WO2007086335A1

WO2007086335A1 - Mobile terminal, method for reporting loss of mobile terminal, and loss reporting program

Info

Publication number: WO2007086335A1
Application number: PCT/JP2007/050896
Authority: WO
Inventors: Toshinori Hosoi; Hiroo Ikeda
Original assignee: Nec Corporation
Priority date: 2006-01-30
Filing date: 2007-01-22
Publication date: 2007-08-02
Also published as: JP2009124188A

Abstract

It is possible to report, at a low cost, information for sufficiently estimating a location of a mobile terminal which has been lost and left by its owner. The mobile terminal includes a transmission condition judgment unit (11), a position estimation information acquisition unit (2), a communication unit (3), a terminal operation unit (4), and a time counting unit (5). The transmission condition judgment unit (11) performs a threshold value judgment for a non-operation time indicating that no operation has been performed by the terminal operation unit (4) which is counted by the time counting unit (5). If the threshold value is exceeded, the position estimation information acquisition unit (2) is used to acquire the position estimation information and the acquired position estimation information is transmitted. The position estimation information acquisition unit (2) acquires information indicating the position where the mobile terminal is located and the environment around the mobile terminal by using, for example, a GPS receiver, a camera device, and a microphone.

Description

Specification

Technical field of mobile terminal, mobile terminal loss notification method, and loss notification program

[0001] The present invention relates to a mobile terminal having a location notification function for notifying information directly or indirectly of the location of the mobile terminal when the owner loses the mobile terminal, a location notification method for the mobile terminal, And location notification program.

Background art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes an example of a technique for notifying information on a location when an abnormality is detected. The anti-theft terminal described in Patent Document 1 includes a mobile phone, a GPS receiver that calculates the received GPS satellite signal power, and a sensor input means that inputs a sensor signal from a sensor that detects an abnormality. Is provided. When an abnormality in its own position or an abnormality in the supplied power is detected, the position data is automatically transmitted and output via the radio telephone line.

[0003] Further, as a technique for detecting the loss of a portable terminal and notifying information indicating the location, for example, there is Patent Document 2. The misplacement detection device described in Patent Document 2 includes a device that performs short-range wireless communication installed in a predetermined location, and a mobile phone that has connection means for establishing a connection with the device. The mobile phone determines that it has been left behind when the connection with the device continues for a certain period of time, and transmits the specific information of the communication partner device, the specific information of the mobile phone, and the current location information. Patent Document 2 includes an example in which position information calculated from road traffic information obtained by a VICS (Vehicle Information and Communication System) receiver is transmitted as an example. .

[0004] In addition, Patent Document 3 includes a vibration detection unit that detects vibration, and a mobile terminal that transmits loss notification information including current position information when it does not detect vibration during a predetermined time. Are listed. In addition, as a technique for increasing the possibility of recovery when lost or stolen, Patent Document 4 discloses that when an e-mail containing a preset character string is received, for example, the captured image and the current position A mobile phone device that automatically transmits an e-mail containing such information is described. Patent Document 1: JP-A-11-96465 (paragraphs 0020-0023, FIG. 1) Patent Document 2: JP-A-2003-348659 (paragraphs 0005, 0018, 01)

Patent Document 3: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-23573 (paragraphs 0025-0026, 01)

Patent Document 4: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-112126 (paragraphs 0013, 0017, FIG. 1)

Disclosure of the invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

[0006] However, even if the anti-theft terminal described in Patent Document 1 is applied to a mobile terminal, the anti-theft terminal detects an abnormality based on an abnormality signal of a movement distance, a movement range, or a sensor force. If the owner misplaces the mobile device in a certain place, no abnormality can be detected. In other words, the mobile terminal that is the main unit does not move, the installation state between the mobile terminal and the anti-theft terminal does not change, and the change in power supply is natural, so no abnormal signal is output from the sensor. As a result, location data cannot be sent to the owner. In addition, even if an accident can be detected accidentally, the position data that can also be obtained by GPS receivers is inaccurate, so for example, if a small mobile terminal is left indoors, sufficient accuracy can be obtained to find it. It ’s very likely.

[0007] Although the misplacement detection device described in Patent Document 2 can cope with misplacement at a specific location, the mobile phone needs to be equipped with means for short-range wireless communication, and the misplacement detection device can be misplaced. Since it is necessary to install a detection device, the cost increases.

[0008] Also, the mobile terminal described in Patent Document 3 can detect the loss of the mobile terminal itself and notify the location information, but the point that the accuracy of the location information is rough is the same as other conventional techniques. It is. In addition, since the loss state is determined by vibration rather than location information, there is a possibility that location information can be notified even if it is left behind. For example, if it is left in a place with vibration at regular intervals, such as in a train, If the phone vibrates when receiving a call, the loss cannot be detected or the detection will be delayed.

[0009] Also, in the mobile phone device of Patent Document 4, information indicating the location of the mobile terminal can be transmitted by remote control even if it is left behind. However, in order to perform remote control, the owner recognizes the misplacement. I have to do it. In addition, the owner recognizes the misplacement and Even if you try to operate it, you must have a communication device to send remote instructions, and early response may be difficult, such as when you are away from home.

[0010] In other words, with the conventional terminal loss notification technology, when a terminal is lost, especially when it is left unattended, it is highly possible that information for finding the terminal cannot be obtained. There's a problem. For example, there is a problem that even if the terminal has a function of automatically transmitting location information by GPS or the like, it is difficult to detect a misplaced situation, and the cost of detecting it is high. In addition, for example, even if it has a notification function by remote operation, there is a problem that the owner recognizes the misplacement, does not exist, or cannot give a remote instruction on the go. Also, for example, even if the information indicating the location can be transmitted, if it is placed indoors or in a place where it is blocked from the line of sight, sufficient accuracy to find the device cannot be obtained! / There is a problem.

[0011] Therefore, the present invention has a loss notification function capable of automatically notifying information that can be used to analogize the location of a mobile terminal even if the mobile terminal is lost, especially when it is lost due to misplacement. The purpose is to provide mobile terminals, mobile terminal loss notification methods, and loss notification programs.

Means for solving the problem

[0012] According to the first aspect of the present invention, the position analogy information acquisition unit that acquires the position analogy information that directly or indirectly indicates the position of the mobile terminal, and the position analogy information is transmitted according to a predetermined condition. A portable terminal comprising: a transmission condition determining unit that determines whether or not to perform; and a communication unit that transmits the position analogy information based on a determination result of the transmission condition determining unit. Is provided. The position analogy information includes, for example, various kinds of information useful for estimating the position of the mobile terminal that is received, photographed, or recorded using the GPS receiver, camera device, microphone, etc. provided in the mobile terminal. Can be used.

[0013] In addition, user operations are continuously performed! / Wow! A non-operation time measurement unit that measures a non-operation time that is a drought time, and the transmission condition determination unit is based on the non-operation time measured by the non-operation time measurement unit. You can decide whether or not to send!

[0014] In addition, a battery remaining amount measuring unit that measures the remaining amount of a battery (built-in battery) that supplies power to the mobile terminal is provided, and the transmission condition determining unit includes a battery remaining amount measured by the battery remaining amount measuring unit.

You may decide whether or not to send location analogy information.

[0015] In addition, the transmission condition determination unit may determine to transmit the position analogy information when the non-operation time is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. The transmission condition determining unit may determine to transmit the position analogy information when the remaining battery level is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold.

[0016] In addition, the position analogy information acquisition unit has the mobile terminal currently placed as position analogy information that indirectly indicates (implies) the position of the mobile terminal! Information that indicates the surrounding environment may be acquired. The information indicating the environment includes, for example, image data indicating the color and shape of the object, weather, whether it is shaking, brightness, and sound data indicating driving sound, wind noise, rain sound, and silence. And so on.

[0017] Further, the position analogy information acquisition unit includes position data indicating a current position of the mobile terminal, image data shot by a shooting device provided in the mobile terminal, and sound recorded by a recording device provided in the mobile terminal. You can get information that is a combination of one or more types of data as location analogy information! /.

[0018] Further, an elapsed time measuring unit that measures an elapsed time of the previous transmission power is provided, and the transmission condition determining unit is configured to transmit the position analogy information every time a predetermined time elapses after transmission of the position analogy information. You may decide to resend.

[0019] In addition, a position analogy information update determination unit that determines whether or not the position analogy information has been updated is provided, and the transmission condition determination unit transmits the position analogy information and then uses the position analogy information update determination unit to transmit the position analogy information. If it is determined that the information has been updated, it may be determined that the updated position estimation information is to be transmitted.

[0020] According to the second aspect of the present invention, the mobile terminal acquires position analogy information that directly or indirectly indicates the position of the mobile terminal, and the mobile terminal A determination step for determining whether or not the power to transmit the position analogy information according to a condition, and a communication step for the mobile terminal to transmit the acquired position analogy information to a predetermined destination based on the determination result. A location notification method for a mobile terminal is provided.

[0021] Further, in the obtaining step, the mobile terminal is provided with position data indicating a current position of the mobile terminal, image data captured by a shooting device included in the mobile terminal, You can also obtain information as a position analogy information that combines one or more of the sound data recorded by the recording device provided with the band terminal!

[0022] In addition, when the user operation is continuously performed in the determination step and the non-operation time, which is a time, is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, or a battery that supplies power to the mobile terminal When the remaining battery level indicating the remaining battery level is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the mobile terminal may determine to transmit the position analogy information.

[0023] Further, according to the third aspect of the present invention, an acquisition process for acquiring position analogy information directly or indirectly indicating a position of the mobile terminal in a computer mounted on the mobile terminal, a predetermined condition In accordance with the determination process for determining whether or not the ability to transmit the position analogy information and a communication process for transmitting the acquired position analogy information to a predetermined destination based on the determination result. A feature location notification program for mobile terminals is provided.

[0024] Further, in the acquisition process, the computer records the position data indicating the current position of the mobile terminal, the image data captured by the imaging device provided in the mobile terminal, and the recording device provided in the mobile terminal. Information that combines one or more types of sound data to be acquired may be acquired as position analogy information!

[0025] In addition, in the determination process, when a user operation is continuously performed on the computer and a non-operation that is not a time is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, or a battery that supplies power to the mobile terminal It may be determined that position analogy information is to be transmitted when the remaining battery level indicating the remaining battery level is below a predetermined threshold.

The invention's effect

[0026] According to the present invention, position analogy information that directly or indirectly indicates the location of the mobile terminal can be automatically notified even if the mobile terminal is left in a specific location. For example, by adopting the time when the mobile terminal is not operated as the transmission condition of position analogy information, it is possible to detect misplacement, so the owner does not recognize the misplacement and the mobile terminal is left unattended. However, it is possible to notify the information that can infer the location of the mobile terminal. In addition, since no special equipment is required to detect misplacement, it can be realized at low cost. [0027] Further, if the remaining battery level is used as a transmission condition for the position analogy information, it is possible to obtain information that serves as a clue to identify the location of the mobile terminal before the power supplied from the battery decreases. I'll do it.

[0028] In addition, as the position analogy information, accompanying information such as a photographed image and a recorded sound indicating a situation around the mobile terminal can be adopted by using only the position data of the mobile terminal. For example, even if the accuracy of the position information is rough or even if it is misplaced in a place obstructed from view, it is easy to specify the lost place by limiting the search place.

Brief Description of Drawings

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a mobile terminal according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a specific example of a position analogy information acquisition unit.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a specific example of a position analogy information acquisition unit.

圆 4] It is a block diagram showing a specific example of a position analogy information acquisition unit.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a specific example of a position analogy information acquisition unit.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the mobile terminal according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a mobile terminal according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the mobile terminal according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a mobile terminal according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the mobile terminal according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the mobile terminal according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a mobile terminal according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the mobile terminal according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

[0030] 1 Data processing device 11, 11 A, 11B, 11C Transmission condition judgment part

2 Location analogy information acquisition unit

21 Location information acquisition unit

22 Image input section

23 Sound input section

3 Communication department

4 Terminal control block

5 Time measurement part

6 Battery level measurement unit

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0031] Embodiment 1.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a mobile terminal according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The mobile terminals shown in FIG. 1 are mobile phones such as mobile phones, PHS (Personal Handyphone System), PDA (Personal Data Assistance, Personal Digital Assistants), and laptop PCs (Personal Computers). The communication device includes a data processing device 1, a position analogy information acquisition unit 2, a communication unit 3, a terminal operation unit 4, and a time measurement unit 5. Further, the data processing device 1 includes a transmission condition determination unit 11. The data processing device 1 is specifically realized by a CPU that operates according to a program.

[0032] The mobile terminal according to the present invention is useful for estimating the location of the mobile terminal (hereinafter referred to as position analogy information) on the basis of the non-operating time, which is the time, without any operation by the user. Send. Here, the position analogy information is information that directly or indirectly indicates the location of the mobile terminal, and specifically, information that indicates the position of the mobile terminal and the surrounding environment is adopted as will be described later.

The transmission condition determination unit 11 determines whether or not the current state of the mobile terminal satisfies the transmission condition of the position analogy information, and performs various controls according to the determination result. The transmission condition determination unit 11 determines whether or not the non-operation time measured based on the notification from the terminal operation unit 4 satisfies the transmission condition, and if the transmission condition is satisfied, obtains position analogy information Part 2 The position analogy information acquired using is transmitted via the communication unit 3.

[0034] The communication unit 3 performs various controls for performing communication between the mobile terminal and the external device. The terminal operation unit 4 receives an operation input from the user, notifies that there is a user operation, and performs various controls according to the operation content. The time measuring unit 5 measures the current time or the time at a predetermined interval. The position analogy information acquisition unit 2 acquires the current position analogy information. The position analogy information acquisition unit 2, the communication unit 3, the terminal operation unit 4, and the time measurement unit 5 are realized by hardware provided in the mobile terminal and a data processing device such as a CPU that operates according to a program. Note that the data processing device here may be the same as the data processing device 1 or may be different depending on the hardware.

[0035] Further, the position analogy information acquired by the position analogy information acquisition unit 2 is not limited to position data indicating the current position of the mobile terminal, for example, image data (including still images and moving images) taken by the mobile terminal, The recorded sound data may be used. Moreover, any one of position data, image data, and sound data may be used, or two or more kinds may be included. Fig. 2 to Fig. 5 show examples of the configuration of mobile terminals using such specific location analogy information. In FIGS. 2 to 4, as an example of the position analogy information acquisition unit 2, a position information acquisition unit 21 that acquires position data, an image input unit 22 that acquires image data, and a sound input unit 23 that acquires sound data are used. A configuration example is shown. FIG. 5 shows a configuration example in which these means are combined.

[0036] For example, when the present invention is implemented in a foldable mobile phone, the terminal operation unit 4 is realized by a key sensor or a folding opening / closing detection sensor of the mobile phone. The time measuring unit 5 is realized by a clock device built in the mobile phone. The position analogy information acquisition unit 6 is realized by a GPS receiver, a camera device, and a sound collecting microphone in a position acquisition system on a map (for example, a positioning system (GPS) using an artificial satellite). The communication unit 3 is realized by a communication module. Note that these components may be realized by a data processing device that operates according to a program that controls a hardware device that includes only one hardware device. That is, various devices that are essentially equivalent in terms of the key sensor, folding opening / closing detection sensor, clock device, GPS receiver, camera device, and sound collecting microphone power of the above-exemplified mobile phone are included. Next, an operation example of the mobile terminal according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the example shown in FIG. 6, first, the transmission condition determination unit 11 acquires the non-operation time (step S101). For example, the time measurement unit 5 measures the elapsed time from the previous operation input based on the notification from the terminal operation unit 4, and the transmission condition determination unit 11 does not operate the elapsed time measured by the time measurement unit 5. Get as time. Next, the transmission condition determination unit 11 performs threshold determination for the acquired non-operation time (step S102). The transmission condition determination unit 11 determines that the terminal analogy information is transmitted when there is a possibility that the terminal has been misplaced when the non-operation time is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. That is, if the non-operation time is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, it is determined that the transmission condition of the position analogy information is satisfied.

Note that, for example, the time measuring unit 5 controls the timer that measures the non-operation time set to a predetermined threshold while restarting at the timing of the user operation input via the terminal operation unit 4. Thus, it is possible to measure the non-operation time. In such a case, the transmission condition determination unit 11 determines that the non-operation time is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold when the timer measurement is notified from the time measurement unit 5.

[0039] Next, when the transmission condition determination unit 11 determines that the transmission condition of the position analogy information is satisfied (Yes in step S102), the transmission condition determination unit 11 acquires the position analogy information using the position analogy information acquisition unit 2. (Step S103), the acquired position analogy information is transmitted via the communication unit 3 (Step S104). For example, the transmission condition determination unit 11 issues an instruction to the position analogy information acquisition unit 2 to acquire the position analogy information, and the location analogy information acquisition unit 2 that receives the instruction receives the position analogy information or shoots. Or record and obtain location analogy information. In addition, the transmission condition determination unit 11 creates, for example, an e-mail in which the content of the acquired position analogy information is described in the text or an e-mail in which the position analogy information is attached as a file, and is registered in advance. Is sent via communication unit 3.

[0040] If the transmission condition of the position analogy information is satisfied! /, N! / (No in step S102), the acquisition of the non-operation time and the determination operation are continued (return to step S101).

[0041] It should be noted that the non-operation time may be measured only when the mobile terminal is being charged and it is not being charged. In addition, the destination of location analogy information may be one or more, and can be changed according to the transmission time zone. In addition, the threshold for no operation time is determined in advance. It may be a fixed value or a value that changes according to the day and time.

[0042] For example, the mobile terminal according to this embodiment is a foldable mobile phone, and the non-operation time threshold is 3 hours from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, and 9 hours in other time zones Suppose that the e-mail address of the mobile phone company and the e-mail address of the owner are set as destinations. For example, the portable terminal stores the setting information in a storage device in advance. Here, for example, if the owner misplaces the mobile phone at an unpopular location at 1:00 pm, the mobile phone automatically detects the misplacement at 4:00 pm three hours later, and the location on the map An e-mail attached with the data, image data taken with the built-in camera, and sound data recorded with the call microphone is sent to the mobile phone operator and the owner.

[0043] As described above, according to the present embodiment, the position analogy information is automatically transmitted based on the time when the terminal is not operated. For example, as in the case where the terminal is misplaced, the terminal Even when is left unattended, information for analogizing the location can be transmitted. As a result, even if the owner does not recognize the misplacement, it can respond quickly, leading to a reduction in neglect time and preventing damage such as theft or unauthorized use.

[0044] In addition, by combining a plurality of types of data (for example, position data, image data, and sound data), information for estimating the location increases, so that the terminal can be found more easily. Can do. In particular, if the terminal is left out of a place where the sound does not reach due to the obstruction or does not enter the field of view (for example, in the shade or in a bag), the video or sound collected by the terminal itself has been collected. Like the sound, it can notify you of the blocked inside situation, so you can rely on it. For example, if you leave it in the room next to the room where the owner is, you will not be able to hear the ringtone and you will not be able to see the terminal, but you will not be able to hear the sound in the next room (TV sound or voice) By being notified of the video (the color of the wall and the person), the possibility of being found increases.

[0045] In addition, for example, by notifying the sound near the terminal and the state in front of the camera owned by the terminal, it is possible to limit the search place candidates. For example, if the sound is clear according to the environmental sound (car driving sound, wind noise, rain sound, radio, silence, etc.) where the terminal is located, there is no need to look in the bag. If the sound is clear, look for the outdoors. If you hear the radio sound In other words, it is possible to limit searching around the radio. Similarly, for example, if you can see the ceiling, look for the interior, or if it is bright, look for the bag, depending on how the device's camera is in front (wall color, weather, objects, shaking, dark, etc.) No, if the entire screen is shaking, it is possible to limit the search for a place to move or vibrate (for example, in a running car).

[0046] Further, in the present embodiment, it is not necessary to install another device in order to detect misplacement. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the installation range. Forgetfulness can be detected appropriately.

[0047] Embodiment 2.

Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the mobile terminal according to the present embodiment. In this embodiment, in order to avoid the possibility that the position analogy information cannot be transmitted at all due to insufficient power, the remaining battery level (hereinafter referred to as the remaining battery level) for supplying power to the terminal is measured. Judgment of transmission conditions that considers not only the operation time but also the remaining battery level.

[0048] Compared to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the mobile terminal shown in FIG. 7 has an additional battery remaining amount measuring unit 6, and a transmission condition determining unit 11 is a transmission condition determining unit. 11A is different. Note that the transmission condition determination unit 11A is different in operation from the transmission condition determination unit 11.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the mobile terminal according to the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, a condition determination operation based on the remaining battery level (steps S201 and S202) is added to the operation of the first embodiment. First, as in the first embodiment, the transmission condition determination unit 11A acquires the non-operation time of the terminal and performs threshold determination (steps S101 and S102). Here, if the non-operation time is less than the threshold, the transmission condition determination unit 11A acquires the remaining battery capacity (step S201). For example, the battery remaining amount measuring unit 7 measures the remaining amount of the battery that supplies the terminal power, and the transmission condition determining unit 11 A acquires the remaining battery amount measured by the remaining battery amount measuring unit 7. Next, the transmission condition determination unit 11A performs threshold determination on the acquired remaining battery level (step S202). The transmission condition determination unit 11A immediately determines that the position analogy information may not be transmitted in the future if the remaining battery level is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold. Decide to send the figurative reasoning information. That is, if the remaining battery level is below a predetermined threshold, it is determined that the condition analogy information transmission condition is satisfied regardless of the non-operation time.

[0050] When it is determined that the transmission condition of the position analogy information is satisfied, the transmission condition determination unit 11A acquires and transmits the position analogy information as in the first embodiment (steps S103, S104). ). At this time, the transmission condition determination unit 11A may transmit information including information indicating the remaining battery level. The threshold value for the remaining battery level is set to a value that is greater than or equal to the remaining battery level at which the terminal can acquire and transmit position analogy information.

[0051] As described above, according to the present embodiment, the position analogy information is transmitted even when the remaining battery level is low, in proportion to the effect of the first embodiment. Even if the non-operation time has not been reached, a clue to find the terminal can be obtained before the battery runs out.

In FIG. 8, the condition determination operation based on the non-operation time (steps S101 and S102) and the condition determination operation based on the remaining battery level (steps S201 and S202) may be replaced and operated in parallel. It is also possible to operate. The other points are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0053] Embodiment 3.

Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the mobile terminal according to the present embodiment. The mobile terminal shown in FIG. 9 is different from the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1 in that the transmission condition determination unit 11 is the transmission condition determination unit 11B. The transmission condition determination unit 11B indicates that the operation is different from that of the transmission condition determination unit 11 of the first embodiment. In this embodiment, after notifying the position analogy information once, in order to notify the position analogy information again with a time interval, the second and subsequent transmission conditions are determined based on the elapsed time from the previous transmission. Do.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the mobile terminal according to the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, the second and subsequent condition determination operations (steps S301 to S305) based on the elapsed time from the previous transmission are added to the operation of the first embodiment. First, similarly to the first embodiment, the transmission condition determination unit 11B performs a condition determination based on the non-operation time of the terminal (steps S101, S102), and when it is determined that the transmission condition is satisfied, Place Obtain and send the figurative inference information (steps S103, S104).

[0055] Next, the transmission condition determination unit 11B acquires an elapsed time from the previous transmission and performs threshold determination (steps S301 and S302). For example, the time measurement unit 5 measures the elapsed time of the previous transmission power based on the transmission notification of the position analogy information notified from the transmission condition determination unit 11B, and the transmission condition determination unit 11B Get the elapsed time measured by. Next, if the acquired elapsed time is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the transmission condition determination unit 11B acquires the position analogy information again and transmits it via the communication unit 3 (steps S302 and S304).

[0056] Note that, for example, the elapsed time can be measured by the timer 5 starting and controlling the timer that measures the elapsed time set to a predetermined threshold. In such a case, the transmission condition determination unit 11B determines that the elapsed time has become equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold when the timer measurement is notified from the time measurement unit 5. In addition, the re-acquisition / transmission operation (steps S302 and S304) of the position analogy information is the same as steps S103 and S104, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

Here, the transmission condition determination unit 11B may count the total number of transmissions of the position analogy information and perform threshold determination based on the total number of transmissions (step S305). The transmission condition determination unit 11B repeats the position analogy information transmission operation based on the elapsed time as long as the total number of transmissions does not exceed a predetermined threshold. That is, the elapsed time of the current transmission power is continuously measured (return to step S301). It is also possible to repeat the transmission operation until the owner cancels the setting without performing threshold judgment based on the total number of transmissions.

It should be noted that the elapsed time threshold and the transmission count threshold may be fixed values set in advance, or may be values that change according to the date and the number of transmissions. Similarly, the destination of position analogy information can be changed according to the number of transmissions.

[0059] As described above, according to the present embodiment, the position analogy information is notified at least once at intervals of time in consideration of the effect of the first embodiment. The terminal can be found more easily. Other points are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0060] Embodiment 4.

In addition, the battery remaining amount measuring unit 6 in the second embodiment is added to the third embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 11, the second and subsequent condition determination operations based on the elapsed time from the previous transmission are performed. It is also possible to combine the operation with the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an operation example when the second and subsequent condition determination operations are added to the operation of the second exemplary embodiment (fourth exemplary embodiment).

[0061] Depending on the remaining battery level, there is a possibility that transmission for the set number of times may not be possible. For example, when the remaining battery level is set slightly higher or when the end determination is made based on the total number of transmissions. If there is a risk that the battery will run out, taking into account the remaining battery power, the process may be terminated without sending. It is also possible to continue transmission until the battery runs out.

[0062] Embodiment 5.

Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the mobile terminal according to the present embodiment. The mobile terminal shown in FIG. 12 is different from the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1 in that the transmission condition determining unit 11 is a transmission condition determining unit 11C. Note that the transmission condition determination unit 11C is different in operation from the transmission condition determination unit 11 of the first embodiment. In this embodiment, after notifying the location analogy information, if the location analogy information is updated, the second and subsequent transmission conditions based on whether or not the location analogy information has been updated since the previous transmission is notified again. Judgment is made.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the mobile terminal according to the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, the second and subsequent condition determination operations (steps S401 to S405) based on the presence / absence of update of the position analogy information from the previous transmission are added to the operation of the first embodiment. First, similarly to the first embodiment, the transmission condition determination unit 11C performs a condition determination based on the non-operation time of the terminal (steps S101 and S102), and if it is determined that the transmission condition is satisfied, The position analogy information is acquired and transmitted (steps S 103 and S 104).

[0064] Next, the transmission condition determination unit 11C periodically acquires position analogy information from the position analogy information acquisition unit 2 and determines whether or not the position analogy information is updated (steps S401 and S402). For example, when the position analogy information is position data indicating the position on the map by latitude and longitude, the transmission condition determining unit 11C obtains the moving distance on the map, and the moving distance is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold value. If there is, it is determined that there is an update. Also, for example, if the position analogy information is image data, the image acquired last time is compared with the latest image acquired this time. If the area amount of the selected area is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, it may be determined that there is an update. Alternatively, if the amount of change in the average luminance value of the entire image is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, it can be determined that there is an update. Also, for example, if the position analogy information is sound data, the sound data acquired last time is compared with the latest sound data acquired this time, and if the change in volume is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, there is an update. May be determined.

[0065] In addition, whether or not the position analogy information is updated may be determined based on a pattern recognition technique such as a neural network by regarding the previously acquired position analogy information and the latest position analogy information as feature quantities. Is possible. A neural network is an information processing technique that combines and expresses neuronal cells in the brain using a mathematical model. It can learn the attributes of a pattern represented by a sequence of numerical values and identify the attributes of an unknown pattern. It is a simple pattern recognition method.

[0066] Next, when it is determined that the position analogy information has been updated, the transmission condition determining unit 11C transmits the position analogy information via the communication unit 3 (step S404). The content to be transmitted may be the position analogy information after the update, or only the difference information when the difference information from the update can be indicated. Further, the transmission condition determination unit 11C combines the condition determination based on the elapsed time from the previous transmission described in the third embodiment, and the position analogy information is updated after a predetermined elapsed time has elapsed. It is also possible to send location analogy information if it has been done.

[0067] Further, similarly to the third embodiment, the transmission condition determining unit 11C performs threshold determination based on the total number of transmissions (step S405), and within a range where the total number of transmissions does not exceed a predetermined threshold. The operation of transmitting the inference information may be repeated (return to step S401). It is also possible to repeat the transmission operation until the owner cancels the setting without performing threshold judgment based on the total number of transmissions.

[0068] As described above, according to the present embodiment, after the position analogy information is notified once, the position analogy information is transmitted only when the position analogy information is updated, so that unnecessary transmission is suppressed. be able to. In addition, the battery remaining amount measuring unit 6 in the second embodiment can be added to the present embodiment, and the remaining battery amount can be added to the first transmission condition determination.

[0069] The preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described above. Various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention to wait for the transmission function of the position analogy information shown in a close manner. For example, the type and combination of location analogy information is a matter to be determined according to the specifications of the mobile terminal.

It is also effective to be able to set the transmission timing and transmission destination for each type of position analogy information. For example, the position data is transmitted when the non-operation time exceeds the first threshold, and when the non-operation time exceeds the second threshold that is larger than the first threshold, the possibility of discovery is further increased. In order to increase, position analogy information indicating the surrounding environment can be transmitted.

Industrial applicability

[0071] The present invention can be preferably applied to a portable terminal such as a mobile phone, a PHS, a PDA, a laptop PC, etc., which is capable of data communication.

Claims

The scope of the claims

[1] A position analogy information acquisition unit that acquires position analogy information that directly or indirectly indicates the position of the mobile terminal;

A transmission condition determination unit that determines whether or not to transmit position analogy information according to a predetermined condition, and a unit communication that transmits the position analogy information based on a determination result of the transmission condition determination unit

A portable terminal characterized by that.

[2] Provided with a non-operation time measurement unit that measures the non-operation time, which is a long time, when user operations are continuously performed

The transmission condition determination unit determines whether or not to transmit position analogy information based on the non-operation time measured by the non-operation time measurement unit.

The mobile terminal according to claim 1.

[3] Equipped with a battery level measurement unit that measures the remaining battery level.

The transmission condition determining unit determines whether or not to transmit position analogy information based on the remaining battery level measured by the remaining battery level measuring unit.

The mobile terminal according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The mobile terminal according to claim 2, wherein the transmission condition determination unit determines to transmit the position analogy information when the non-operation time is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold.

5. The mobile terminal according to claim 3, wherein the transmission condition determining unit determines to transmit position analogy information when the remaining battery level is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold.

[6] The position analogy information acquisition unit according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the position analogy information acquisition unit acquires information indicating a surrounding environment where the mobile terminal is currently placed as the position analogy information. Mobile devices.

[7] The position analogy information acquisition unit includes: position data indicating a current position of the mobile terminal; image data captured by an imaging device included in the mobile terminal; and sound data recorded by a recording device included in the mobile terminal. 7. The mobile terminal according to claim 6, wherein information of any one type or a combination of two or more types is acquired as position analogy information.

[8] Equipped with an elapsed time measurement unit that measures the elapsed time from the previous transmission, The transmission condition determination unit retransmits the position analogy information every time a predetermined time elapses after transmission of the position analogy information

The mobile terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

[9] A position analogy information update determining unit that determines whether or not the position analogy information has been updated, and the transmission condition determining unit transmits the position analogy information after the location analogy information is transmitted. When it is determined that it has been updated, it is determined that the updated location analogy information will be transmitted.

The mobile terminal according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

[10] An acquisition step in which the mobile terminal obtains position analogy information directly or indirectly indicating the position of the mobile terminal;

A determination step of determining whether or not the portable terminal transmits position analogy information according to a predetermined condition;

A communication step in which the portable terminal transmits the acquired position analogy information to a predetermined destination based on the determination result;

Location notification method for mobile terminals including

[11] In the acquisition step, the mobile terminal records position data indicating a current position of the mobile terminal, image data captured by an imaging device included in the mobile terminal, and recording using a recording device included in the mobile terminal. 11. The location notification method for a mobile terminal according to claim 10, wherein information of at least one type of sound data or a combination of two or more types of acquired sound data is acquired as position analogy information.

[12] In the determination step, when a user operation is continuously performed and a non-operation time which is a long time is a predetermined threshold value or more, or a remaining capacity of the built-in battery is a predetermined threshold value or less. 12. The location notification method for a mobile terminal according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the mobile terminal determines that the mobile terminal transmits position analogy information.

[13] On a computer installed in a mobile device,

An acquisition process for acquiring position analogy information directly or indirectly indicating the position of the mobile terminal;

A determination process for determining whether or not to transmit the position analogy information according to a predetermined condition; and

A communication process for transmitting the acquired position analogy information to a predetermined destination based on the determination result

Location notification program for running.

[14] In the acquisition process, position data indicating the current position of the mobile terminal, image data shot by a shooting device included in the mobile terminal, and sound recorded by a recording device included in the mobile terminal are recorded in the computer. 14. The location notification program according to claim 13, wherein information of at least one type of data or a combination of two or more types is acquired as position analogy information.

[15] In the determination process, when a user operation is continuously performed on the computer, the time of non-operation is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold value, or the remaining capacity of the built-in battery is a predetermined threshold value 15. The location notification program according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the location analogy information is determined to be transmitted in the following cases.