WO2015001879A1 - Electronic device and program - Google Patents

Abstract

Provided is an electronic device that can present a user-appropriate manual and includes: a first acquisition unit (221) that acquires information relating to a user; a second acquisition unit (217, 221) that acquires information relating to the condition a first external device (10A); and a production unit (221) that produces a manual for the user of the first external device on the basis of the information relating to the user and the information relating to the condition of the first external device.

Description

Electronic device and program

The present invention relates to an electronic device and a program.

Conventionally, an electric appliance has been bundled with a manual (also referred to as an instruction manual) for explaining to the user how to install or operate the product, and the user purchased it by reading the manual. Learn how to use the product. However, there are cases where the user has to find out a part he needs from a vast number of manuals, and there are cases where the manuals are not easy to use.

For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an image forming apparatus that easily displays electronic data of an operation manual in conjunction with a user's operation.

JP 2010-185994 A

However, the apparatus described in Patent Document 1 is not sufficient for the user.

Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide an electronic device capable of providing a manual suitable for a user. It is another object of the present invention to provide a program capable of obtaining information suitable for the user.

An electronic device according to the present invention includes a first acquisition unit that acquires information about a user, a second acquisition unit that acquires information about a state of the first external device, information about the user, and the first external device. A generating unit configured to generate a manual for the user of the first external device based on the state information.

In this case, the information on the user may include information on the use of the second external device related to the first external device of the user. The electronic device of the present invention further includes a third acquisition unit that acquires model information of the first external device and model information of the second external device, and the generation unit includes the first external device. The user manual of the first external device may be generated based on the model information and the model information of the second external device. The first acquisition unit may acquire information about the user from setting information of the electronic device.

The electronic device of the present invention is based on a display unit that displays the user manual, the user manual displayed on the display unit, and information on the state of the first external device. And an instruction unit that instructs the external device to notify the user of the operation of the first external device.

A program according to the present invention causes a computer to execute a step of acquiring information related to use of a user's device and a step of generating information provided to the user based on information related to use of the user's device. It is.

In this case, the device is a first external device, and in the generating step, information to be provided to the user may be generated according to a usage level of the first external device of the user. In addition, the step of acquiring information on a second external device different from the first external device is executed by the computer, and in the generating step, the information on the first external device, the information on the second external device, The information to be provided to the user may be generated based on the above. Further, in the generating step, a manual regarding the operation of the device may be generated.

A program according to the present invention causes a computer to execute a step of acquiring information related to use of a user's device and a step of receiving information provided to the user based on information related to the use of the device of the user. .

In this case, the device is a first external device, and in the receiving step, information provided to the user may be received according to a usage level of the first external device of the user. In addition, the step of acquiring information on a second external device different from the first external device is executed by the computer, and in the step of receiving, the information on the first external device, the information on the second external device, It is good also as receiving the information provided to the said user based on. In the receiving step, a manual regarding the operation of the device may be received.

The electronic device of the present invention includes a first acquisition unit that acquires information about a user, a functional unit that performs a function according to the user's operation, a determination unit that determines a state of the functional unit, and information about the user And a generating unit that generates the user manual according to the state of the functional unit.

In this case, the information on the user may include information on the use of the first external device. The electronic device of the present invention further includes a second acquisition unit that acquires model information of the first external device, and the generation unit is configured for the user based on the model information of the first external device. A manual may be generated. The first acquisition unit may acquire information about the user from setting information of the function unit.

In addition, the electronic device of the present invention provides a notification for performing an operation notification based on the display unit that displays the user manual, the user manual displayed on the display unit, and the state of the function unit. May be provided. The electronic device of the present invention includes a third acquisition unit that acquires setting information of the second external device, and a setting unit that performs setting based on the setting information of the second external device. Also good.

The electronic device of the present invention has an effect that a manual suitable for the user can be provided. In addition, the program of the present invention has an effect that information suitable for the user can be obtained.

It is a figure which shows the structure of the electronic device system which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the user information table which a portable apparatus memorize | stores. It is a figure which shows an example of the electronic data of the manual which a server memorize | stores. It is a flowchart (the 1) which shows an example of the manual production | generation process which the portable apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment performs. It is a flowchart (the 2) which shows an example of the manual production | generation process which the portable apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment performs. FIGS. 6A and 6B are diagrams for explaining the processing of FIG. FIGS. 7A to 7C are diagrams for explaining the processing of FIG. FIGS. 8A to 8C are diagrams for explaining the processing of FIG. It is a figure which shows the structure of the electronic device system which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. 10 is a flowchart (part 1) illustrating an example of a manual generation process executed by the imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment. 12 is a flowchart (part 2) illustrating an example of a manual generation process executed by the imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment. 12 is a flowchart (part 3) illustrating an example of a manual generation process executed by the imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment.

<< First Embodiment >>
Hereinafter, the electronic device system according to the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 shows a configuration of an electronic device system 500A according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the electronic device system 500 </ b> A includes an imaging device 10 </ b> A, a portable device 20, and a server 30.

(Imaging device 10A)
The imaging apparatus 10A is a camera, and may be any of a single-lens reflex camera, a mirrorless camera, and a compact camera. In the present embodiment, the imaging apparatus 10A is a single-lens reflex camera. As shown in FIG. 1, the imaging apparatus 10A includes a lens unit 102, a lens driving unit 104, an imaging element 105, an A / D (Analog / Digital) conversion unit 106, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) 108, a display unit 110, An operation unit 111, a storage medium 116, a memory 118, a communication unit 120, and a control unit 130 are included.

The lens unit 102 includes a plurality of lens groups including a zoom lens and a focusing lens, and forms a subject image on the imaging surface of the image sensor 105.

The lens driving unit 104 includes, for example, a motor and an actuator, and drives the lens unit 102 to perform focusing (autofocus) in response to an operation (half-pressing operation) of a release switch (SW) 114 described later. It should be noted that the lens unit 102 and the lens driving unit 104 may be removable from the imaging device 10A or exchanged.

The imaging element 105 includes a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor or the like in which light receiving elements are two-dimensionally arranged on the imaging surface, and generates an analog image signal.

The A / D conversion unit 106 converts the analog image signal generated by the image sensor 105 into a digital image signal and outputs the digital image signal to the control unit 130.

The ASIC 108 performs various types of image processing (color interpolation processing, gradation conversion processing, edge enhancement processing, white balance adjustment processing, image compression processing, image expansion processing, etc.) on the digital image signal input from the control unit 130. It is a circuit to perform. Image data processed by the ASIC 108 (for example, thumbnail display data or main image data having a higher resolution than the thumbnail display data) is displayed on the display unit 110 or stored under the control of the control unit 130. Stored in the medium 116.

The display unit 110 is, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and displays various setting information for the imaging apparatus 10A, operation menus for operating the imaging apparatus 10A, icons, and the like. The display unit 110 displays a live view image (through image) based on the output of the ASIC 108, and a still image and a moving image recorded in the storage medium 116 described later.

The operation unit 111 includes, for example, a touch panel 112 and a release SW 114. In the present embodiment, the operation unit 111 receives an operation on the imaging apparatus 10A from the user.

The touch panel 112 is provided on the display unit 110 or incorporated in the display unit 110, detects a user's touch operation on the surface of the display unit 110, and accepts various information inputs. That is, the user can operate 10 A of imaging devices by performing the operation | movement which touches the operation menu and icon displayed on the display part 110. FIG.

The release SW 114 is a switch operated (pressed) by the user when instructing to capture a still image, for example.

The storage medium 116 is, for example, an SD card, and stores still image data and moving image data. The storage medium 116 is detachable from the image pickup apparatus 10A (a card throttle (not shown)).

The memory 118 is a non-volatile semiconductor memory (for example, a flash memory), and stores a program and various parameters for controlling the imaging device 10A executed by the control unit 130.

The communication unit 120 communicates with other devices. For example, proximity communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), TransferJet (registered trademark), human body communication via a human body, and wireless Communication or the like can be used. In the present embodiment, the communication unit 120 includes an antenna unit 122, a proximity communication unit 124 that performs proximity communication using the antenna unit 122, and a wireless communication unit 126 that performs wireless communication. In the present embodiment, the proximity communication unit 124 communicates with a proximity communication unit 217 of the mobile device 20 described later, and transmits information related to the state of the imaging device 10 </ b> A to the mobile device 20. Here, in the present embodiment, the information regarding the state of the imaging apparatus 10A is whether the imaging apparatus 10A is in an initial setting state, a shooting state or a reproduction state, an editing state, or a connection state with another device. It is good also as information linked with the operation history (including not only imaging device 10A but also the operation history of another imaging device) of the user in each state. In the present embodiment, the information related to the state of the imaging device 10A is made to match the category of electronic data in the manual shown in FIG. Further, the information regarding the state of the imaging device 10A may include information that the imaging device 10A has just been used (just purchased). The wireless communication unit 126 wirelessly communicates with a server 30 described later, and receives data for enabling proximity communication with the mobile device 20 from the server 30.

The control unit 130 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and controls the entire imaging apparatus 10A. In the present embodiment, the control unit 130 controls transmission of information regarding the state of the imaging device 10 </ b> A to the mobile device 20. In addition, the control unit 130 notifies an operation member to be operated by the user using a vibrator or a light emitting element (not shown) based on an instruction from the mobile device 20 (details will be described later).

(Portable device 20)
In the present embodiment, the portable device 20 is an information device that is used while being carried by a user who uses the imaging device 10A. As the mobile device 20, a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet personal computer, a PHS (Personal Handy-phone System), a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), or the like can be adopted. In the present embodiment, the mobile device 20 is assumed to be a smartphone. The portable device 20 has a telephone function, a communication function for connecting to the Internet, etc., a data processing function for executing a program, and the like.

1, the mobile device 20 includes a display 201, a touch panel 203, a calendar unit 205, a flash memory 207, a microphone 209, a speaker 211, a communication unit 213, and a control unit 221.

Display 201 displays images, various information, and images for operation input such as buttons. In the present embodiment, the display 201 displays a user manual generated by a manual generation process described later. As the display 201, for example, a device using a liquid crystal display element can be adopted.

The touch panel 203 accepts information input in response to touching by the user. The touch panel 203 is provided on the display 201 or incorporated in the display 201. Therefore, the touch panel 203 accepts various information inputs in response to the user touching the surface of the display 201.

The calendar unit 205 acquires time information such as year, month, date, and time and outputs the time information to the control unit 221. Furthermore, the calendar unit 205 has a time measuring function.

The microphone 209 is a voice input device that inputs voice around the mobile device 20 (for example, voice uttered by the user). The speaker 211 is an audio output device that outputs audio around the mobile device 20.

The communication unit 213 communicates with other devices, and uses, for example, proximity communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), RFID, TransferJet (registered trademark), human body communication via a human body, and wireless communication. Can do. In the present embodiment, the communication unit 213 includes an antenna unit 215, a proximity communication unit 217 that performs proximity communication using the antenna unit 215, and a wireless communication unit 219 that performs wireless communication. In the present embodiment, the proximity communication unit 217 communicates with the proximity communication unit 124 of the imaging device 10A, and receives information about the state of the imaging device 10A (details will be described later) from the imaging device 10A. The wireless communication unit 219 wirelessly communicates with a server 30 described later, and receives data from the server 30 for enabling near field communication with the imaging device 10A. In addition, the wireless communication unit 219 receives manual electronic data explaining how to handle the imaging apparatus 10 </ b> A from the server 30 described later.

The flash memory 207 is a non-volatile semiconductor memory, and stores electronic data of the manual of the imaging apparatus 10A received from the server 30. The flash memory 207 stores an initial setting item table (see FIG. 6A) and a manual necessity table (see FIGS. 6B and 8A) used for generating a user manual. To do. The flash memory 207 stores a manual display history table (see FIGS. 7A and 8A) for managing a manual display history. Further, the flash memory 207 stores information related to the user (for example, operation history of other imaging devices that the user has used so far). Here, it is assumed that the operation history of the other imaging apparatus that the user has used so far is stored in, for example, the user information table shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, another imaging device includes a mechanism for accumulating information (operation history) of operations performed by the user while using the imaging device, and a communication unit that communicates with the mobile device 20. It is assumed that the accumulated operation history information is transmitted to the mobile device 20 via a communication unit (for example, the above-described proximity communication, human body communication, wireless communication, etc.) at the timing when the user finishes using the imaging device. Alternatively, the operation history information used last time by the communication unit may be transmitted to the mobile device 20 at the timing when the user turns on the power of the imaging apparatus. Note that the imaging apparatus 10A also has the same function.

The control unit 221 includes a CPU, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), and the like, and controls the entire portable device 20. Details of processing executed by the control unit 221 will be described later.

(Server 30)
The server 30 includes a communication unit 301, a storage unit 303, and a control unit 305. In this embodiment, the server 30 is installed in a manufacturer that manufactures the imaging apparatus 10A or its related facility.

The communication unit 301 communicates with other devices. In this embodiment, the communication unit 301 communicates with the wireless communication unit 219 of the mobile device 20 and the wireless communication unit 126 of the imaging apparatus 10A via a network or the like. The communication unit 301 transmits data for enabling proximity communication between the imaging device 10A and the portable device 20 to the portable device 20 and the imaging device 10A, respectively.

The storage unit 303 stores manual electronic data (for example, data in PDF format or data in text format) of the imaging apparatus 10A. Here, as shown in FIG. 3, the manuals are classified according to the state (category) of the imaging apparatus 10A such as initial setting, photographing, reproduction, connection with other devices, etc. Each category includes a plurality of manual items. Is included. For this reason, in this embodiment, the storage unit 303 stores electronic data created for each manual item as separate files. Note that the manual items in FIG. 3 are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to these.

The control unit 305 includes a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and the like, and controls the entire server 30. The control unit 305 controls the communication unit 301 to communicate with the mobile device 20 and the imaging device 10 </ b> A, and to transmit manual electronic data of the imaging device 10 </ b> A stored in the storage unit 303 to the mobile device 20.

(Manual generation process)
Next, a process (manual generation process) for generating a manual suitable for the user who uses the imaging apparatus 10A will be described. 4 and 5 are flowcharts illustrating an example of processing executed by the control unit 221 of the mobile device 20.

In the process of FIG. 4, first, in step S11, the control unit 221 stands by until close proximity communication with the imaging device 10A is established. Then, when close proximity communication with the imaging device 10A is established, the process proceeds to step S13.

In step S13, the control unit 221 acquires the model information of the imaging device 10A from the imaging device 10A. Here, the model information is information for uniquely identifying the model of the imaging apparatus 10A, and is, for example, the model name of the imaging apparatus 10A. When the electronic data of the manual and the category of the electronic data are stored in the memory 118 of the imaging apparatus 10A, the manual electronic data and the category of the electronic data may be included in the model information.

In subsequent step S15, the control unit 221 acquires information regarding the state of the imaging device 10A from the imaging device 10A through the communication unit 120 and the communication unit 213. Here, the state of the imaging device 10A is a state in which the imaging device 10A is not initially set, a state in the middle of initial setting, a state in which shooting is started, a state in which a captured image is displayed, and a connection to other devices. Including the state that is. Note that the imaging apparatus 10A self-diagnose the state of the imaging apparatus 10A based on the state of the own apparatus and the user's operation on the own apparatus, and the diagnosis result is transmitted to the portable device 20 as information on the state of the imaging apparatus 10A. You may send it.

In subsequent step S <b> 17, the control unit 221 determines whether or not the initial setting of the imaging device 10 </ b> A has been completed based on the state of the imaging device 10 </ b> A determined in step S <b> 15. When judgment here is denied, it transfers to step S19.

In step S19, the control unit 221 determines whether or not a manual for initial setting of the imaging device 10A has been generated. For example, if the user has turned on the power of the imaging apparatus 10A so far, the initial setting manual is generated by the processing after step S21 described later, and therefore the determination in step S19 is affirmed. The control unit 221 proceeds to step S31. On the other hand, when the user uses the imaging apparatus 10A for the first time, the processing in step S21 and subsequent steps is not executed, and the initial setting manual is not generated. Therefore, the determination in step S19 is denied, and the control unit In step S221, the process proceeds to step S21.

When the process proceeds to step S21, the control unit 221 determines whether there is information that can be shared with the imaging apparatus 10A among the information set in the portable device 20 from the category information of the electronic data obtained as the model information. This step S21 saves the user from initial setting. Examples of information that can be shared are date / time setting, language setting, and region setting. If there is information that can be shared, step S23 is used. Migrate to

In Step S23, the control unit 221 transmits sharable information from the portable device 20 to the imaging device 10A. Initial setting is performed based on the shared information received by the imaging apparatus 10A. As a result, a part or all of the initial settings are automatically performed, so that the user can save time and labor for searching and reading the manual for the initial setting items. It should be noted that the control unit 221 uses the initial setting item table for managing the progress of the initial setting shown in FIG. 6A for the items (date / time setting, language setting, and region setting) that have been initialized. “YES” is stored in the set item. After step S23, the process proceeds to step S25.

When the process proceeds to step S25, the control unit 221 extracts unset initial setting items. Specifically, the control unit 221 extracts an initial setting item in which “NO” is stored in the set item in the initial setting item table illustrated in FIG.

In subsequent step S27, the control unit 221 determines whether or not the user needs a manual for each unset initial setting item. Specifically, the control unit 221 determines whether the user needs a manual based on the user information (see FIG. 2) stored in the flash memory 207 and the contents of the unset initial setting items. To do. For example, as shown in FIG. 6A, setting of the file format and image quality (image quality mode) for recording an image, and setting of the time until the LCD monitor is automatically turned off and the camera is set to a standby state. (Power-off time), settings such as LCD monitor brightness and presence / absence of electronic sound (screen display and sound), and settings such as size and recording level during movie shooting (movie settings) are not set . In this case, it is assumed that information indicating that the user has set the image quality mode and the power-off time in another imaging device (product B) is stored in the user information table (see FIG. 2). The imaging device 10A is assumed to be a successor of another imaging device (product B). In this case, the control unit 221 determines that the user does not need to check the manual regarding the setting of the image quality mode and the power-off time (the setting is possible without the manual), and FIG. In the manual necessity table for managing the necessity of manual for each manual item shown, “unnecessary” is registered in the manual necessity item of the manual item corresponding to the initial setting item. The control unit 221 registers “necessary” in the manual necessity item for other initial setting items. By the way, for example, when the operation history of the compact camera is stored in the user information table, the control unit 221 has a manual for all the initial setting items that are not set in the imaging apparatus 10A (single-lens reflex camera). Judge that it is necessary.

In subsequent step S29, the control unit 221 generates a user manual based on the determination result in step S27. Specifically, the control unit 221 collectively collects electronic data of manuals related to setting items in which “necessary” is stored in the manual necessity table in the manual necessity table shown in FIG. 30, and stored in the flash memory 207.

In subsequent step S31, the control unit 221 displays the table of contents of the generated manual on the display 201 (see FIG. 7A). As described above, in this embodiment, among the seven initial setting items (see FIGS. 3 and 6A) that must be set in the imaging apparatus 10A, two initial settings that are likely to be required by the user. Since the manual regarding the item is presented to the user, the user can save the trouble of searching for the manual he / she needs from among many items. Since the portable device 20 does not need to download all manual electronic data, the capacity of the flash memory 207 can be saved and the time for downloading the manual electronic data can be shortened. Can be shortened.

In subsequent step S <b> 33, the control unit 221 determines whether a manual display request has been received from the user via the touch panel 203. For example, when the user selects “1.6. Screen display and sound” in the table of contents shown in FIG. 7A, the determination in step S33 is affirmed, and the process proceeds to step S35.

When the process proceeds to step S35, the control unit 221 displays the manual requested to be displayed on the display 201. At this time, the control unit 221 sets the display history item of the manual (“screen display and sound” in FIG. 7B) displayed on the display 201 in the manual display history table shown in FIG. Store “displayed”. After the process of step S35, the process proceeds to step S36.

When the process proceeds to step S36, the control unit 221 determines whether notification regarding the operation is necessary. Specifically, the control unit 221 determines whether or not an operation according to the manual displayed on the display 201 is performed within a predetermined time (for example, 10 to 20 seconds) in the imaging apparatus 10A. When judgment here is affirmed, it transfers to step S37.

In step S <b> 36, when the manual is displayed on the display 201 and the operation corresponding to the manual is not performed for a predetermined time, there is a possibility that the user is taking time for the operation or the operation member to be operated is not known. high. Therefore, when an operation corresponding to the manual displayed on the display 201 is not performed within a predetermined time, the control unit 221 notifies the operation member to be operated by the user in step S37 so that the proximity communication unit 124 and the proximity communication are notified. The imaging device 10A is instructed via the unit 217. The imaging apparatus 10A that has received the instruction vibrates a part where the operation member to be operated by the user or a vicinity thereof is vibrated using a vibrator or a light emitting element (not shown), or shines the operation member. Guide user operations. Thereby, since the user can know which operation member should be operated, a user's convenience improves.

In subsequent step S39, the control unit 221 determines whether or not an instruction to end the display of the manual displayed on the display 201 has been received. The control unit 221 repeats the determination in step S39 until receiving an instruction to end the manual display, and returns to step S31 when the instruction to end the manual display is received.

Returning to step S31, the control unit 221 displays the table of contents. At this time, the items displayed in the table of contents are changed based on the display history of the manual display history table. Specifically, the control unit 221 does not display the manual of the initial setting item in which “displayed” is registered in the display history item of the manual display history table (see FIG. 7B) on the table of contents. (See FIG. 7C). As a result, only the initial setting item manuals that have not yet been set are displayed in the table of contents, so that the user can save time and effort to find the manual that he / she needs. Note that the control unit 221 may change the display method, such as displaying the displayed items in a color different from that of the undisplayed items, or shading the items, instead of hiding them. Thereby, the user can recognize the initial setting items that have not been set / set. In addition, when the initial setting operation is terminated in the middle, the user can recognize the setting level when the operation is resumed by looking at the table of contents of the manual. Note that electronic data may be deleted from the flash memory 207 for manuals related to items for which settings have been completed or manuals that have already been displayed. Thereby, the capacity of the flash memory 207 can be saved.

Incidentally, in step S33, when the manual display request is not received, the control unit 221 proceeds to step S41.

When the process proceeds to step S41, for example, the control unit 221 acquires information related to the current state of the imaging apparatus 10A from the imaging apparatus 10A, and determines whether or not the initial setting of the imaging apparatus 10A is completed. When judgment here is denied, it transfers to step S43.

When the process proceeds to step S43, the control unit 221 determines whether or not the power of the imaging apparatus 10A is turned off. If the determination here is affirmed, the control unit 221 ends the processing of FIGS. 4 and 5, but if the determination is negative, the control unit 221 returns to step S31.

By the way, when it is determined in step S17 that the initial setting of the imaging device 10A has been completed, or when it is determined that the initial setting has been completed in step S41, the control unit 221 performs the step of FIG. The process proceeds to S50.

When the process proceeds to step S50, the control unit 221 determines the state of the imaging apparatus 10A. Specifically, the control unit 221 is in a state in which the imaging apparatus 10A is going to start shooting (during shooting), is in a state of playing back a captured image (during playback), or is connected to another device. It is determined whether it is in a connected state (when connected).

In subsequent step S51, the control unit 221 determines whether or not a user manual corresponding to the state of the imaging device 10A determined in step S50 has been generated. In the following processing, the description will be made on the assumption that the state of the imaging device 10A is in a state of performing photographing. If the determination in step S51 is negative, the control unit 221 proceeds to step S53.

When the process proceeds to step S53, the control unit 221 determines whether the user needs a manual for each manual item related to the state of the imaging device 10A. For example, when the state of the image pickup apparatus 10A is in a state of entering shooting from now on, the control unit 221 stores the manual item for the category “shooting” in the flash memory 207 in the list of manual electronic data shown in FIG. Based on the stored user information (see FIG. 2), it is determined whether the user needs a manual. Here, in the user information table shown in FIG. 2, it is assumed that the user has performed shooting while selectively setting “exposure priority” or “program auto” as the exposure mode in another imaging apparatus (product B). . Accordingly, the control unit 221 determines that the user does not need to check the manual for “exposure mode: program auto” and “exposure mode: aperture priority” (the manual is unnecessary), and FIG. In the manual necessity table, “unnecessary” is registered in the manual necessity item.

In subsequent step S55, the control unit 221 generates a user manual based on the determination result in step S53. Specifically, the control unit 221 collects electronic data of manual items in which “necessary” is stored in the manual necessity table from the server 30 in the manual necessity table shown in FIG. to download.

In subsequent step S57, the control unit 221 displays the generated table of contents on the display 201.

In subsequent step S59, the control unit 221 determines whether or not a manual display request has been received, as in step S33 of FIG. When the determination here is affirmed, the process proceeds to step S61, and the manual requested to be displayed by the user is displayed on the display 201. At this time, the control unit 221 displays “displayed” in the display history item of the displayed manual (“exposure mode: shutter priority” in FIG. 8B) in the manual display history table shown in FIG. Is stored. After step S61, the process proceeds to step S79.

Incidentally, in step S59, when a manual display request is not received, the control unit 221 proceeds to step S63, and determines whether or not the imaging apparatus 10A has received an operation from the user. When determination here is affirmed, the control part 221 transfers to step S67.

In step S67, the control unit 221 determines whether a manual corresponding to the user operation has been displayed. Specifically, it is determined whether or not “displayed” is stored in the display history item of the manual display history table shown in FIG. If “displayed” is not stored in the display history item, the determination here is negative, and the control unit 221 moves to step S71 and displays the manual on the display 201. On the other hand, if “displayed” is stored in the item of the display history, the determination here is affirmed and the process proceeds to step S69.

When the process proceeds to step S69, the control unit 221 determines whether or not manual display is necessary. Specifically, for example, in the imaging apparatus 10 </ b> A, the control unit 221 controls the operation member for a predetermined time (for example, when the user presses a help button, or when a user tries to use a function that is not frequently used). 3 seconds) If the button is held down, it is determined that manual display is necessary. If the determination is negative, the process returns to step S57. If the determination is positive, the process proceeds to step S71, and the control unit 221 displays a manual corresponding to the operation received in step S63 on the display 201. indicate. Thereby, for example, if the user presses the operation member that he / she wants to use for a predetermined time, the user can display the manual on the display 201, so that the user's manual display operation can be saved.

In subsequent step S79, the control unit 221 determines whether notification regarding the operation is necessary as in step S36 in FIG. When judgment here is affirmed, it transfers to step S81.

When the process proceeds to step S81, the control unit 221 instructs the imaging apparatus 10A to notify, similarly to step S37 in FIG.

In subsequent step S83, the control unit 221 determines whether or not an instruction to end the display of the manual displayed on the display 201 has been received from the user. The control unit 221 repeats the determination in step S83 until receiving an instruction to end the manual display, and returns to step S57 when the instruction to end the manual display is received.

Incidentally, in step S63, when the imaging device 10A has not received an operation from the user, the control unit 221 proceeds to step S89 and determines whether or not the power of the imaging device 10A is turned off. When determination here is denied, the control part 221 returns to step S50. On the other hand, when the determination here is affirmed, the control unit 221 ends the processes of FIGS. 4 and 5.

As described above in detail, according to the first embodiment, the control unit 221 of the mobile device 20 acquires information about the user (user information table: FIG. 2) from another imaging device, and performs proximity communication. Information regarding the state of the imaging apparatus 10A (at the time of initial setting, shooting, reproduction, etc.) is acquired via the unit 217, and based on the information regarding the user and the information regarding the state of the imaging apparatus 10A, Since the user manual is generated, a manual suitable for each user (a manual in which items necessary for the user are described) can be generated and provided to the user. Since the generated manual displays not all the manual items but the manual items necessary for each user, it saves the user from searching for the items required by the user from the entire manual. Further, since it is not necessary to download all manual electronic data to the flash memory 207, the storage capacity of the flash memory 207 can be saved, and the time for downloading the manual electronic data can be shortened. The time required for providing the manual can be shortened.

In addition, according to the first embodiment, the information about the user (user information) includes information about the use of other imaging devices (operation history), and thus, for example, a user who has never used a single-lens reflex camera. It is possible to generate a manual according to the attributes (beginner, intermediate, advanced).

Further, according to the first embodiment, the portable device 20 includes the display 201 that displays a user manual, and the control unit 221 displays the user manual displayed on the display 201. Based on the information regarding the state of the imaging device 10A such that the operation described in the manual is not performed within a predetermined time, the notification about the operation of the imaging device 10A is instructed to the imaging device 10A. An operation can be guided to a user who does not know the operation method or is unsure of the operation. Thereby, since the user can know what operation should be performed in the imaging apparatus 10A, the convenience for the user is improved.

Note that in the first embodiment, the information about the user is the user's operation history information on the other imaging device acquired from the other imaging device, but the information about the user is, for example, the user's use It may be a language or a residential area. In this case, the control unit 221 may acquire information related to the user (language used, region, etc.) from the setting information of the mobile device 20. For example, the control unit 221 may acquire the user's language as information related to the user from the setting information of the mobile device 20, and download electronic data of a manual described in the language used from the server 30. In addition, the control unit 221 acquires the user's age information as information about the user from the setting information of the mobile device 20 (for example, settings for restricting Internet browsing), and generates a manual according to the user's age. Also good. Thereby, for example, when the user is a child, a ruby is applied to the kanji, and when the user is an elderly person, a manual with an enlarged font can be provided.

In the first embodiment, the control unit 221 determines whether or not a manual is required for an unset initial setting item in generating a manual for initial setting (steps S21 to S29 in FIG. 4). The electronic data of the manual is downloaded from the server 30 only for the initial setting items that are determined to be necessary, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control unit 221 downloads electronic data of manuals for all initial setting items from the server 30, initial setting items set using information of the mobile device 20, and the user needs to check the manual The initial setting item that is determined to be absent may be hidden on the table of contents. Further, the control unit 221 may erase the electronic data of the manual of the initial setting items that have already been set from the flash memory 207. The same applies to manuals during shooting, playback, and connection with other devices.

In the first embodiment, the control unit 221 generates a manual based on the state of the imaging device 10A (initial setting, shooting, playback, and connection) (step S50 in FIG. 5). Step S55) is not limited to this. For example, when the user's operation received by the imaging apparatus 10A is an operation related to a function that is used for the first time in the imaging apparatus 10A, the control unit 221 determines whether a manual for the function is necessary and generates a manual. May be.

Further, when the user purchases the imaging device 10A at, for example, a home appliance mass retailer, the purchase information may be transmitted from the home appliance mass retailer to the manufacturer based on the user registration information. In this case, the server 30 provided in the manufacturer's related facility extracts a main specification difference (for example, a new function) between the imaging device that the user has used so far and the purchased imaging device 10A. A manual based on the difference in specifications may be generated, and the manual may be transmitted to the mobile device 20 via the communication unit 301 and the wireless communication unit 219. Thereby, for example, the user can purchase the imaging device 10A and check the manual of the imaging device 10A on the display 201 of the mobile device 20 during or after returning home. In this case, the proximity communication between the mobile device 20 and the imaging device 10A may or may not be established. When the near field communication is established, the control unit 221 may perform the initial setting of the imaging apparatus 10A using the above-described sharable information at the timing of displaying the manual on the display 201. On the contrary, the control unit 221 may display the manual on the display 201 at an initial setting timing using sharable information.

In addition, the control unit 221 of the mobile device 20 receives a manual based on a difference in main specifications from the server 30, and notifies the user of the server 30 based on the operation history of other imaging devices that the user has used so far. Necessary manuals may be requested, and the priority order displayed on the display 201 may be determined. For example, if the control unit 221 performs manual display regarding the main specification difference between the imaging apparatus 10A used by the user and the imaging apparatus 10A, and subsequently displays a manual based on the user's operation history. Good.

The server 30 may generate the manual according to the user level (beginner, intermediate, advanced) when generating the manual based on the above-described difference in specifications and operation history. Specifically, the server 30 may generate a minimum manual (simple manual) for beginners and a detailed description (detailed manual) for advanced users. In this case, the server 30 may determine the user level (beginner, intermediate, advanced). Thereby, the server 30 should just generate | occur | produce the manual according to a level instead of generating the manual of each user. The server 30 may generate a manual customized for each user based on a manual corresponding to the level.

The server 30 may generate and transmit a manual based on the user's level / attribute (gender, age, etc.) and operation history even when the manual is updated by adding or changing specifications or services. Further, when there is a similar query from a user of the same level / attribute, information on the user of the level / attribute is generated, and the information generated on the mobile device 20 of the user of the level / attribute is displayed. You may make it transmit.

In addition, the applicant of the present application proposes to provide sensors for various tools (exercise tools, musical instruments, etc.) and record practice records on a portable terminal or a personal computer in International Publication No. 2013/0888879. Even in such a case, the server 30 discriminates the user attributes (beginner, intermediate, advanced) from the practice record, generates a practice manual, a term manual, etc. according to the user attributes, and stores them in the mobile device 20. You may make it transmit. In addition to this, when uploading an application that activates the mobile device 20, the server 30 also uploads a program that is uploaded according to the user level (beginner, intermediate, advanced) and attribute (gender, age, etc.). You may make it transmit to the portable apparatus 20. FIG.

Note that it is possible to perform the above-described manual generation even when the imaging device 10A is purchased via the Internet instead of a consumer electronics retailer. In this case, before the imaging device 10A reaches the user, the user must You can check the manual.

<< Second Embodiment >>
Next, the second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. The second embodiment is an example in which the imaging device generates a manual suitable for the user and displays the manual on the display unit of the imaging device. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the electronic device system 500B. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the electronic device system 500B includes an imaging device 10B, an imaging device 10C, and a server 30. In the following description, it is assumed that the imaging device 10B is a single-lens reflex camera newly purchased by the user, and the imaging device 10C is a single-lens reflex camera that the user has used so far.

(Imaging device 10B)
The imaging apparatus 10B has the same configuration as that of the imaging apparatus 10A of the first embodiment except that the processing executed by the control unit 130, the configuration of the communication unit 120, and the data stored in the memory 118 are different. The same reference numerals are given to the configuration, and the description is omitted.

The communication unit 120 includes a wireless communication unit 126, an electrode unit 127, and a human body communication unit 129 that performs human body communication using the electrode unit 127. The electrode unit 127 is provided at a position outside the casing of the imaging device 10B and in contact with the user. In the present embodiment, the human body communication unit 129 performs human body communication with the human body communication unit 129 of the imaging device 10C while the user holds the imaging device 10B and the imaging device 10C, and the user's operation history of the imaging device 10C The setting information of the imaging device 10C is received. The wireless communication unit 126 communicates with the server 30 and receives manual electronic data of the imaging apparatus 10 </ b> B stored in the storage unit 303 of the server 30.

The memory 118 stores the electronic data of the manual of the imaging device 10B downloaded from the server 30. The memory 118 also stores the initial setting item table shown in FIG. 6A, the manual necessity table shown in FIGS. 6B and 8A, and the manual display history shown in FIG. Remember the table.

(Imaging device 10C)
The imaging device 10C is different from the imaging device 10B in that the communication unit 120C does not have a wireless communication unit. Note that in the imaging device 10C, the same components as those of the imaging device 10B are denoted by “C” after the same reference numerals.

(Server 30)
The configuration of the server 30 is the same as that of the first embodiment, except that the communication unit 301 communicates only with the imaging device 10B.

(Manual generation process)
In the electronic device system 500B having the above-described configuration, the control unit 130 of the imaging device 10B performs the manual generation process (FIGS. 4 and 5) performed by the control unit 221 of the portable device 20 in the first embodiment. Do. Specifically, the control unit 130 of the imaging apparatus 10B performs processing according to the flowcharts of FIGS. In the flowcharts of FIGS. 10 to 12, steps corresponding to the steps of FIGS. 4 and 5 are denoted by the same step numbers, and processes not existing in FIGS. 4 and 5 are indicated by bold lines. In the present embodiment, the processing in FIG. 10 is executed when the power of the imaging device 10B is turned on. In the following, processing that does not exist in the flowcharts of FIGS. 4 and 5 will be mainly described.

In the process of FIG. 10, when the initial setting manual has not been generated (step S19 / NO), the control unit 130 proceeds to step S201, and whether human body communication with the old product (imaging device 10C) has been established. Judge whether or not. At this time, the control unit 130 considers the time required for the user to hold the imaging device 10C, and when the human body communication with the imaging device 10C is not established even after a predetermined time (for example, 10 to 20 seconds) elapses. The process proceeds to step S25. On the other hand, when the human body communication with the imaging device 10C is established, the control unit 130 proceeds to step S203.

When the process proceeds to step S203, the control unit 130 acquires model information of the old product (imaging device 10C) via human body communication and stores it in the memory 118.

In subsequent step S21, the control unit 130 determines whether or not there is an initial setting item that can share setting information with the old product based on the model information of the own device and the model information of the old product. to decide. If the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step S25. If the determination is positive, the process proceeds to step S23.

When the process proceeds to step S23, the control unit 130 acquires setting information of the old product from the old product (imaging device 10C) via human body communication, and performs initial setting based on the setting information. In the present embodiment, the control unit 130 also acquires information related to setting information (user settings) uniquely set by the user, such as an aperture and shutter speed other than the initial settings, from the old product, and stores the information in the memory 118. Shall be kept. After step S23, the process proceeds to step S25.

Thereafter, the control unit 130 executes the processes of steps S25 to S29 and the processes of steps S31 to S41 as in the first embodiment.

Then, when the control unit 130 determines in step S41 that the initial setting has been completed, the control unit 130 proceeds to step S211 in FIG.

When the process proceeds to step S211, the control unit 130 determines whether or not model information and setting information of the old product are stored in the memory 118. If the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step S50 in FIG. 12, but if the determination is affirmed, the process proceeds to step S213.

When the process proceeds to step S213, the control unit 130 determines whether there is a user setting that can be shared with the old product based on the model information of the old product and the model information of the own device. If the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step S217. If the determination is positive, the process proceeds to step S215.

When the process proceeds to step S215, the control unit 130 performs the user setting of the imaging apparatus 10B based on the user setting of the old product (imaging apparatus 10C) stored in the memory 118, and the process proceeds to step S217.

When the process proceeds to step S217, the control unit 130 determines whether or not a new function that does not exist in the old product (imaging device 10C) exists in the own device. The determination is made by acquiring information about the function of the old product and the function of the own device from the server 30 based on the model information of the old product and the model information of the own device, and comparing the two functions. Just do it. If the determination is negative, the process proceeds to step S50 in FIG. 12, but if the determination is positive, the process proceeds to step S219.

When the process proceeds to step S219, the control unit 130 downloads electronic data of the manual of the new function. In step S221, the table of contents of the manual of the new function is displayed on the display unit 110. As a result, since the initial setting is completed and the user is provided with a manual for only the functions (new functions) that did not exist in the old product before starting to use the imaging apparatus 10B, the user manually provides the manual for the new functions. You can save the time and effort of searching from the whole.

In subsequent step S223, the control unit 130 determines whether or not a manual display request has been received. Here, if a manual display request is not received before a predetermined time (for example, 1 minute) elapses, the determination here is denied and the control unit 130 proceeds to step S50 in FIG. . On the other hand, if a manual display request is received, the manual is displayed in step S225, and the process waits until an instruction to end the display of the manual displayed on the display unit 110 is received in step S227.

In step S227, upon receiving an instruction to end the manual display, the control unit 130 returns to step S221.

In this way, the processes in FIGS. 10 to 12 are executed until the power supply of the imaging apparatus 10B is turned off.

As described above in detail, according to the second embodiment, the control unit 130 of the imaging device 10B acquires information about the user (operation history of the imaging device 10C) from the imaging device 10C, and Since the state (at the time of initial setting, at the time of shooting, at the time of reproduction, etc.) is determined and the user manual is generated according to the information about the user and the state of the imaging device 10B, as in the first embodiment, A manual suitable for each user (a manual necessary for the user) can be generated and provided to the user. In addition, since it is not necessary to download or store all manual electronic data in the memory 118, the storage capacity of the memory 118 can be saved. Accordingly, for example, a manual for explaining complicated operations using moving images can be stored in the memory 118.

In addition, according to the second embodiment, the information about the user includes information (operation history) regarding the use of the imaging device 10C related to the imaging device 10B. It is possible to generate a manual according to the user attributes (beginner, intermediate, advanced).

Further, according to the second embodiment, the control unit 130 of the imaging device 10B acquires the model information of the imaging device 10C, and generates a user manual for the imaging device 10B based on the model information. It is possible to provide a user with a manual for functions (new functions) that are not in the imaging apparatus 10C but exist in the imaging apparatus 10B. Also in the first embodiment, the control unit 221 acquires the model information of the product stored in the user information table of the flash memory 207 of the portable device 20, and the model information and the model information of the imaging device 10A are obtained. Based on the above, a manual for the new function of the imaging apparatus 10A may be generated.

Further, according to the second embodiment, the imaging device 10B includes the display unit 110 that displays a user manual, and the control unit 130 includes the user manual displayed on the display unit 110 and the imaging device. Since the notification regarding the operation of the imaging device 10B is performed based on the information regarding the state of 10B, for example, the operation method can be guided to a user who does not know the operation method even if he / she looks at the manual or is confused about the operation. . Thereby, since the user can know what kind of operation should be performed in the imaging device 10B, the convenience of the user is improved.

Further, according to the second embodiment, the control unit 130 acquires setting information (initial setting, user setting) of the imaging device 10C and performs setting based on the setting information of the imaging device 10C. The user's labor required for the setting of 10B can be saved. This improves the convenience for the user.

In the second embodiment, for example, the control unit 130 is a manual (Japanese manual, English) according to setting information (region, etc.) of a functional unit (calendar unit (not shown), etc.) of the imaging apparatus 10B. May be generated. Further, for example, the control unit 130 may acquire setting information (use language, region, etc.) of a portable device such as a smartphone, and generate a manual according to the setting information.

Moreover, in the said 2nd Embodiment, although the control part 130 acquired the setting information of 10 C of imaging devices, and performed the setting based on the setting information of 10 C of imaging devices, it is not restricted to this, For example, Similarly to the first embodiment, setting information (time setting, language used, etc.) of a mobile device such as a smartphone may be acquired, and the setting may be performed based on the information.

In the second embodiment, the memory 118 may store all manual electronic data in advance. Alternatively, the control unit 130 may download all manual electronic data to the memory 118. In this case, the control unit 130 hides the manual item based on the user information and the state of the imaging device 10B, or displays the manual corresponding to the state of the imaging device 10B and the user operation on the display unit 110. You can do it. However, from the viewpoint of saving the capacity of the memory 118, as shown in the second embodiment, manual electronic data is sequentially downloaded from the server 30 based on the state of the imaging device 10B and user information. Is good.

In the first and second embodiments, the manual generation target is not limited to the imaging devices 10A and 10B. The first and second embodiments can be applied to electronic devices such as a refrigerator, a washing machine, an AV device, and a music player, for example.

The above-described embodiment is an example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention, such as appropriately combining the first and second embodiments.

10A, 10B, 10C Imaging device 20 Portable device 110 Display unit 130 Control unit 129 Human body communication unit 201 Display 217 Proximity communication unit 221 Control unit

Claims (19)

1. A first acquisition unit for acquiring information about the user;
   A second acquisition unit for acquiring information on the state of the first external device;
   A generating unit configured to generate a manual for the user of the first external device based on the information on the user and the information on the state of the first external device;
   Electronic equipment comprising.
2. 2. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the information related to the user includes information related to use of a second external device related to the first external device of the user.
3. A third acquisition unit that acquires model information of the first external device and model information of the second external device;
   The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein the generation unit generates the user manual of the first external device based on the model information of the first external device and the model information of the second external device. machine.
4. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first acquisition unit acquires information about the user from setting information of the electronic device.
5. A display unit for displaying a manual for the user;
   An instruction unit for instructing the first external device to notify the user of the operation of the first external device based on the user manual displayed on the display unit and information on the state of the first external device. When,
   The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising:
6. On the computer,
   Obtaining information about the use of the user's equipment;
   Generating information to be provided to the user based on information on use of the user's device.
7. The device is a first external device;
   The program according to claim 6, wherein in the generating step, information to be provided to the user is generated according to a usage level of the first external device of the user.
8. Causing the computer to execute a step of acquiring information of a second external device different from the first external device;
   The program according to claim 7, wherein in the generating step, information to be provided to the user is generated based on information on the first external device and information on the second external device.
9. The program according to claim 6, wherein in the step of generating, a manual relating to operation of the device is generated.
10. On the computer,
    Obtaining information about the use of the user's equipment;
    Receiving the information to be provided to the user based on information on the use of the device of the user.
11. The device is a first external device;
    The program according to claim 10, wherein in the receiving step, information to be provided to the user is received according to a usage level of the first external device of the user.
12. Causing the computer to execute a step of acquiring information of a second external device different from the first external device;
    The program according to claim 11, wherein in the receiving step, information to be provided to the user is received based on information on the first external device and information on the second external device.
13. 11. The program according to claim 10, wherein in the receiving step, a manual relating to operation of the device is received.
14. A first acquisition unit for acquiring information about the user;
    A functional unit that exhibits a function according to the user's operation;
    A determination unit for determining the state of the functional unit;
    A generation unit that generates a manual for the user according to the information about the user and the state of the functional unit;
    Electronic equipment comprising.
15. 15. The electronic device according to claim 14, wherein the information regarding the user includes information regarding use of the first external device.
16. A second acquisition unit for acquiring model information of the first external device;
    The electronic device according to claim 15, wherein the generation unit generates the user manual based on model information of the first external device.
17. The electronic device according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the first acquisition unit acquires information about the user from setting information of the function unit.
18. A display unit for displaying a manual for the user;
    An informing unit for informing about an operation based on the user's manual displayed on the display unit and the state of the functional unit;
    The electronic device according to claim 14, further comprising:
19. A third acquisition unit for acquiring setting information of the second external device;
    A setting unit configured to perform setting based on setting information of the second external device;
    The electronic device according to claim 14, further comprising:

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