JP6778964B2 - Equipment and programs - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a device attached to a device that provides information to a user.

A function to output a voice message is implemented in various devices. Specifically, it is a function that notifies the user that the situation has changed or prompts the user to perform further operations by outputting a voice message in response to a change in the situation or an operation of the user. is there.

For example, consider outputting a voice message for a car navigation device. If the display screen of the car navigation device is watched while driving a vehicle or the like, it is dangerous for the user to grasp the surrounding situation. Therefore, the car navigation device is often equipped with a function of providing operation guidance by voice message.

Similarly, a function to output a voice message may be implemented in the drive recorder so that it can be notified that an accident or the like has occurred while driving a vehicle or the like.

However, the output of voice messages by car navigation devices and drive recorders is solely for the purpose of transmitting information. Therefore, normally, a monotonous voice message such as a mechanical sound or a single synthetic voice is used for the voice message output from the car navigation device.

In such a monotonous voice message, the user's attention to the voice message is lowered, and there may be a problem that it is difficult to miss or hear. Moreover, even if the information can be heard and transmitted to the user, it is not entertaining and there is no added value that attracts the user's interest.

In view of these points, multiple types of voices corresponding to multiple characters are prepared, and by properly using these multiple types of voices, the user's interest is attracted and the user's hearing is ensured. There is a technology called. An example of such a technique is described in, for example, Patent Document 1.

The technique described in Patent Document 1 has an object of providing voice guidance that is easy for the user to hear without missing the user by changing the character to be uttered for each message.

Then, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, in order to solve this problem, a sound piece data storage means for storing sound piece data by a plurality of characters with an identifier attached to each character is provided. In addition, this identifier is associated with the character type code included in the text data. Further, when the document data is output as a voice message, the sound piece data corresponding to the sentence data is detected, synthetic voice data is generated from the sound piece data detected by the sound piece editing means, and the sound piece data is uttered as voice by the voice output means. ..

In this way, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, a plurality of types of voices are used properly according to the content of the text data to be output. Therefore, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, it is possible to give variation to the vocalization of the voice and to differentiate the guidance content by the difference in the character, and it is possible to solve the above-mentioned problem.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2006-337432

By using a technique such as the technique described in Patent Document 1 described above, it is possible to use a plurality of types of voices properly.

However, in a technique such as the technique described in Patent Document 1 described above, at least the following two problems have occurred.

The first problem is that if the same text data is used, the voice of the same character is always output. In a technique such as the technique described in Patent Document 1 described above, the text data and the corresponding character are associated with each other on a one-to-one basis according to the content of the text data. Therefore, if the text data is different, the voice message of a different character is output, but if the text data is the same, the voice message of the same character is always output.

As a result, the problem that the voice message became monotonous and did not attract the user's interest could not be completely solved.

Further, in order to solve this problem, for example, it is conceivable to have the user change the correspondence between the text data and the character so that the voice message by the character desired by the user is output. However, in such a configuration, every time the user wants to change the correspondence, the operation by the user is indispensable, and the user changes the setting on the setting screen. In other words, it was not easy for the user to use. Therefore, as a result, it is assumed that the settings at the time of purchase are used without such setting changes, and the voice messages of a plurality of characters are not effectively utilized.

The second problem is that even if the character that outputs the voice message is changed, the design displayed on the appearance of the device does not change. In this respect, even if the voice message is of a different character, if the design represented on the appearance of the device such as the car navigation device remains unchanged, the design represented on the appearance of the device and the voice message can be felt unified. Absent. From this point of view as well, the problem of not attracting the interest of users could not be completely solved.

Further, when the power of the device is off, there is a problem that it is not possible to know what kind of content the device notifies from the design displayed on the appearance.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and a program capable of changing the contents represented by the device without requiring a complicated operation by the user.

(1) A member to which a design is applied to make the design of the device to which the device is mounted different.
An output means for outputting predetermined information to the device is provided.
A user who perceives the output content of the notification performed by the device using the predetermined information and the design of the device in a state where the device is attached to the device unifies the output content of the notification and the design. A device characterized in that the member and the predetermined information are combined so as to give a feeling.

In this way, it is possible to change the content represented by the device by the member provided in the device and the output means provided in the device without requiring a complicated operation by the user.

Further, in this way, the content represented by the design of the device and the content represented by the notification by the device will give a sense of unity to the user who perceives this, and can attract the user's interest.

The "device" may be a device that can be visually recognized by the user when it is mounted on the device to be mounted. For example, when the user uses the device, the device may be in the user's field of view at the same time as the device. In this way, the design of the device in which the device is mounted can be easily perceived each time the user uses the device.

For example, it is better to use a device that can be visually recognized by the user when the user perceives the output content of the notification performed by the device. In this way, the user can simultaneously recognize the output content of the notification and the design of the device in which the device is attached, and the user can simultaneously recognize the output content of the notification and the design of the device in which the device is attached. It is good because you can perceive the sense of unity of. This sense of unity may attract the user's interest in the content of the notification.

The "device to which this device is mounted" is a device that performs notification, and it is preferable that the notification content needs to be reliably transmitted to the user. For example, it may be a device that gives explanations, instructions, guidances, warnings, etc. to the user by notification. Since the present device attracts the user's interest in the notification, it may be possible to reliably convey these explanations, instructions, guidances, warnings, etc. to the user.

The "mounting" of the device may be such that the device is attached to the device and the attached state is maintained. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the device from being unintentionally detached due to factors such as vibration. For example, in order to maintain the attached state, it is particularly preferable that the device and / or both of the devices are provided with a mechanism for mounting the device on the device. For example, the device and the device may be configured to have a claw on one side and a recess on the other side to fit the claw. This is particularly preferable because it is possible to prevent the device from being easily disengaged due to the fitting of the claw and the recess.

The "member" may be arranged in a portion where the design applied to the member can be visually recognized by the user when the device is attached to the device. In this way, the design of the device can be different depending on the design applied to the member. For example, if the user uses the device facing the device, the member may be arranged so as to be in front of the device.

The "design for making the design of the device different" applied to the member may be realized by the shape, pattern or color of the member, or a combination thereof. Further, it is preferable that the main design for making the design of the device different is visible to the user. Further, the main design for making the design of the device different may be a design different from the design applied to the device. In this way, the design of the device that the user sees when the device is attached may be different from the design of the device that the user sees when the device is not attached.

It is more preferable that the present design for differentiating the design of the device represents, for example, a predetermined character, a predetermined article, a predetermined world view, and the like. By doing so, the content of the notification performed by the device may also represent the predetermined character, the predetermined article, the predetermined world view, and the like, so that a sense of unity can be felt.

The "predetermined information" may be the data itself used for notification by the device. In this way, the device may be able to perform the notification using the predetermined information output by the output means. The data itself used for the notification may be, for example, voice data or image data used for the notification. In this way, the device may be able to perform notification by outputting voice using voice data or displaying using image data. Further, these audio data and image data may be image data and audio data that give a sense of unity with the design of the device. For example, if the design of this device represents a predetermined character, a predetermined article, a predetermined world view, etc., it is assumed that the audio data represents the same predetermined character, a predetermined article, a predetermined world view, etc. Good. By doing so, for example, it is possible to perform notification using the voice or image of the character represented by the design of the present device, and it may be possible to attract the interest of the user who likes this character.

In addition, the predetermined information may be data for the device to identify the type of the device. In this way, the device to which the predetermined information is input can specify the type of the present device, and can perform the notification according to the specified type of the present device. For example, if the device that identifies the device uses audio data or image data that corresponds to the character represented by the design of the device, the device may be able to attract the interest of users who like this character. .. The data for identifying the type of the device may be identification information that uniquely represents the type of the device. In this way, the device may be able to identify the type of the device based on the identification information.

The "output means" may be a means for transmitting predetermined information to the device by communication. Further, the output means may be any means as long as it can output when the device is attached to the device, and may not be able to output when the device is not attached to the device. For example, it is preferable that the output means is realized by a predetermined terminal so that the terminal is connected to the insertion port on the device side when the device is attached to the device. For example, a terminal compliant with the USB (Universal Serial Bus) standard, which is widely used in general, is preferable because it has versatility. Further, for example, the output means may be realized by a function of performing wireless communication. For example, the output means may be realized by an IC tag. Further, for example, a predetermined information may be output by receiving a power supply from the device. For example, the IC tag that realizes the output means may be a passive tag.

In order to "feel a sense of unity among users", for example, the output content of the notification performed by the device using predetermined information and the design of the device with the device attached to the device should be unified in the same atmosphere. It is good to set it to. For example, as described above, the output content of the notification may be the voice or image of a certain character, and the design of the device in which the present device is attached to the device may be the design representing the certain character.

Then, as "a configuration in which the member and the predetermined information are combined", the output content of the notification and the design of the device in the state where the device is attached to the device are unified in the same atmosphere. It is preferable to have a combined configuration. For example, it is preferable that the present device including a member having a design representing the first character outputs predetermined information for performing notification by voice or image of the first character. Similarly, if the device is provided with a member having a design representing the second character, predetermined information for notifying the second character by voice or image instead of the first character can be obtained. It is good to output it. By doing so, it is possible to realize that the above-mentioned user feels a sense of unity, and it is possible to attract the user's interest in the notification. In this regard, if the present device including a member having a design representing the first character is configured to perform notification by voice or image of the second character, the user loses interest in the notification. , There is a risk of missing the notification. From the viewpoint of preventing this, the present device including the member with the design representing the first character outputs predetermined information for performing the voice or image notification of the first character. It is good to set it to.

Further, this combination may be different for each device. In other words, in a certain device, the device that is combined for the first character, the device that is combined for the second character, and so on, should be a combination that gives the user a sense of unity for each device. It suffices that the user does not have to feel a sense of unity in relation to other devices. In this way, by changing the device attached to the device to another device, it is only possible to change the combination of the output content of the notification and the design of the device with the device attached to the device. However, even if changes are made, the combination can be used so that the user feels a sense of unity.

In the case of these configurations, it is particularly preferable that the device is a car navigation device and the content represented by the notification by the device is a voice message of the operation guidance. This is because it is preferable that the voice message of the operation guidance by the car navigation device attracts the user's interest, and the effect of this device that the user's interest can be attracted to the content represented by the notification becomes more beneficial. Because. Further, in this way, since the user's interest can be attracted, the user's attention to the voice message is lowered, and it is possible to prevent a situation in which the user misses the voice message. Further, it is particularly preferable to include the information for operation guidance displayed on the screen in the content represented by the notification. By doing so, the user can be interested in the information for the operation guidance. In addition, the user can be immersed in the world of this character and feel a further sense of unity by perceiving the same character in all of the device design, voice message, and information for operation guidance.

Further, if the device is a car navigation device, the device may be a device that can be visually recognized by the user when attached to the car navigation device. For example, the members of the device may be mounted on the same surface as the display screen so that the members of the device can also be visually recognized when the user refers to the display screen of the car navigation device. For example, if the display unit of the car navigation device is arranged in front of the car navigation device, which is a general arrangement position, if the member of the device is mounted on the front surface of the car navigation device, When the user refers to the display unit, the design applied to the member may also be referred to.

For example, it is preferable to mount the member of this device on the front bezel of the car navigation device at a position where it can be visually recognized together with the display unit without interfering with the display by the display unit. This is because the front bezel of the car navigation device is a part that enters the line of sight of the user who is driving a car or the like, and the user can easily perceive the content represented by the design of the front bezel.

Further, it is particularly preferable that the content represented by the design of the front bezel is some kind of design. Moreover, it is particularly preferable that this design can identify the character. This is because, by using a design that represents a character rather than a character or the like, it is easy for a user who refers to the design to instantly grasp the content. Moreover, it is possible to see the design of the character preferred by the user. Specifically, it is advisable to print an image of the character on the front bezel, or to apply 3D decoration to the front bezel.

(2) The device can be directly or indirectly attached to and detached from the device, and when the device is attached to the device, the predetermined information can be sent to the device without requiring a user operation. A device characterized by outputting.

By doing so, the user can directly or indirectly attach the device to the device, so that the design of the device and the content represented by the notification by the device can be unified without requiring other operations. Good. That is, it is not necessary for the user to perform complicated operations.

Further, in this way, the design of the device and the content represented by the notification by the device may be different before and after the device is mounted.

It is particularly preferable that the mounting can be performed by the user at an arbitrary timing. This is because the design of the device and the content of the notification by the device can be changed at the timing desired by the user. In addition, in this way, when the user personally uses the car during private time, the front bezel is attached to output the voice data of the character, and when an acquaintance or the like is on board, the front bezel is removed. As a result, it is possible to output general voice data as a car navigation device.

(3) The device is directly or indirectly detachable from the device, and when the device is removed from the device, the output of the predetermined information is stopped without requiring a user operation. Equipment to do.

In this way, if the user removes the device from the device side, both the design of the device and the contents represented by the notification by the device can be displayed in the state before the device is attached to the device without requiring other operations. Can be returned.

It is particularly preferable that the removal can be performed by the user at an arbitrary timing. This is because both the design of the device and the content represented by the notification by the device can be returned to the state before the device is mounted at the timing desired by the user.

Further, after the removal, it is particularly preferable that the notification using the predetermined information output by the device cannot be performed unless the device is reattached. This is because, if the configuration is such that the predetermined information can be continuously used even after the removal, the predetermined information can be used by a plurality of devices by reusing one device, and such a usage method is assumed. This is because it is possible to prevent such use if it is not used.

(4) The output content of the notification performed by the device using the predetermined information and the design of the device in a state where the device is attached to the device are at least the same or related characters, the same or related. A device characterized in that it reminds the user of an article and either the same or related world view.

In this way, the user outputs a notification performed by the device using the predetermined information reminiscent of the same or related character, the same or related article, and the same or related world view. It is sufficient that the contents and the design of the device in a state where the device is attached to the device can be perceived.

As described above, the output content of the notification performed by the device using the predetermined information and the design of the device in the state where the device is attached to the device are at least reminiscent of the same or related characters. It is good to have a configuration of. By doing so, it is possible to give the user a sense of unity based on the image of the character that does not actually exist.

Moreover, it is preferable to recall not only the same character but also related characters in this way. This is because, for example, different characters appearing in the same work can be used to give the user a sense of unity.

Further, in this way, the output content of the notification performed by the device using the predetermined information and the design of the device in the state where the device is attached to the device recall at least the same or related articles. The configuration may be such that it reminds us of the same or related articles and the same or related world view as well as the case where it is made to remind. By doing so, it is possible not only to make the user feel a sense of unity based on a predetermined character, but also to make the user feel a sense of unity based on a predetermined article and a predetermined world view.

(5) The device in a state where the device is not attached has a design that hinders the sense of unity, and the shape of the device gives the sense of unity when the device is attached to the device. A device characterized in that the shape is such that the design to be obstructed cannot be perceived by the user.

In this way, when the device in which the device is not mounted has a design that hinders the sense of unity, the device mounted on the device gives the user a design that hinders the sense of unity. It can be imperceptible. By doing so, since the user does not perceive the content that hinders the sense of unity, it is possible to eliminate the cause that hinders the sense of unity based on the content represented by the design of the device and the content represented by the notification by the device. In order to make the design that hinders the sense of unity imperceptible, specifically, the shape of the device is set so that the design that hinders the sense of unity cannot be visually recognized when the device is attached to the device. It is good to do.

The design that hinders the sense of unity may be, for example, characters or logos representing the manufacturer name of the device, or the model number of the device. This is because these information are often not related to the sense of unity represented by the character or the like, and since these information are likely to impair the sense of unity, it is preferable not to let the user perceive this information. Because.
(6) The device is provided with either or both of a display unit and a sound output unit.
The shape of the device is such that the device does not interfere with the notification using the predetermined information performed by the device using the display unit and the sound output unit while being mounted on the device. ..

In this way, the present device mounted on the device does not interfere with the notification by the device. Therefore, even if this device is attached, the content of the notification by the device may be perceived by the user without being disturbed.

Further, as described above, the shape of the present device may be a shape that does not interfere with the notification performed by the display unit and the sound output unit among the notifications. By doing so, it is possible that the display of the operation guide displayed on the display unit is not difficult to see and the voice message output from the sound output unit is not difficult to hear. Specifically, the shape of the device may be such that it does not overlap the display, which is the display unit, even when the device is mounted, and does not block the output portion of the speaker, which is the sound output unit.

(7) The output content of the notification performed by the device using the predetermined information and the design of the device in a state where the device is attached to the device are the user while the user is using the device. A device characterized by being perceptible.

In this way, even when the user is operating the device, the content of the notification that gives the user a sense of unity and the design of the device in the state where the device is attached to the device are perceived. It can be interesting.

Further, as described above, it is particularly preferable that not only the output content of the notification performed by the device using the predetermined information and the design of the device in the state where the device is mounted on the device, but also both of them can be perceived. In this way, the user may be able to perceive not only the content represented by the design of the device and the content represented by the notification, but also both of them even while the device is in use.

Further, as described above, the device is realized by the car navigation device, and the content and notification indicated by the design of the device indicating that the car navigation device is being used not only while operating the car navigation device but also while driving a car or the like. The content should be perceptible to the user. This is because the voice message output during driving should not be overlooked, and therefore the voice message output during driving should be of interest to the user.

(8) A device in which the device is mounted on the device so that the user can perceive the design of the device even if the device is not operating.

In this way, even if the device is not operating, the design of the device is perceived when the device is attached to the device. Therefore, even if the device is not operating, the user is allowed to appreciate the design and the user is allowed to appreciate the design. Can be entertained.

Further, it is particularly preferable that the configuration is such that the user can perceive the contents represented by the design of the device not only in the state where the device is stopped but also when the power of the device is turned off. By doing so, even if the car is stopped when the device is a car navigation device and the power is not supplied from the car, the content represented by the design of the device changed by the device can be perceived. ..

(9) The device is a device that accepts the operation of the user, and the output content of the notification performed by the device using the predetermined information is related to the operation reception of the user.

In this way, the content represented by the design of the device and the content represented by the notification can be related to the operation reception of the user. In addition, the user can perceive a unified content even during operation, which can attract the user's interest.

For example, it is particularly preferable that the user interface such as the icon displayed on the screen has a unified content. By doing so, a further sense of unity may be perceived as compared with the case where only the content of the voice message is changed.

(10) The device is a device used in a mobile body, and the output content of the notification performed by the device using predetermined information is used for guiding the user regarding the movement of the mobile body. A device characterized by.

In this way, the user's interest can be attracted when guiding the moving body.

Further, it is particularly preferable that the moving body is, for example, an automobile, and the device is a car navigation device. By doing so, it is possible to output the voice guidance at the time of guiding the car navigation device by the voice of the predetermined character, or to display the predetermined character on the navigation screen. By doing so, the user can be interested in the guidance and the navigation screen, and it is possible to provide reliable operation guidance, which is the most important as a car navigation device.

(11) A storage means for storing either or both of image data and audio data to be used for notification performed by the device is provided as the predetermined information.
The output means is an apparatus characterized in that either or both of image data and audio data stored by the storage means are output to the device as the predetermined information.

In this way, the notification can be performed by either or both of the image data and the voice data stored in the present device.

Further, in this way, the notification can be performed using either or both of the image data and the voice data that are not stored in the device. Specifically, the present device may be realized by a front bezel incorporating a sound source chip for storing the information output by the present device.

Further, the device may be a car navigation device, and the information output by the device may be the character information. By doing so, the information of the character that appeared after the car navigation device was sold or the character that was popular after the car navigation device was sold is stored in the device manufactured after the fact, and the operation guidance is performed using the stored character information. It is good because you can do it.

(12) A system including the device according to any one of (1) to (10) above and the device to which the device is mounted.
The device includes a storage means for storing either or both of image data and audio data to be used for notification.
The device is a system characterized in that notification is performed using either or both of the image data and the audio data corresponding to the type of the device mounted on the device, which is stored in the storage means.

In this way, when the device is mounted on the device, it is possible to perform notification by either or both of the image data and the audio data corresponding to the design applied to the member of the device.

Further, it is particularly preferable to have a configuration in which the data used for notification by the device is stored in this way. This may eliminate the need to store either or both of the image data and the audio data used by the device for notification. In addition, even if the device is mounted on a moving vehicle and cannot communicate with an external device, either or both of the image data and the audio data corresponding to the design applied to the member of the device. Can be notified using.

Further, when this device is not installed, it is particularly preferable to disable the image data and audio data stored in the device. In this way, it is possible to make only the user who purchased the device use the image data and the audio data.

(13) The output means included in the device outputs information for specifying the type of the device itself as the predetermined information.
The device identifies the type of the device based on the predetermined information output by the output means, and reads out and reads out either or both of the image data and the audio data corresponding to the specified device type from the storage means. A system characterized in that notification is performed using either or both of image data and audio data.

In this way, the device can have different contents used for notification depending on the type of the identified device. Therefore, if the device to be mounted is different, different contents may be notified. For example, when the present device that changes the design of the device to the shape of a certain character is attached, the voice notification of the certain character may be performed.

Further, by doing so, it is possible to perform voice notification of the character selected by the user by replacing the device that changes the shape of the character selected by the user. In addition, it may be possible to select different characters on a daily basis, for example, by simply changing the device.

Further, by doing so, the apparatus does not need to store or output the image data and the audio data used for the notification. Therefore, it is sufficient for the device to have only the information indicating its own type, and the configuration of the device can be simplified.

(14) The device and the device are each provided with an interface for communicating with each other, and by attaching the device to the device, the device and the interface included in the device are communicably connected. A system featuring.

By doing so, it is sufficient that the device and the device can communicate with each other simply by attaching the device to the device. That is, other connection work for making the device and the device capable of communicating is not required. In this way, the device can be realized as a removable front bezel (with an I / O port).

For example, it is preferable that each of the device and the device is provided with an interface conforming to a predetermined standard, and when the device is attached to the device, the two interfaces are fitted together. Further, by making this predetermined standard a general-purpose standard such as USB, it may be possible to connect to other devices such as a personal computer conforming to the same standard so as to be communicable.

(15) A system characterized in that either or both of the device and the device is provided with a mechanism for attaching / detaching the device to the device.

In this way, the device can be attached / detached using a mechanism for attaching / detaching the device.

For example, the device and the device may be configured to have a claw on one side and a recess on the other side to fit the claw. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the claws and the recess from being fitted and the device from being easily disengaged. When the device is a car navigation device, vibration or the like is generated due to the movement of the automobile. Therefore, a configuration capable of preventing the device from being easily disengaged is particularly good.

Further, it is particularly preferable that the car navigation device, which is a device, is not provided with a mechanism for attaching / detaching the device, but is provided with a claw for being hooked on the car navigation device. In this way, the device can be mounted on the car navigation device even if the car navigation device is not provided with a special mechanism.

(16) A system characterized in that when the device is attached to the device, the device supplies electric power to the device, and the device operates by the supplied electric power.

In this way, when the device is attached to the device, the device supplies electric power to the device, and the device operates by the supplied electric power. In this way, the device can be operated without providing a battery in the device or connecting the device to an external power source. For example, when a device is attached to a device, it is preferable to make a connection conforming to the USB standard. By doing so, it is sufficient that information transmission / reception and power supply can be realized at the same time. In addition, information can be output by driving the device with the supplied power supply.

When the device is a car navigation device, electric power is supplied from the automobile, but it is conceivable that there is only one car charger for supplying electric power. However, by supplying electric power to the car navigation device by this car charger and further supplying electric power to the device by the car navigation device, both the car navigation device and the device can be operated by one car charger. So good.

(17) A program characterized in that a computer functions as the device according to any one of (1) to (11) above.

By doing so, the configurations described as (1) to (11) above can be realized by a computer.

Further, although the configuration described in any one of the above (1) to (11) may be realized by a computer, a part or all of the configurations described in each of the above (1) to (11) may be realized. May be realized by a computer in combination. That is, it is preferable to realize a configuration in which each of the components described in (1) to (11) above is arbitrarily combined without changing the gist of the present invention.

According to the present invention, it is possible to change the content represented by the device without requiring a complicated operation by the user.

It is a figure which shows the connection of the car navigation device and the detachable bezel in each embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the outline of the appearance of the car navigation device in the state which the detachable bezel is not attached in each embodiment of this invention. It is a figure (1/3) which shows the display example by the car navigation apparatus in each embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the outline of the appearance of the car navigation device with the 1st detachable bezel attached in each embodiment of this invention. It is a figure (2/3) which shows the display example by the car navigation apparatus in each embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the outline of the appearance of the car navigation device with the 2nd detachable bezel attached in each embodiment of this invention. It is a figure (3/3) which shows the display example by the car navigation device in each embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the functional block of the car navigation apparatus in 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the functional block of the detachable bezel in 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the basic operation in 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the functional block of the car navigation apparatus in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the functional block of the detachable bezel in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the basic operation in 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the display example by the car navigation apparatus in 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the functional block of the car navigation apparatus in 3rd Embodiment of this invention.

Next, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Here, in the embodiment of the present invention, the bezel can be roughly attached to and detached from the car navigation device, and both the appearance of the car navigation device and the information output by the car navigation device can be obtained when the bezel is attached and when the bezel is removed. It is to make them different.

Further, in the following description, three embodiments of the first embodiment, the second embodiment, and the third embodiment will be described.

Here, the first embodiment is to change the information output by the car navigation device by cooperating the functions of the bezel and the car navigation device.

Further, in the second embodiment, the information output by the car navigation device is changed solely by the function of the car navigation device.

Further, the third embodiment is to change the information output by the devices by coordinating a plurality of devices.

[First Embodiment]
<Attachment of detachable bezel 200 to car navigation device 100>
The present embodiment includes a car navigation device 100 and a removable bezel 200 attached to the car navigation device 100. Here, prior to explaining the detailed configuration of the car navigation device 100 and the detachable bezel 200, first, the attachment / detachment bezel 200 to the car navigation device 100 will be described.

FIG. 1 schematically shows the car navigation device 100 and the detachable bezel 200 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, before the detachable bezel 200 is attached, the bezel portion, which is the outer peripheral portion of the touch panel 102 included in the car navigation device 100, is in a visible state.

In this state, the detachable bezel 200 is attached by the user so that the inside thereof overlaps with the surface portion of the bezel which is the outer peripheral portion of the touch panel 102 included in the car navigation device 100. As a result, the design applied to the surface portion of the bezel provided by the car navigation device 100 itself, which was visible before mounting, becomes invisible, and instead, the detachable bezel such as the shape, color, pattern, pattern, etc. The design applied to the 200 is visible.

By doing so, the content perceived by the user who comes into contact with the appearance of the car navigation device 100 from the design of the car navigation device 100 differs before and after the attachment / detachment bezel 200 is attached to the car navigation device 100. .. For example, a character cannot be perceived from the design of the car navigation device 100 before the detachable bezel 200 is attached, but a specific character can be perceived from the design of the car navigation device 100 after the detachable bezel 200 is attached. ..

On the other hand, by attaching the detachable bezel 200 to the car navigation device 100, the car navigation device connection unit 201 and the bezel connection unit 101 are communicably connected. Specifically, the car navigation device connection portion 201 is realized by a male terminal compliant with the USB standard, and the bezel connection portion 101 is realized by a female terminal compliant with the USB standard. Then, when the detachable bezel 200 is attached to the car navigation device 100, both terminals are fitted, and accordingly, the detachable bezel 200 can communicate with each other in the car navigation device 100 by a communication protocol compliant with the USB standard. Become.

The detachable bezel 200, which has detected the connection of the car navigation device 100 via the bezel connection 101, transmits a voice for operation guidance to the car navigation device 100 via the bezel connection 101 and the car navigation device connection 201. The voice data for changing and the image data for changing the image for operation guidance are transmitted.

The car navigation device 100 receives these voice data and image data, and uses the received voice data and image data to provide operation guidance. These received voice data and image data are different from the voice data and image data used for the operation guidance stored in advance in the car navigation device 100. Therefore, the output voice and the displayed image are different before and after the attachment / detachment bezel 200 is attached to the car navigation device 100. Along with this, the content perceived by the user who comes into contact with the operation guidance performed by the car navigation device 100 becomes different. For example, a character cannot be perceived from the operation guide before the detachable bezel 200 is attached, but a specific character can be perceived from the operation guide after the detachable bezel 200 is attached.

Then, in the present embodiment, the car navigation device 1 after the detachable bezel 200 is attached.
The content perceived from the appearance of 00 and the content of the operation guidance given after the detachable bezel 200 is attached shall be unified. By doing so, the user who perceives the design of the car navigation device 100 after the detachable bezel 200 is attached and the operation guidance after the detachable bezel 200 is attached feels a sense of unity. As a result, the user can be interested in the operation guidance, and as a result, the user concentrates on the content of the operation guidance, so that the content of the operation guidance can be reliably communicated to the user. It plays the effect.

Further, in relation to the mounting, after the detachable bezel 200 is attached to the car navigation device 100, the vibration generated by the movement of the car when the car navigation device 100 to which the detachable bezel 200 is attached is used in a car or the like. A mechanism is provided so that the detachable bezel 200 does not come off from the car navigation device 100.

Specifically, in the present embodiment, the shape of the inner circumference of the housing of the surface to be attached to the car navigation device 100 of the detachable bezel 200 is the same shape as the outer circumference of the housing of the car navigation device 100 and has a slightly larger size. And. By doing so, when the detachable bezel 200 is attached to the car navigation device 100, the inner circumference of the housing on the surface of the detachable bezel 200 to be attached to the car navigation device 100 and the outer circumference of the housing of the car navigation device 100 are fitted and detached. Prevents the bezel 200 from coming off due to vibration or the like. At the same time, by fitting the car navigation device connection portion 201, which is a USB terminal, with the bezel connection portion 101, the detachable bezel 200 becomes more difficult to come off.

<Specific examples of appearance and display when the detachable bezel is detached>
Next, the appearance and screen display of the car navigation device 100 when the detachable bezel 200 is not attached to the car navigation device 100, and the appearance and screen display when the detachable bezel 200 is attached to the car navigation device 100. The description will be given with reference to FIGS. 2 to 7.

First, FIG. 2 shows the appearance of the car navigation device 100 in a state where the detachable bezel 200 is not attached. As shown in FIG. 2, the appearance of the car navigation device 100 includes a bezel connection portion 101, a touch panel 102, a symbol 103, an operation button 104, a notification LED 105, and a storage medium insertion portion 101. Since the details of each of these parts will be described later with reference to FIG. 8, only the outline of the functions of these parts will be described here.

As described above, the bezel connection portion 101 is a portion for connecting the detachable bezel 200, and is a female terminal conforming to the USB standard.

The touch panel 102 is a touch panel with a display screen for the car navigation device 100 to display information for operation guidance and to accept user operations.

The symbol 103 is a symbol that has been applied to the car navigation device 100 in advance, and in the present embodiment, the logo of the manufacturer that manufactures the car navigation device 100 is described.
The operation button 104 is a physical button that receives an operation from the user.

The notification LED 105 is an LED (Light emitting diode) for performing notification accompanying operation guidance.

The storage medium insertion unit 101 is a slot for inserting a storage medium, and is realized by a slot for inserting an SD card (SD Memory Card) in the present embodiment.

Next, as shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 3 shows a display example of a screen displayed on the touch panel 102 by the car navigation device 100 when the detachable bezel 200 is not attached to the car navigation device 100.

As shown in FIG. 3, in this example, a map for operation guidance is displayed as the display 301, and an icon indicating the position of a facility or the like and a car navigation device 100 are mounted on the map at present. Display an icon indicating the position. The display 301 is generated by the car navigation device 100 based on the map information stored in the storage unit inside the car navigation device 100 and the positioning result by the GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor, and is displayed on the touch panel 102.

Further, in the present embodiment, as the display 302, an image of a road, a building, or the like in the traveling direction is displayed in three dimensions, and an icon is further superimposed on the image. Further, the voice for operation guidance is a voice generally used in a car navigation device, which does not remind us of a predetermined character or the like. The display 302 and the voice for operation guidance are generated by the car navigation device 100 based on the operation guidance information stored in the storage unit inside the car navigation device 100, displayed on the touch panel 102, or output by the speaker. Or something.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the appearance and screen display of the car navigation device 100 in the state where the detachable bezel 200 is not attached does not particularly perceive a specific character or the like.

Next, the appearance and screen display of the car navigation device 100 when the detachable bezel 200 is attached will be described. As a premise of the description, in the present embodiment, there are a plurality of types of removable bezels 200. These plurality of types of removable bezels 200 have the same basic functions. However, the plurality of types of removable bezels 200 have different patterns. Further, the plurality of types of removable bezels 200 output different image data and audio data. In order to explain this difference, the case where the first detachable bezel 200 is attached and the case where the second detachable bezel 200 is attached will be described below.

FIG. 4 shows the appearance of the car navigation device 100-1, which is the car navigation device 100 equipped with the first removable bezel 200. As shown in FIG. 4, the appearance of the car navigation device 100-1 includes a touch panel 102, a symbol 103, an operation button 104, a notification LED 105, and a storage medium insertion unit 101.

The difference from the car navigation device 100 shown in FIG. 2 is that the bezel connection portion 101 is invisible to the user due to the housing of the first detachable bezel 200 attached. Similarly, the difference is that the symbol 103-1 is invisible to the user due to the housing of the attached first detachable bezel 200.

Further, the housing of the attached first detachable bezel 200 is provided with a symbol 103-1 which is a symbol representing a female character. Therefore, the symbol 103-1 is visible to the user instead of the symbol 103.

Further, the pattern and color of the entire appearance of the car navigation device 100 are the pattern and color applied to the housing of the first detachable bezel 200 attached. In the present embodiment, the pattern and color related to the female character represented by the symbol 103-1 are applied to the housing of the first removable bezel 200.

Due to these differences, the appearance of the car navigation device 100-1 is such that the user who visually recognizes the appearance perceives the female character represented by the symbol 103-1.

Next, FIG. 5 shows a display example of a screen displayed on the touch panel 102 by the car navigation device 100 when the first detachable bezel 200 is attached to the car navigation device 100 as shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 5, the display 301 is the same as that in FIG. 3, and the same contents are displayed. It is also shown that the display 301 is generated by the car navigation device 100 based on the map information stored in the storage unit inside the car navigation device 100 and the positioning result by the GPS sensor, and is displayed on the touch panel 102. It is the same as 3.

However, in this example, the image of the female character represented by the symbol 103-1 is displayed as the display 303 instead of the display 302 of FIG. In addition, the voice for operation guidance shall be the voice of such a female character.

The detachable bezel 200 outputs the image data for performing the display 302 and the image data for outputting the voice of the female character. Then, the car navigation device 100 acquires the output data via the bezel connection section 101 and the car navigation device connection section 201. Further, the car navigation device 100 uses the acquired data to display 302 and output the voice of the female character.

As a result, the display screen of the car navigation device 100-1 and the output voice are such that the user who perceives the display screen and the output voice perceives the female character represented by the symbol 103-1.

As described above, the content represented by the appearance of the car navigation device 100-1 and the image and voice of the female character output by the car navigation device 100 make the user perceive the same female character. .. As a result, each content becomes more unified than the display as shown in FIG. 3, and it becomes possible to attract the user's interest. This makes it possible to concentrate the user's consciousness on the operation guidance. This makes it possible to concentrate the user's consciousness on the operation guidance and voice guidance. In addition, this makes it possible to prevent the user from paying attention to the operation guidance and voice guidance, resulting in missed listening.

Next, FIG. 6 shows the appearance of the car navigation device 100-2, which is the car navigation device 100 equipped with the second detachable bezel 200. As shown in FIG. 6, the appearance of the car navigation device 100-2 includes a touch panel 102, a symbol 103-2, an operation button 104, a notification LED 105, and a storage medium insertion unit 101.

As described above, the car navigation device 100-1 shown in FIG. 4 and the car navigation device 100-2 shown in FIG. 6 are substantially the same in appearance. However, the first detachable bezel 200 attached to the car navigation device 100-1 had a female character as a symbol 103-1. Unlike this, the second detachable bezel 200 attached to the car navigation device 100-2. The detachable bezel 200 is decorated with a cat character as a design 103-2.

Further, the entire pattern and color become the pattern and color applied to the housing of the attached second detachable bezel 200. In the present embodiment, the pattern and color related to the cat character represented by the symbol 103-2 are applied to the housing of the second detachable bezel 200.

Due to these differences, the appearance of the car navigation device 100-2 is such that the user who visually recognizes the appearance perceives the cat character represented by the symbol 103-2.

Next, FIG. 7 shows a display example of a screen displayed on the touch panel 102 by the car navigation device 100 when the second detachable bezel 200 is attached to the car navigation device 100 as shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 7, the display 301 is the same as in FIGS. 3 and 5, and the same contents are displayed. It is also shown that the display 301 is generated by the car navigation device 100 based on the map information stored in the storage unit inside the car navigation device 100 and the positioning result by the GPS sensor, and is displayed on the touch panel 102. 3 and FIG. 5 are the same.

However, in this example, the image of the cat character represented by the symbol 103-2 is displayed as the display 304 instead of the display 302 of FIG. 3 and the display 303 of FIG. In addition, the voice for operation guidance shall be the voice of the cat character.

The detachable bezel 200 outputs the image data for performing the display 302 and the image data for outputting the voice of the cat character. Then, the car navigation device 100 acquires the output data via the bezel connection section 101 and the car navigation device connection section 201. Further, the car navigation device 100 uses the acquired data to display 302 and output the voice of the cat character.

As a result, the display screen and the output voice of the car navigation device 100-2 allow the user who perceives the display screen and the output voice to perceive the cat character represented by the symbol 103-2.

As described above, the content represented by the appearance of the car navigation device 100-2 and the image and sound of the cat character output by the car navigation device 100 make the user perceive the same cat character. It becomes. As a result, it is possible to attract the interest of the user, as in the case of perceiving the female character described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

Further, in the present embodiment, two detachable bezels, a first detachable bezel 200 and a second detachable bezel 200, are used. By doing so, even if the same car navigation device 100 is used, only the type of the detachable bezel 200 is different, and the appearance of the car navigation device 100 and the contents such as the display image output by the car navigation device 100 can be changed. You can switch to the appearance of and other display images.

As a result, when the user uses the plurality of detachable bezels 200, the user can be prevented from getting tired of the contents of the operation guidance and the voice guidance, and the user's interest can be further attracted. In addition, the user can use a plurality of removable bezels 200 according to his / her mood at that time.

Further, the user can display the appearance of the car navigation device 100 and the contents such as the display image output by the car navigation device 100 by simply attaching the detachable bezel 200 without performing complicated operations. You can switch to an image.

In addition, all the shapes of the bezel including the first detachable bezel 200 and the second detachable bezel 200 show the touch panel 102 and the notification LED 105 in FIG. 2 even when the car navigation device 100 is attached. The shape should be visible to the user as in the case shown. Further, the shape of the detachable bezel 200 is such that the touch panel 102 and the operation button 104 can be operated by the user in the same manner as in the case shown in FIG. Further, the shape of the detachable bezel 200 is such that the user can insert the storage medium into the storage medium insertion portion 101 in the same manner as in the case shown in FIG.

In order to realize this, in the present embodiment, when the detachable bezel 200 is attached to the car navigation device 100, the detachable bezel has a portion that interferes with the touch panel 102, the operation button 104, the notification LED 105, and the storage medium insertion portion 101. A hole is provided in the 200 housing.

<Functional block>
Next, the functional block included in the car navigation device 100 will be described, and then the functional block included in the detachable bezel 200 will be described.

As shown in FIG. 8, the car navigation device 100 includes a bezel connection unit 101, a touch panel 102 with a display screen, an operation button 104, a notification LED 105, a storage medium insertion unit 106, a TV tuner 107, a storage unit 108, and a GPS sensor 109. , A control unit 110 and a speaker 111. Of these parts, the parts that appear in the appearance are as described with reference to FIG. Further, the point that the car navigation device 100 includes the symbol 103 in its appearance is also as described with reference to FIG.

Next, the functions of each of these parts will be described in more detail. As a premise, in the following description, it is assumed that the car navigation device 100 is installed and used on the dashboard of a moving vehicle. For example, a bracket is installed on the dashboard of an automobile, and this bracket is attached to the lower part of the back side of the car navigation device 100 for use.

The bezel connection portion 101 is a portion for communicably connecting the car navigation device 100 and the detachable bezel 200 when the detachable bezel 200 is attached to the car navigation device 100. The bezel connection portion 101 is realized by a female terminal conforming to the USB standard as described above.

The bezel connection 101 is, for example, in front of the car navigation device 100 as shown in FIG. 2, and is located at the position of the car navigation device connection 201 of the detachable bezel 200 when the detachable bezel 200 is attached to the car navigation device 100. Place in opposite positions. In this way, when the detachable bezel 200 is attached to the car navigation device 100, the bezel connection portion 101 and the car navigation device connection portion 201 are communicably connected. In this way, the bezel connection portion 101 and the car navigation device connection portion 201 are communicably connected at the same time as the user performs an operation for mounting the entire car navigation device 100 and the entire detachable bezel 200. Therefore, it is not necessary for the user to perform any operation only for connecting the bezel connection unit 101 and the car navigation device connection unit 201.

The touch panel 102 is a touch panel with a display screen, receives an operation by pressing the screen from the user, and outputs the content of the accepted operation to the control unit 110. Here, the content of the operation is information or the like that identifies which position on the screen of the touch panel 102 the position where the press is received is. Further, the touch panel 102 displays the image data input from the control unit 110 on the screen. Further, the touch panel 102 is a TV tuner 1
The image data input from 07 is displayed on the screen.
The operation button 104 is a physical operation button 104 provided in the housing of the car navigation device 100, and accepts a user's operation. The operation here is, for example, pressing the operation button 104.

The notification LED 105 lights up or blinks under the control of the control unit 110. The notification LED 105 is arranged at a position visible to the user.

The storage medium insertion unit 106 is a portion into which a user-detachable storage medium is inserted. For example, a storage medium in which an MP3 (MPEG-1AudioLayer-3) format music file or a television image written by the control unit 110 is stored is inserted into the storage medium insertion unit 106. Then, under the control of the control unit 110, these music files and television images are read from the storage medium inserted in the storage medium insertion unit 106 and output from the speaker 111 or the touch panel 102. The storage medium insertion unit 106 is arranged on the side surface of the car navigation device 100, for example, as shown in FIG. 2, so that the user can easily insert or remove the storage medium.

The TV tuner 107 receives a TV signal by an antenna or the like, converts the received TV signal into image data in a predetermined format, and outputs the received TV signal to the touch panel 102.
The storage unit 108 is a flash memory that stores various types of information.

For example, the storage unit 108 stores "operation guidance information" which is information for providing operation guidance as a car navigation device. Specifically, map information, information on a certain target, information for specifying a road type, facility information, address information, and the like are stored.

Further, the storage unit 108 stores "standard output data" which is data used when outputting such information to the touch panel 102 and the speaker 111. The standard output data includes image data such as icons and texts for displaying a screen for operation guidance, and voice data including voice, music, and warning sounds for operation guidance. The content represented by the standard output data does not have to be such that the user who perceives the standard output data recalls a predetermined character or the like. That is, the standard output data is general-purpose image data or voice data included in a general car navigation device. These operation guidance information and standard output data are used by the control unit 110.

Further, the storage unit 108 stores software for realizing control by the control unit 110. In this regard, in the present embodiment, the software of the storage unit 108 is used by using the latest data of the software updated after the car navigation device 100 is shipped, the latest operation guidance information including the latest map information, and the like. You can also update. For example, a storage medium in which the latest additional data is stored is inserted into the storage medium insertion unit 106, and the storage medium insertion unit 106 reads the additional data from the storage medium and updates the software of the storage unit 108. Alternatively, the car navigation device 100 is provided with a communication function for connecting to a public network such as the Internet, the latest additional data is acquired via the public network, and the software of the storage unit 108 is updated using this additional data. To do.

Further, when the car navigation device 100 is installed and used in the automobile as described above, the current position determined by the GPS sensor 109 represents the current position of the automobile. Then, the control unit 110 creates a map for operation guidance including the current position of the automobile by comparing the current position measured by the GPS sensor 109 with the map information stored in the storage unit, and the touch panel 102. The map for this operation guide is displayed on. Further, the touch panel 102, the speaker 111, and the notification LED 105 are used to output predetermined information, an alarm, and a message. The car navigation function is realized by the control unit 110 performing these processes.

The GPS sensor 109 positions the current position of the car navigation device 100 using GPS, and outputs the measured position information to the control unit 110. Here, the position information is realized by, for example, coordinate information conforming to the GPS standard.

The speaker 111 outputs sounds such as music and voice input from the control unit 110. In the present embodiment, it is necessary to prevent the sound output by the speaker 111 from being blocked by the detachable bezel 200 even if the detachable bezel 200 is attached. Therefore, a speaker unit for realizing the speaker 111 is provided inside the housing of the car navigation device 100, and a diaphragm of the speaker unit is generated in a portion corresponding to the speaker unit on the back surface of the housing of the car navigation device 100. A sound emitting hole is provided to guide the generated sound to the outside of the housing.

The control unit 110 is a part that realizes the car navigation function by the car navigation device 100 by controlling each unit included in the car navigation device 100.

The control unit 110 is realized by an arithmetic unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a microcomputer including a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read only memory), and the like. Then, the CPU reads the software stored in the ROM or the storage unit 108, expands the software into the RAM, and performs arithmetic processing to control the software by the control unit 110. Unless otherwise specified, each process executed by the car navigation device 100 in the following description is performed under the control of the control unit 110.
The control unit 110 controls each unit included in the car navigation device 100 as follows.

First, the control unit 110 detects that the detachable bezel 200 is attached to the bezel connecting portion 101 and the car navigation device 100 and the detachable bezel 200 are connected via the bezel connecting portion 101. Further, when the detachable bezel 200 is attached to the bezel connecting portion 101 and the car navigation device 100 and the detachable bezel 200 are connected, the control unit 110 transmits / receives information to / from the detachable bezel 200 via the bezel connecting portion 101. Further, it is detected via the bezel connecting portion 101 that the detachable bezel 200 is removed from the bezel connecting portion 101 and the car navigation device 100 and the detachable bezel 200 are not connected.

Further, the control unit 110 inputs the content of the operation received by the touch panel 102. Further, the image data to be displayed is output to the touch panel 102. Further, the control unit 110 inputs the content of the operation received by the operation button 104. Further, the control unit 110 notifies the user by turning on or blinking the notification LED 105. Further, the control unit 110 writes information to the storage medium inserted in the storage medium insertion unit 106. Further, the control unit 110 reads information from the storage medium inserted in the storage medium insertion unit 106. Further, the control unit 110 controls the TV tuner 107 according to the operation received by the touch panel 102. Further, the control unit 110 writes information in the storage unit 108. Further, the control unit 110 reads information from the storage unit 108. Further, the control unit 110 inputs the position information positioned by the GPS sensor 109. Further, the control unit 110 outputs sounds such as music and voice to be output to the speaker 111.

Then, the control unit 110 uses each of these units to provide operation guidance. First, when the detachable bezel 200 is not attached to the car navigation device 100, the control unit 110 stores the operation guidance information such as map information stored in the storage unit 108 and the storage unit 108. Operation guidance is provided using both standard output data.

Specifically, the content of the operation guide is determined based on the operation guide information, and the content of the determined operation guide is output to the touch panel 102 by the image data included in the standard output data, or the music included in the standard output data. Operation guidance is performed by outputting data and voice data for operation guidance from the speaker 111. The screen display at the time of operation guidance using both the operation guidance information and the standard output data is a display that does not recall a specific character or the like as shown in FIG.

On the other hand, when the detachable bezel 200 is attached to the car navigation device 100, the control unit 110 includes operation guidance information such as map information stored in the storage unit 108 and a bezel output data storage unit described later. Operation guidance is performed using both the bezel output data stored in 203.

Specifically, the content of the operation guide is determined based on the operation guide information, and the content of the determined operation guide is output to the touch panel 102 by the image data included in the bezel output data, or the music included in the bezel output data. Operation guidance is performed by outputting data and voice data for operation guidance from the speaker 111. Here, the bezel output data is image data or audio data that recalls a specific character. Therefore, the screen display at the time of operation guidance using both the operation guidance information and the standard output data is a display reminiscent of a specific character as shown in FIGS. 5 and 7.
Next, the functional block included in the detachable bezel 200 will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 9, the detachable bezel 200 includes a car navigation device connection unit 201, a control unit 202, and a bezel output data storage unit 203.

The car navigation device connection unit 201 is a part for communicably connecting the car navigation device 100 and the detachable bezel 200 when the detachable bezel 200 is attached to the car navigation device 100. The car navigation device connection unit 201 is realized by a male terminal compliant with the USB standard as described above.

Further, the car navigation device connection unit 201 is arranged at a position facing the position of the bezel connection unit 101 of the car navigation device 100 when the detachable bezel 200 is attached to the car navigation device 100. In this way, when the detachable bezel 200 is attached to the car navigation device 100, the car navigation device connection portion 201 and the bezel connection portion 101 are communicably connected. By connecting the car navigation device connection unit 201 and the bezel connection unit 101 included in the detachable bezel 200, the car navigation device 100 and the detachable bezel 200 can communicate with each other.

Further, when the car navigation device connection unit 201 and the bezel connection unit 101 are connected, the detachable bezel 200 receives electric power from the car navigation device 100 via the car navigation device connection unit 201 and the bezel connection unit 101. .. This eliminates the need to provide a battery in the removable bezel 200.

The control unit 202 is a control unit for controlling the entire detachable bezel 200. The control unit 202 operates to realize reading and writing of information to the bezel output data storage unit 203 by the car navigation device 100. The control unit 202 is realized by a general-purpose USB controller.

The bezel output data storage unit 203 is a storage unit for storing information. The bezel output data storage unit 203 stores "bezel output data" which is data used for operation guidance by the car navigation device 100. The bezel output data is data equivalent to the standard output data stored in the storage unit 108 of the car navigation device 100, and is used for image data such as icons and texts for displaying a screen for operation guidance, and for operation guidance. Includes audio data consisting of audio, music, warning sounds, etc. However, the specific contents of the standard output data and the bezel output data are different. Further, the content represented by the bezel output data is a content in which the user who perceives the bezel output data recalls a predetermined character or the like. For example, the content is intended to recall a female character or a cat character as described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 7.

The functional blocks of the present embodiment have been described above, but the functional blocks described above are only those related to the features of the present embodiment. For example, the car navigation device 100 includes, in addition to the functional blocks described above, functional blocks such as a power supply generally provided in the car navigation device.

<Explanation of operation>
Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

When the car navigation device 100 is activated, the control unit 110 determines whether or not the car navigation device 100 is equipped with the detachable bezel 200 (step S11). Specifically, the car navigation device connection unit 201 is the bezel connection unit by a method called receiver detection based on USB3.0, in which the bezel connection unit 101 emits electric charge and measures the voltage value after a certain period of time. Check if it is connected to 101. Then, if it can be confirmed that the car navigation device connection unit 201 is connected, it can be determined that the car navigation device 100 is equipped with the detachable bezel 200.

Here, if it is detected that the detachable bezel 200 is attached (Yes in step S11), the process proceeds to step S12.

On the other hand, if it cannot be confirmed in step S11 that the car navigation device connection unit 201 is connected, it can be determined that the car navigation device 100 is not equipped with the detachable bezel 200. Then, if the detachable bezel 200 is not attached (No in step S11), the process proceeds to step S15.

In step S12, the control unit 110 requests the control unit 202 of the detachable bezel 200 to read the bezel output data via the bezel connection unit 101 and the car navigation device connection unit 201. In response to this request, the control unit 202 reads the bezel output data from the bezel output data storage unit 203, and outputs the read bezel output data to the control unit 110.

In this way, the control unit 110 acquires the bezel output data of the newly attached detachable bezel 200 (step S12).

Then, the control unit 110 performs operation guidance by using the bezel output data acquired in this way and the operation guidance information stored in the storage unit 108 (step S13). Specifically, the content of the operation guide is determined based on the operation guide information, and the determined operation guide content is output to the touch panel 102 by the image data of a certain character included in the bezel output data, or the bezel output data. Operation guidance is performed by outputting music data of a certain character included in the above and audio data for operation guidance from the speaker 111.

At this time, the screen display at the time of operation guidance is a display reminiscent of a specific character as shown in FIGS. 5 and 7. As a result, the user who perceives the content of the appearance of the newly attached detachable bezel 200 and the content used for the operation guidance will feel a sense of unity.

After that, the control unit 110 confirms whether or not the detachable bezel 200 has been removed while continuing the operation guidance (step S14). If the detachable bezel 200 remains attached without being removed (No in step S14), the operation guidance using the bezel output data and the operation guidance information is continued, and the confirmation in step S14 is repeated (step S13, step). S14).

In the process of repeating this, if the currently attached detachable bezel 200 is removed (Yes in step S14), the process proceeds to step S15.

In step S15 performed when the detachable bezel 200 is not attached (No in step S11 or Yes in step S14), the control unit 110 acquires standard output data from the storage unit 108 (step S15).

Then, the control unit 110 performs operation guidance by using the acquired standard output data and the operation guidance information stored in the storage unit 108 (step S16). Specifically, the content of the operation guide is determined based on the operation guide information, and the content of the determined operation guide is output to the touch panel 102 by the image data included in the standard output data, or the music included in the standard output data. Operation guidance is performed by outputting data and voice data for operation guidance from the speaker 111.

At this time, the screen display at the time of operation guidance is a display that does not recall a specific character as shown in FIG.

After that, the control unit 110 confirms whether or not the detachable bezel 200 is newly attached while continuing the operation guidance (step S17). If the detachable bezel 200 is not attached (No in step S17), the operation guidance is continued using the bezel output data and the operation guidance information, and the confirmation in step S17 is repeated (step S16, step S17).

In the process of repeating this process, if the detachable bezel 200 is newly attached (Yes in step S17), the process proceeds to step S12, and the subsequent processes are continued. Since the contents of the processing after step S12 are the same as the case where the process proceeds to step S12 when the result is Yes in step S11, the description thereof will be omitted.

While repeating the process in this way, the operation guidance is performed until the power of the car navigation device 100 is turned off.

In the present embodiment described above, when the detachable bezel 200 is attached or detached, the appearance of the car navigation device 100 and the image data and voice data used for the operation guidance are changed, so that a complicated operation by the user is required. It is possible to change the content represented by the bezel output data.

Further, in the present embodiment, the operation guidance using the bezel output data corresponding to the currently mounted removable bezel 200 is performed. As a result, in the present embodiment, the user can feel a sense of unity in the appearance and operation guidance of the detachable bezel 200, and can attract the user's interest in the content represented by the bezel output data, that is, the content of the operation guidance. Further, when the detachable bezel 200 is attached or attached, the content represented by the bezel output data is changed, so that the content represented by the bezel output data can be changed without requiring a complicated operation by the user.

Further, in the present embodiment, the bezel output data is stored in the detachable bezel 200. Therefore, information on a character that appeared after the car navigation device 100 was sold or a character that became popular after the car navigation device was sold can be stored in the detachable bezel 200 that was manufactured after the fact. By doing so, it is possible to provide operation guidance using the character information stored in the detachable bezel 200 without changing the data of the car navigation device 100.
[Second Embodiment]

Next, the second embodiment will be described. This embodiment is the same as the first embodiment with respect to the basic configuration in which the appearance of the car navigation device 100 and the image data and voice data used for operation guidance are changed when the bezel is attached or detached. ..

However, in the first embodiment, the detachable bezel 200 outputs the image data and the audio data used for the operation guidance used when the detachable bezel 200 is attached as the bezel output data to the car navigation device 100. The present embodiment is different in that image data and audio data used for operation guidance used when the detachable bezel 200 is attached are stored in the storage unit 108 of the car navigation device 100.

Hereinafter, the functional block of the present embodiment and the operation of the present embodiment will be described, but the description of the portion overlapping with the first embodiment will be omitted, and the description of the difference will be described in particular detail.

<Functional block>
The present embodiment includes a car navigation device 400 and a removable bezel 500. Here, the car navigation device 400 corresponds to the car navigation device 100 of the first embodiment, but some functions are different. Further, the detachable bezel 500 corresponds to the detachable bezel 200 of the first embodiment, but this also differs in some functions.

As shown in FIG. 11, which is a block diagram showing a functional block included in the car navigation device 400, the car navigation device 400 includes a touch panel 402, an operation button 404, a notification LED 405, a storage medium insertion unit 406, a TV tuner 407, and a storage. A unit 408, a GPS sensor 409, a control unit 410, a speaker 411, and a bezel type input unit 421 are provided.

Here, other than the storage unit 408 and the bezel type input unit 421, the touch panel 402, the operation button 404, the notification LED 405, the storage medium insertion unit 406, the TV tuner 407, the storage unit 408, the GPS sensor 409, and the control unit 410 are respectively. Is a functional block equivalent to the functional block having the same name included in the car navigation device 100, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

Next, as shown in FIG. 12, which is a block diagram showing a functional block included in the detachable bezel 500, the detachable bezel 500 includes a bezel type output unit 504. As is clear from FIG. 12, the detachable bezel 500 does not include the functional block included in the detachable bezel 200, and is different in that the detachable bezel type output unit 504 is provided.

Next, the three functional blocks of the storage unit 408, the bezel type input unit 421, and the bezel type output unit 504, which are the differences, will be described.

The storage unit 108 in the first embodiment stores, in addition to the software for controlling the entire car navigation device 100, the operation guidance information for performing the operation guidance and the standard output data.

On the other hand, the storage unit 408 includes a plurality of bezel output data in addition to the same data as in the first embodiment such as software for controlling the entire car navigation device 400, operation guidance information, and standard output data. Remember. Further, the storage unit 408 stores the plurality of bezel output data and the types of the detachable bezel 500 in association with each other.

Further, in the bezel connection unit 101 and the car navigation device connection unit 201 in the first embodiment, the detachable bezel 200 is attached to the car navigation device 100 to realize communication between the car navigation device 100 and the detachable bezel 200. .. Then, the bezel output data was transmitted from the detachable bezel 200 to the car navigation device 100 by such communication.

On the other hand, the bezel type input unit 421 and the bezel type output unit 504 in the present embodiment have a function for the control unit 410 to specify the type of the detachable bezel 500. Specifically, when the detachable bezel 500 is attached to the car navigation device 400, the bezel type output unit 504 outputs the type of the detachable bezel 500 to the control unit 410 via the bezel type input unit 421.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the bezel type input unit 421 is realized by a reader for communicating by RFID (Radio frequency identifier), and the bezel type output unit 504 is realized by a passive IC tag for communicating by RFID. Realize. Then, the bezel type input unit 421, which is a reader, transmits radio waves. In this case, if the removable bezel 500 is attached to the car navigation device 400 and the bezel type input unit 421 and the bezel type output unit 504 are close to each other, the bezel type output unit 504 is from the bezel type input unit 421. Partially reflects radio waves. Then, the bezel type output unit 504 carries an identifier indicating the type of the detachable bezel 500 provided with the bezel type output unit 504 on the reflected wave. Further, the bezel type input unit 421 that has received the identifier carried on the reflected wave identifies the type of the attached detachable bezel 500 based on the identifier.

Then, the control unit 410 is attached by referring to the specified type of the detachable bezel 500 and the association between the plurality of bezel output data stored in the storage unit 408 and the type of the detachable bezel 500. The bezel output data corresponding to the detachable bezel 500 is specified. Then, the control unit 410 uses the specified bezel output data among the plurality of bezel output data stored in the storage unit 408 to provide operation guidance. The bezel output data is image day or audio data reminiscent of a specific character, as in the first embodiment.

The functional blocks different between the present embodiment and the first embodiment have been described above. In addition, the method of connecting the car navigation device 400 and the detachable bezel 500 is the same as the method of connecting the car navigation device 100 and the detachable bezel 200 described above with reference to FIG. Further, the example of the screen display using the standard output data and the plurality of types of bezel output data in the present embodiment is the same as the example of the screen display of the first embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 7. Therefore, the description of these will be omitted.

<Explanation of operation>
Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

When the car navigation device 400 is activated, the control unit 410 determines whether or not the car navigation device 400 is equipped with the detachable bezel 500 (step S21). Specifically, it is confirmed whether the bezel type input unit 421 transmits a radio wave and this radio wave is returned as a reflected wave from the bezel type output unit 504. Then, when the reflected wave is returned, it can be determined that the car navigation device 400 is equipped with the detachable bezel 500.

Here, when the reflected wave is returned and it is detected that the detachable bezel 500 is attached (Yes in step S21), the process proceeds to step S22.

On the other hand, in step S21, when it cannot be confirmed that the car navigation device connection unit 201 is connected without returning the reflected wave, the car navigation device 400 is equipped with the detachable bezel 500. It can be judged that there is no. Then, if the detachable bezel 500 is not attached (No in step S21), the process proceeds to step S25.

In step S22, the control unit 410 acquires the bezel output data associated with the specified bezel type among the plurality of bezel output data stored in the storage unit 408 (step S25).

Then, the control unit 410 uses the bezel output data acquired in this way and the operation guidance information stored in the storage unit 108 to perform operation guidance (step S23). Specifically, the content of the operation guide is determined based on the operation guide information, and the determined operation guide content is output to the touch panel 102 by the image data of a certain character included in the bezel output data, or the bezel output data. Operation guidance is performed by outputting music data of a certain character included in the above and audio data for operation guidance from the speaker 111.

At this time, the screen display at the time of operation guidance is a display reminiscent of a specific character as shown in FIGS. 5 and 7. As a result, the user who perceives the content of the appearance of the newly attached detachable bezel 500 and the content used for the operation guidance will feel a sense of unity.

After that, the control unit 110 confirms whether or not the detachable bezel 200 has been removed while continuing the operation guidance (step S24). If the detachable bezel 200 remains attached without being removed (No in step S24), the operation guidance using the bezel output data and the operation guidance information is continued, and the confirmation in step S24 is repeated (step S23, step). S24).

In the process of repeating this process, if the currently attached detachable bezel 200 is removed (Yes in step S24), the process proceeds to step S25.

The processing of steps S25 to S27 performed when the detachable bezel 200 is not attached (No in step S21 or Yes in step S24) is the same as the processing of steps S15 to S17 in the first embodiment. Since there is, the description is omitted.

In the present embodiment described above, when the detachable bezel 500 is attached or detached, the appearance of the car navigation device 400 and the image data and voice data used for the operation guidance are changed, so that a complicated operation by the user is required. It is possible to change the content represented by the bezel output data.

Further, in the present embodiment, the operation guidance using the bezel output data corresponding to the currently mounted removable bezel 500 is performed. As a result, in the present embodiment, the user can feel a sense of unity in the appearance and operation guidance of the detachable bezel 500, and can attract the user's interest in the content represented by the bezel output data, that is, the content of the operation guidance. Further, when the detachable bezel 500 is attached or attached, the content represented by the bezel output data is changed, so that the content represented by the bezel output data can be changed without requiring a complicated operation by the user. ..

Further, in the present embodiment, it is not necessary to store the bezel output data in the detachable bezel 500. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide the detachable bezel 500 with a storage unit for storing the bezel output data, and the detachable bezel 500 can be realized by the housing and the IC tag. That is, it is possible to simplify the configuration of the detachable bezel as compared with the first embodiment.

Although the two embodiments have been described above, the car navigation device 100 and the car navigation device 400 correspond to an example of the "equipment" of the present invention. Further, the detachable bezel 200 and the detachable bezel 500 correspond to an example of the "device" of the present invention.

<Modification example>
Further, although the above-described embodiment is a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications have been made without departing from the gist of the present invention. It can be implemented in the form.

In the following description, the car navigation device 100 and the car navigation device 400 of each embodiment are collectively referred to as a car navigation device. Further, in the following description, the detachable bezel 200 and the detachable bezel 500 of each embodiment are collectively referred to as a detachable bezel.

For example, in each of the above-described embodiments, the operation guidance is performed using the standard output data when the detachable bezel is not attached. Instead of doing this, it is better to use standard output data when a given removable bezel is attached. For example, the standard output data may be used when the removable bezel sold together with the car navigation device is attached. As a result, when using the car navigation device, the detachable bezel is always attached, and the terminals of the bezel connection portion and the like are not visible to the user.

Further, even when the car navigation device is activated and the operation guidance is being performed, it is preferable that the user can attach or detach the detachable bezel at an arbitrary timing. As a result, the detachable bezel can be changed even when the car navigation device is in use. In addition, it is preferable that the detachable bezel cannot be attached or detached while the car navigation device is activated and the operation guidance is being carried out. As a result, for example, while the car navigation device and the detachable bezel are communicating, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the car navigation device and the detachable bezel are unintentionally removed and the data during the communication is damaged.

Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, an example of displaying a character corresponding to the detachable bezel has been described, but in this way, not only the character or the like may be displayed, but also the icon, the user interface, or the like may be changed. As a result, the content of the appearance of the car navigation device equipped with the detachable bezel and the content of the operation guidance may be more unified.

Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, a female character or a cat character is applied to the appearance of the detachable bezel, and image data and audio data of these characters are used to give the user a sense of unity. It is advisable to transform this so that the user can feel a sense of unity by using articles and world views instead of characters.

For example, the world view is set to "Japan", and the design representing Mt. Fuji, Tokyo Tower, etc. is applied to the appearance of the detachable bezel, and Japanese music such as Gagaku is output to give the user a sense of unity. It is good to do so.

Further, for example, the image data and the audio data may be in different languages. For example, a design with the image of the United Kingdom may be applied to the appearance of the removable bezel, and English voice data may be output to provide operation guidance.

Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the content of the operation guide to be performed using the bezel output data is determined according to the type of the detachable bezel, but it is preferable to change the content of the operation guide from another viewpoint. .. For example, it is advisable to change the content of the operation guidance by a method such as a special voice being played or a hidden character appearing when the replacement is performed frequently for a predetermined time or more and more than a predetermined frequency or when the replacement is performed more than a predetermined number of times. As a result, it is possible to recommend the user to replace the removable bezel.

Further, in the above description, the speaker 111 is arranged on the back surface of the car navigation device, but if the speaker 111 is arranged on the front surface of the car navigation device, the speaker will be attached to the car navigation device when the detachable bezel is attached. It is advisable to provide holes in the housing of 200 for the portion that interferes with 111.

Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, it is assumed that the detachable bezel is attached to the car navigation device, but the object to which the detachable bezel is attached may be another device instead of the car navigation device. For example, it may be applied to a drive recorder device having a display device or a device having both a function as a car navigation device and a function as a drive recorder device.

Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, it is preferable to print a character or the like on the appearance of the removable bezel or to apply a 3D deco which is a three-dimensional decoration. Further, the shape of the detachable bezel may be different from the shape of the bezel of the car navigation device. For example, when the content represented by the bezel output data is a certain character, the shape of the detachable bezel may be a shape that shapes the outline of the certain character. In addition, when the appearance of the car navigation device has a display such as a company logo or model number that hinders the sense of unity with the contents represented by the bezel output data, the shape of the removable bezel is used to hide the company logo or model number. The shape is good. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, the shape may be such that the symbol 103 shown in FIG. 2 is hidden.

Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the shape of the removable bezel may not be the shape of the bezel which is the outer peripheral portion of the display, but may be the shape of another portion. When the display is the most visible part for the user who uses the car navigation device, it is preferable to use a bezel that can be seen together when the display is visually recognized so that the user can be more appealed.

Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the sound source chip may be built in the detachable bezel. As a result, voice data and the like can be output without using the speaker included in the car navigation device.

Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1, the detachable bezel is attached by a method of overlapping from the front surface of the car navigation device, which is the surface on which the touch panel 102 is provided. This may be deformed so that the car navigation device can be attached by sliding it in the longitudinal direction from the side surface of the detachable bezel, for example. Further, for example, the car navigation device may be attached by sliding the car navigation device in the lateral direction from the upper surface of the detachable bezel. As a result, the position of the bezel connection portion 101 can be set to the side surface or the upper surface of the car navigation device. Therefore, when the detachable bezel is removed, it is possible to prevent the bezel connection portion 101 from entering the user's field of view facing the touch panel 102. Further, in any case, it is preferable to use a mechanism that allows the user to easily attach / detach the detachable bezel.

Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the content represented by the standard output data may be content that the user who perceives the standard output data does not particularly recall a predetermined character or the like. However, if the content represented by the appearance of the car navigation device without the detachable bezel is perceived by a certain character, the content represented by the standard output data is assumed to be perceived by this certain character. Good.

Further, in the first embodiment described above, the bezel output data from the detachable bezel may be available only in the car navigation device and not in other devices. As a result, it is possible to prevent the image data and the voice data included in the bezel output data from being used in a personal computer or the like which is a device other than the car navigation device. Therefore, it is preferable to encrypt the bezel output data so that the encrypted data can be decrypted and used only by the car navigation device. In addition, one or both of the car navigation device and the detachable bezel are provided with an authentication function so that the bezel output data can be transmitted from the detachable bezel to the car navigation device only when the other party can be authenticated as the car navigation device or the detachable bezel. It is good to set it to.

Further, in the above-mentioned first embodiment, the bezel output data is read from the detachable bezel and used. At this time, instead of reading the bezel output data sequentially each time it is used, it is preferable to copy the bezel output data to the car navigation device and use the copied bezel output data. This is good because the bezel output data can be read from the storage medium inside the device, which has a faster reading speed than the external storage medium.

Further, in the above-described first embodiment, the bezel connection portion 101 and the car navigation device connection portion 201 may be terminals peculiar to the present embodiment. Further, if the bezel connection portion 101 and the car navigation device connection portion 201 are realized by general-purpose terminals, it is better because it is not necessary to design a dedicated terminal. For example, if one of the bezel connection part 101 and the car navigation device connection part 201 is realized by a male connector compliant with the USB standard and the other is realized by a female connector compliant with the USB standard, communication can be realized and the connector can be realized. It is even better because the car navigation device and the detachable bezel can be fixed by fitting each other.

Further, in the first embodiment described above, the bezel output data storage unit 203 may be realized by a storage device such as a flash memory in which a drive unit does not exist. By doing so, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the bezel output data storage unit 203 will fail due to the vibration generated by the movement of the vehicle when used in a vehicle or the like. Further, since a flash memory is generally smaller and lighter than a storage device such as an HDD (Hard disk drive) in which a drive unit is present, the entire removable bezel can be made smaller or lighter by using the flash memory. It is good because it can be converted.

Further, in the second embodiment described above, the bezel output data stored in the car navigation device is used. Further, as described above, the first embodiment may be modified so that the bezel output data is copied to the car navigation device and the copied bezel output data is used. In these cases, if the removable bezel is removed, it is advisable to disable the bezel output data currently in use. As a result, by attaching one detachable bezel to a plurality of car navigation devices one after another, the bezel output data is copied one after another by the plurality of car navigation devices, and the bezel output data of one detachable bezel is transferred to the plurality of car navigation devices. It is good because it can be prevented from being used at the same time. In addition, this may prevent the bezel output data that does not correspond to the currently mounted removable bezel from being used. Further, this may prevent the bezel output data from being used illegally. To disable the bezel output data currently in use, only the standard output data can be used when it can be confirmed that the detachable bezel has been removed in steps S14 and S24, and the bezel output data is used. It should be impossible. Further, in order to disable the bezel output data currently used, the bezel output stored in the car navigation device is stored when it is confirmed that the detachable bezel has been removed in steps S14 and S24. It is advisable to erase the data.

Further, in the second embodiment described above, in the notification of the bezel type from the detachable bezel to the car navigation device, the bezel type output unit 504 outputs a signal indicating the type of the detachable bezel 500 to the bezel type input unit 421. , The bezel type input unit 421 inputs such a signal, and the control unit 410 analyzes the signal. In this way, rather than transmitting a signal, it is also possible to allow the type of notification to be given by physical shape. By doing so, it is not necessary to provide the detachable bezel with a function of outputting a signal. For that purpose, for example, a plurality of switches are provided outside the 400 as the bezel type input unit 421. Then, as the bezel type output unit 504, a protrusion for pressing the switch is provided outside the 500. Further, it is assumed that the position of the protrusion is provided at a position corresponding to 500 types. Then, when the 500 is attached to the 400, the protrusion presses the switch according to the type of the 500. Then, the control unit 410 may be able to identify the type of 500 mounted by detecting which switch is pressed.
[Third Embodiment]

Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the first and second embodiments described above, the car navigation device is equipped with a removable bezel. Then, by changing the type of the detachable bezel to be attached, the message output by the car navigation device and the character displayed on the car navigation device were changed.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the car navigation device and the radar detector (RD: Radar detector) are linked.

Specifically, in the present embodiment, the message output by the car navigation device and the car navigation device may be used depending on whether the car navigation device is used alone or in combination with the car navigation device and the radar detector. Different characters are displayed.

Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described in detail. However, the description of the portion overlapping with the first embodiment and the second embodiment described above will be omitted, and the points peculiar to the present embodiment will be described in particular detail.

<Change of output contents>
First, changing the output content of the car navigation device according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to an example of screen display shown in FIG. The functional blocks of the car navigation device and how to change the output contents will be described later.

The upper part of FIG. 14 shows an example of screen display when both devices are used independently without linking the car navigation device and the radar detector.

Here, the screen 600 of the car navigation device is shown on the left side of the upper part of FIG. On the screen 600 of the car navigation device, the character 601 is displayed together with the information for operation guidance.

On the other hand, the screen 700 of the radar detector is shown on the upper right side of FIG. On the screen 700 of the radar detector, the character 701, which is the same character as the character 601, is displayed together with the information indicating the position of the speed control device detected by the radar detector.
The lower part of FIG. 14 shows a screen when the car navigation device and the radar detector are used in cooperation with each other.

Here, the screen 600 of the car navigation device is shown on the lower left side of FIG. On the screen 600 of the car navigation device, not the character 601 but the character 602, which is a different character, is displayed together with the information for the operation guidance.

On the other hand, the screen 700 of the radar detector is shown on the lower right side of FIG. On the screen 700 of the radar detector, the character 701 is displayed together with information indicating the position and the like of the speed control device detected by the radar detector.

Comparing the upper screen display of FIG. 14 with the lower screen display of FIG. 14, the character displayed on the screen 700 of the radar detector remains the character 701, and there is no change. On the other hand, the character displayed on the screen of the car navigation device 600 has been changed from the character 601 to the character 602 which is a different character.

Here, in the present embodiment, the reason for changing the character displayed on the screen of the car navigation device 600 will be described.

In the present embodiment, the car navigation device that displays the screen and the radar detector are products having the same character as a motif.

Therefore, the character 601 and the character 701 are the same character, and their appearances are the same. Further, the voice of the voice message output by the car navigation device and the radar detector is also the same voice of the same character.

Regarding the content of the message, the car navigation device and the radar detector have different uses and functions, but there are also overlapping parts. Therefore, messages with the same content are often output at the same timing.
In this way, the output content and timing of each message, the voice used for the message, and the like are common to both devices.

Therefore, even if a user who likes the character that is the motif of the character 601 or 701 purchases both the car navigation device and the radar detector and uses them at the same time, the same voice of the same character is used from both devices. Such guidance is given, and the result is that the guidance is simply duplicated.

In this way, if messages are output from both devices at the same timing, it becomes difficult for the user to hear each message. Further, even if the guidance of the same content is performed a plurality of times, the amount of information that the user can obtain from the guidance does not increase. Furthermore, even if the same guidance is repeated, the user's interest cannot be attracted, and the user's interest in the guidance diminishes.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the car navigation device and the radar detector cooperate with each other so that when both devices are used at the same time, the car navigation device provides guidance by another character.

Specifically, other characters are displayed as shown in the lower part of FIG. In addition, the voice of the message output by the car navigation device is changed to the voice of such another character.

Furthermore, not only the displayed image and the voice of the message are changed, but also the content of the message itself is changed. For example, instead of both devices outputting messages with the same content, messages with the same content as the message output by one device are not output from the other device, and messages with different contents are output from the other device. That is, the message is output on the assumption that the environment is such that two devices are used at the same time.

For example, when outputting a message about the same event, it is preferable that both devices output the message at different timings after the event occurs. By doing so, both devices do not output messages at the same time, and it is not difficult for the user to hear each message.

Further, even if the message is about the same event, it is preferable that the content of the message is different between the two devices. This is good because the amount of information that the user can obtain from the message increases.

Further, another character having a predetermined relationship with the character 701 may be a character 602. In this way, the user can feel a more unified view of the world than both characters based on the predetermined relationship.

For example, the character having a sister relationship with the character 701 may be the character 602. Then, if both characters interact with each other for guidance, there is no sense of duplication of guidance, which can be an interesting guide for the user. Further, in this way, the user's interest can be attracted, and the user can concentrate on listening to the message.

<Functional block>
Next, the functional blocks included in the car navigation device 800 of the present embodiment will be described. Here, the car navigation device 800 corresponds to the car navigation device 800 of the first embodiment, but since some functions are different, such differences will be described in detail.

As shown in FIG. 15, which is a block diagram showing a functional block included in the car navigation device 800, the car navigation device 800 includes a touch panel 802, an operation button 804, a notification LED 805, a storage medium insertion unit 806, a TV tuner 807, and a storage. It includes a unit 808, a GPS sensor 809, a control unit 810, a speaker 811 and a communication unit 812.

Here, the touch panel 802, the operation button 804, the notification LED 805, the storage medium insertion unit 806, the TV tuner 807, the GPS sensor 809, and the control unit 810, other than the storage unit 808 and the communication unit 812, are respectively connected to the car navigation device 100. Since the functional blocks have the same name as the included functional blocks, the description of these functional blocks will be omitted.

Next, the storage unit 808 will be described. The storage unit 108 in the first embodiment stores, in addition to the software for controlling the entire car navigation device 100, the operation guidance information for performing the operation guidance and the standard output data.

On the other hand, in the storage unit 808, in addition to the same data as in the first embodiment such as software for controlling the entire car navigation device 800, operation guidance information, and standard output data, the storage unit 808 further outputs data for cooperation. Remember.

Here, the output data for cooperation is data corresponding to the bezel output data in each of the above-described embodiments. The output data for cooperation is image data and audio data corresponding to the character 602 of FIG.

Further, the communication unit 812 is a communication unit for communicating with a radar detector that cooperates with the radar detector. The communication unit 812 communicates with the radar detector in accordance with the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard.

<Cooperation with radar detector>
In the present embodiment, the control unit 810 of the car navigation device 800 provides the operation guidance by using the operation guidance information stored in the storage unit 808 and the standard output data. Such an operation guide is an operation guide using the character 601 as shown in the upper part of FIG. On the other hand, the control unit 810 searches for whether or not the radar detector is in the area where the communication unit 812 of the car navigation device 800 can communicate.

Then, when the radar detector is in the service area, the radar detector communicates with the radar detector via the communication unit 812. Then, by communicating with the radar detector, it is specified whether or not the radar detector of the communication partner is a radar detector having the same character as the car navigation device 800 as a motif. In order to identify such a radar detector, identification information for identifying the radar detector is stored in the storage unit 808. Then, the identification information for identifying the own radar detector is acquired from the radar detector of the communication partner by communication.

Then, by comparing the stored identification information with the identification information acquired by communication, it can be determined whether or not the radar detector of the communication partner is a radar detector having the same character as the car navigation device 800. Can be identified.

Then, when it is possible to identify that the radar detector of the communication partner is a radar detector having the same character as the car navigation device 800, the control unit 810 acquires output data for cooperation from the storage unit 808. To do.

Then, the control unit 810 determines the content of the operation guidance based on the operation guidance information, and outputs the content of the determined operation guidance to the touch panel 102 by the image data included in the output data for cooperation, or for cooperation. The operation guidance is performed by outputting the music data included in the output data and the operation guidance voice data from the speaker 111.
As a result, it becomes possible to provide operation guidance using the character 602 as shown in the lower part of FIG.

On the other hand, when the radar detector is not in the area where the communication unit 812 can communicate, or when the radar detector is in the area but does not have the same character as the car navigation device 800 as a motif. Continues the operation guidance using the character 601 as shown in the upper part of FIG.

The cooperation with the radar detector has been explained above. Here, the general configuration of a radar detector is well known to those skilled in the art. Further, the radar detector in the present embodiment can be realized by adding a function of transmitting identification information to the car navigation device 800 in addition to the function of a general radar detector. Therefore, the detailed configuration of the radar detector will not be described.

<Modification example>
Further, although the above-mentioned third embodiment is a preferable embodiment of the present invention, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are made without departing from the gist of the present invention. It is possible to carry out in the form of.

The character 602 described above may be a character that does not appear unless two predetermined types of products such as a car navigation device 800 and a corresponding radar detector are used at the same time. In this way, two types of products can be sold to enthusiasts who love such characters.

Further, if the car navigation device 800 is set to perform the above-mentioned communication for cooperation at the time of activation, guidance using the character 602 can be performed promptly after the activation.

Further, the above-mentioned communication for cooperation may be performed without requiring a user operation. By doing so, it is possible to change the content represented by the device without requiring a complicated operation by the user, which is good.

Further, instead of linking devices having different functions such as a car navigation device and a radar detector, two devices having the same function may be linked. For example, it is good to link the old car navigation device and the new car navigation device so that the character can be changed. In this way, the user who owns the old car navigation device can use the new car navigation device. It is good because it can give an opportunity to purchase a new car navigation device.

In the above description, the identification information of the radar detector is received at the time of cooperation. However, there is a possibility that the identification information will be leaked by intercepting such communication. Therefore, other information may be received. For example, the date at the time of communication execution may be irreversibly converted (hashed or the like) by a predetermined calculation procedure to receive the generated data. Then, the car navigation device 800 also irreversibly converts (hashes, etc.) the date at the time of communication execution by a predetermined calculation procedure to generate data, and if the generated data and the received data are the same, the character 602 It is advisable to provide guidance using. In this way, even if the transmitted data is intercepted and leaked, the data can be used only on the same day and cannot be used on other days, so that the damage in case of leakage can be suppressed. ..

In addition, communication at the time of cooperation should be performed in accordance with communication standards other than Bluetooth. In this case, it is advisable to adopt a communication standard for performing short-range wireless communication. By doing so, it is possible to prevent communication with a radar detector other than the radar detector located in the vicinity. For example, it is good because it can prevent communication with a radar detector mounted on another vehicle.

Further, the present embodiment and the first or second embodiment may be combined. In this way, the information to be output will be different based on the two criteria of which type of detachable bezel is, and whether or not it is linked with the radar detector. This is good because it allows the user to have a wider range of choices.

The car navigation device and the detachable bezel can be realized by hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In addition, each process performed by the car navigation device and the detachable bezel can also be realized by hardware, software, or a combination thereof. Here, what is realized by software means that it is realized by a computer reading and executing a program.

Programs can be stored and supplied to a computer using various types of non-transitory computer readable media. The non-transitory computer-readable medium may be a tangible storage medium of various types. Examples of non-temporary computer-readable media include magnetic recording media (eg, flexible disks, magnetic tapes, hard disk drives), magneto-optical recording media (eg, magneto-optical disks), CD-ROMs (Read Only Memory), CD- It may be R, CD-R / W, semiconductor memory (for example, mask ROM, PROM (Programmable ROM), EPROM (Erasable PROM), flash ROM, RAM (random access memory)). The program may also be supplied to the computer by various types of transient computer readable media. Examples of temporary computer-readable media may be electrical signals, optical signals, and electromagnetic waves. The temporary computer-readable medium can supply the program to the computer via a wired communication path such as an electric wire and an optical fiber, or a wireless communication path.

Further, the constituent elements of the contents of the modified example and each embodiment, and the elements to which the elements and ideas described in the means for solving the problem are applied may be arbitrarily combined into the embodiment.

100, 400, 800 Car navigation device 101 Bezel connection 102, 402, 802 Touch panel 103, 403 Design 104, 404, 804 Operation buttons 105, 405, 805 Notification LED
106, 406, 806 Storage medium insertion unit 107, 407, 807 TV tuner 108, 408, 808 Storage unit 109, 409, 809 GPS sensor 110, 410, 810 Control unit 111, 411, 81 Speaker 421 Bezel type Input unit 200, 500 Detachable bezel 201 Car navigation device connection unit 202 Control unit 203 Bezel output Data storage unit 504 Bezel type Output unit 812 Communication unit

Claims (7)

It is a device that notifies by a predetermined character (hereinafter also referred to as this device).
It has a function to determine whether or not another device that performs notification by the same character as the predetermined character is used at the same time as this device.
If it is determined that another device that performs notification by the same character as the predetermined character is being used at the same time as this device, notification by a character other than the predetermined character is performed.
A device characterized by. The notification by the predetermined character by the separate device, the notification by the predetermined character by the present device, and the notification by the other character are the notification by display and voice.
The apparatus according to claim 1. The notification by the other character is a notification of a message, and not only the character but also the content and change of the message are changed.
The device according to claim 1 or 2. The separate device and this device have a function of performing notification by the predetermined character based on the occurrence of the same event when another device that performs notification by the same character as the predetermined character is not used at the same time as the device. thing
The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3. If it is determined that another device that performs notification by the same character as the predetermined character is being used at the same time as this device, the other device and this device shift the timing to notify after the occurrence of the same event. Have a function to do
4. The device according to claim 4. The other character is a character different from the predetermined character and has a predetermined relationship with the predetermined character.
The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5. A program for realizing the function of the system according to any one of claims 1 to 6 on a computer.