale, and also changes the scale information displayed in the scale display area R3.

During execution of the standby screen display function as shown in FIG. 3A, the control unit 18 detects one touch on the display unit 5 and displays a predetermined menu screen. When the control unit 18 detects that the screen switching button prepared in the menu screen is touched, the control unit 18 switches to the MAP display function as shown in FIG. 3(b). Similarly, when the control unit 18 detects one touch on the display unit 5 while executing the MAP display function, it displays a predetermined menu screen. When the control unit 18 detects that a screen switching button prepared on the menu screen is touched, it performs a process of switching to the standby screen display function.

During the execution of the standby screen display function and the MAP display function (hereinafter these functions are collectively referred to as standby functions), the control unit 18 controls the GPS alarm function, the radar wave alarm function, and the wireless alarm function according to an event that occurs. It executes processing to realize each function such as an alarm function, and returns to the original standby function processing when the processing of the function is completed. The priority of each function is set in the order of radar wave warning function, radio warning function, and GPS warning function from the highest.

The GPS alarm function is a process that is executed at predetermined time intervals (1 second intervals) based on events from a timer included in the control unit 18, and is based on the latitude and longitude of the alarm target stored in the database 19 and the information detected by the GPS receiver 13. The distance between the two is calculated from the latitude and longitude of the current position, and when the calculated distance reaches a predetermined approaching distance, the display unit 5 displays a GPS warning display 130 (a schematic diagram of the warning target) as shown in FIG. 4(a). (remaining distance, etc.) and outputs an approach warning sound to that effect from the speaker 16.

These warning targets include drowsy driving accident points, radars, speed limit switching points, enforcement areas, inspection areas, parking monitoring areas, N systems, traffic monitoring systems, intersection monitoring points, red light violation prevention systems, police stations, and accident-prone areas. Area, area where vehicles are frequently targeted, sharp/continuous curves (expressway), branching/merging points (expressway), advance ETC lane guidance (expressway), service area (expressway), parking area (expressway), highway Oasis (expressway), smart interchange (expressway), gas station within PA/SA (expressway), tunnel (expressway), highway radio reception area (expressway), prefectural border announcement, roadside station, viewpoint parking, etc. Type information of these objects, latitude and longitude information indicating their positions, schematic diagram or photograph data to be displayed on the display unit 5, and audio data are stored in the database 19 in association with each other.

FIG. 4(b) shows a display example of the radar wave warning function. This radar wave warning function is activated when the microwave receiver 14 detects a signal corresponding to a microwave in a frequency band emitted from a speed measuring device (such as a mobile radar (hereinafter simply referred to as "radar")). , is an alarm function that displays an alarm screen 131 on the display unit 5 and outputs an alarm sound from the speaker 20. For example, when microwaves in the microwave frequency band emitted by a radar are detected by the microwave receiver 4, a schematic diagram or photograph of the radar stored in the database 19 is displayed as shown in FIG. 4(b). At the same time as displaying it on the unit 5 as an alarm screen, the voice data stored in the database 19 is read out and a voice saying "Radar. Be careful of speed" is output from the speaker 16.

The wireless alarm function is a function that issues an alarm when the wireless receiver 15 receives radio waves emitted by an emergency vehicle or the like so as not to interfere with the vehicle's movement. Radio alarm functions include enforcement radio, car location radio, digital radio, special small radio, police radio, police telephone, police activity radio, towing radio, helicopter radio, fire helicopter radio, fire radio, emergency radio, and highway radio. , scans the frequencies of security radios, etc., and when a radio signal is received at the scanned frequency, a schematic diagram indicating that a radio signal corresponding to the frequency has been received stored in the database 19 for each radio type is displayed as an alarm screen. At the same time as being displayed on the display section 5, the audio data stored in the database 19 for each wireless type is read out, and the speaker 16 outputs an alarm sound indicating the wireless type. For example, when a police radio signal is received, a voice message such as "This is a police radio signal. Be careful of speed" is output.

[Alarm processing function using animation]
Hereinafter, the alarm processing function for displaying characters in animation, which is a feature of the present invention, will be explained with reference to FIG. 5 and subsequent figures. The character of this embodiment is a character that has no direct relation to the warning target and is not directly associated with the warning target. The characters include a humanoid character (first character) and a cat-shaped character (secondary character). In either case, the characters themselves do not suggest a warning target.

This animation display is one of the notification modes in the GPS alarm function, radio alarm function, and radar wave alarm function, and is performed in place of the above-mentioned schematic diagram or actual photograph displayed on the display unit. Whether the alarm is based on a schematic diagram or the like or an animation of a character is implemented based on user settings. This user setting is performed based on the touch position on the menu screen displayed by the control unit 18 that detects that the main display area R1 is touched once. Further, in this user setting, various conditions are set, such as which character to use and whether or not the display is always displayed even in normal times when no alarm target exists. These condition settings are also determined by touching a menu screen (not shown).

Here, it is assumed that an alarm using a character imitating a human (first character 300) has been selected by the user settings. The first character 300 of this embodiment is made to be a young woman to make it more approachable. When a young woman issues a warning, it is expected that the user will listen to the contents of the warning and drive safely.

As shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 18 displays the first character 300 at the lower right portion of the main display area R1 of the display unit 5. The layer that displays the first character 300 is located above the layer that displays the map, and the first character 300 is synthesized and displayed on the map.

The display mode of the first character 300 is a normal mode in which a warning target is displayed in the surrounding area as shown in FIG. 6(a), and a normal mode in which the warning target is displayed in the surrounding area as shown in FIG. There is an emergency mode that is displayed in case of an emergency. In normal mode, the costume worn is normal clothes, the appearance is the same as a normal human, and the color of the eyes is blue. In emergency mode, the costume he wears is a battle uniform, his appearance includes an ear-shaped antenna that receives radar waves and radio waves, and his eyes are red. As described later, the emergency mode has an animation that is displayed when the proximity relationship between the current position and the warning target satisfies the first condition, and an animation that is displayed when the proximity relationship between the current position and the warning target satisfies the second condition (closer than the first condition). ) There is an animation that is displayed when the conditions are met.

The control unit 18 displays the first character 300 in one of the modes based on the presence or absence of nearby alarm targets and the relative positional relationship with the current position. At this time, the control unit 18 displays the first character 300 in an area that does not cover the own vehicle icon 111 or the target icon 112 indicating a predetermined warning target. The area that does not cover the own vehicle icon 111 and the target icon 112 is, for example, less than half of one side in the width direction (in this example, the right side) because the own vehicle icon 111 is displayed at the lower center of the main display area R1. Further, for example, if the target icon 112 is located on the right side when the own car icon 111 is displayed in the lower center and would be hidden under the first character 300, the control unit 18 shifts the entire map to the left by a predetermined distance. Display. Since the own car icon 111 and the target icon 112 are not hidden by the first character 300, the user recognizes the positional relationship between the own car icon 111 and the target icon 112 even when the first character 300 is displayed, and the user can recognize the positional relationship between the own car icon 111 and the target icon 112 and see that the alarm target is You can check whether it exists on the road you are currently driving on.

<Constant display of humanoid first character>
Next, a specific alarm processing algorithm using the humanoid first character 300 will be explained. This processing algorithm is one aspect of the alarm operation based on the GPS alarm function. As described above, when the mode in which the first character is always displayed as the notification mode in the GPS alarm function is selected by the user setting, the control unit 18 executes the flowchart shown in FIG. 7. User settings are performed by the control unit 18 detecting that the main display area R1 has been touched once, displaying a menu screen, and setting specified contents according to the touched position on the menu screen.

The control unit 18 displays an animation of the first character 300 in a normal state, which is a normal state in which no alarm target exists, in the lower right corner of the main display area R1 (S1). In this animation display, the first character 300 having a normal appearance shown in FIG. 6(a) repeatedly makes a movement of slightly shaking its body. This is done by storing a video file such as a GIF video created by integrating multiple frame image files (GIF images, etc.) in which the appearance of the first character 300 in normal times is appropriately changed in the database 19 or the like; The control unit 18 accesses the database 19, reads out the video file, and repeatedly reproduces the video file. Various animation displays in this embodiment are made into moving images by displaying two-dimensional still images at unit time intervals (for example, 0.1 seconds).

Each of the figures shown from FIG. 8 onward is one frame in one video file consisting of multiple frames, and the control unit 18 selects each figure in descending order of figure number and, if the figure number is the same, in alphabetical order. Play the frames indicated by frame by frame. For example, in FIGS. 8 and 9, the frame is played back from the smallest number in FIG. 8, and also in alphabetical order, so the control unit 18 first displays the frame in FIG. Display the frame shown in b). The playback is then performed frame by frame in the order of FIG. 8(c)→FIG. 9(a)→FIG. 9(b)→FIG. 9(c). The same applies to other figures. Furthermore, although the playback order of each frame is as described above, there may be frames other than those shown in the drawings that are not shown in the drawings. For example, there may be a frame between FIG. 8(a) and FIG. 8(b) that indicates a state/orientation between them.

The control unit 18 acquires the current position detected by the GPS receiver 13 at predetermined time intervals (for example, every second) (S2). The control unit 18 accesses the database 19 based on the acquired current position and determines whether or not there is an alarm object that is a target within the first reference range around the current position (S3). A sector-shaped area with a radius of 2100 m around the own vehicle (for example, within a predetermined angular range with respect to the direction of travel (for example, preferably at an angle of 90 degrees or less on each side with respect to the direction of travel, particularly preferably 45 degrees or less) If there is one alarm target in the area (such as within the range), that alarm target becomes the target, and if there are multiple alarm targets, one of them that satisfies the conditions becomes the target. Such conditions are within a predetermined angular range with respect to the direction of travel and are the closest.

The first reference range is within the angle range and is a range in which the distance between the own vehicle position and the position of the warning target is 2100 to 600 m. For example, if there is a warning target ahead of the road you are currently driving on, as the vehicle moves forward, the distance to the target warning object will gradually get closer, and it will enter the first reference range from 2100 m or less. become. On the other hand, when the course of the vehicle changes, such as when turning at an intersection, the vehicle changes from outside the predetermined angle to within the predetermined angle, and the target alarm object suddenly appears, and the distance at that time is greater than 600 m and less than 2100 m. It may suddenly fall within the first reference range. Furthermore, due to such a course change, etc., the vehicle may suddenly enter the second reference range, which is within the angle range and the distance between the own vehicle position and the location of the warning target is 600 m or less, without passing through the first reference distance range. . Further, even when the power is turned on within the first reference range or the second reference range, the device suddenly exists at a predetermined position within each reference range.

If there is no alarm object as a target within the first reference range around the current position (S3 is No), determine whether there is an alarm object as a target within the second reference range around the current position. (S4). If the branch determination in S4 is No, the control unit 18 acquires the current position at the next acquisition timing (S2), and performs the branch determination in S3.

If the branch judgment in S3 is Yes, the control unit 18 accesses the database 19, reads out the warning animation a stored therein, and changes the read out warning animation to the normal animation that has been repeatedly played up until now. Animation a is played back (S6).

Warning animation a is an animation that changes from a normal state to a combat state 1.
Specifically, the face of the first character 300 is displayed close up (FIG. 8(a)), the face is turned downward while closing the eyes (FIG. 8(b)), and the head is further zoomed in (FIG. 8(b)). Figure 8(b)). Next, the ear-shaped antenna 301 is displayed so as to grow in two stages (FIG. 9). As shown in FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C, this is expressed by sequentially reproducing frames in which the length of the ear-shaped antenna 301 is gradually increased. In order to make it clear that the ear-shaped antenna 301 appears in this way, we zoom in from the face to the head in the previous step.

When there is movement in details, such as when the eyes are closed or when the ear-shaped antenna 301 appears, the details are shown in close-up. This is because the display screen is small and it is difficult to see the movement if the entire image is shown. By zooming in like this, you can see the movement and draw the user's attention.

Next, the upper body is displayed with the right hand raised above the head with the eyes closed and the face tilted diagonally downward (Figure 10(a)), and then the costume changes from the head down. . At this time, in order to make it clear that the costume is changing (transforming), a ring of light 302 appears that revolves around the first character 300 (FIG. 10(b)), The ring of light 302 moves downward from the head of the first character 300 to the feet of the first character 300 in accordance with the movement of the first character 300 swinging down the arm. The upper side of the ring of light 302 becomes the battle uniform after transformation, and the lower side of the ring of light 302 becomes the normal clothes before transformation (FIG. 10(c)). Furthermore, based on the downward movement of the ring of light 302, the zoom is gradually zoomed down (pulled), and the display range of the first character 300 is gradually expanded to the feet. Although not shown, the ring of light 302 gradually shifts further downward, and an animation is displayed to show how the costume changes, and finally in FIG. 11(a). ) The attachment to the combat uniform is completed in the state shown in ().

FIG. 11(a) shows a state in which the combat uniform has been completely put on, and then a frame with the eyes open is displayed as shown in FIG. 11(b). At this time, the eye color is red to emphasize the emergency situation. In addition, the frame zooms in on the area around the face to give the impression that the character opens its eyes and goes into battle mode (notifying the target of the alarm), and the color of its eyes changes from blue before transformation to red.

Thereafter, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, an animation of the weapon being transferred is displayed. That is, first, as shown in FIG. 12(a), the first character 300 takes a pose of holding out his right hand in front of him, and as a result, light particles 303 gather on his right hand. Then, a gun 304 as a weapon gradually appears in the light particles 303 (FIGS. 12(b) and 13(a)). This animation part expresses how light particles 303 materialize into a gun 304. Then, as shown in FIG. 12(b), the gun 304 is finally materialized. Also, when this weapon is transferred, the combat uniform, hair, etc. will perform an animation that looks like it is swaying in the wind. This completes the transformation operation. That is, once the above-mentioned warning animation a is played once, the control unit 18 continues to display the last frame of the completed transformation.

After playing this warning animation a, the control unit 18 acquires the current position (S7), and determines whether or not there is an alarm object that is a target within the second reference range around the current position (S7). S8). If there is no alarm target within the second reference range in the surrounding area (No in S8) and the target alarm target is within the first reference range (Yes in S9), the control unit 18 controls the alarm target at a predetermined time interval (for example, 1 second). The current position is acquired at the interval) (S7), and a branch judgment is made in processing step S8.

If the target alarm object exists within the second reference range (approaching within 600 m) (S8 is Yes), the control unit 18 accesses the database 19 and reads out the alarm animation b stored therein. At the same time, it is reproduced (S10).

Warning animation b is an animation that changes from battle state 1, which is the final form (transformed appearance) of warning animation a, to battle state 2, which is still another. Specifically, starting from the frame of the final form of alarm animation a shown in FIG. 13(b) (FIG. 14(a)), an animation of swinging the weapon 304 (right arm) once is performed (FIG. 14(b) → (c)→(d)). Then, as shown in FIG. 15(a), the weapon 304 is swung diagonally upward to the left, and the entire body emits red light (light-emitting portion 305). While the weapon 304 remains emitting red light, the user continues to rotate the weapon 304 (FIG. 15(b)), and holds the weapon 304 with both hands while pointing directly upwards (FIG. 15(c)). Further, as the weapon is lifted in this manner, the area of the light emitting portion 305 also expands. By expanding the area of the red light-emitting portion 305 in this way, it is communicated that the alarm target is approaching. Next, he swings down the weapon 304, which is pointing directly upward, forward. FIG. 15(d) shows a close-up of the weapon 304 being swung down. Thereafter, the state in which the weapon 304 is directed forward is displayed using camera work taken from the front (FIG. 16). At this time, with the muzzle of the weapon 304 facing forward, the gun is held and waiting, but the hair 306 and combat uniform 307 perform an animation of fluttering in the wind (Fig. 16(a) → (b) → (c)) →(d)). Further, at this time, the red light emitting portion 305 continues to be displayed.

Next, a firing animation is performed. That is, first, the screen is switched to a close-up view of the face (FIG. 17(a)). In this close-up frame of the face, the red light emission has disappeared. Then, a scope 309 appears in the background of the first character 300, and a sight 308 appears in front of the face (eyes) of the first character 300 (FIG. 17(b) → (c) → FIG. 18(a) → (b)). In FIG. 18(a), the sight 308 becomes a white opaque plate, and in FIG. 18(b) it becomes a transparent sight 308.

Then, the gun fires at a predetermined timing (FIG. 19(a)). FIG. 19(a) shows a state in which the spark 309 generated at the time of firing is glowing red. After that, the sparks associated with the firing shown in FIG. 19(b) disappear, and a frame is displayed in which a scope 309 is placed in the background of the first character 300 and a sight 308 is placed in front of the first character 300. This frame is the final frame of warning animation b, and the still image in the state shown in FIG. 19(b) continues to be displayed.

Further, the control unit 18 outputs a predetermined sound. This voice is made into a young female voice that matches the first character 300 by text-to-speech synthesis. The contents that are generated include the type of alarm target, information that informs of approach ("approaching", "remaining distance", etc.), and shouts that have no specific meaning. By generating sound in addition to the animation display, it is possible to warn the user (driver) that the warning target is approaching.

This warning animation b is played while being relatively close to the warning target, and since there is not enough time, the playback time is shorter than that of the warning animation a. Specifically, this is done by reducing the number of frames that make up the video file or by shortening the display time for each frame.

After the playback of the warning animation b ends, the control unit 18 acquires the current position (S11), and if the target warning object has been passed (Yes in S12), the control unit 18 accesses the database 19 and stores the information stored therein. After passing, the animation is read out and played back (S12). This post-passing animation is an animation in which the appearance returns from the battle state 2, which indicates an emergency state where the object is approaching the warning target, to a normal state.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 20(a), the face of the first character 300 whose eyes are red and the ear-shaped antenna 301 appears is shown in close-up, and the scope 309 and the sight 308 are Starting from the placed frame, the sight disappears when the eyes are closed (FIG. 20(b)), and when the eyes are opened again, the ear-shaped antenna 301 begins to be retracted (FIG. 20(c)). The ear-shaped antenna 301 is gradually housed through FIGS. 21(a) to (c), FIGS. 22(a), and (b). In the frame of FIG. 22(b), the ear-shaped antenna 301 is completely housed.
Next, as shown in FIG. 23(a), the whole body of the first character 300 in battle state 2 wearing a battle uniform and holding a weapon 304 is displayed.

Next, the costume changes from the head down. This costume change is performed in accordance with the movement of the ring of light 302, similar to the transformation into a battle uniform in the warning animation a. In other words, the ring of light 302 gradually rises, and as it rises, the lower side of the ring of light 302 changes to its normal clothing, and the weapon 304 also disappears from the lower side of the ring of light 302 (Fig. b), (c), Fig. 24 (a), (b)).

The costume change is completed in the frame of FIG. 24(b), and then the first character 300 rotates once while jumping to information (FIGS. 24(c) and 25). After one rotation, it stands up facing forward as shown in Figure 25(c), then turns its face up (Figure 26(a)) and blinks (Figures 26(b),(c) )). As the creature blinks, its eye color changes from red to blue, returning to its normal appearance, and the animation ends after passing. This post-passing animation has the longest playback time because there is plenty of time.
After this post-passing animation is played, the process returns to step S1 and the normal animation is repeatedly displayed.

On the other hand, if a target alarm object suddenly appears within the second reference range due to a course change, etc., the result is No in S3 and Yes in S4, and the control unit 18 accesses the database 19 and stores information therein. The alarm animation c is read out and played back (S14). Warning animation c suddenly transforms from a normal state to a combat state 2. Specifically, the face of the first character 300 is displayed close up (FIG. 8(a)), and the face is closed while the eyes are closed. Look down (Figure 8(b)) and further zoom in on the head (Figure 8(b)). Next, the ear-shaped antenna 301 is displayed so as to grow in two stages (FIG. 9). The steps up to this point are the same as the first half of warning animation a.

Next, the whole body of the first character 300 is displayed, and the appearance at this time is in the battle state 1, wearing the battle uniform costume shown in FIG. 14(a) and holding the weapon 304. Thereafter, the frames shown in each of the figures from FIG. 14(b) to FIG. 19(b) are sequentially displayed to reproduce the animation.

The animation regarding the transformation of the first character 300 includes changes in the first part, which is the ear (ear-shaped antenna 301), and the second part, which is the whole body (costume). In the animations for issuing an alarm from a normal state and returning from an alarm state to a normal state, the ear-shaped antenna 301 changes (appears and retracts) first, and then the whole body changes (transformation to change costume). )It is carried out. In this way, in any state change, a change in the ear-shaped antenna 301 serves as a trigger for the state change, and by focusing on the ear-shaped antenna 301, it is easy to see that the state has changed.

<Alarm associated with reception of radio waves>
As with the radar wave warning function and the wireless warning function, when location information is not registered for the warning target and a predetermined radio wave (radar is wireless) is received, the control unit 18 accesses the database 19 and updates the data there. The animation for transforming from the normal state to the battle state 3 stored in the main display area R1 is read out, and the read animation is played back at the lower right position in the main display area R1.

In this animation, the costume change shown in FIGS. 10(a) to 11(a) is performed with the eyes closed, and then the weapon 304 is transferred as shown in FIGS. 12(a) to 16(b).・After the animation part where the whole body emits red light and the muzzle of the weapon 304 is pointed forward, each character appears in the order of Figure 27 (a) → (b) → (c) → Figure 28 (a) → (b). Play frames frame by frame. 27 and 28 are animation portions showing a state in which radio waves 310 are being received by the ear-shaped antenna 301. That is, the receiving state is represented by a movement in which the diameter of the radio wave 310 indicated by one or more circular arcs gradually decreases around the ear-shaped antenna 301 of the first character 300.

The control unit 18 reproduces the above animation once upon reception of a predetermined radio wave. Therefore, when radio waves are continuously being received, the frame shown in FIG. 28(b) continues to be displayed as a still image.

The user can understand that a predetermined radio wave is being received by viewing a close-up of the user's face and an animation in which radio waves 310 are being received by the ear-shaped antenna 301 after the user transforms into the battle uniform. In addition, when displaying this animation, the control unit 18 generates a voice synthesized voice of a woman (the first character) depending on the type of radio waves received, such as "It's radar. Be careful of speed" or "It's an enforcement radio. Be careful of speed." Outputs a warning such as This allows the user to identify the type of alarm target.

On the other hand, when the radio waves are no longer being received, the control unit 18 accesses the database 19, calls up and reproduces the animation for returning to the normal state stored therein. In this animation of returning to the normal state, starting from the final frame (final form of battle state 3) shown in Figure 28(b), the red light disappears, the weapon disappears, and the battle uniform transforms into normal clothing. be. Specifically, this is a frame-by-frame video file that sequentially connects frames in which the scope 309 and sight 308 are missing in each frame that makes up the animation after the warning target passes through in the GPS warning shown in FIGS. 20 to 26. shall be.

Here, the animation is played from the frame shown in Figure 10(a) where the ear-shaped antenna appears, but it may also be an animation that first plays the animation part where the ear-shaped antenna appears as shown in Figures 8 and 9. .

The control unit 18 reproduces the above animation once upon reception of a predetermined radio wave. Therefore, if radio waves are being continuously received, the frame shown in FIG. 28(b) will continue to be displayed as a still image, but in order to indicate that radio waves are being continuously received, the frame shown in FIG. 27(a) → (b) → (c) → Figure 28 (a) → (b) → Figure 27 (a) → ..., the animation part showing that the ear-shaped antenna 301 is receiving radio waves is repeatedly played. You may do so.
The weapon used at the time of the GPS warning may be different from the weapon used at the time of the warning due to reception of radio waves.

<Normal state hidden mode>
In the embodiment described above, the first character 300 is always displayed within the main display area R1, but the present invention is not limited to this, and when there is no alarm target nearby or in a normal state where radio waves are not being received. It is possible to adopt a mode in which the first character 300 is not displayed (see FIG. 29).

The control unit 18 executes the flowchart shown in FIG. The process shown in FIG. 30 is the same as the process shown in the flowchart shown in FIG. 7 except that the process in S1 (normal state animation display) is removed, and the animations read in each animation playback process are different from those in the embodiment described above.

That is, the current position is acquired (S2), and if there is an alarm object as a target within the first reference range in the vicinity (Yes in S3), the alarm animation a' is played back (S4). In this warning animation a', a first character that does not exist on the map is transferred and appears in a battle uniform. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 31(a), a plurality of light rays 311 radiating from one point in space are emitted, and an object 300' that looks like the first character (the first character As shown in FIG. 31(b) and FIG. 31(c), as the spiral wind 312 existing around disappears, the first character 300 materializes. To go. Next, as shown in FIG. 32(a), a first character 300 holding a weapon 304 appears in a crouched state, and then stands up (FIGS. 32(b) and (c)).

Next, the first character 300 swings the weapon 304 held in the right hand from a state in which it is held diagonally upward to the right (FIG. 33(a)), to a state in which it is held diagonally upward to the left (FIG. 33(b)). Figure 33(c)). At this time, a scope 309 appears in the background.

Next, as shown in FIG. 34(a), the weapon is swung diagonally upward to the left, and then the entire body emits red light. With the whole body glowing red (light emitting part 305), continue turning the weapon 304 (Fig. 34(b), (c)), and hold the weapon 304 with both hands when pointing directly upwards (Fig. 34(b), (c)). 34(d)). In this way, as the weapon is lifted, the area of the light emitting portion 305 also expands. Next, he swings down the weapon 304, which is pointing directly upward, forward. FIG. 34(e) shows a close-up of the weapon 304 being swung down. Thereafter, a state in which the weapon 304 is directed forward and locked on to the target (aiming) is displayed using camera work captured from the front (FIGS. 34(f) to 34(h)). At this time, the user waits with the gun at the ready with the muzzle of the weapon 304 facing forward, but an animation is performed in which the hair 306 and combat uniform 307 are blown in the wind and the scope 309 rotates. Further, at this time, the red light emitting portion 305 continues to be displayed.

After playing the above alarm animation a', the control unit 18 acquires the current position detected by the GPS receiver 13 (S7), waits until the relative positional relationship with the alarm target falls within the second reference range, and then If it falls within the two reference range (Yes in S8), the warning animation b' is played (S10). This warning animation b' is, for example, an animation of firing a gun as shown in FIGS. 17 to 19.

After the playback of the warning animation b' is finished, the control unit 18 acquires the current position (S11), and if the target warning object has been passed (Yes in S12), the control unit 18 accesses the database 19 and stores the current position. The post-passing animation is read out and played back (S13). This post-passing animation is an animation in which the first character is transferred somewhere and disappears from its appearance in battle state 2, which indicates an emergency state in which it is approaching the alarm target.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 35(a), the eye is closed from a state in which the red eye part is displayed in close-up (with the scope 309 in the background) (FIGS. 35(b) and 35(c)). In order to perform this eye-closing animation, the face (particularly the eyes) is shown in close-up so that you can see the movement. Next, the camera switches to a frame that shows the whole body in a pulled-back position. Since the first character 300 has completed the task (alarm notification), he lowers the weapon 304 and takes a posture of looking upward with his eyes closed (FIG. 35(d)).

After that, a ring of light 302 appears at the feet of the first character 300 (FIG. 35(e)), the diameter of the ring of light 302 increases (FIG. 35(f)), and it gradually moves upward (FIG. 35g). )). As the ring of light 302 rises, the portion of the first character 300 located below the ring of light 302 changes to white (the surrounding area emits light blue). When the ring of light 302 reaches the top of the first character, the ring of light disappears and the entire first character 300 becomes white (FIG. 35(h)). Then, the white color gradually disappears from below (see FIGS. 36(a) to 36(f)). At this time, the hair moves as if fluttering in the wind.

In addition, if the warning target no longer exists around the vehicle due to a change in the traveling direction of the vehicle from the state where the warning target existed within the first reference range (No in both S8 and S9), the animation after passing will be displayed. It is reproduced (S13), and the current alarm process is ended.

<Normal state animation variation>
In the embodiment described above, the first character 300 repeatedly performs a motion of slightly shaking its body as an animation during normal times. Normally, the period during which a warning target exists and a warning animation is displayed is longer than the period during which a warning target exists and a warning animation is displayed. Therefore, in a simple motion sequence in which one motion pattern is repeatedly reproduced during normal times, the user easily knows what motion will be performed next, and the user becomes bored. In particular, regarding the content of the animation, the movement of the warning animation is more flashy than in normal times because it is necessary to notify the user of the alarm, but in normal times the animation shows the state of waiting for the alarm to occur. This makes it easier to predict the next action.

Therefore, it is preferable to display animations randomly selected from a plurality of different motion patterns during normal times. Specifically, animation elements of multiple unit actions A1, B1 to B5 shown in FIG. Configure movement patterns. Each moving image file (a GIF moving image file that reproduces frames of a plurality of two-dimensional images in a predetermined order) constituting the animation elements of the plurality of unit actions is stored in a database 19 that is a storage means. Further, the database 19 also stores playback information that defines the playback order of files of unit actions that make up each movement pattern, and the control unit 18 randomly determines the next unit pattern to be played, One movement pattern is played by accessing and acquiring the playback information of the determined unit pattern, and calling and playing the corresponding unit movement files stored in the database 19 in that order according to the obtained playback information. I do. When the reproduction of this one motion pattern is completed, the next motion pattern to be reproduced is randomly determined and the above process is repeated.

Furthermore, the image of the first frame in each motion pattern was made the same. As a result, if you set the final frame image of each motion pattern to be an image that smoothly connects to the first frame, even if the next motion pattern is randomly determined after one motion pattern, the next motion pattern will be played. This is good because the movement is smoothly connected to the image displayed at the beginning of the movement pattern.

<Explanation of animation elements of unit movement>
Each figure shown in FIGS. 37 to 42 is one frame in a moving image file that constitutes each unit operation, and each figure shown with the same figure number is a diagram that constitutes one unit operation. The control unit 18 reproduces the frames of each figure frame by frame in alphabetical order within the same figure number. For example, in the case of FIG. 37, the frames (a) to (n) are displayed in alphabetical order of the figures. Although the illustrated frames are played back in alphabetical order, other frames (not shown) are actually inserted at appropriate positions. These points are the same in FIG. 38 and subsequent figures.

FIG. 37 shows a portion of a plurality of frames configuring unit operation A1. This unit motion A1 is an animation element in which the first character performs a motion of shaking his body from side to side. The control unit 18 plays back the frames shown in each figure in alphabetical order by frame-by-frame for a predetermined period of time (for example, 0.1 seconds). In reality, there are frames that are not shown between each figure, so smoother movements are reproduced. The first frame shown in FIG. 37(a) and the last frame shown in FIG. 37(n) are the same image, and in this embodiment, this figure is used as the basic image (basic still image). Furthermore, in this unit action A1, all frame images are in a drawn state (first state) depicting the whole body.

FIG. 38 shows a portion of a plurality of frames configuring unit operation B1. This unit action B1 is an animation element in which the first character blinks. FIG. 38(a) is the same image as the basic image. Then, without changing the posture while standing, a frame is prepared in which the eyelid position can be changed, and by playing these frames in a predetermined order, the user can "blink" by closing and then opening the eyes. This unit motion B1 is in a pulled state (first state) in which all frame images depict the whole body.

FIG. 39 shows a portion of a plurality of frames configuring unit operation B2. This unit motion B2 is an animation element in which the first character tilts its head. The image in FIG. 39(a) is the same as the basic image. FIG. 39(b) shows a frame image with the face (neck) tilted most to the right, and FIG. 39(c) shows the final frame image after returning from that state to the basic image posture. . Between each frame, there are multiple frames with different angles of inclination of the face (neck), and as a result, an animation is played in which the first character tilts its head to the right and then returns to its original standing position. be done. This unit action B2 is in a pulled state (first state) in which all frame images depict the whole body. Further, in this example, the motion of tilting once to the right is performed, but an animation of tilting to the left or alternately left and right may also be used.

FIG. 40 shows a portion of a plurality of frames configuring unit operation B3. This unit motion B3 is an animation element in which the first character performs a stretching motion. FIG. 40(a) is the same image as the basic image. From the basic image where both hands are lowered, raise both hands to the height in front of the chest (Fig. 40 (b) (c)), and then raise the right hand even higher (Fig. 40 (d) → (g) ) Perform a series of movements such as stretching. This unit operation B3 gradually zooms up from the first state of pulling shown in FIG. 40(a), and in the final frame of FIG. 40(g), it becomes the second state of close-up. In other words, it is a unit operation that transitions from a first state to a second state.

FIG. 41 shows a portion of a plurality of frames configuring unit operation B4. This unit action B4 is an animation element in which the first character performs an action of collecting tears. FIG. 41(a) shows a state in which tears 321 have slightly accumulated (moistened) in the left eye from the state of the final frame of unit motion B3 (FIG. 40(g)), and FIG. Tears 321 have accumulated and are on the verge of overflowing. Between the frame of FIG. 41(a) and the frame of FIG. 41(b), a plurality of frames are prepared showing a state in which the amount of accumulated tears increases. Next, the tear 321 spills from the left eye (as it travels down the face: FIG. 41(c)), reaches the vicinity of the chin (FIG. 41(d)), and falls from the face (FIG. 41(e)). )). In FIG. 41(f), which is the final frame, the fallen tear is shown to be located outside the frame, and this is the same image as the final frame of unit action B3. In this unit operation B4, all frames are in a close-up state of the face (second state).

FIG. 42 shows a portion of a plurality of frames that constitute unit operation B5. This unit action B5 is an animation element in which the first character performs an action of releasing the extension. The first frame, Figure 42a), shows a close-up of a state in which the right hand is raised high and stretched, and from this state, the hands are gradually lowered and moved downward from the chest toward the stomach. The figure shows a series of movements in which the height positions of the hands are aligned and the basic posture is finally reached with both hands lowered. The final frame in FIG. 42(f) is the same as the basic image shown in FIG. 37(a) and the like. This unit operation B5 gradually zooms down from the second up state shown in FIG. 42(a), and in the final frame of FIG. Become. That is, this unit operation B5 is a unit operation that transitions from the second state to the first state.

<Multiple unit patterns using multiple unit operations>
During normal operation, the plurality of motion patterns are composed of one or a predetermined number of appropriate combinations of the above six unit motions. FIG. 43 shows an example of playback information that defines the playback order of files of unit actions that constitute an action pattern. This playback information is a file that indicates a pattern number that specifies a motion pattern and a playback order of unit motions in the motion pattern of that pattern number. For example, motion pattern 1 is composed of two unit motions, unit motions B3 and B5, and is reproduced in that order. In this motion pattern 1, an animation is performed in which the first character performs a stretching motion and then performs a stretching release motion. Similarly, operation pattern 2 is composed of three unit operations B3, B4, and B5, and is reproduced in that order. In this motion pattern 2, an animation is performed in which the first character performs an action of stretching, then performs an action of collecting tears, and then performs an action of releasing the stretching. Furthermore, the number of unit movements that make up a movement pattern is arbitrary; for example, movement patterns 3, 6, and 9 may consist of one unit movement, while movement patterns 19 may consist of all 6 unit movements. Some are composed of unit operations.

In addition, if the motion pattern is composed of multiple unit motions, the final state (first, second state) of the unit motion and the first state (first, second state) of the next unit motion are the same. I'm trying to make it happen. For example, in motion pattern 1, the last frame of unit motion B3 is in the second up state as shown in FIG. 40(g), and the first frame of the next unit motion B5 is as shown in FIG. 42(a). This is the second state of up. As shown in FIGS. 40(g) and 42(a), the images of the last frame of a certain unit motion and the first frame of the next unit motion to be played back do not necessarily have to be the same, but the motion is smooth. It is best to minimize the degree of change so that

For example, the first frame of unit motion B3 to be reproduced first in motion pattern 1 is a basic image as shown in FIG. 40(a), and the final frame of unit motion B5 to be reproduced last is a basic image as shown in FIG. 42(f). This is a basic image. This point is the same for operation pattern 2 and other operation patterns. In this embodiment, since the first frame and the last frame of each motion pattern are the same, even if the control unit 18 selects and reproduces a certain motion pattern, it randomly determines the next motion pattern to be reproduced. , The movement of the animation that is played is connected smoothly.

Furthermore, after determining the motion pattern to be reproduced, the control section 18 accesses the database 19, reads the reproduction information of the determined motion pattern number, obtains the unit motions and reproduction order that constitute the motion pattern, and reproduces the motion pattern. The video files of the corresponding unit actions are accessed and recalled from the database 19 in accordance with the playback order, and are sequentially played back. If there are a plurality of unit movements constituting one movement pattern, once the reproduction of one unit movement is finished, the control unit 18 continuously reproduces the next unit movement.

<Example of inserting a still image between movement patterns>
As described above, by preparing different motion patterns and playing them randomly, a wide variety of animation variations are displayed during normal times, which prevents the user from getting bored and prevents the user from predicting the next motion. Further, as another variation, the control unit 18 displays a still image between one motion pattern and the next motion pattern.

By including a still image, the still image and one motion pattern are repeatedly reproduced (the motion pattern reproduced each time is undefined). If there are no still images and the video is constantly being played, there is a risk that moving characters will always be in the driver's field of vision, which may become an eyesore, but it is recommended to insert still images as appropriate, as in this example. Preventing such harmful effects from occurring. At this time, it is preferable to make the ratio of the playback time of the still image longer. If the display time of still images and the display time of animation display are determined such that the ratio between the total display time of still images and the total display time of animation display in normal times is higher for still images. good. In this way, the effect of eliminating the above-mentioned "possibility that a moving character constantly entering the driver's field of vision may become an eyesore" can be obtained more significantly.

For example, the control unit 18 stores data that is the source of a still image in the database 19 (it may be the data of the still image itself, or it may be information that can generate a still image, such as a moving image). , when displaying a still image, the data is read from the database 19 and displayed on the display unit, but in this embodiment, the image displayed at the end of the motion pattern video is paused to display the still image. did. This eliminates the need to separately prepare a still image, and also eliminates the need for the control unit 18 to read out the still image after reproducing the motion pattern, simplifying the process.

Furthermore, it is preferable to randomly set the display time of still images. By randomly setting the display time of still images in this way, the time it takes to move from playing one motion pattern to the next motion pattern changes (the pause time is undefined), so the display time of still images during normal times changes. The videos that are played have countless movement patterns, and the user cannot predict the next movement pattern to be played, nor can the user predict when the pause will be announced and the next movement will start, making it difficult to predict the next movement. becomes. The playback time of the still image (the time during which the final moving image is paused) is automatically selected randomly in 1 second increments between 1 second and 15 seconds.

It is preferable that the image displayed at the end of the motion pattern and the still image be connected smoothly. In this embodiment, the image displayed last in a motion pattern (last frame) and the image displayed at the beginning of the next motion pattern (first frame) are the same, or even if they are different, the movement (change) is minimized. , when displaying an animation of a motion pattern, displaying a still image, and then displaying an animation of the motion pattern, the animations that are displayed and played back and forth are good because the motions, including the still images, are smoothly connected.

In particular, the display time of still images and the display time of animation displays are adjusted so that the ratio between the total display time of still images and the total display time of animation displays in normal times is higher for still images. It is good to decide. In this embodiment, the playback time of the still image (the time during which the final moving image is paused) is automatically and randomly selected from 1 second to 15 seconds in units of 1 second. On the other hand, in the motion pattern, each unit motion is displayed for 0.1 seconds per frame, so if one unit motion is composed of 10 frames, the playback time is 1 second. Therefore, for example, when motion pattern 19 is composed of six unit motions, the playback time of the motion pattern is about several seconds, but the playback time of a motion pattern composed of about 1 to 3 unit motions is shorter. Become. There is a high probability that the display time of an animation display will be longer than the display time of a still image.

<Animation display for screen switching when alarm conditions are met>
FIG. 44 shows a portion of a plurality of frames constituting a screen switching animation B6 that is displayed when a warning condition is met during normal animation display. This screen switching animation is designed to make the character wonder, ``Isn't something strange?'' as if to say ``Huh?''. As a result, even if the state and playback content of the normal animation and the state and playback content of the alarm animation to be played next suddenly change, an animation of action that makes the character wonder about the change can be inserted. The animation will now play without any discomfort.

In the screen switching animation, as shown in FIG. 44(a), the first frame shows a second state in which the right arm is raised and the eyes are closed. This image is the same as the final frame of unit motion B3 (motion in which the first character stretches). After the frame in which the eyes are closed in this way, as shown in FIGS. 44(b) and 44(c), the eyes are gradually opened and the mouth is made to have a surprised expression. This animation depicts a character who is leisurely yawning when an alarm suddenly goes off, showing a surprised expression and then starting to transform.

Also, the changes from the first frame in Figure 44(a) to the last frame in Figure 44(c) do not change the state evenly; for example, the first half of the animation changes as shown in Figure 44(a). It is a good idea to keep the eyes closed and then open them in the second half as shown in Figures 4(b) and (c) to express a sudden surprise or wonder.

This is the timing to start playing the screen switching animation when the alarm condition is met.If the alarm condition is met during the playback of a certain unit action, in this embodiment, at least the video of the unit action is played until the end. I have to. Further, in order to smoothly connect the final frame of the unit motion with the screen switching animation, the screen switching animation of B6 is played back after the animation element of the unit motion B3 is played back. In other words, in each operation pattern in FIG. 33, if an alarm condition is satisfied while reproducing a unit operation indicated in italics (diagonal letters), the control unit 18 sequentially performs a predetermined unit operation according to the reproduction information. When the unit operation B3 is called and played back, the screen switching animation B6 is played back, and then a predetermined warning animation is played back.

By performing this process, the stretching motion of unit motion B3 will be played before the screen switching animation, so the patient who was yawning leisurely (B3) will suddenly receive an alarm and show a surprised expression. A series of actions is performed in which the robot then moves on to the transformation action.

In addition, the alarm condition may be met after the unit action B3 has finished being played (for example, during the playback of the unit action B4 in action pattern 11), or when the unit action B3 is originally included as in action pattern 3. If not, the motion pattern is played back to the end, and after the unit motion B3 is played back, the screen switching animation is played back. By doing this, a series of actions will be performed, from yawning leisurely (B3) to suddenly receiving an alarm, showing a surprised expression, and then transitioning to the transformation action, making the movement and story smoother. This is good because it leads to

In addition, even if the action pattern is played to the end or unit action B3 is played after that, by controlling the playback continuously without pausing in the middle, the alarm animation will be started after the alarm conditions are met. There is no problem because the delay time until it is played back is relatively short.

Moreover, instead of always reproducing the unit motion B3 in this way, the control unit 18 switches the screen after the reproduction of the unit motion being reproduced, after the reproduction of the motion pattern, or after the forced termination of the reproduction of the unit motion. The animation B6 may be played.
Furthermore, while the screen switching animation B6 is being played, the control unit may simultaneously output a voice such as "Huh?" in the character's voice.

<Processing of cat-shaped second character>
<Always displayed>
FIG. 45 and subsequent figures show other aspects of the character. The second character 400 has a motif of a cat, which is one of pet animals. The various basic control algorithms are similar to the alarm processing algorithm using the humanoid first character 300 described above, and when outputting various animations, the data (video file) is accessed and called from the database 19. are different in that they correspond to the respective second characters. When the mode in which the second character is always displayed as the notification mode in the GPS alarm function is selected by the user setting, the control unit 18 executes the flowchart shown in FIG. 7. Then, when the second character is specified by the above user settings, the control unit 18 sets the address when accessing the database 19 when executing the processes of S1, S6, S10, S14, and S13 to be for the second character, When executing each process, a corresponding animation file for the second character is called and played.

Therefore, the following explanation will focus on the content of the animations played in the process of displaying each animation. In processing step S1, the control unit 18 displays an animation of the second character 400 in a normal state in the lower right corner of the main display area R1. In this animation display performed during normal times, it is assumed that, for example, the second character whose whole body is displayed shakes its head. As described above, this second character can also have a wide variety of variations based on a plurality of motion patterns as an animation display during normal times, but such modifications will be described later.

FIG. 45 shows some of the frames constituting the video file of warning animation a that is played when there is a nearby warning target within the first reference range (Yes in S3), and the illustrated frames are arranged in alphabetical order. It is played according to the following. In the figure, the emblem 401 on the forehead of the second character 400 emits light to indicate that an alarm target existing within the first reference range has been detected, and the color of the eyes gradually changes from the usual blue to red. As the alphabetical order progresses, the amount of light emitted also increases. Furthermore, in FIG. 45(d), the area around the second character 400 emits bluish white light. The bluish-white light emitting region 402 also becomes wider as the frame progresses.

FIG. 46 shows some of the frames constituting the video file of warning animation b that is played when there is a nearby warning target within the second reference range (Yes in S8) after playing the above warning animation a. , the illustrated frames are played according to alphabetical order. The illustrated frame is the first frame in FIG. 46(a), in which the second character 400 is drawn horizontally, and as the frame progresses further, the character opens its mouth wide and makes a screaming motion (FIG. 46(b) →(f)). At this time, zoom down and gradually pull back. Next, the bose is removed, making the hair stand on end and threatening (Figures 46(g) and (f)). In this way, rather than displaying an animation that attacks more strongly than the warning animation a in Figure 45, such as barking or threatening the approaching warning target, it is possible to show that the approaching target is closer. represents.

Further, an alarm animation c, which is constructed by appropriately thinning out each frame constituting the alarm animations a and b shown in FIGS. 45 and 46, is stored in the database 19 in advance. Then, when a warning target within the second reference range suddenly appears in the surroundings (Yes in S4), the control unit 18 accesses the database 19, calls up and reproduces the stored warning animation c.

Although not shown, the post-passing animation (S13) that is played when the answer is Yes in S12 is, for example, an action in which the hair that stands on end subsides (for example, Fig. 46 (h) → (g)), and then the entire body emits light. Plays an animation in which the color of the eyes changes from red to blue as the eyes disappear. Furthermore, the luminescence of the pattern on the forehead also disappears. An animation showing such an operation can be, for example, one in which the arrangement order (playback order) of each frame constituting the alarm animation a shown in FIGS. 45(a) to 45(e) is reversed.

Furthermore, although not shown, the warning mode using the second character 400 also corresponds to a case where a warning is issued when a predetermined radio wave is received, such as a radar wave warning function or a wireless warning function. The warning animation displayed in this case may be, for example, the same as the warning animation c, or may be one specific to radio wave reception. As for the animation specific to radio wave reception, since the second character 400 is cat-shaped and originally has ears, an animation in which the ear-shaped antenna appears and ends like the first character is not performed. A display including an animation element showing a state in which the ear originally possessed is used as an antenna (receiving radio waves) is displayed. For example, after sequentially playing back the frames of each figure in FIG. 45 in alphabetical order, and then changing to a close-up of a sideways face shown in 46(a), a figure in which radio waves are concentrated around the ears (such as the radio waves 310 shown in FIG. 27) is shown. ), you can create an animation of a real cat twitching its ears as if listening to its surroundings. If you want to move the ears, it's a good idea to take a closer look at the ears.

<Normally hidden>
FIG. 47 shows some of the frames constituting the video file of the warning animation a′ (S6 in FIG. 30) in which the second character 400 is not displayed during normal times and the second character appears when a warning target is detected. ing. The illustrated frames are played according to alphabetical order.

In this warning animation a', a ring of light 403 first appears, and the diameter of the ring of light 403 gradually increases until it reaches a certain size (a diameter that can surround the second character). In order to make a shaking motion, frames showing images of each state are lined up in a predetermined order. FIG. 47(a) shows a frame of one screen in which a ring of light 403 is swinging in the sky.

Next, the ring of light 403 moves downward, and accordingly, a tube of light 404 is formed such that the portion through which the ring of light 403 passes remains as an afterimage (FIG. 47(b)). When the ring of light 403 reaches the lower position, a plurality of light rays 405 radiating from near the center of the tube of light 404 are emitted, and an object 400' that looks like a second character appears near a point in the center (Fig. 47 (c)). As the light ray 405 gradually disappears, the object 400' gradually materializes (FIG. 47(d)). Then, as shown in FIG. 47(e), the second character 400 appears in a crouching position, and then stands up slowly (FIG. 47(f)). Actually, between FIGS. 47(e) and 47(f), there are multiple frames showing a gradual rise.

Next, a frame with a close-up of the face is provided (Fig. 47(g)), and then as the eyes open, the surroundings of the body emit light (light-emitting portion 406), creating a frame that looks as if the person raises their face and stares at it (Fig. 47(g)). 47(h)). The eye color has changed to red. Figure 47(h) shows the final frame, and between Figures 47(g) and (h), there is a frame in which the surroundings of the body emit pale light, and the eyes are in the middle of opening (the eye color is already red). There are multiple frames. In addition, in such a plurality of frames, the face is gradually raised and the light emitting portion becomes wider.

FIG. 48 shows frames constituting a video file of a post-passing animation (S13 in FIG. 30) in which the second character 400 is not displayed during normal times, but when the second character passes through the warning target, it is transferred somewhere and disappears. Some of them are shown. The illustrated frames are played according to alphabetical order.

Specifically, the second character 400 jumps with its eyes closed (FIG. 48(a)). Thereafter, a ring of light 403 appears under the feet of the second character 400 (FIG. 48(b)), and as the diameter of the ring of light 403 increases, it gradually moves upward (FIG. 48c)). As the ring of light 403 rises, the portion of the second character 400 located below the ring of light 403 changes to white. When the ring of light 403 reaches the top of the second character, the ring of light disappears and the entire second character 400 becomes white (FIG. 48(d)). Then, the white color gradually disappears from below (see FIGS. 48(e) and 48(f)).

<Normal state animation variation>
For the second character as well, randomly selected motion patterns from a plurality of different motion patterns are sequentially displayed, and each motion pattern is preferably composed of one or a plurality of unit motions.

FIG. 49 shows a portion of a plurality of frames that constitute the unit operation I1. This unit action I1 is an animation element in which the second character performs a blinking action. This unit action I1 is in a state in which all frame images depict the whole body and are facing forward (first state). Then, the user alternates between sitting facing forward with his eyes open (FIG. 49(a)) and eyes closed (FIG. 49(b)). This FIG. 49(a) becomes the basic image (basic still image).

FIG. 50 shows a portion of a plurality of frames that constitute the unit operation I2. This unit motion I2 is an animation element in which the second character performs a motion of shaking its head. This unit action I2 is in a state in which all frame images depict the whole body and are facing forward (first state). FIG. 50(a) is the same image as the basic image. Then, without changing your posture while standing up, turn your head (face), close your eyes and face the front (Figure 50(b)), and then change the direction of your face in the opposite direction (Figure 50(c)). ). Thereafter, while turning the head (face) in the opposite direction, the patient closes the eyes and faces forward (FIG. 50(d)), and returns to the original orientation of the face (FIG. 50(e)). This FIG. 50(e) is the final frame, and is the same image as the basic image shown in FIG. 50(a).

FIG. 51 shows a portion of a plurality of frames that constitute the unit operation I3. This unit motion I3 is an animation element in which the second character faces forward from the basic image and performs the motion. In this unit action I3, all frame images are in a front-facing state (first state) depicting the whole body. FIG. 51(a) is the same image as the basic image. Then, without changing his posture in the standing state, he gradually moves his face toward the front, and becomes in a state where he faces the front as shown in FIG. 51(b). By providing a plurality of frames of the image shown in FIG. 51(b), the movement is temporarily stopped while the front side is turned over. Thereafter, turn the head (face) in the opposite direction to restore the original orientation of the face (FIG. 51(c)). This FIG. 51(c) is the final frame, and is the same image as the basic image shown in FIG. 51(a).

FIG. 52 shows a portion of a plurality of frames that constitute the unit operation I4. This unit action I4 is an animation element in which the second character shakes its tail while facing forward. This unit action I4 is in a state in which all frame images depict the whole body and are facing forward (first state).

FIG. 53 shows a portion of a plurality of frames that constitute the unit operation J1. This unit motion J1 is an animation element in which the second character performs a stretching motion. This unit motion J1 is an animation that transitions from a front facing state (first state) to a sideways facing state (second state). FIG. 53(a) is the same image as the basic image. From this state, stand up on all four legs and change the orientation of your body to the side (Figures 53(b) and (c)). Then, the user stretches his back and ends the movement (S53(a)).

FIG. 54 shows a plurality of frames forming a unit operation J2. This unit motion J2 is an animation element in which the second character performs a stretching motion. This unit operation J2 is composed of two frames shown in FIG. The frame shown in FIG. 54(b) is an image further expanded from the state shown in FIG. 54(a). In this unit operation J2, the images of all frames are in a state (second state) facing sideways.

FIG. 55 shows a portion of a plurality of frames configuring unit operation J3. This unit action J3 is an animation element in which the second character performs a yawning action. The frame includes an image of the second character facing sideways with its mouth wide open (the angle and extension of the mouth are different in each frame). In this unit operation J3, the images of all frames are in a state (second state) facing sideways.

FIG. 56 shows a portion of a plurality of frames that constitute the unit operation J4. This unit motion J4 is an animation element in which the second character rotates forward. From the stretched state shown in Figure 56(a), walk backwards (Figures 56(b), (c)), then change direction and go around once (Figures 56(d), (e)). ). If the user turns to the front, he or she will be in a sitting position (FIG. 56(f)). This FIG. 56(f) is the final frame. This unit motion J4 is an animation that transitions from a sideways state (second state) to a front facing state (first state).

A motion pattern is constructed by extracting one or more such unit motions and reproducing them in a predetermined order. Each of these movement patterns is set by reproduction information similarly to the first character, and the control unit 18 reproduces the randomly determined movement pattern. At this time, between the political movement patterns, the basic image of the final frame is temporarily stopped and a still image is output.

<Collaboration between the first character and the second character>
In the above-described embodiments and modifications, the first character 300 (humanoid female) and the second character 400 (cat) each act independently as an example of characters that are displayed in animation. The present invention is not limited to this, and may be an animation display in which a plurality of characters move.

For example, when the alarm conditions are met, the second character displays an animation indicating that it has detected the alarm target, and the first character transforms accordingly (if it is always displayed) or is called and appears (normally A predetermined alarm animation is performed, such as displaying a warning message. The animation display of the first character in this case may be the above-described movement of the first character alone or something similar thereto.

The second character plays the role of calling the first character or requesting transformation when the alarm target is detected/sensed. Therefore, regardless of whether the first character is always displayed or not, the second character is hidden (does not appear) during normal times, and when an alarm target is detected based on location information or radio wave reception, etc. Two characters appear and, as described above, request to be transformed into the first character and to be summoned.

Then, when the first character transforms (or starts transforming) and appears, the second character performs an animation of disappearing before the first character. In this example, the role of the second character is to sense that the alarm conditions are met and call the first character, so its role is completed when the first character appears (transforms/appears) to perform the alarm animation. It accumulates and disappears.

The display areas of the first character and the second character are, for example, the first character is placed at the lower right position in the main display area as in the above embodiment, and the second character is placed at the lower left or upper left position in the main display area. Display in a location different from the display area of one character. In this way, the animation of the first character can be the same as that displayed alone, so the number and types of video files can be reduced.

Further, a video file of an animation in which the first character and the second character cooperate may be separately stored in the database, and the control unit 18 may access the database and reproduce the animation. In this case, the separate video file may be an image in which both the first character and the second character exist in the same frame, as this will further increase the sense of cooperation and unity between the two characters.

To explain an example of the animation in this case, when the first character is always displayed, the warning animation that is played when there is a warning target in the first reference range is, for example, the hair clip of the first character 300 during normal times. etc. accessories to emit blue light. Next, the second character is displayed in close-up, and a frame representing that the second character has been transferred is displayed. In the next frame, both the first character and the second character exist, and the first character's accessory such as a hair clip and the second character's accessory such as a collar both emit light in blue or the like. In this way, wearing items such as accessories of the same type emit light in synchronization, thereby reinforcing the feeling (association) that both characters are moving in a related manner.

Thereafter, the first character performs a transformation operation (for example, a transformation in which the first character appears with the ears up as shown in FIG. 9, a costume change, etc.). Basically, this transformation motion may be performed in a frame similar to that of the first character alone. Also, in the frame during this transformation, the second character is left in a small position in a corner of the screen, for example, to watch the transformation complete (to make sure that it is fulfilling its role). That's good. The second character disappears from the screen after completing the transformation, such as changing costumes or equipping weapons. That is, at least in the final frame, only the first character is present in the image. It is also better to insert frames in which the second character disappears several frames before the final frame.

In addition, in the above example, we explained what corresponds to the warning animation a when entering the first reference range, but if you enter the second reference range after passing through the first reference range, or suddenly enter the second reference range In the case where the second character enters the inside, for example, it is preferable to create an animation in which the second character appears (for example, the second character is once displayed close-up) and then the first character performs the transformation operation.

Here, since the second character has the role of calling the first character, it is preferable that the post-passing animation be the same as that for the first character only. Also, in the post-passing animation, the second character appears once, notifies and comforts the first character that the first character's mission has been completed (alarm alert to the user), and prompts the first character to transform into a normal state or leave the site. It is preferable to perform an animation of the movement, and then the first character performs the transformation process shown in FIG. 23 and subsequent figures, for example.

<Others>
When the control unit 18 notifies information regarding the alarm target (the type of alarm, the position of the alarm target, etc.) using characters, it is preferable to display the characters in a superimposed manner on the area where the character is displayed. By always displaying the characters on top of the characters, there is no need to provide an area for the characters and it is not necessary to arrange the characters to avoid the characters, which is preferable because the characters can be arranged up to the very edge of the frame of the display screen. The text is displayed above the character so that the user can read it.

The animations described in the above-mentioned embodiments and modified examples using figures and the like are merely examples, and animations showing various other operations can be displayed. For example, the warning animation b of the first character zooms in on the face with the whole body emitting red light without brandishing a gun. The expression may change to a stern expression while zooming in.

Warning animation b is continuous, but pauses just before firing, and immediately before the warning target passes, that is, when the distance to the warning target reaches 0 m or a predetermined reference distance (value close to 0), the weapon fires. It is preferable to display the animation of firing a gun, which is 305. To display this animation of firing just before passing, for example, playback is paused at the frame with the stern expression mentioned above, and the current position is acquired at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 1 second) to calculate the remaining distance to the warning target. This is done by reproducing the firing animation on the condition that the remaining distance becomes less than or equal to a predetermined reference distance (a value close to 0). This firing allows the user to intuitively recognize that the user is directly in front of or passing through the target of alarm.

In the post-passing animation, the facial expression of the first character 300 becomes softer, the entire body emits red light, and the weapon 303 is transferred and disappears. Then, the eyes are closed and the costume changes from the head down. This change in costume is similar to the transformation into a battle uniform in warning animation a, in which the ring of light 302 also moves downward as the arm of the first character 300 swings down, and at that time, the upper side of the ring of light 302 transforms. The costume becomes the normal clothes after transformation, and the lower side of the ring of light 302 becomes the normal clothes before transformation. Thereafter, a series of animations in which the user opens his eyes and retracts the ear-shaped antenna 301 is displayed, thereby returning to his normal appearance. This post-passing animation has the longest playback time because there is plenty of time.

On the other hand, if a target alarm object suddenly appears within the second reference range due to a course change, etc., the result is No in S3 and Yes in S4, and the control unit 18 accesses the database 19 and stores it there. The alarm animation c that has been displayed is read out and played back (S14). Warning animation c is a sudden transformation from a normal state to a combat state 2, and specifically, the accessory 304 (see FIG. 6(a)) such as a hair clip of the first character 300 in a normal state emits blue light. , the face of the first character 300 is displayed close up (FIG. 8(a)), the face is turned downward while closing the eyes (FIG. 8(b)), and the head is further zoomed in (FIG. 8(a)). b)). Next, the ear-shaped antenna 301 is displayed so as to grow in two stages (FIG. 9). The steps up to this point are the same as the first half of warning animation a.

Next, the whole body is displayed (FIG. 10(a)), and the costume changes from the head down. As shown in Figure 10(b), the costume changes gradually as the ring of light 302 moves, but once the costume is transformed into a battle uniform, the character already has a weapon in hand and his entire body emits red light. state. His face takes on a stern expression and he zooms in. At this time, the control unit 18 outputs a predetermined sound similarly to when playing the warning animation b. Displays an animation of firing a gun just before passing.

When a video file is composed of multiple frames, a degree of importance is assigned to each frame. If the distance is less than or equal to the reference distance, the control unit 18 drops the less important items in terms of software and reproduces them. In other words, in each of the above-described embodiments, all the frames constituting one video file are played sequentially to the end, but by dropping less important frames, only important frames can be played. and can be played back in a short time. Therefore, the possibility of passing through the warning target while the warning animation is being played is suppressed as much as possible. The same thing can be said when entering the first reference range. In other words, if the distance to the warning target when the system enters the first reference range due to a course change, etc. is close to the second reference range, such as 700 m or 800 m, the entire frame is played back in a short time by skipping the frame to be played. It is preferable that a warning animation for entering the second reference range can be played before the object passes through the second reference range, or even if it passes, immediately after the addition.

In addition, multiple levels of importance are set, and the number of frames to be played is adjusted depending on the distance to the alarm target when the target alarm target is detected within the first reference range or the second reference range. That's good. Furthermore, if the distance to the alarm target when the target alarm target within the first reference range is detected is very short, it is preferable to display only one predetermined frame (for example, the last frame, etc.).

It is preferable to include a function in which the content of the character animation that is played when a predetermined alarm condition is met changes in relation to the user's actions. For example, the control unit 18 may count the frequency of driving (the frequency of driving (the system is turned on) during a reference period such as a week or month), or the manner of driving (whether or not the system is being driven safely). ), and the character's expression changes depending on the situation. In reality, multiple video files of animations with different facial expressions are prepared and stored in a database. Then, the facial expression of the character displayed on the display section is changed by calling and playing a corresponding video file according to the user's actions. For example, if a sensor is equipped with an acceleration sensor and the sensor value of the acceleration sensor exceeds a standard value, it is determined that dangerous driving has occurred, and based on the number of times the standard value has been exceeded, it is determined whether driving is safe or not. Determine whether or not (degree of safe driving).

For example, if the character does not drive safely or drives infrequently, the character will display an animation with a severe expression to notify the existence of a warning target, and if the character drives safely or frequently, the character will Displays an animation with a friendly expression that alerts you to the presence of the alarm target.

Further, the animation display during normal times may also change in accordance with the user's actions, as described above. Furthermore, it is good to change the animation display during normal times depending on the date, time, and season. For example, in the case of a humanoid character, particularly a female character, such as the first character, the following various changes may be made. For example, if it is based on time, it will change into pajamas in the night time (for example, after 7:00 p.m.), and will change into the illustrated everyday clothes in the morning (for example, after 7:00 a.m.). In the case of dates, on New Year's Day they transform into a kimono, on Valentine's Day (February 14th) they carry chocolate as accessories and transform into beautiful clothes, and on Doll's Festival (March 3rd) and Tanabata (July). It would be a good idea to transform into a kimono that suits each person on the 7th, a swimsuit (for example, a bikini) on the beach day, and a Santa Claus (mini-skirt Santa) on Christmas (December 24th and 25th). Also, it's a good idea to change your outfit from time to time, such as dressing according to spring, summer, fall, and winter, rather than a specific date (event), so you don't get bored. Furthermore, by registering the user's birthday, etc., if the date falls on the birthday, as with Valentine's Day, the user can carry a present and transform into a beautiful costume.

It is also a good idea to change the costume depending on the type of alert target detected. For example, when a car location radio message is received, the first character changes into a policewoman's uniform (for example, a uniform with a miniskirt) instead of a combat uniform. In this way, the costume after transformation will be reminiscent of a police officer (not directly reminiscent of the emergency vehicle that is the subject of the alert, but rather from a distance), making it easier to infer the type of subject of the alert based on the costume. .

If the character is equipped with an item, it is preferable that the item be related to the target of the warning. Wearable items are not limited to items that can be worn over the entire body, such as the costumes mentioned above, but also items that can be worn on a part of the body, such as accessories, and items that can be carried in the hand or on the shoulder, such as bags, weapons, and other belongings. There are a wide variety of types, including those that can be hung or carried around and relatively easily removed (temporary attachments). In this way, the user is attracted to the character that the user is interested in, and the equipment worn by the character that the user is interested in is displayed as related to the alarm target, so that the user can pay more attention to the alarm target. It is desirable because it attracts people.

All animations and different characters with these variations can be recorded in the database from the time of shipment, or the basic ones can be stored in the database at the time of shipment, and they can be added to the database sequentially through version upgrades, etc. You can do it like this. The basics are, for example, one type of animation (for example, only the first character) with no sound, and by upgrading, a second character's animation is added, an audio warning is added, or an animation by the same first character. However, as mentioned above, it is good to have different facial expressions and movements depending on the conditions. Furthermore, it is preferable to display different animations depending on the alarm target.

For these version upgrades, for example, data such as characters and animations to be added are registered in the server, and the user accesses the server, downloads predetermined data, and registers it in the database. The server is accessed using, for example, a personal computer, and the downloaded data is recorded on a memory card attached to a memory card reader connected to the personal computer. Then, the memory card storing the downloaded data is set in the memory card reader 10 of the radar detector 1. The control unit 18 accesses the memory card set in the memory card reader 10, reads out predetermined data, and records it in the database 19.

Downloadable data may be distributed for a fee based on fee payment, or the user registers as a member to access the server, and if the member performs a predetermined action, that action can be downloaded. It may also be possible to read data according to the data.

In the embodiments described above, a radar detector was used as an example of a device to which the system of the present invention is applied, but the present invention is not limited thereto and can be implemented as a function of various types of in-vehicle electronic devices. For example, it may be incorporated as a function of a navigation device or the like.

In the above-described embodiments and modifications, the device is provided with a database 19 storing various information, and the control unit 18 accesses the database 19 to read necessary information and perform various processes. It is not limited to this. That is, part or all of the information to be registered in the database 19 is registered in the server. The radar detector and other electronic equipment/devices may have a function of communicating with such a server, and the control unit 18 may be a system that accesses the server as appropriate, acquires necessary information, and executes processing. Part or all of the control unit may be installed in such a server, and the server side may execute part of the processing, and the in-vehicle device may obtain the results and display them in a predetermined manner. Further, the display device may be another in-vehicle device or a device mounted on the vehicle. For example, the control means of this system may send data for displaying animation to a device equipped with such an external display device.

In the embodiments, a GPS receiver for detecting current position information is built-in, but the present invention does not require a configuration including a GPS receiver, and the present invention acquires current position information from a vehicle or other in-vehicle equipment, and uses the acquired information. It may also be possible to determine whether or not there is a close relationship with the warning target based on the following.

5 Display 6 Touch panel 7 Volume and adjustment button 8 Work button 10 Memory card reader 11 Memory card 13 GPS receiver 14 Microwave receiver 15 Wireless receiver 16 Speaker 18 Control unit 19 Database

Claims (5)

When a predetermined radio wave is received by a radio wave receiver installed in a vehicle, this system has a function to issue an alarm by displaying an animation on the screen that includes a predetermined character and a diagram simulating the radio waves that collect on the character. The function to issue the alarm is as follows:
Many devices are being installed near roads to measure vehicle speeds. As an example of the speed measuring device, the system according to claim 1, wherein the system issues an alarm by displaying the animation specific to the type of the speed measuring device in response to the predetermined radio waves received from the speed measuring device. The function to alert is
If the position specified by the position information of the speed measuring device acquired from the position storage means that stores the position information of the speed measuring device and the current position of the own vehicle have a predetermined proximity relationship, The system according to claim 2, wherein the system issues a warning by displaying an animation different from the animation. The function to alert is
According to any one of claims 1 to 3, when the information regarding the alarm according to the received predetermined radio wave is notified using characters, the information is displayed superimposed on the area where the character is displayed on the screen. system. A program for causing a computer to implement the functions of the system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

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