JP2015052945A - System and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a system and a program enabling a user to obtain fun in manipulation or operation, not satiating him, and giving him an incentive to utilize a function positively.SOLUTION: A function required by a user is executed corresponding to a dialog between recognition information based on a result obtained by recognizing a voice of a user who is a passenger of a vehicle and an output of a voice of a prescribed character 100 showing that the user's voice is recognized. A voice emitted by the user is used as information recognized as a word phrase for forming a dialog with the character 100, as the recognition information based on the result obtained by recognizing the voice of the user.

Description

  The present invention relates to a system and a program for recognizing a voice of a passenger of a vehicle and executing a predetermined process.

  Currently, in-vehicle electronic devices having functions such as navigation devices and radar detectors are widely used. Such an in-vehicle electronic device has a function of outputting various kinds of information required by a user who is a passenger of the vehicle while the vehicle is traveling.

  For example, when the in-vehicle electronic device has a function as a navigation device, a guide route to the searched destination and various searched facilities can be displayed on the display device in accordance with a user operation. . Further, for example, when the in-vehicle electronic device has a function as a radar detector, targets such as an orbit, a control / inspection area, and a traffic monitoring device can be appropriately displayed on the display device.

  The operation of such an in-vehicle electronic device is basically performed by a user manually operating a switch provided on the device, a touch panel configured on a screen of a display device, and a remote control capable of remote operation by infrared rays. Do. Further, an in-vehicle electronic device having a voice recognition function that recognizes a voice spoken by a user and performs a process corresponding to the voice is also widely spread.

  By using this voice recognition function, even for users who are difficult to operate manually because they are driving, it is possible to search for routes, find facilities, etc. by uttering recognition phrases corresponding to pre-registered commands etc. Various functions can be executed.

JP 2009-115594 A

  However, the voice recognition function in the conventional in-vehicle electronic device is not different from manual operation in that the device performs a predetermined process in response to an instruction unilaterally issued by the user. For this reason, the user can only get a sense that he / she is operating a tasteless dry device regardless of whether it is a manual operation or voice input.

  Moreover, a general vehicle-mounted electronic device also has a function of performing route guidance, target notification, and the like with a preset voice. However, this function is no different from information provision by screen display in that the device side unilaterally provides information. For this reason, the user can only obtain a sense that information is obtained from a tasteless dry device.

  As described above, the conventional technology can only provide a sense of operating the equipment, so there is no interest in it, and for people in the car, especially for drivers who are driving alone for a long time. Very boring. For this reason, when time elapses from the purchase, the user is not motivated to actively use the in-vehicle electronic device, and various functions are often not effectively utilized.

  The present invention has been proposed in order to solve the above-described problems of the prior art, and the purpose of the present invention is to provide users with enjoyment in operation and driving, and without being bored and active. It is to provide a system and program that will motivate users to use their functions.

(1) The system of the present invention responds to a dialogue by recognition information based on a result of recognizing a voice of a user who is a vehicle occupant and output of a voice of a predetermined character indicating that the user's voice is recognized. It is characterized by executing a function required by a passenger of the vehicle.
In this way, for example, the system does not execute the function in response to the unidirectional instruction of the user who is the vehicle occupant, but the user needs to interact with the character so that the vehicle occupant needs Since the functions can be executed, the convenience and fun of operation and driving increase, and the feeling of communicating with the character is obtained, so you don't get bored. In addition, for example, since the user is motivated to operate the system in order to interact with the character, the functions of the system are effectively utilized.
As the recognition information based on the result of recognizing the user's voice, for example, the voice uttered by the user may be information recognized as a phrase that establishes a dialogue with the character. In this way, for example, by outputting the voice of the character according to the recognized phrase, it is possible to indicate that the user's voice has been recognized and to establish a dialogue with the user. For example, in order to execute a function required by a vehicle occupant, a specific recognition word and a voice of a character whose dialogue is established in relation to the specific recognition word are registered in advance. It is preferable to output the voice of the character depending on whether or not it matches the result of the voice recognition. In this way, for example, by preparing various combinations of recognition words / phrases for dialogue and voices of characters, it may be possible to cope with various processes executed in response thereto.
As the predetermined character, for example, a speaker having a specific personality may be recognized by sound output from the system. In this way, for example, the user may feel as if he / she is interacting with an actual human being and be familiar.
As the dialogue, for example, at least one round-trip exchange such as start of utterance, response to this, and response to response may be performed. In this way, for example, the system does not simply perform the process according to the user's command, but the character can intervene between himself and the system and provide a sense of providing services. Good. In addition, as the dialogue, for example, the user's utterance and the character's voice may be established as the utterance and the response to the utterance. In this way, a feeling of mutual communication can be obtained. Further, the dialogue may be, for example, a reply in which the utterance and the meaning content are inappropriate. In this way, the user may feel interesting and unexpected. Further, as the dialogue, for example, a case where an utterance and a response to the utterance are established as semantic content and a case where the semantic content for the utterance is inappropriate are mixed. In this way, imperfections close to real conversation can be produced, and the user can feel impersonal.
The function required by the vehicle occupant may be a function that enhances the convenience of the vehicle occupant, for example, in changing settings or outputting information. In particular, for example, information desired by the user is output. It is preferable to perform a predetermined process. The information that the user wants to know may be information that can be output to the system more easily or more quickly than manual operation by using voice recognition, for example. In this way, for example, since the user actively uses voice recognition, the system may be able to give the user more opportunities to interact with the character.
In order to execute the function required by the vehicle occupant in response to the dialogue, for example, the function required by the vehicle occupant may be executed as a result of the dialogue. In this way, it is only necessary to have a willingness to interact with the character in order to execute the functions required by the passengers of the vehicle. In addition, for example, the function required by the vehicle occupant during the conversation may be performed as the function required by the vehicle occupant in response to the dialog. In this way, in order to execute the function required by the vehicle occupant, the willingness to speak and advance the dialogue may be increased. Furthermore, the execution of the function required by the vehicle occupant in response to the dialogue may be, for example, the execution of a process for outputting the voice of the character constituting the dialogue. In this way, since the user wants to hear the voice of the character and interacts, the user can enjoy the conversation itself.

The predetermined process for outputting information that the user wants to know in response to the dialogue may be a process for outputting information required by the driver during driving of the vehicle.
In this way, even if it is difficult for the driver to obtain desired information during driving due to, for example, difficult manual operation or limited manual operation, the character can be obtained by using voice recognition. You can get the information you want while enjoying the conversation.

The predetermined process for outputting the information that the user wants to know according to the dialogue may be a process for outputting the information through a plurality of selections.
In this way, for example, when it is necessary to go through a plurality of selections to output information, it is easier for the user to operate by voice input than when manual operation is required for each selection. It ’s easy because it ’s easy.
The information output through a plurality of selections may be, for example, information on a layered structure or information that cannot be output unless a plurality of operations are performed. Such information may be less burdensome for the user than performing manual operations multiple times.
In particular, information output through a plurality of selections may be information obtained by sequentially narrowing down a plurality of candidates, such as facility search and current location periphery search. The process of outputting such information is different from, for example, an operation for moving the vehicle itself, such as a brake or an accelerator, or an operation for informing something outside for safety during traveling, such as a blinker. Since it is difficult to directly execute by manual operation, it may be suitable for operation by voice recognition.

If there is a next selection as part of the dialogue, it may be the voice of the character that guides it.
In this way, for example, the user may be able to proceed with a predetermined process sequentially by being prompted by the voice of the character and making a selection.
The voice of the character that guides the user to the next selection may be, for example, a voice that asks the destination such as “Where are you going?” When the voice of the user “periphery” is recognized in the peripheral search. In this way, for example, the user can clearly know what to speak next.

As part of the dialogue, if there is no next selection, the voice of the character indicating this may be used.
In this way, for example, the user knows that it is no longer necessary to proceed with the process, so it may be possible to determine whether to end the instruction or to perform another process.
As the voice of the character indicating that there is no next selection, for example, when the user's voice “Familys” is recognized in the peripheral search, the next selection is as follows. It should be a voice clearly indicating that there is not. In this way, the user can know that there is no need to proceed to the next, and can request the user to make another determination.

As a predetermined process for outputting information that the user wants to know in response to the dialogue, a process for causing the display means to display information related to facilities around a desired point may be used.
In this way, for example, the user can acquire information on the surrounding facilities while enjoying the dialogue with the character while eliminating the troublesome manual operation for obtaining the information on the surrounding facilities. .

As a predetermined process for outputting information that the user wants to know in response to the dialogue, an icon indicating the surrounding facility is compared with the map at the position of the surrounding facility on the map displayed on the display means. It may be characterized by relatively highlighting.
In this way, for example, since the facility information necessary for the user is conspicuous on the map, it becomes easier for the user to grasp the location of the facility, which is a guideline for selecting a desired facility by voice. So good.
The relative highlighting compared with the map may be, for example, a display in which the location of the facility is clear. For example, if at least one of the brightness, saturation, and hue of the icon and the map is changed, the contrast between the two may stand out. In particular, for example, if the icon is displayed in color and the map is displayed in grayscale, the icon may be seen very clearly.

In response to the dialogue, as a predetermined process for outputting information that the user wants to know, an icon indicating the surrounding facility is displayed at the position of the surrounding facility on the map displayed on the display means, and the icon In addition, it is preferable to display the order according to a predetermined standard.
In this way, for example, a display that can distinguish the order of icons may be used as a guide for the user to select a facility.
As a predetermined reference | standard, it is good to set it as the order close | similar to a specific point, for example. In this way, it is only necessary to intuitively know which facility is closest to the case where the facility name is displayed. Furthermore, as a predetermined reference | standard, it is good to set it as the order with the high importance for a user. In this way, the facility that the user wants to know most may be displayed preferentially. The degree of importance for the user may be, for example, a thing that has been done in the past, a frequency that has been done in the past, or a preference of the user. In this way, the user can quickly know the facility he wants to go to. Also, for example, those that have been performed in the past but do not want to go again, such as those that are less important to the user, may be excluded. In this way, for example, it may be possible to display only what the user may go to.
The display that can distinguish the rank may be information that inherently indicates the rank, such as a number or alphabet. In this way, for example, the meaning of the ranking may be easily grasped. Furthermore, as the display that can distinguish the order, for example, it may be information that visually indicates the order, such as a shape such as ○, ◯, Δ, x, etc., or a stepwise change depending on lightness, saturation, and hue. In this way, for example, the order may be intuitively grasped visually.

The voice of the character that prompts the user to select the found facility may be output with the content that matches the displayed icon.
In this way, for example, it is possible to prompt the selection of the facility with the sound of the content that matches the displayed icon, so the user may be able to grasp the visually confirmed content also with the sound.
For example, if the number is a number, the content that matches the displayed icon is a voice that asks what number is better, if it is an alphabet, it asks what the alphabet is better, and if it is a shape, it asks what the shape is If it is a voice or a color, it may be a voice that asks what the color is. In this way, for example, the user can easily know what to speak and select a facility. In addition, for example, it is preferable to use a voice indicating the range of candidates to be selected as the content that matches the displayed icon. Thus, for example, if the sound is output from what number to what number, the user may be able to grasp the content to be uttered and the range to be selected.

When the voice of the user who selects any facility is recognized with the contents matched to the displayed icon, the route searched from the specific point to the selected facility may be displayed on the display means.
In this way, for example, the user may be able to easily select the content according to the displayed icon rather than selecting the facility name.
For example, if the number is a number, the number of the desired facility icon, the alphabet is the desired facility icon alphabet, and the shape is the desired facility icon shape and color. If so, the icon color of the desired facility may be used. In this way, for example, the facility can be selected with a language that is easier to remember than the facility name.

After the searched route is displayed on the display means, it is preferable to determine whether to start route guidance or to search for the route again according to the dialogue.
In this way, for example, if the user does not wish for the searched route, the user can instruct the user to search again while interacting with the character. It is good because it can be made.

As a predetermined process for outputting information that the user wants to know according to the dialogue, which item among the items corresponding to the recognized word / phrase registered for recognizing speech in advance is to be functioned as a recognized word / phrase. A table of items to be selected may be displayed on the display means.
In this way, for example, if only the items frequently used by the user are selected from the displayed table of items, the recognition word / phrase is limited, so that erroneous recognition can be reduced.
The selected recognition phrase may be registered, for example, by rewriting it in a predetermined memory area from the default state, putting it in an empty area, or rearranging the already existing ones. In this way, a limited memory area can be used effectively.

A table of items for selecting which item to function as a recognition word / phrase for dialogue among items corresponding to the recognition word / phrase registered in advance for recognizing the user's voice is displayed on the display means, The item selected from the table may be set for each page to be displayed on the display means.
In this way, for example, even if the items that can be displayed on one page of the display screen of the display means are limited, the items frequently used by the user can be brought to the top page. This saves you the trouble of switching pages for display.

It is preferable that items of recognized words / phrases that may be recognized in a mixed manner are displayed on a separate page.
In this way, for example, a phrase including a similar sound or a phrase that is highly likely to be confused when actually recognized is not placed on the same page as a candidate for recognition at the same time. It can be reduced. Examples of phrases that include similar sounds include the same sound of 50 sounds and the same kanji, such as “family restaurant” and “fast food”, “hospital” and “beauty salon”, “Western food” and “Japanese food”. It is good to include words. In this way, a recognition phrase having a sound that is confusing even from characters is not displayed on the same page, and the user inputs either one, thereby reducing misrecognition. As a word / phrase that is highly likely to be confused when actually recognized, for example, different words / phrases recognized for the same utterance based on a record of past recognition results may be used. In this way, for example, it can be excluded that a combination in which erroneous recognition has actually occurred becomes the same page.

The item corresponding to the recognition word / phrase includes a large item corresponding to the recognition word / phrase including a plurality of concepts and a middle item corresponding to the recognition word / phrase corresponding to the plurality of concepts. Should be displayed on
In this way, for example, even when the user wants to search for a middle item, it is not necessary to change the hierarchy or page, so that a desired item can be selected directly.
The large item may be a high-level conceptual item including a large number of candidates, such as “hospital”. This may be convenient for a user who wants to search from as many candidates as possible. The middle item may be, for example, a subordinate conceptual item that has fewer candidates than the large item, such as “internal medicine” and “pediatric” included in the concept of “hospital”. In this way, it may be convenient for a user who wants to obtain desired facility information immediately from a small number of candidates.

As the recognition word / phrase, a word / phrase related to the word / phrase displayed as the item but not displayed as the item may be registered.
In this way, for example, it is sufficient to say a phrase related to the recognized phrase without speaking the recognized phrase displayed in the item, so the user's item name is ambiguous or Even if you are unfamiliar with, you can search.
A word related to a word displayed as an item but not displayed as an item is, for example, a medium item corresponding to a large item displayed on a specific page but not displayed on the page. .
In this way, for example, even if the middle item is not displayed, if the user says the middle item, the middle item is searched, so that necessary facility information can be obtained quickly.

The character may be displayed on the display means as a predetermined process for outputting information that the user wants to know in response to the dialogue.
In this way, for example, the user may become familiar with the conversation by viewing the appearance of the other party on the display screen, and may want to actively use the system to see the appearance.

As a predetermined process for outputting information that the user wants to know according to the dialogue, the character may be displayed at a position on the map that does not block the searched route display.
In this way, for example, the ease of viewing the searched route can be maintained while the character display is enjoyed.
As a position that does not obstruct the route display, for example, the display of the character and the searched route may be close to each other on the display screen. In this way, the user can feel as if the character is caring about not disturbing the route search service, so that the user may be given a better feeling.

The character may be moved while being displayed to a position that does not block the searched route display on the map.
In this way, for example, by continuing to display moving characters, you can feel annoyed and appeal their presence, and for users who want to continue to see characters, enjoy the movement of moving characters It may be possible.

The display area of the item corresponding to the user's voice recognition word / phrase has a portion where the background image can be seen, and the character displayed on the display means does not have a portion which is larger than each item and the background image can be seen. The display area of the item may be close to a position on the display screen opposite to the character.
In this way, for example, if the character is on the opposite side of the searched route, the item display area may overlap the searched route, but each item is smaller than the character. Since the display area of the item has a part where the background image can be seen, the background image may be easier to see than the searched route overlaps with the character.
For example, the portion where the image in the back can be seen may be a transparent portion or a gap portion. In this way, for example, the background image can be viewed while ensuring the visibility of the item display.

The voice of the user name registered in advance may be inserted into the voice output by the character in the dialogue.
In this way, for example, the user may feel more familiar with the character by being called with his / her name in the conversation.
It is preferable to insert a voice of a user name registered in advance into the voice output by the character at the start of the dialogue.
In this way, for example, since the user is called by his / her name at the start of the dialogue, the user's attention may be attracted.

When the voice including the character name is recognized, the voice of the user name registered in advance may be inserted into the voice output by the character.
In this way, for example, since the names are called each other, the user can obtain a more intimate feeling.

As the dialogue progresses, the frequency of inserting the user's nickname into the voice output by the character may be reduced.
In this way, for example, the name is called at first, but the frequency of the call is reduced thereafter, so it is possible to produce a conversation between two people getting used to each other.

The voice data corresponding to the 50-sound table is registered in advance, and the speech of the name selected by the user from the 50-sound table may be inserted during the conversation.
In this way, for example, the memory capacity may be saved as compared with a case where a plurality of names are registered in advance.

As the voice of the character, it is preferable to insert a voice having a content indicating the situation of the character.
In this way, the user can listen to the situation of the character. For example, if the character is in a negative situation, it can cause the user to feel concerned about the character, and if the character is in a positive situation. In this case, it is possible to make the user feel sympathetic with the character.
As a comment indicating the character's situation, for example, “I'm busy”, it is good to know whether you are in a positive state or a negative state. In this way, for example, the system does not follow the user's instructions unconditionally, but it can generate a feeling of concern and empathy for the user, such as a conversation with a real person. You can get a sense.

The voice of the character in the dialogue may be selected at random from a plurality of preset different phrases, excluding the already output phrases, and output.
In this way, for example, only the same phrase can be prevented from being output, so that the user does not get bored.

A list in which a plurality of different response phrases are registered for a common recognition phrase may be set.
In this way, for example, even if the user utters a common content, the character responds with different expressions, so even if you realize the same processing over and over, you can enjoy what kind of response will come from the character Can do.

A plurality of the lists are set, and it is preferable that there is a list in which phrases different from other phrases are registered even in the same list.
In this way, for example, a different phrase is output as a response to the user's similar utterance, which can give the user an unexpected impression, change the impression of the character, and get bored. It is good because it can be prevented from coming.

The character may have a plurality of display modes even for the same person, and different phrases may be registered for each of the plurality of display modes as output sound.
In this way, for example, even for the same character, the utterance contents differ depending on a plurality of display modes, so it is possible to enjoy the change while interacting with the same person.
As a plurality of display modes, for example, a standard display, a display transformed by changing clothes, a hairstyle, or the like may be used, or a head may be changed. In this way, for example, it is possible to give the user various impressions such as adult-like, child-like, cute, and beautiful, and not to get bored.

If the voice recognition is wrong, the phrase to be output should be registered.
In this way, for example, even if the recognition is wrong, by returning some phrase, the user can recognize that the dialogue with the character is continuing.

It is preferable that a phrase to be an escape point in case there is an error in speech recognition is registered.
In this way, for example, there is a possibility that an error may occur in voice recognition, but even if an error occurs, the frustration and anger of the user can be reduced by the escape of the character.
As an escape, for example, “I will do my best in speech recognition. I may not be able to recognize 100%,” but with an expression that indicates the willingness to recognize correctly and an expression that indicates that it is difficult to achieve perfection. Good. In this way, for example, rather than simply indicating that recognition is not possible, it is possible to generate a psychology that is allowed to the user with respect to misrecognition.

If the user's voice input points out that the content that the user wants to reply is different from the content of the character's voice output, the response phrase from the character should be registered .
In this way, for example, if the user points out a mistake in the character, there is a response from the character, so that it is possible to enjoy natural exchange between people when there is a misunderstanding.

Phrases that will be used as advertisements should be registered.
In this way, for example, the user may be guided to a facility that is affiliated.

As the voice of the character in the dialogue, a phrase about the cause of what is to be done at the facility that the user is going to may be registered.
If it does in this way, it will become easy for the user who goes to the said facility to listen easily by speaking about the cause which went to a certain facility, for example.
For example, the user's attention can be drawn both when the cause of going to the destination is not preferable for the user and when it is preferable for the user.
As a facility where the cause of going to the destination is not preferable for the user, for example, a facility related to the user's illness such as “hospital”, “dentist”, and “pharmacy” may be used.
As a facility that is preferable for the user to go to the destination, for example, “department store”, “sushi”, “unagi”, and the like, it may be a facility with a slightly higher hurdle than a facility that is frequently used daily.
As a phrase that causes the character to make various emotions to the user, for example, “Is something wrong? Is it okay?” Or “Do not overdo it?” A phrase that makes you feel good. Also, for example, a phrase that causes the user to feel regret like "Do you brush your teeth properly?"

As the voice of the character in the dialogue, a phrase that serves as a positive or negative advice about what to do at the facility the user is going to go to may be registered.
In this way, for example, what the user should or should not do at the destination may be determined by the advice of the character. As a positive advice, for example, a phrase that recommends something like "It's better to occasionally get plaque" is recommended. Also, as negative advice, for example, a phrase that prohibits something, such as “Don't look painful. Don't put up with a cool face.”

As the voice of the character in the dialogue, a phrase that is a one-sided impression of the character about what to do at the facility that the user goes to may be registered.
In this way, for example, the impression of the character can be obtained, so that the user may be able to refer to the action at the destination.
As a one-way impression of the character, for example, it is good to make a positive impression such as “black pig char shoe that melts in your mouth. In this way, the user may want to take the same action at the facility. Also, for example, it may be a negative impression such as “go to a restaurant alone? Are you not lonely? In this way, the user may be encouraged to change the destination. Furthermore, a positive impression and a negative impression may be mixed, for example, “It looks fun just by looking around at a shopping mall. In this way, the user can be prepared in advance about the situation at the destination.

As the voice of the character in the dialogue, it is preferable that a phrase reminiscent of the fact that the character exists actually is registered.
In this way, for example, the user may obtain a feeling that the character actually exists.
Phrases reminiscent of reality exist, for example, “I'm glad you take me on business trips” and “Where do we stay?” A phrase reminiscent of In this way, for example, the user may be able to obtain a feeling of being always with the character.

(2) A recognition word / phrase registered in advance for recognizing the user's voice may be displayed as an item.
In this way, for example, the user may know what to say by looking at the displayed items in order to execute predetermined processing.

(3) The recognition words / phrases registered in advance for recognizing the user's voice include recognition words / phrases that can be recognized in common regardless of the display screen, and recognition words / phrases whose recognition is limited to those displayed on the display screen. There should be.
In this way, for example, the recognition of phrases that can be recognized in common reduces the possibility of misrecognition by the recognition of phrases that are restricted in recognition while maintaining the convenience of functions that are required regardless of the display screen. it can.

As a recognition phrase that can be recognized in common, for example, a recognition phrase that is commonly used in a plurality of types of display screens may be used.
In this way, the possibility that the function is restricted according to the display screen is reduced, and the convenience can be maintained. For example, words such as “return” and “cancel” may be used for transition to another display screen. Such a phrase may be, for example, a phrase that needs to be used on any screen.
As the recognized words / phrases whose recognition is restricted, for example, the words / phrases displayed on the display screen and the words / phrases to be searched may be used. Such a phrase may be, for example, less necessary for recognizing other words, and less likely to prevent misrecognition by reducing the number of recognized phrases.

(4) It is preferable that the recognition phrases registered in advance for recognizing the user's voice are displayed on the display screen and not recognized on the display screen.
In this way, for example, even if the user utters a phrase that is not displayed on the display screen, if the recognition phrase is set in advance, some reaction from the character can be obtained. It is good for the user to be surprised and give the user the pleasure of discovery.

It is preferable that voice data output by the character is registered when voice other than words set in advance as recognition words is input.
In this way, for example, even if it is not a recognized phrase, there is always a character's reaction, so the dialogue is interrupted or the user is reminded that the exchange is with the system by notifying as an error etc. It is good because you can maintain the feeling of continuing dialogue with the character.

(5) The state of the function that changes quantitatively may be set to a desired quantitative level directly by voice recognition.
In this way, for example, the quantitative level can be immediately set to a desired value as compared with the case where the quantitative level is gradually changed between a small value and a large value. Therefore, the time to be restrained by the operation is shortened.
For example, the volume, brightness, and scale may be used as the function that changes quantitatively. In this way, it is possible to save the trouble of selecting buttons such as volume, brightness, and scale to display +-and scales, and stepping up and down by selecting +-and sliding on the scales.

(6) As recognition words / phrases registered in advance for recognizing a user's voice, an instruction word corresponding to a quantitatively changing function and a number indicating a quantitative level may be set.
In this way, for example, when the user says an instruction word and a number corresponding to a desired function, the quantitative level of the function may be directly increased or decreased to the level of the number.
For example, “onri”, “kid”, “scale”, etc., and the numbers are “1”, “ni”, “nikiro”, etc. Good. In this way, for example, the input can be performed using the names and numbers of functions that are easy to understand intuitively for the user. In particular, for example, the name and the quantitative level may be combined into a single recognition word / phrase, such as “Onryo-san”, “Kidoni”, and “Sky Nikiro”. In this way, only one utterance is required.

On the display screen of the display means, a button for selecting a function, in which an instruction word corresponding to the function is displayed, may be displayed.
In this way, for example, the user only has to say the instruction word displayed on the button, which may be easy for the user to understand.

It is preferable to display a button for selecting a function on the display screen of the display unit, in which the value of the current quantitative level of the function is displayed.
In this way, for example, the user can check the current quantitative level by looking at the value displayed on the button, and can determine whether the value should be increased or decreased to a desired value. .
The current quantitative level value may be, for example, a map scale. In this way, for example, if a small scale value is displayed on the button and the user says a larger value, the scale value displayed on the button will also change directly to that value and immediately You may be able to see a wide range of maps. Also, for example, when a large scale value is displayed on the button, if the user says a smaller value, the scale value displayed on the button also changes directly to that value, and instantly displays a detailed map. You can see.

The button for displaying the instruction word corresponding to the function may be a button for executing the function without changing to another display screen.
In this way, for example, the function can be executed by interaction without transitioning to another display screen to execute the function, so that the current screen display does not have to be disturbed.

(7) Whether or not voice recognition is accepted may be displayed on the display means.
In this way, for example, it may be possible for the user to visually recognize whether or not a voice operation can be performed.

  Whether or not the voice recognition is accepted may be displayed by changing the color of the display screen, for example. In this way, for example, the state of voice recognition may be immediately felt through the user's vision. In particular, for example, when voice recognition is accepted, a normal color may be used, and when voice recognition is not accepted, a gray scale may be used. In this way, for example, it may be possible for the user to intuitively know whether or not voice recognition is accepted.

(8) Whether the voice recognition is accepted or not may be displayed on the display unit together with the character.
In this way, for example, if a character is seen, it can be determined whether or not a voice operation is possible, so that the user can easily notice.
As an aspect displayed on the character, for example, an aspect in which the state of the character clearly changes may be used. In this way, for example, the state of voice recognition can be immediately felt. For example, the appearance of the character clearly changes, for example, by adding an object to the character, changing the color or form of the character, causing a specific pose or gesture, or displaying a speech bubble. In this way, for example, a user who knows the state of the normal character may immediately notice the change by contrast with the normal state. As an aspect of adding an object to a character, for example, it is preferable to equip the character with equipment related to sound such as a headset, headphones, earphones, and a microphone. In this way, for example, the user may be reminded of voice recognition, which is a function related to sound. For example, the character color or form may be changed by changing the hairstyle or hair color or changing to a different costume. In this way, for example, the difference from the normal state may be easily understood. In particular, for example, if the character's ear is enlarged, the figure may indicate that he is trying to listen to the voice well. Furthermore, as a pose or gesture, for example, even if a gesture of placing a hand behind the ear is given, the figure may indicate that the user is trying to listen to the voice well.

(9) While the character's voice is being output, the voice recognition may be stopped until the voice has been output.
In this way, for example, when a voice is input from the user in the middle of the character's voice, it may be possible to prevent other processing from being executed due to voice recognition. As another process, for example, a process with low urgency may be used, such as volume, brightness, scale, and peripheral search. In this way, it is not necessary to execute the voice recognition even if it is not necessarily executed immediately.

Voice recognition may be accepted while the character's voice is being output.
In this way, for example, when a voice is input from the user in the middle of the character's voice, other processes than the voice recognition may not be interrupted. As another process, for example, a process with high urgency may be used, such as a process of transmitting position information related to the control location to the information collection server. In this way, the process that the user wants to execute immediately does not have to be interrupted.

When the voice input from the user is input while the voice of the character is being output, the output of the voice of the character may be stopped.
In this way, for example, the user's voice can give an impression that the character's speech is blocked. For example, if the voice of the stopped character is not output again, the same utterance may be repeated from the beginning without giving an unnatural impression. Further, if the output of the voice of the stopped character is started, for example, from the point where it is stopped, it may be possible to give the impression that the character has been waiting for the user to speak.

If a predetermined input operation is performed while the character's voice is being output, the character's voice may be stopped.
In this way, for example, when it is not desired that a dialogue with the character be heard by a third party, the voice of the character may be stopped by a predetermined input operation. The predetermined input operation may be a physical key operation, for example. In this way, since it is only necessary to operate a fixed location at all times, a quick operation is easy.

(10) Posting may be performed in which location information regarding the control location is transmitted to the information collection server in response to an input of the user's voice corresponding to a recognition phrase registered in advance in order to recognize the user's voice.
In this way, for example, it is possible to easily and quickly make a posting that informs the control location by voice rather than by manual operation.
As a control place, for example, a check place where the execution position and time change may be used like a control / inspection area. In this way, it is only necessary to collect information on the control place where it is difficult to register the position in advance by posting.
The position information may be, for example, the current position or the center position coordinates. In this way, for example, the control location can be specified by information obtained reliably and easily, and since voice recognition is used, there is little deviation from the actual control position.

(11) As predetermined recognition words / phrases, a word / phrase for starting speech recognition and a word / phrase for starting acceptance of posting may be registered.
In this way, for example, the user can easily execute a multi-stage operation of voice recognition and acceptance of a post by speaking a phrase that activates speech recognition and a phrase that starts accepting a post. I can do it.

For example, a phrase that activates speech recognition and a phrase that starts accepting postings may be registered as separate phrases.
In this way, for example, it may be possible to prevent a recognition error from occurring due to the start of acceptance of a post with the start of voice recognition. Moreover, as a phrase for starting speech recognition and a phrase for starting acceptance of postings, for example, a series of words may be set. If it does in this way, since acceptance of contribution can be started by one shot with the start of voice recognition, for example, it may be in the state where it can post immediately.

(12) As the predetermined recognition phrase, a phrase that activates speech recognition and a phrase that causes posting may be registered.
In this way, for example, the user may be able to easily perform multi-step operations of speech recognition and posting by speaking a phrase that activates speech recognition and a phrase that causes posting.

As a phrase for starting speech recognition and a phrase for posting, for example, it may be registered as separate phrases.
If it does in this way, it may be posted, for example with the start of voice recognition, and it may be prevented from being posted accidentally. Moreover, as a phrase for starting speech recognition and a phrase for posting, for example, a series of phrases may be set. In this way, for example, since the posting can be performed at once with the start of the voice recognition, the posting can be made immediately, and the deviation between the control place and the posting place can be reduced as much as possible.

A predetermined recognition phrase for posting may be shorter than other recognition phrases.
In this way, for example, it may be possible to instruct in a short time about highly urgent posts.

A predetermined recognition phrase for posting may be more redundant than other recognition phrases.
In this way, for example, when normal speech recognition is used, it is possible to reduce the possibility of saying other recognized words and phrases, and to prevent erroneous posting.
The term “redundant” means, for example, that there are a large number of characters and a plurality of characters. In this way, for example, it is possible to reduce the possibility that a user who does not intend to post will utter accidentally.

The predetermined recognition phrase for posting may be a phrase that the user is unlikely to say normally.
In this way, for example, it is possible to prevent frequent misrecognition from being frequently caused by words that are frequently used by the user in the vehicle, and to prevent posting that the user does not intend.

The voice of the character in the dialogue for posting may be shorter than the voice in the other dialogue.
In this way, for example, the dialogue time can be shortened and posted quickly.

(13) The dialogue may be started by inputting a voice from a user corresponding to a predetermined recognition phrase.
In this way, for example, since the predetermined process is started upon input of a voice from the user, the system does not have to start and execute the process.

(14) The dialogue may be started when there is an input of a voice from a user corresponding to a predetermined recognition word / phrase with respect to an output of a predetermined character's voice.
In this way, for example, the output of the character's voice is an opportunity for the user to determine whether or not to start a predetermined process, so that the opportunity to use the system can be increased.
For example, the character voice may be output as an inquiry about whether or not a specific process is started. In this way, for example, the user may be prompted to use the process.
For example, if the character voice is output periodically, the frequency at which the process is used may be increased. If the timing satisfies a predetermined condition, the user may be prompted to use at a timing suitable for the use of the process.

(15) The processing may be terminated when a predetermined time has elapsed without input of voice from the user from the start of execution of the function required by the passenger of the vehicle.
In this way, for example, it is possible to prevent an erroneous operation caused by continuing voice recognition for a long time.

(16) The character may output a voice prompting the user to input a voice during a predetermined time after the execution of the function required by the passenger of the vehicle.
In this way, for example, when the user forgets to start the process, voice input may be prompted.

(17) The functions of the systems (1) to (16) may be configured as a program for causing a computer to realize the functions.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a system and a program in which a user can be entertained to use functions actively without being tired of the operation and driving.

1 is an overall perspective view showing an embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of an apparatus main body. It is a figure which shows the example of a warning screen displayed on a display part. It is a figure which shows the example of a path | route display screen displayed on a display part. It is a figure which shows the first half of the list example of a recognition word. It is a figure which shows the second half of the example of the list of recognition words. It is a figure which shows a part of list example of a response phrase. It is a figure which shows the response phrase according to the aspect of a character. It is a figure which shows the example of various response phrases. It is a figure which shows the example of a display screen waiting for voice recognition starting. It is a figure which shows the example of a display screen of voice recognition start in a present location display. It is a figure which shows the example of a display screen of the voice recognition start at the time of route guidance. It is a figure which shows the example of a display screen of the 1st page of the genre selection in a periphery search. It is a figure which shows the example of a display screen of the 2nd page of the genre selection in a periphery search. It is a figure which shows the example of a display screen which displayed the search result in the periphery search with the icon. It is a figure which shows the example of a display screen in the case of changing a map scale in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a display screen of the 1st page which displayed the search result in the periphery search as a list. It is a figure which shows the example of a display screen of the 2nd page which displayed the search result in the periphery search as a list. It is a figure which shows the example of a display screen which displayed the search route. It is a figure which shows the example of a display screen in the case of changing a scale in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a display screen which changes route conditions. It is a figure which shows the example of a display screen in the case of changing a map scale. It is a figure which shows the example of a display screen in the case of changing a sound volume. It is a figure which shows the example of a display screen in the case of changing a brightness | luminance. It is a figure which shows the example of the response phrase in a timeout process. It is a figure which shows the example of a display screen of a genre change.

[Basic configuration]
FIG. 1 shows an external view of an embodiment of a navigation apparatus suitable as an electronic device constituting the system of the present invention, FIG. 2 shows a functional block diagram thereof, and FIGS. An example of a display form is shown. As shown in FIG. 1, the navigation device includes a portable device body 2 that can be carried and a cradle 3 that is an attachment member that holds the device body 2. By attaching the apparatus main body 2 to the cradle 3, it functions as a vehicle-mounted navigation device, and by removing it from the cradle 3, it functions as a portable navigation device (PND). In the present embodiment, the apparatus main body 2 can be attached to and detached from the cradle 3 and used together with the cradle 3 on a dashboard of a vehicle, or the apparatus main body 2 can be removed from the cradle 3 and used as a portable (PND). Although it is a type that can be performed, it cannot be easily attached to and detached from the cradle 3, and may be a vehicle-mounted fixed type or a portable type. Further, it may be realized by installing a predetermined application program (including preinstallation) in a mobile terminal such as a mobile phone. The application program may be a system for performing navigation, or a program for accessing a server on which a system for performing navigation is mounted and using the system. The present invention can be applied to various types of navigation systems.

  The apparatus main body 2 is detachably attached to the cradle 3. The apparatus main body 2 includes a flat rectangular case main body 4. A display unit 5 is disposed on the front surface of the case body 4, and a touch panel 8 that detects which part of the display unit 5 is touched is provided on the display unit 5, and alarm lamps 9 are provided on both sides of the front surface. It has. The cradle 3 includes a cradle body 6 that holds the apparatus body 2 and a pedestal portion 7 that points the cradle body 6 in an arbitrary posture at a predetermined position (dashboard or the like) in the vehicle interior. The pedestal portion 7 is sucked and fixed on a dashboard or the like by a suction cup provided on the bottom surface. The pedestal portion 7 and the cradle body 6 are coupled so as to be rotatable within a predetermined angle range via a coupling mechanism such as a ball joint. Since it is a ball joint, the pedestal portion 7 and the cradle body 6 rotate and move relatively within an arbitrary angle range in the three-dimensional direction, and remain at an arbitrary angular position due to frictional resistance in the joint portion. Therefore, the apparatus main body 2 attached to the cradle main body 6 can also be arrange | positioned with arbitrary attitude | positions on a dashboard.

  Further, an SD memory card slot portion 21 is provided on one side surface of the case body 4, and an SD memory card 22 on which map data and the like are recorded can be inserted into the SD memory card slot portion 21. The SD memory card slot section 21 includes a memory card reader / writer that reads and writes information from and into the inserted SD memory card 22. Further, a DC jack 10 is provided on the side surface of the case body 4 where the SD memory card slot portion 21 is provided. The DC jack 10 is for connecting a cigar plug cord (not shown), and is connected to a cigar socket of the vehicle via the cigar plug cord so that power can be supplied.

  On the other hand, a power switch and a USB terminal 23 are provided on the side surface opposite to the SD memory card slot 21. A software application can be upgraded by connecting to a personal computer via the USB terminal 23.

  The following devices and parts are arranged inside the case body 4. That is, the microwave receiver 11 is disposed inside the case body 4 on the back side. The microwave receiver 11 receives microwaves in a predetermined frequency band, and detects the signal level of the received microwaves when receiving microwaves in the set frequency band. Specifically, the RSSI voltage corresponding to the signal level and the electric field strength is used. The predetermined frequency band is, for example, a frequency band including a microwave frequency emitted from the vehicle speed measuring device.

  A GPS receiver 12 that receives a GPS signal and obtains the current position is disposed inside the upper surface of the case body 4. An infrared communication device 14 is disposed inside the case body 4 on the front side. The infrared communication device 14 transmits / receives data to / from a communication device incorporating an infrared communication device such as a mobile phone 15. Further, a speaker 20 is also built in the case body 4.

  Furthermore, the apparatus of the present embodiment includes a wireless receiver 13 and a remote control receiver 16. The wireless receiver 13 receives incoming radio waves having a predetermined frequency. The remote control receiver 16 performs data communication with a remote control (portable device: handset) 17 and performs various settings for the device. The wireless receiver 13 receives incoming radio waves in a predetermined frequency band. For example, the predetermined frequency may be a radio frequency band used when the emergency vehicle notifies the base station of the vehicle position.

  In addition to the navigation function, the navigation device of the present embodiment also has a target notification function as a target notification device that notifies a target such as a vehicle speed measurement device or other traffic monitoring points existing in the vicinity. The navigation function and the target object notification function are stored on the EEPROM of the control unit 18 as a program executed by the computer included in the control unit 18, and are realized by being executed by the computer included in the control unit 18.

  That is, the control unit 18 includes the above various input devices (GPS receiver 12, microwave receiver 11, wireless receiver 13, touch panel 8, infrared communication device 14, remote control receiver 16, SD memory card slot unit 21, Predetermined processing is executed based on information input from the USB terminal 23, etc., and output devices (display unit 5, alarm lamp 9, speaker 20, infrared communication device 14, SD memory card slot unit 21, USB terminal 23, etc.) Uses to output predetermined information, warnings, and messages. This predetermined process is for executing each of the above functions, and accesses the database 19 and the SD memory card 22 as necessary.

  Here, the database 19 can be realized by a nonvolatile memory (for example, EEPROM) in the microcomputer of the control unit 18 or externally attached to the microcomputer. The database 19 is registered with information necessary for carrying out certain targets, maps, and other functions at the time of shipment, and data and the like regarding the targets added thereafter are subjected to predetermined processing. It can be updated afterwards. This update process may be performed, for example, by inserting the SD memory card 22 storing additional data into the SD memory card slot unit 21 and transferring it from the SD memory card 22 to the database 19. . The data update can be performed by using the infrared communication device 7 or a personal computer or other external device connected via the USB terminal 23.

  The control unit 18 for realizing the target notification function operates as follows. That is, the control unit 18 outputs a predetermined alarm when the microwave receiver 11 receives a desired microwave. Examples of the alarm include a buzzer using the speaker 20 and a sound output for notifying reception of microwaves (detection of the vehicle speed measurement device, etc.), a message output using characters or images using the display unit 5, and the like. .

  Moreover, the control part 18 outputs a predetermined alarm, when the radio | wireless receiver 13 receives desired radio | wireless. Examples of the alarm include a buzzer using the speaker 20 and a sound output for notifying the reception of a microwave (approach of an emergency vehicle, etc.), a message output using characters or an image using the display unit 5, and the like. The alarm associated with the reception of the radio and the alarm associated with the reception of the microwave may be different from each other.

  Furthermore, the control unit 18 outputs a predetermined alarm when the current position detected by the GPS receiver 12 and the position of a target such as a traffic monitoring point stored in the database 19 are in a predetermined positional relationship. . Therefore, the database 19 is safer with more attention such as information on the target to be detected (position information of the target including longitude and latitude, target type information, etc.), accident-prone areas, traffic control information, etc. There are traffic safety information for driving, landmarks and various useful information for driving. Each information is registered by associating specific information types (types of targets, types of traffic control, accident-prone areas, landmark names, etc.) with location information.

  The distance to the target when the alarm is issued can be changed for each type of target. As modes of alarms, there are alarms using voice or the like using the speaker 20 and alarms using the display unit 5 as described above. FIG. 3 shows an example of an alarm by the display unit 5. In this embodiment, since the device is a navigation device and has map data as will be described later, as a basic screen, the control unit 18 reads road network information around the current location, and It has a function of displaying a map on the display unit 5. Then, the warning screen 70 is displayed on the display unit 5 so as to overlap the currently displayed screen (here, the map around the current position). FIG. 3 shows a display example of a warning screen 70 when the distance between the current position and the LH system, which is a kind of speed measurement device, which is one of the traffic monitoring points, is 500 m when the map 50 is displayed. Is shown. Further, a process of outputting a warning sound indicating the alarm type and distance such as “500m ahead LH system” from the speaker 20 is performed.

  On the other hand, the control unit 18 for realizing the navigation function operates as follows. First, the database 19 stores road network information for navigation. The navigation information stored in the database 19 may store all the information about the whole country at the time of shipment, and the map data etc. are stored in the SD memory card 22 for each region. In this case, the user may prepare the SD memory card 22 storing necessary map data, etc., and attach it to the SD memory card slot 21 for use. Note that the map data and the like stored in the SD memory card 22 may be transferred to the database 19 and stored, or the control unit 18 may access the SD memory card 22 to read out and use it. good.

  The control unit 18 has a function of reading road network information around the current position from the database 19 and displaying a map around the current position on the display unit 5. The control unit 18 can search for a route (route) from one position to another using this road network information. Further, the database 19 stores a telephone number database in which a telephone number is stored in association with the location information and name of the house, company, facility, etc. of the telephone number, and an address and positional information of the address in association with each other. Provide an address database. The database 19 stores location information of traffic monitoring points such as speed measuring devices together with their types.

  The control unit 18 has a function of performing processing of a general navigation device. That is, a map around the current position is displayed on the display unit 5 at any time, and a destination setting button is displayed. When the touch panel 8 detects a touch at a position corresponding to the display position of the destination setting button, the control unit 18 performs a destination setting process. In the destination setting process, a destination setting menu is displayed on the display unit 5 to prompt the user to select a destination setting method. The destination setting menu includes a telephone number search button and an address search button that prompt the user to select a destination setting method. When it is detected that the telephone number search button has been touched, a telephone number input screen is displayed, and position information corresponding to the input telephone number is acquired from the database 19. When it is detected that the address search button has been touched, an address selection input screen is displayed, and position information corresponding to the input address is acquired from the database 19. Then, the acquired position information is set as the position information of the destination, and a recommended route from the current position to the destination is obtained based on the road network information stored in the database 19. As a method for calculating the recommended route, a known method such as a Dijkstra method can be used.

  Then, the control unit 18 displays the calculated recommended route together with the surrounding map. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, a route 53 from the current position 51 to the destination 52 is displayed as a recommended route in a predetermined color (for example, red). This is the same as a general navigation system. In the present embodiment, the control unit 18 compares the position information on the route 53 with the position information of the target such as the traffic monitoring point stored in the database 19 and determines the traffic monitoring point or the like located on the route 53. Display position. Information provision for traveling on the route 53 by safe driving may be limited to traffic monitoring points among various targets stored in the database 19.

  Thereby, for example, as shown in FIG. 4, a balloon is displayed from a position on the road, and the type of traffic monitoring point at that position stored in the database 19 is displayed in the balloon. For example, FIG. 4A is a display example of a warning point search screen, and shows an example in which traffic monitoring points 55a to 55f are displayed. The traffic monitoring point 55a displays the letter “N” indicating the N system in a balloon. The traffic monitoring points 55b, 55c, and 55e display characters “LH” indicating the LH system in a balloon. The traffic monitoring point 55d displays “loop” characters indicating a loop coil in a balloon. The traffic monitoring point 55f displays the letter “H” indicating the H system in a balloon. As described above, when the touch panel 8 detects a touch on the balloon position in the simplified display state in which characters are displayed in the balloon, the simplified display is switched to the detailed display as shown in FIG. In the detailed display, the warning screen shown in FIG. 3 is displayed in a balloon.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 4A, a traffic monitoring point type designation unit 56 is displayed on the lower right side in the display unit 5. The traffic monitoring point type designation unit 56 is a part that displays a button listing the types of traffic monitoring points existing on the route 53. In the example of FIG. 4A, the “N” type button 57a indicating the N system of the traffic monitoring point 55a, the “LH” type button 57b indicating the LH system of the traffic monitoring points 55b, 55c, and 55e, A “loop” type button 57c indicating the loop coil of the monitoring point 55d and an “H” type button 57d indicating the H system of the traffic monitoring point 55f are displayed. When the touch on the display unit of the type button is detected from the touch panel 8, the control unit 18 reversely displays the touched type button and simplifies the display mode of the traffic monitoring point corresponding to the touched type button. If it is being displayed, it is switched to detailed display, and if it is being displayed in detail, it is switched to simple display.

  The car navigation apparatus according to the present embodiment includes a surrounding search function as a method for setting a destination (hereinafter also including a transit point). When this peripheral search function is selected and activated, the control unit 18 extracts a facility that matches the specified condition and is close to the current position, and draws the extraction result on the display unit 5. Then, the user can designate one of the candidates drawn on the display unit 5 as a destination (including a waypoint) by confirming and selecting one of the candidates.

  That is, in order to realize such a function, the database 19 of the present embodiment stores information about each facility in association with information related to the facility classification together with the position information. Information on the classification of facilities is a plurality of types of items grouped by genre names that match each facility.

  In this embodiment, when any item is specified, the control unit 18 extracts facilities that match the specified item and are close to the current position, and uses the extraction result as a destination candidate. Drawing on the display unit 5. The user can specify a destination by selecting one of the candidates drawn on the display unit 5.

  When one of the items is selected, the control unit 18 accesses the database 19 and is a facility existing within a reference distance (for example, 10 km) centered on the current position, and matches the classification of the designated item. Extract what to do. Then, a predetermined number (for example, 10) of facilities closest to each other are drawn by overlapping icons (marks) indicating the facilities at corresponding locations on the map drawn on the display unit 5. As facility information stored in the database 19, each facility is registered in association with each facility. When drawing, the associated icon is read out and drawn at a predetermined position on the display unit 5.

  In addition, when the current position exists on the map drawn on the display unit 5, the vehicle icon indicating the vehicle is overlaid and drawn at a position corresponding to the current position. Furthermore, when drawing such facility icons, numbers are added and displayed in the order from the nearest vehicle. As the vehicle moves, the number is updated as needed.

  When the user selects a desired facility, the control unit 18 that recognizes the desired facility obtains a recommended route with the facility as the destination, and draws the result on the map of the display unit 5.

  Further, the control unit 18 has a function of performing route guidance to the set destination. That is, the control unit 18 draws map information representing a road or the like on the display unit 5 while sequentially detecting the position of the vehicle by GPS or autonomous navigation according to the selection of the guidance start by the user. Directions are given using images and sounds.

  For the instruction input such as designation and selection by the user described above, a button on which the name of an item or function is displayed on the display unit 5 or a facility icon is touched or selected by remote control operation, or a predetermined sound is input. This can be triggered by the detection of the control unit 18.

[Dialogue function with character]
《Interactivity basics》
Hereinafter, the dialogue function with the character which is the feature of this embodiment will be described. This interactive function is a function that is realized by the control unit 18 executing the program, and that the recognition information based on the result of recognizing the voice of the user who is a vehicle occupant and the voice of the user are recognized. This is a function realized by outputting a voice of a predetermined character shown.

  In order to execute this interactive function, the database 19 stores a recognition word (recognized word / phrase) and a response phrase that is voice data of a character corresponding to the recognition word. The control unit 18 recognizes the user's voice input via the microphone 20 based on the recognition word. That is, the control unit 18 recognizes the voice spoken by the user as a phrase based on the user's voice signal, and determines whether or not the recognized phrase matches the recognized word. Then, the control unit 18 causes the speaker 20 to output a response phrase corresponding to the recognized word determined to match the recognized word / phrase. By preparing various combinations of a recognition word for dialogue and a response phrase that is a voice of a character, it is possible to cope with various processes executed in response to the dialogue, as will be described later.

  Thus, the user can easily interact with the character by using the electronic device as the system. The character of this embodiment is set as a girl named “Rei”, for example. Various functions such as the above peripheral search can also be performed by dialogue with the character. The database 19 stores “letan” as a recognition word as a character name.

  The database 19 stores character image (including still images and moving images) data. Based on the image data, the control unit 18 can display a still image and a moving image of the character on the display unit 5. In addition, the control part 18 is realistic about the situation where the character is talking by the lip link which moves the mouth and body of the character displayed on the display part 5 so that it may correspond with the response phrase to output about some response phrases. Can make you feel.

  Further, as the voice and image of the character stored in the database 19, a plurality of modes (modes) are set for the same person. For example, the database 19 stores a response phrase and image data in three modes of “standard ray”, “ray after transformation”, and “chibi ray” while being a single person “Ray”. doing. “Standard Ray” is the basic mode of the character. “Ray after transformation” is a mode in which clothes and hairstyle are changed in “standard ray”. “Chibirei” is a child-like mode with a different head and body. The control unit 18 outputs the voice and image of the character according to the selection of any mode by the user.

《Recognition word》
5 and 6 are examples of lists of recognized words stored in the database 19. A list number is assigned to each column of the list of recognition words. In each column, as will be described later, in each display screen M1, V1, V1a, S1, S1a, S2, S2a, S2_list, S2a_list, R1, R1a, R1b, A1, A2, A3 displayed on the display unit 5 , Each contains a recognizable recognition word.

  In list number 1, an activation word for starting speech recognition, “Reatan, Bois Kontorol” is registered. When recognizing the activation word, the control unit 18 activates a voice recognition function for executing various functions such as peripheral search. For this reason, in the initial state, the control unit 19 stands by in a state where only the activation word can be recognized by speech. This list number 1 corresponds to a display screen M1 described later.

  In list number 2, a recognition word for starting one of peripheral search, scale change, volume change, and brightness change after voice recognition is activated is registered. For example, “Shugen” is registered as a recognition word for starting the peripheral search. “Squel” is registered as a recognition word for starting the scale change. “Onyo” is registered as the recognition word for starting the volume change. “Kido” is registered as a recognition word for starting the luminance change. This list number 2 corresponds to a display screen V1 described later. Furthermore, in the list number 2, a recognition word “jitaku” for searching for a route to the home with a single utterance when returning to the home is registered. As described above, since the recognition word corresponding to the function frequently used by the user is registered as the recognition word when the voice recognition is activated, the voice recognition can be started and immediately executed.

  In list number 3, a recognition word corresponding to a function to be executed after starting route guidance is registered. For example, in addition to the recognition word of list number 2, recognition words for canceling route guidance such as “Anna Chusyu”, “Anna Tesushi”, and “Anna Quit” are registered. In this way, by preparing multiple types of recognition words that execute the same function of canceling route guidance, the possibility of being unable to recognize even if the user's utterance content is slightly different is reduced. it can. This list number 3 corresponds to a display screen V1a described later. In particular, “Shuhen”, “Onryo”, and “Kido” are instruction words displayed on the buttons of the display screens V1 and V1a, as will be described later. Therefore, the user can input an instruction by speaking the displayed instruction word.

  In the list numbers 4 and 5, recognition words for designating genres in the peripheral search are registered. This genre recognition word is displayed in hiragana characters on a button of an item for designating a genre. In a screen display in which buttons for recognized words belonging to list number 4 are displayed, recognizable genres are limited to recognized words belonging to list number 4. This list number 4 corresponds to a display screen S1 described later. There are several types of recognition words that specify the same genre, such as “Famire”, “Family Restoran” for family restaurants, and “Karen”, “Denkiya” for electrical stores. This reduces the possibility of being unable to recognize even if the user's utterance content is slightly different

  In a screen display in which buttons for recognized words belonging to list number 5 are displayed, recognizable genres are limited to recognized words belonging to list number 5. This list number 5 corresponds to a display screen S1a described later. As described above, the genres that can be recognized on each display screen are limited to the recognition words corresponding to the buttons of the items displayed on the respective display screens, so that the possibility of erroneous recognition is reduced.

  Furthermore, in the list number 4, recognition words “Nipage” and “Next” for making a transition to the display screen S 1 a of the list number 5 are registered. In the list number 5, recognition words “1 page” and “mae” for making a transition to the display screen S 1 of the list number 4 are registered. In this way, by preparing multiple types of recognition words that execute the same function of changing the display screen of genres, there is a possibility that even if the user's utterance content is slightly different, it cannot be recognized Can be reduced.

  In the list numbers 6, 7, 8, and 9, recognition words for selecting facilities searched in the peripheral search are registered. On the display screens corresponding to the list numbers 6 and 7, the facilities searched by the peripheral search are displayed at locations on the map with icons numbered in order from the current position. As the recognition word, a name of a number for selecting a facility is registered. For example, recognition words indicating numbers are registered, such as “1”, “1st”, “ni”, “niban”. As described above, by preparing a plurality of types of recognition words for selecting the same target as the destination, even if the user's utterance content is slightly different, the possibility of being unable to be recognized can be reduced. In the display screens corresponding to the list numbers 6 and 7, all the searched facilities (10 places in this example) can be selected by voice regardless of whether they are displayed on the screen.

  In list numbers 6 and 7, recognition words for changing the scale of the displayed map are registered. That is, in the list number 6, the recognition word “scale” that receives the start of the scale change is registered. This list number 6 corresponds to a display screen S2 described later. In list number 7, in addition to the recognition word “scale” for accepting the start of scale change, a recognition word for changing the scale is registered. This list number 7 corresponds to a display screen S2a described later.

  The recognition word for changing the scale includes a recognition word for enlarging the scale of the map for detailed display, a recognition word for reducing the scale of the map for wide area display, and a recognition word indicating the number and unit of the scale Is included. The recognition words that increase the scale of the map are “crack” and “shosai”, and the recognition words that reduce the scale of the map are “shukusho” and “kouiki”. The recognition word to be changed is included. The stepwise means that a plurality of levels of scales are set in advance and the levels are raised or lowered one by one. In this way, by preparing multiple types of recognition words for executing the same function of changing the scale in stages, it may not be possible to recognize even if the user's utterance content is slightly different. Can be reduced. In particular, when the scale is raised or lowered, the words used daily are used as the recognition words, so that the user does not have to be confused with the words for instructing the volume change.

  Also, the recognition words that change the scale include recognition words that can specify the scale number and unit, such as “get meme”, “get meme”, and “get meme”. It is. As a result, when the user utters and designates a recognition word of a desired scale, the control unit 18 that has recognized the word directly changes the scale to the designated map. Furthermore, in the list numbers 6 and 7, recognition words “Risuto” and “Risuto Hyoji” to be transferred to a list display screen of a list number 8 to be described later are registered. In this way, by preparing multiple types of recognition words that execute the same function of transitioning to a list display screen, it may not be possible to recognize even if the user's utterance content is slightly different Can be reduced.

  On the display screens corresponding to the list numbers 8 and 9, the facilities searched by the peripheral search are displayed as a list by the buttons displaying the numbers. The name of the number for selecting the facility displayed as a list in this way is registered as a recognition word. The list number 8 corresponds to a display screen S2_list described later, and the list number 9 corresponds to a display screen S2a_list described later. The names of the registered numbers are the same as the list numbers 8 and 9 described above. However, in the list numbers 8 and 9, the facilities that can be selected are limited to those displayed on the display screen. In this example, the first to fifth facilities can be selected on the display screen S2_list corresponding to the list number 8, and the sixth to tenth facilities can be selected on the list number S2_list.

  Furthermore, in the list numbers 8 and 9, recognition words “Listo” and “Listo release” for canceling the list display are registered. In this way, by preparing a plurality of types of recognition words for executing the same function of canceling the list display, it is possible to reduce the possibility of being unable to recognize even if the user's utterance content is slightly different. . Further, similarly to the list numbers 4 and 5, in the list number 8, recognition words “Nipage” and “Next” for changing to the display screen S 1 a of the list number 9 are registered. In the list number 9, recognition words “1 page” and “mae” for transition to the display screen S 1 of the list number 8 are registered.

  In the list numbers 10, 11, and 12, the recognition words “Anna Kashii”, “Annoy Regards”, and “Anna Ishii” that indicate the start of the searched route guidance are registered. In this way, by preparing a plurality of types of recognition words that indicate the same function of route guidance, the possibility of being unable to be recognized can be reduced even if the user's utterance content is slightly different. In particular, in addition to the command tone of “Anna Kashii”, we also prepare the tone of the request with the friendliness of “Are you happy” and “Anise”, so that the tone depends on the familiarity with the character. Enjoy changing.

  The list number 10 corresponds to a display screen that displays the searched route after the route search. This display screen corresponds to a display screen R1 described later. The list number 11 corresponds to a display screen for changing the scale of the map while displaying the searched route. This display screen corresponds to a display screen R1a described later. The list number 12 corresponds to a display screen for changing the route condition while displaying the searched route. This display screen corresponds to a display screen R1b described later.

  The list numbers 10, 11, and 12 include a recognition word “scale” for starting the scale change, a recognition word “syuhen” for re-searching the surrounding facilities, and a recognition word “joken” for starting the change of the route condition. ”,“ Lutojoken ”are registered. In this way, by preparing a plurality of types of recognition words that indicate the same function of changing the route condition, it is possible to reduce the possibility of being unable to recognize even if the user's utterance content is slightly different. .

  Furthermore, in the list number 11, similarly to the list number 7, a recognition word for changing the scale is registered. In the list number 12, a recognition word for changing the route condition is registered. The route condition is a search condition for what is prioritized to search for a route. As route conditions of this embodiment, expressway priority, general road priority, and recommended route are set. The recommended route is a condition set by default, for example, priority on the required time to the destination, priority on the distance to the destination, or the like. Corresponding to this, in the list number 12, "Suisho", "Ippando", and "Kousokudo" are registered.

  In the list numbers 13, 14, and 15, recognition words for changing various functions of the present embodiment are registered. In the list number 13, a recognition word for changing the map scale is registered as described above. The list number 13 corresponds to a display screen A1 described later.

  In the list number 14, a recognition word for changing the volume is registered. The list number 14 corresponds to a display screen A2 described later. The recognition word for changing the volume includes a recognition word for increasing the volume, a recognition word for decreasing the volume, and a recognition word indicating the volume level.

  The recognition words that increase the volume include recognition words that change the volume in stages, such as “App” and “Large”, and the recognition words that decrease the volume, such as “Daun” and “Chiisaku”. Stepwise means that a plurality of levels of volume are set in advance, and that level is raised or lowered one by one. In this way, by preparing multiple types of recognition words for executing the same function of changing the volume in stages, it is not possible to recognize even if the user's utterance content is slightly different Can be reduced. In particular, when the volume is raised or lowered, the words used every day are used as the recognition words, so that the user does not have to be confused with the words for instructing to change the volume.

  The recognition word for changing the sound volume includes a recognition word that can specify a number indicating the sound volume level, such as “Zero”, “Ichi”, and “Ni”. Thus, when the user utters and specifies a desired volume level, the control unit 18 that recognizes the level directly changes the volume to the specified level. “Zero” is a recognition word that realizes the function of reducing the volume to zero, that is, the function of muting the sound output from the speaker 20. Thereby, when the user does not want to hear the voice of the character by another person, the voice of the character can be prevented from being heard immediately by simply speaking the recognition word that makes the volume zero.

  In the list number 15, a recognition word for changing the luminance is registered. The list number 15 corresponds to a display screen A3 described later. The recognition word for changing the luminance includes a recognition word for increasing the luminance, a recognition word for decreasing the luminance, and a recognition word indicating the luminance level.

  The recognition words that increase the brightness include “appu” and “Akaruku”, and the recognition words that decrease the brightness include recognition words that change the brightness in stages, such as “daun” and “kuraku”. Stepwise means that a plurality of levels of brightness are set in advance, and the levels are raised or lowered one by one. In this way, by preparing multiple types of recognition words for executing the same function of changing the brightness stepwise, it is not possible to recognize even if the user's utterance content is slightly different. Can be reduced. In particular, when the brightness is raised or lowered, the words used every day are used as the recognition words, so that the user does not have to be confused about the words for instructing the brightness change.

  The recognition word for changing the luminance includes a recognition word that can specify a number indicating the luminance level, such as “Zero”, “Ichi”, and “Ni”. As a result, when the user speaks a desired luminance level, the control unit 18 that recognizes the level directly changes the luminance to the designated level. “Zero” is a recognition word that realizes a function of reducing the luminance to zero and a function of darkening the screen of the display unit 5 to make the display contents invisible. Thereby, when the user does not want to see the character image by another person, the user can immediately hide the character image simply by speaking the recognition word with zero brightness.

  In the above list numbers 13, 14, and 15, common recognition words for executing various functions are registered. In other words, “scale” related to scale change, “syuhen” related to surrounding search, “on-ryo” related to volume change, and “kid” related to brightness change are registered.

  When the user utters “squeal” on the display screen of the list number 13, the control unit 18 that recognizes this completes the setting of the changed scale. On the other hand, when the user utters “squeal” on the display screens of the list numbers 14 and 15, the control unit 18 that has recognized this transitions to a display screen for changing the scale, that is, a display screen corresponding to the list number 13. .

  When the user speaks “ONRYO” on the display screen of the list number 14, the control unit 18 that recognizes this completes the setting of the changed volume. On the other hand, when the user speaks “ONRYO” on the display screens of the list numbers 13 and 15, the control unit 18, which recognizes this, shifts to a display screen for changing the volume, that is, a display screen corresponding to the list number 14.

  When the user utters “Kid” on the display screen of the list number 15, the control unit 18 that recognizes this completes the setting of the changed luminance. On the other hand, when the user utters “kid” on the display screens of the list numbers 13 and 14, the control unit 18 that recognizes this transitions to the display screen for changing the brightness, that is, the display screen corresponding to the list number 15.

  As described above, even if the same recognition word is used, the user does not need to memorize different recognition words in order to execute related but different functions by changing the function according to the display screen.

  Furthermore, in the list numbers 13, 14 and 15, a recognition word “jitaku” for searching for a route to the home with one utterance when returning to the home is registered. As described above, since the recognition word corresponding to the function frequently used by the user is registered as the recognition word when the voice recognition is activated, the voice recognition can be started and immediately executed.

  In each of the list numbers 1 to 15, recognition words that can be commonly recognized on a plurality of display screens and that execute various functions are registered. First, recognition words such as “return”, “taken”, and “redo” are registered as phrases to return to the previous process. In addition, recognition words such as “onse kaijo”, “shukyu”, and “genzaichi” are registered as release phrases for releasing functions and processes. “Onseika” is a recognition word for canceling speech recognition. “Shuyu” is a recognition word for ending the current process. “Genzaichi” is a recognition word for transition to the current position display. These are recognition words that can be recognized in common on all display screens after voice recognition is activated. By issuing this common recognition word, the user can re-execute processing, return to the initial state, etc. at any time.

  Furthermore, a recognition word for recognizing the user's Yes (positive) and No (negative) utterances is registered in the list number 16. This recognition word is used for recognizing the user's simple utterance “Yes” or “No” in response to an inquiry from the character. Such a recognition word can be recognized in common on all screens. As the recognition words for Yes, “Oke-ke”, “Say me”, “Yes”, “No”, “Yes” are registered. “No”, “Stop”, “No”, “No”, “No”, “Don't need”, and “Noisy” are registered as No recognition words. Thus, by preparing a plurality of types of recognition words for recognizing the user's Yes and No, it is possible to reduce the possibility of being unable to recognize even if the user's utterance content is slightly different. In particular, the expressions “Yes” and “No” vary depending on the conversation partner, but the user can reply “Yes” and “No” in accordance with the tone of the character.

  As will be described later, the recognition words as described above include those that are displayed as characters on the display screen and those that are not displayed on the display screen. What is displayed in characters may be able to visually confirm what the user should speak in order to cause the control unit 18 to execute the function.

《Response phrase》
7 to 21 are excerpts of a part of a list of response phrases that the control unit 18 outputs as the voice of the character according to the recognition result of the recognition word. The database 19 stores such a list of response phrases and voice data. In the list, the upper column of grayed-out columns is the response phrase number. The lower column is the content of processing executed by the control unit 18 according to the recognition word spoken by the user. “Reatan, Bois Kontorol” in the margin is an activation word registered in the list number 1 of the recognition word.

  As the response phrase, one or more phrases are registered for each process executed by the control unit 18. FIG. 7 is an excerpt of a list of response phrases for “Standard Ray”. The first column from the left in FIG. 7 shows a plurality of response phrases when the user utters the activation word “Retan, Boys Kontrol” and the control unit 18 starts speech recognition. The second column is a response phrase when the control unit 18 reduces the volume. The third column is a response phrase when the user selects the eighth facility and the control unit 18 changes the destination to the eighth. The fourth column is a response phrase when the control unit 18 stops the guidance. The fifth column is a response phrase when the control unit 18 changes the volume or luminance level to 3.

  Such a list of response phrases is set differently for each of the three modes of the character, that is, “Standard Ray”, “Ray after Transformation”, and “Chibi Ray”. Depending on these three aspects, the response phrases in the list are different. FIG. 8A is an excerpt from the list of response phrases at the start of speech recognition of “Ray after transformation”. Compare the response phrase of “Rei after transformation” with the response phrase of “Standard Ray”, such as “Is there anything else to do?” Or “Start speech recognition. Speak slowly and clearly.” A more polite tone is set. FIG. 8B is an excerpt from the list of response phrases at the start of voice recognition of “Chibirei”. The response phrase of “Chibi Rei” has a lower tone than the response phrase of “Standard Rei”, such as “Raitan, voice control started.”, “I've been waiting.” Yes. 9A to 9I are excerpts of response phrases for user utterances. These specific response phrases will be described in a processing example described later. In addition, as a user's dialogue, for example, when the user's utterance and the character's voice are established as the utterance and a response to the utterance, a sense of mutual communication can be obtained. Even if the utterance and the meaning of the utterance are inappropriate, the user feels interesting and unexpected. Even if the utterance and the response to this are established as semantic content and the case where the semantic content to the utterance is inappropriate, it is possible to produce imperfections close to real conversation, It can make you feel human.

  In such a list, one or a plurality of response phrases are registered in the same processing column. The control unit 18 randomly outputs the response phrase corresponding to the same process from among those registered in each column. However, the control unit 18 selects at random from the ones excluding the previously output response phrase so that only the same phrase is not repeatedly output. In particular, as shown in FIG. 7, a large number of response phrases in the case of frequently used processes such as the start of voice recognition are prepared, and the control unit 18 outputs them at random.

An example of the operation of the control unit 18 is as follows.
1. When there are five phrases A, B, C, D, and E, first, the phrase is randomly selected from five.
2. If B is selected first, next time, A, C, D, and E are selected.
3. Next, when E is selected, next time, A, C, and D are selected.
4). When all the selections have been completed, the next time, the process returns to the beginning, and a random selection is made from five of A, B, C, D, and E.
In the present embodiment, in accordance with the dialogue, as predetermined processing for outputting information that the user wants to know, processing for executing various functions listed below is performed. If the process corresponding to the dialog is a process that outputs information as a result of the dialog, the willingness to interact with the character is motivated to execute the function. If the process corresponding to the dialog is a process for outputting information during the dialog, the willingness to proceed with the dialog by sequentially speaking is increased in order to execute the function. If the process corresponding to the dialog is a process of outputting a response phrase constituting the dialog, the user can enjoy the dialog itself because he / she wants to hear the voice of the character.

《Nearby search processing》
The control unit 18 executes various processes in accordance with voice recognition for recognizing the voice spoken by the user based on the recognition word as described above and a dialog for outputting the voice of the character based on the response phrase. First, the peripheral search process according to such a dialogue will be described.

  The peripheral search is a process for obtaining target information by sequentially narrowing down a plurality of candidates through a plurality of selections, and includes a genre selection, facility selection, and route selection phases. Such information is information that the passenger of the vehicle wants to know, particularly information that the driver of the vehicle wants to know.

  Hereinafter, an example of the peripheral search process will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 21 are explanatory diagrams showing examples of display screens in each phase on the left and examples of recognition words and response phrases corresponding to the examples on the right. Each display screen M1 (including M1a), V1, V1a, S1, S1a, S2, S2a, S2_list, S2a_list, R1, R1a, R1b, A1 (including A1a), A2 (including A2a), A3 (including A3a) Includes) corresponds to the recognition word list numbers 1 to 15 (FIGS. 5 and 6) as described above.

  The description shown on the left side of the display screen examples of FIGS. 10 to 21 is “recognition word recognized as user's voice → character response phrase output according to this → display screen transitioned thereby” Show.

  The control unit 18 displays these display screens on the display unit 5 by drawing screen configuration data such as buttons, icons, text, and maps stored in the database 19 in the memory. In addition, as described above, the control unit 18 can perform surrounding search, route search, and route guidance.

(Waiting for voice recognition activation)
First, when waiting for voice recognition activation for predetermined processing such as peripheral search, the control unit 18 is in a state where only the activation word can be recognized. The display screen M1 in FIG. 10 is an example of a screen waiting for voice recognition activation. On the display screen M1, an icon indicating the current position 51 is displayed together with a map around the current position 51. The current time (10:00) is displayed at the upper left of the display screen M1, and the scale button B1 indicating the current quantitative level of the map scale and the unit (100m) and voice recognition are displayed below it. A voice recognition button B2 on which an instruction word (voice recognition) to be activated is displayed is displayed. In the lower right of the display screen M1, the upper body of the character 100 is displayed. The character 100 is a standard ray, and its display position is a position that does not block display of various buttons, the current position, the current time, and the like.

  In this voice recognition activation waiting state, predetermined processing such as peripheral search cannot be performed by voice recognition. For this reason, the user who wants to change the map scale makes a selection by touching the scale button B1. When the scale button B1 is selected in this way, as shown in the display screen M1a of FIG. 10, the control unit 18 displays the + button B1a and the − button B1b on the right side of the scale button B1. The user makes a selection by touching the + button B1a when the scale is increased, and the-button B1b when the scale is decreased. In response to this, the control unit 18 changes the scale of the displayed map in stages.

  In such a state of waiting for voice recognition activation, when the user utters “Raitan, Bois Kontororo”, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase corresponding to this and activates voice recognition. To do. As a result, for example, the speaker 20 outputs a sound of “something necessary?”. Then, the control unit 18 changes the display screen M1 to the display screen V1 shown in FIG.

  Even when the user selects the voice recognition button B2 by touching, the control unit 18 outputs the response phrase as described above to activate voice recognition. The control unit 18 causes the display unit 5 to display buttons corresponding to functions that can be selected by either manual operation or voice input in different colors from other buttons. For example, on the display screen of the present embodiment, buttons that can be selected by voice input are displayed in blue, and other buttons are displayed in black. As a result, the user can visually recognize a function that allows voice input. Whether or not the same function can be selected by voice input differs depending on the display screen. For example, in the display screens M1 and M1a in FIG. 10, since the voice recognition function has not started, the scale button B1 cannot be selected by voice input and is displayed in black. After the voice recognition function is started as will be described later, the scale button B1 is displayed in blue because it can be selected by voice input.

(Start voice recognition)
The display screen V1 of FIG. 11 is an example of a screen for starting speech recognition while waiting for navigation (navigation). Note that the display screen V1a in FIG. 12 is a screen example of voice recognition start after the start of navigation guidance described later. When the voice recognition is activated, the control unit 18 displays a map scale button in blue indicating that voice input is possible on the display screen V1. In addition, the control unit 18 causes the display screen V1 to display buttons of other functions that allow voice input in blue indicating that voice input is possible. Among these buttons, the voice release button B2x is a button on which an instruction word “voice release” for ending voice recognition is displayed. The peripheral button B3 is a button on which an instruction word “periphery” for starting a peripheral search is displayed. Since the peripheral search cannot function during navigation guidance, the control unit 18 does not display the peripheral button B3 on the display screen V1a of FIG. The control unit 18 displays a guidance stop button B4x on which an instruction word “stop guidance” is displayed at the same position as the peripheral button B3 of V1 on the display screen V1a.

  On the display screens V1 and V1a, a volume button B5 and a luminance button B6 are displayed in the same row as the scale button B1, the voice release button B2x, and the guidance stop button B4x. The volume button B5 is a button on which an instruction word “volume” for starting the volume change and a number “5” indicating the quantitative level of the current sound are displayed. The luminance button B6 is a button on which an instruction word “luminance” for starting luminance change and a number “5” indicating a quantitative level of the current luminance are displayed. Further, a home button B7 is displayed on the upper right of the display screen V1. The home button B7 is a button on which an instruction word “home” for performing route guidance with the home as a destination is displayed. These instruction words and numbers indicating the quantitative levels are words and phrases registered as recognition words as shown in FIGS.

  As described above, the display area of the item constituted by a plurality of buttons has a portion where a map as a background image can be seen. In other words, there is a gap between the buttons, and you can see the map behind. On the other hand, the display area of the character 100 is larger than one button and does not have a portion where the back can be seen in the portion overlapping the map. Note that in the gaps that occur between the hair and body, the limbs and the torso, etc., there may be a portion where the map behind can be seen, but such a portion is excluded from the display area of the character 100.

  The position of the character 100 displayed on the display unit 5 by the control unit 18 is a position that does not interfere with the visual recognition of the current position or the guidance route. In the display screen V1 of FIG. 11 and the display screen V1a of FIG. 12, the character 100 is displayed at a position close to the lower right in the screen. It is displayed at the close position, upper left or upper right.

(Genre selection)
When the user speaks “Shuhen” on the display screen V1 waiting for navigation described above, the control unit 18 changes the display screen V1 to the display screen S1 of the peripheral 1 shown in FIG. "Hey, where are you going?" In this way, in the peripheral search that advances the processing by making multiple selections, the character 100 makes an utterance that prompts the next selection of genre selection, so that the user can immediately know what to do next. Good. On the other hand, the peripheral search function does not work on the display screen of V1a during navigation guidance. For this reason, even if the user utters “Shuhen”, the control unit 18 that has recognized this outputs the voice of the character “What did you say? Do not transition. As described above, when a process that cannot be proceeded is selected, the character 100 speaks a response phrase corresponding to the character 100, so that the user cannot perform the process on the display screen. Good.

  As described above, the control unit 18 inputs the voice that activates the voice recognition from the user → outputs the response phrase of the character that asks for the task in response to it → the voice input that starts the function from the user As described above, the process proceeds based on a dialogue in which at least one round-trip exchange is performed. The output of the response phrase in the dialogue plays a function of indicating that the character recognizes the user's voice together with the meaning content indicated by the response phrase.

  As described above, the control unit 18 displays the genre button B8 on which the genre name as the recognition word is displayed on the display screen S1 of FIG. The genre names displayed on these genre buttons B8 correspond to the recognition word of list number 4 in FIG. This genre button B8 can also be selected by touching by the user. The genre name does not include kanji and is hiragana or katakana, so it is easy to see visually what the driver should speak.

  When the user utters the recognition word “Famires” displayed on the button on the display screen S1, the control unit 18 causes the character to output a voice of the response phrase “go alone and go to the family restaurant?”. Then, the control part 18 transfers to the process which searches the candidate of a family restaurant. For this reason, the user does not need to make any further selections as the genre selection phase. In other words, “Do you go to the family restaurant alone?” May be a voice that tells the user that it is not necessary to select the next genre. In addition, this response phrase can make the user aware that he is alone other than the character 100 who is the conversation partner, and can further increase the intimacy with the character 100.

  In addition, when the user wants to select from a genre other than the genre displayed on the display screen S1, the control unit 18 displays a page button that displays the recognition word “2 pages” for transition to the next page on the display screen S1. B9 is displayed. In this display screen S1, when the user speaks “Nippon” or “Next”, the control unit 18 causes the screen to be displayed on the display unit 5 to transition to the display screen S1a in the periphery 2 in FIG.

  On this display screen S1a, a genre button B8 displaying a genre name corresponding to the recognition word of list number 5 in FIG. 5 is displayed. When the user utters the recognition word of the genre name displayed on the genre button B8, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase to the utterance. In addition, the control unit 18 displays a page button B9 displaying the recognition word “1 page” to be changed to the previous page on the display screen S1a. When the user utters “1 page” or “mae” on the display screen S1a, the control unit 18 changes the screen to be displayed on the display unit 5 to the display screen S1 of the peripheral 1 in FIG.

(Facility selection)
In this way, when a genre is selected, the control unit 18 searches for facilities around the current location belonging to the genre and displays a screen to be displayed on the display unit 5 as shown in FIG. Transition to S2. On this display screen S2, the result of the facility search is displayed. That is, on the display screen S2, the facility hit by the search is displayed with the icon C1 numbered in the order from the current location to the location on the map. In FIG. 15, an icon C1 displaying numbers 1 to 5 in a circle is displayed at a position on the map. As described above, the result of the peripheral search displays only the facilities of the target (genre) necessary for the user. At this time, by making the map display grayscale and displaying the icon C1 in color, the location and number of the facility can be more easily understood. When the screen transitions from another screen to the screen S2, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase that prompts the user to select a destination such as “Where do you want?”.

  The user selects a facility on the display screen S2 with the content that matches the display of the icon C1. That is, when the number displayed on the icon C1 of the desired facility is uttered, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase corresponding to this and searches for a route to the facility. For example, when “1” or “1st” is spoken, the character 100 speaks “No. 1”, and a route search to the facility indicated by No. 1 is executed. In this way, when the character 100 speaks the number spoken by the user, the user can confirm his / her instruction content.

  Note that a scale button B1 and a list button B10 are displayed on the display screen S2. The scale button B1 is a button for changing the map scale as described above. In this display screen S2, when the user who wants to change the scale of the map utters “squeal”, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase prompting which scale to change, and the facility selection 2 shown in FIG. Transition to the display screen S2a. For example, when the user utters “squeal”, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase “instruct something” and, as shown in FIG. 16, + buttons B1a, − for changing the scale. Button B1b is displayed. The scale changing process by voice input will be described later.

  The list button B10 is a button for transitioning the screen for selecting a facility from icon display to list display. When the user speaks “Risuto” or “Risuto Hyojo” on the display screen S2, the control unit 18 changes the screen to be displayed on the display unit 5 to the display screen S2_list for the facility selection 1 shown in FIG. Let On the display screen of S2_list, the searched facilities are not displayed as icons but as a list in which facility selection buttons B11 are arranged in order from the current location. Each facility selection button B11 displays a number, a facility name, a distance from the current position to the facility, a location, and the like given in order from the current location. The user can select a facility in the same manner as described above by touching the facility selection button B11 or speaking the number displayed on the button. In addition to the number, the facility selection button B11 displays the facility name, the distance from the current position, the location, and the like, so that the user may be able to obtain more detailed information about the searched facility.

  When the number of retrieved candidates is greater than the displayable number of one page (for example, five), the control unit 18 displays a page button B9 displaying “2 pages” indicating that the next page exists. Is displayed. When the number of candidates is less than the displayable number of one page, the control unit 18 does not display the page button B9. When the user utters “ni page” or “next”, the control unit 18 makes a transition to the display screen S2a_list of the facility selection 2 shown in FIG. The facility selection process in the list displayed on the display screen S2a_list is the same as described above. In addition, the control unit 18 displays a page button B9 displaying the recognition word “1 page” to be changed to the previous page on the display screen S2_list. In this display screen S1a, when the user utters “1 page” or “mae”, the control unit 18 changes the screen to be displayed on the display unit 5 to the display screen S1 for facility selection 1 in FIG.

(Route selection)
As described above, when the facility is selected, the control unit 18 searches for the route 53 from the current position 51 to the facility as the destination 52, and displays the result on the display screen R1 of the route selection 1 shown in FIG. Display. The searched route 53 is color-coded and displayed for the route 53 that should be given the highest priority based on preset route conditions. At this time, the character 100 moves to an unobstructed position on the map according to the route guidance direction. That is, the character 100 is displayed at a position that does not block the searched route display including the current position on the map. However, as described above, the character 100 is already displayed at the lower right of the screen, and in the example of the display screen R1, it does not interfere with the searched route, so there is no movement in this example.

  On the other hand, the control unit 18 displays a plurality of buttons on the display screen R1 on the side opposite to the character, that is, on the left side. If the number of the plurality of buttons is small, a portion overlapping the searched route 53 does not occur. Even if the number of buttons increases, there is a gap between the buttons so that the map and the route 53 can be seen. These buttons include a scale button B1. The operation when the user wants to change the scale is performed on the display screen R1a of the route selection 2 shown in FIG. 20, which will be described later.

  Further, the display screen R1 displays a route condition button B12 on which “route condition” as an instruction word for changing the route condition is displayed. When the user utters “Jyoken” or “Lutojyoken”, the control unit 18 makes a transition to the display screen R1b of the route selection 3 shown in FIG. On this display screen R1b, condition selection buttons B12a, B12b, and B12c for selecting search conditions to be prioritized such as “highway”, “general road”, and “recommended” are displayed next to the “route condition” button. The In this display screen R1b, when the user utters “Idodado”, “Kousokudo” or “Suisho”, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase corresponding to each, and the search condition is uttered. Change to the condition and display the route 53 having the highest priority under the changed search condition. For example, the control unit 18 determines that each search condition is “Yes, let's go slowly on a general road” if it is a general road, and “Shorten time on a highway” if it is a highway. Output a response phrase that shows the benefits. If it is a recommended route, a response phrase indicating a trusting relationship with the character “I will leave it to you” is output.

  The display screen R1 displays a guidance start button B13 on which “start guidance”, which is an instruction word, is displayed when guidance by the displayed route 53 is desired. When the user utters “Anonymous”, “Annoying” or “Annoying” on the screen on which the desired route 53 is displayed, the control unit 18 reads “Start guidance. Output a response phrase "Get me" and start route guidance.

  Further, when the user utters “Shuhen” for searching around or “Return”, “Takeshi” or “Redo” which is a return phrase, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase “Re-search”, A transition is made to the display screen of S1 shown in FIG. Subsequent search processing is as described above. For the utterance of the return phrase, the same processing is performed on the display screens S2, S2a, S2_list, S2a_list, R1, R1a, and R1b shown in FIGS.

  In response to the utterance of the return phrase on the voice recognition start display screens V1 and V1a shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase “Please call me again.” The display screen M1 shown in FIG. 4 is transitioned to and the process returns to the voice recognition activation waiting. In response to the utterance of the return phrase on the peripheral search display screens S1 and S1a shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase “From the beginning” and the voice shown in FIG. Transition to the display screen V1 for starting recognition. As described above, even for the same recognition word, the display screen to be changed differs depending on the current display screen and the phase corresponding thereto. That is, by changing the display screen for transition to the return phrase, it is possible to eliminate the excessive return and save the user from having to try again.

  In this embodiment, a release phrase is prepared separately from the return phrase. When the user utters “Onseika”, “Shuyo”, or “Genzaichi”, the display screen M1 always waits for voice recognition activation. At this time, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase prompting the next use, “Please call me again.” In this way, by registering recognition words that return in different positions and recognition words that return to a certain position according to the display screen and phase, the user can quickly transition to the desired screen according to the situation. It can be carried out.

  Furthermore, when a recognized word that cannot be processed is spoken according to the screen or phase, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase that clearly indicates that the recognized word cannot be processed, so that another word can be displayed to the user. Can be encouraged to speak. For example, on the display screen V1a in FIG. 12 and the display screens S2, S2a, S2_list, and S2a_list in FIGS. 15 to 18, a response phrase “What are you saying? I don't know.” Is output.

《Map scale change》
The control unit 18 performs a process of changing the map scale, volume, and luminance as a process of changing the function in response to the dialogue. First, the procedure for changing the map scale will be described with reference to FIG. The change in the map scale when the display screen S2 in FIG. 15 is changed to the display screen S2a in FIG. 16 or the display screen R1 in FIG. 19 is changed to the display screen R1a in FIG.

  When the user who wants to change the map scale speaks on the display screens V1 and V1a of FIGS. 11 and 12 in which voice recognition is started, the control unit 18 transitions to the display screens A1 and A1a of FIG. The display screen A1 is a screen transitioned from the display screen V1, and the display screen A1a is a screen transitioned from the display screen V1a. On the display screen A1, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase “specify something” only when a transition is made from another screen (scene). In this way, even if the screen is switched, it is only necessary to make the user aware that he / she is always nearby by uttering the character 100 to prompt an instruction. The display screen A1a is a map scale change screen during navigation guidance.

  On the display screens A1 and A1a, a + button B1a and a-button B1b are displayed on the right side of the scale button B1. As described above, when the user touches the + button B1a, the control unit 18 increases the map scale stepwise. In addition, when the user touches the-button B1b, the control unit 18 decreases the map scale step by step. Further, in the present embodiment, when the user utters “crack” or “shosai”, the control unit 18 that recognizes this increases the map scale step by step. When the user utters “Shukusho” and “Kouiki”, the control unit 18 that recognizes this lowers the map scale step by step.

  Then, the control unit 18 can confirm how the change has been made, such as “I enlarged” when scaling up and “I tried to make it a little wider” when scaling down. Is output. Thereby, the user can confirm by voice what processing has been performed. When the scale is changed and the upper limit or lower limit of the scale is exceeded, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase notifying that the change cannot be made, such as “Buh ~ limit”. Thereby, the user can prevent repeating a useless change instruction without confirming whether the upper limit or the lower limit is reached.

  In addition, when the user speaks a desired scale value, such as “Jumomeru” or “Ichigiro”, the control unit 18 that recognizes the value directly changes the map scale to the spoken value. . At this time, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase corresponding to the input value, such as “10 meters” or “1 kilometer”, as the response phrase corresponding to the user's utterance. Thereby, the user can confirm the level of the scale instructed by the user.

  When the user utters “squeal” or utters a return phrase, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase informing that the scale change processing is complete, such as “setting is complete”. . The processing with the release phrase is the same as described above.

  Further, in the case of the display screen A1, the home button is displayed, and when the user touches this button or utters “jitaku”, the control unit 18 performs the following process. First, when home registration has not been made in advance, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase that prompts home registration, such as “I say home but don't tell me.” Thereby, since a process required as a premise for executing a specific function is urged by voice, the user may be able to understand what is necessary in order to use the function. When the home registration has been made, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase “Yes, return?” And searches for a route to the home. Thereby, the user may obtain an impression that the character returns together.

  In the case of the display screen A1a, since the navigation guidance is being performed, specific functions are limited. That is, the peripheral search and the route guidance to the home cannot be executed on the display screen A1a. Therefore, even if the user utters “Shuhen”, a response phrase “What did you say? I don't know” is output, and the surrounding search is not performed. Further, even if “jitaku” is spoken, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase “What did you say? I don't know” and does not search for a route to the home. In this way, the user may be able to know that processing cannot be performed with the response phrase.

<Change volume>
The procedure for changing the volume will be described with reference to FIG. In the display screens V1 and V1a of FIGS. 11 and 12 in which the voice recognition is started, when the user who wants to change the volume speaks “onryo”, the control unit 18 makes a transition to the display screens A2 and A2a of FIG. The display screen A2 is a screen that has transitioned from the display screen V1, and the display screen A2a is a screen that has transitioned from the display screen V1a. On the display screen A2, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase “specify something” only when a transition is made from another screen (scene). In this way, even if the screen is switched, it is only necessary to make the user aware that he / she is always nearby by uttering the character 100 to prompt an instruction. The display screen A2a is a volume change screen during navigation guidance.

  On the display screens A2 and A2a, a + button B5a and a-button B5b are displayed on the right side of the volume button B5. When the user touches the + button B5a, the control unit 18 increases the volume in stages. Further, when the user touches the-button B5b, the control unit 18 decreases the sound volume step by step. Further, in the present embodiment, when the user speaks “App” or “Great”, the control unit 18 that recognizes this increases the volume in stages. When the user speaks “Daun” or “Chiisaku”, the control unit 18 that recognizes this speaks down the volume in steps.

  Then, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase that can confirm what kind of change has been made, such as “volume up” when the volume is increased, and “volume down” when the volume is decreased. . Thereby, the user can confirm by voice what processing has been performed. Further, when the volume exceeds the upper limit or lower limit of the volume when the volume is changed, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase notifying that the change cannot be made, such as “Buh, it is the limit.” Thereby, the user can prevent repeating a useless change instruction without confirming whether the upper limit or the lower limit is reached.

  Further, when the user utters a desired volume value such as “Zero”, “Ichi”, “Ni”, the control unit 18 that recognizes the utterance directly changes the volume to the uttered value. . At this time, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase corresponding to the input value, such as “It is zero”, “1”, or “2” as the response phrase corresponding to the user's utterance. . As a result, the user can confirm the level of the sound volume instructed by the user.

  Then, when the user utters “onryo” or utters a return phrase, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase informing that the volume change processing is complete, such as “setting is complete”. The processing with the release phrase is the same as described above. Other processing is the same as the processing described on the map scale.

<Change brightness>
The brightness change processing procedure will be described with reference to FIG. In the display screens V1 and V1a of FIGS. 11 and 12 in which voice recognition is started, when the user who wants to change the brightness speaks “Kid”, the control unit 18 makes a transition to the display screens A3 and A3a of FIG. The display screen A3 is a screen transitioned from the display screen V1, and the display screen A3a is a screen transitioned from the display screen V1a. On the display screen A3, only when a transition is made from another screen (scene), the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase “specify something”. In this way, even if the screen is switched, it is only necessary to make the user aware that he / she is always nearby by uttering the character 100 to prompt an instruction. The display screen A3a is a luminance change screen during navigation guidance.

  On the display screens A3 and A3a, a + button B6a and a − button B6b are displayed beside the luminance button B6. When the user touches the + button B6a, the control unit 18 increases the luminance step by step. When the user touches the-button B6b, the control unit 18 decreases the luminance step by step. In the present embodiment, when the user speaks “Appu” or “Akaruku”, the control unit 18 that recognizes this increases the luminance step by step. When the user speaks “Daun” or “Kaku”, the controller 18 that recognizes this decreases the brightness stepwise.

  Then, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase that can confirm what kind of change has been made, such as “brightness up” when the luminance is increased and “brightness down” when the luminance is down. Thereby, the user can confirm by voice what processing has been performed. In addition, when the luminance exceeds the upper limit or lower limit of the luminance when the luminance is changed, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase informing that it cannot be changed, such as “Buh, it's the limit.” Thereby, the user can prevent repeating a useless change instruction without confirming whether the upper limit or the lower limit is reached.

  When the user utters a desired luminance value such as “Zero”, “Ichi”, “Ni”, the control unit 18 that recognizes the utterance directly changes the luminance to the uttered value. Let At this time, as a response phrase corresponding to the user's utterance, a response phrase corresponding to the input value is output, such as “It is zero”, “1”, and “2”. As a result, the user can check the luminance level designated by the user.

  Then, when the user utters “kid” or utters a return phrase, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase informing that the brightness changing process is completed, such as “setting is complete”. The processing with the release phrase is the same as described above. Other processing is the same as the processing described on the map scale.

  In the display screens A1 and A1a, the control unit 18 makes a transition to the display screens A2 and A2a or the display screens A3 and A3a by speaking “onri” or “kid”. In the display screens A2 and A2a, the control unit 18 makes a transition to the display screens A3 and A3a or the display screens A1 and A1a by saying “kid” or “scale”. In the display screens A3 and A3a, the control unit 18 makes a transition to the display screens A1 and A1a or the display screens A2 and A2a by saying “scale” or “on-ryo”. As described above, the screens for changing the quantitative level can be changed to each other, so that it is convenient for the user who wants to change the settings collectively.

《Timeout processing》
Next, the timeout process will be described. The time-out process is a process for ending the process when the control unit 18 starts a predetermined process and a predetermined time elapses without any voice input from the user. And from the time of starting a predetermined process until it passes for a predetermined time, the control part 18 outputs the audio | voice which prompts an audio | voice input as a response phrase of a character.

  More specific processing will be described with reference to FIG. Timeouts V1, S1, S2, R1, A1, and A1a are set as the timeout processing. First, the processing of timeout V1 will be described. When there is no voice recognition for 15 seconds after the voice recognition is activated on the display screen V1 or V1a, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase that prompts the user to input voice as the timeout status 1. Here, since it is a voice recognition start screen, a response phrase requesting voice input “Hey, say something” is output. Then, when there is no voice recognition for 15 seconds from the output of the response phrase, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase notifying that the voice recognition is ended as the timeout status 2 and ends the voice recognition. Here, “No, no.” Is output as a somewhat angry response phrase when there is no voice input.

  Processing of the timeout S1 is as follows. When there is no voice recognition for 15 seconds after the transition to the display screens S1 and S1a, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase prompting voice input as the timeout status 1. Here, since it is a peripheral search screen, a response phrase that asks where to go is output, such as “Hey, hey, where are you going?”. Then, when there is no voice recognition for 15 seconds from the output of the response phrase, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase notifying that the voice recognition is ended as the timeout status 2 and ends the voice recognition. Here, “No, no.” Is output as a somewhat angry response phrase when there is no voice input.

  The processing of timeout S2 is as follows. When there is no voice recognition for 15 seconds after transitioning to the display screens S2, S2a, S2_list, and S2a_list, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase that prompts voice input as the timeout status 1. Here, since it is a screen for facility selection, a response phrase that prompts facility selection is output, such as “has not been decided yet?”. Then, when there is no voice recognition for 15 seconds from the output of the response phrase, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase notifying that the voice recognition is ended as the timeout status 2 and ends the voice recognition. Here, “No, no.” Is output as a somewhat angry response phrase when there is no voice input.

  Processing of timeout R1 is as follows. When there is no voice recognition for 15 seconds after the transition to the display screen R1, R1a, R1b, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase for prompting voice input as the timeout status 1. Here, since it is a route selection screen, a response phrase that notifies the user that the next processing will proceed even if there is no voice input is output, such as “I will guide you if you are silent.” Then, when there is no voice recognition for 15 seconds from the output of the response phrase, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase notifying that the voice recognition is ended as the timeout status 2 and ends the voice recognition. Here, a response phrase notifying that the next process is started is output, such as “Start guidance. Will you drive as you say?”.

  Processing of timeout A1 is as follows. The control unit 18 outputs a response phrase for prompting voice input as the timeout status 1 when there is no voice recognition for 15 seconds after transition to the display screens A1, A2, A3, A1a, A2a, A3a. Here, since it is a setting change screen, a response phrase prompting the setting change is output, such as “instruction, request”. Then, when there is no voice recognition for 15 seconds from the output of the response phrase, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase notifying that the voice recognition is finished as the timeout status 2, and does not change the setting, and the voice recognition is performed. End. Here, “No, no.” Is output as a somewhat angry response phrase when there is no voice input.

  Processing of timeout A1a is as follows. The control unit 18 transitions to the display screens A1, A2, A3, A1a, A2a, A3a, and when there is no voice recognition for 15 seconds after an input instructing a setting change is made by button selection or voice, As timeout status 1, a response phrase prompting voice input is output. Here, a response phrase that prompts an instruction to determine setting change by voice input, such as “instruction, request”, is output. Thereafter, when there is no voice recognition for 15 seconds, the control unit 18 outputs a response phrase notifying that voice recognition is ended as the timeout status 2, completes the setting change, and ends voice recognition. In this case, a response phrase notifying completion of setting change is output as “setting is complete”.

  Although timeout processing may occur frequently, as described above, the contents of the response phrases of timeout status 1 and timeout status 2 change according to the display screen and phase, so the user does not get bored. Good.

[Function and effect]
According to the embodiment as described above, the system does not provide information in response to a unidirectional instruction of a user who is a vehicle occupant, but the user interacts with the character to obtain information he wants to know. As a result, the fun of operation and driving increases, and the feeling of communicating with the character is obtained, so you don't get bored. In addition, since the user is motivated to operate the system in order to interact with the character, the functions of the system are effectively utilized.

  Since the response phrase is registered so that a speaker with a specific personality can be recognized by the voice output from the system, the user feels as if the user is interacting with an actual person. Can be obtained and have a close friendship.

  As the dialogue, for example, since it is set so that at least one round-trip exchange of the start of the utterance, the response to this, and the response to the response is made, the system does not simply process according to the user's command, The user can get a sense that the character is providing service by being interposed between himself and the system.

  Users can use voice recognition to output more easily or more quickly than manual operations, so they will actively use voice recognition and give users more opportunities to interact with characters. be able to.

  In particular, even when it is difficult for the driver to obtain desired information while driving due to difficulty in manual operation or limited manual operation, using voice recognition while enjoying conversation with the character Desired information can be obtained.

  When it is necessary to go through a plurality of selections in order to output information, operation by voice input is easier for the user than when manual operation is required for each selection. As information output through a plurality of selections, for example, information on a layered structure or information that cannot be output without a plurality of operations is less burdensome on the user than performing a manual operation a plurality of times.

  In particular, processing for outputting information obtained by sequentially narrowing down a plurality of candidates, such as facility search and current location search, is performed by, for example, an operation for moving the vehicle itself such as a brake or an accelerator. Unlike an operation for informing something to the outside for safety, such as a blinker, it is difficult to execute it directly by hand operation, so it is suitable for an operation by voice recognition.

  The user can proceed with a predetermined process in sequence by being prompted by the voice of the character. For example, when a user's voice “periphery” is recognized as a response phrase for guiding to the next selection, a voice requesting the destination is output, such as “Hey, where are you going?”. And you can clearly see what to say next.

  When there is no next selection, the voice of the character indicating this is output, so that the user knows that there is no need to proceed further, and can decide whether to end the instruction or perform another process. . For example, if the user's voice “Familys” is recognized as a voice of a character indicating that there is no next selection, and the user searches for “Familys alone?” You can ask for another decision.

  The user can acquire information on facilities around a desired point such as the current location while enjoying a dialogue with the character while avoiding troublesome manual operation.

  Since the icons indicating the facilities in the vicinity searched are relatively highlighted compared to the map, the information on the facilities necessary for the user is conspicuous on the map, and the user can easily grasp the location of the facility. This is a guideline for selecting a desired facility by voice. In particular, the icons are displayed in color and the map is displayed in grayscale, so the icons are very clearly visible.

  Since the facility icon is displayed so that the order of proximity to the current location can be distinguished, it can be used as a guide for the user to select a facility. In particular, since the information inherently indicates the ranking such as numbers and alphabets, the meaning of the ranking can be easily grasped.

  It recognizes the voice of the user who selects one of the facilities according to the displayed icon, and searches and displays the route to the selected facility. , You can easily select the contents according to the displayed icon. In particular, since the displayed number only needs to be spoken, the facility can be selected with words that are easier to remember than the facility name.

  When the user does not desire the searched route, the user can instruct re-searching while interacting with the character, so that the trouble and boring feeling at the time of redoing can be eased.

  By seeing the appearance of the character with whom the user interacts on the display screen, the user learns familiarity and wants to actively use the system to see the appearance.

Since the character is displayed at a position on the map that does not obstruct the searched route display, it is possible to maintain visibility of the searched route while enjoying the character display.
If the character is on the opposite side of the searched route, the item display area may overlap the searched route, but each item is smaller than the character and the item display area is behind Since it has a portion where the image can be seen, it is easier to see the image behind than the searched route overlaps with the character.

  Since the character's voice is randomly selected from a plurality of preset response phrases excluding the response phrases that have already been output, only the same phrases are not output and the user is not bored.

  Since a list in which different response phrases are registered for a common recognition word is set, even if the user utters a common content, the character can reply with different expressions, many times Even if the same processing is realized, you can enjoy what kind of response comes from the character.

  Although the character is the same person as standard ray, Ray after transformation, and Chibi Ray, there are multiple display modes, and different phrases are registered for multiple display modes as the output sound, so the same character However, the content of the utterance differs depending on a plurality of display modes, and it is only necessary that the user can enjoy the change while interacting with the same person. In particular, it is assumed that it is a standard thing, a thing transformed by changing clothes and hairstyle, etc., and a thing that changes the head and body, giving the user various impressions such as adult, childish, cute, beautiful, etc. I won't let you.

  Since the recognition word is displayed as an item on a button or the like, the user can know what to say by looking at the displayed item in order to execute a predetermined process.

  There are recognition words that can be recognized in common regardless of the display screen, and recognition words that are recognized on the display screen. Regardless of this, while maintaining the convenience of necessary functions, the possibility of misrecognition can be reduced by the recognition word whose recognition is limited. Regarding the recognition word that is used in common on a plurality of types of display screens, the possibility that the function is limited depending on the display screen is reduced, and convenience can be maintained. In particular, it is a phrase that needs to be used on any screen because it is a phrase that makes a transition to another display screen, such as a return phrase or a release phrase. On the other hand, the recognition word displayed on the display screen and the recognition word to be searched are less likely to recognize other words and phrases, and it is highly necessary to reduce the number of recognition words to prevent erroneous recognition.

  The state of the function that changes quantitatively can be directly set to a desired quantitative level by voice recognition, so that the desired state can be instantly compared with a case where the function is changed stepwise between a small value and a large value. It can be set to a value, so that the user's effort is not required, and the time that is restricted by the operation is shortened. In particular, it is possible to save the effort of selecting buttons such as volume, brightness, and scale to display +-and scales, and stepping up and down by selecting +-and sliding on the scales.

  As the recognition word, an instruction word corresponding to a function that changes quantitatively and a number indicating a quantitative level are set, so when the user speaks an instruction word and a number corresponding to a desired function, the amount of the function The target level can be directly raised or lowered to the level of the number. In particular, the names of functions that are easy to understand intuitively for the user, such as “onryo”, “kido”, “scale”, and “1”, “ni”, “nikiro” etc. And numbers can be used for input.

  Since the instruction word corresponding to the function is displayed on the button for selecting the function, the user can select the function by speaking the instruction word displayed on the button, which is easy for the user to understand.

  A button for selecting a function, and the value of the current quantitative level of the function is displayed. Therefore, the user confirms the current quantitative level by looking at the value displayed on the button. Thus, it can be determined whether the value should be increased or decreased to a desired value. For example, if the scale value of the map shows a small scale value on the button, and the user says a larger value, the scale value displayed on the button will also change directly to that value and immediately You can see a wide range of maps. Also, for example, when a large scale value is displayed on the button, if the user says a smaller value, the scale value displayed on the button also changes directly to that value, and instantly displays a detailed map. Can see.

  Since a time-out process for terminating the process is performed when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the predetermined process and no voice is input from the user, it is possible to prevent erroneous operations caused by continuing voice recognition for a long period of time. .

  Since the character outputs a voice prompting the user to input a voice from the time when the predetermined process is started until the predetermined time elapses, the user is prompted to input the voice when the user forgets to start the process. Can do.

[Other Embodiments]
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various forms can be configured including the forms exemplified below.

《Genre registration》
A description will be given of a genre registration function in which the user displays only desired items on the display screen of the display unit 5 with respect to genres of peripheral search. Thereby, the user's original periphery search screen can be created by previously listing the genres that the user will often use. More specifically, the control unit 18 causes the display unit 5 to display a table of items for selecting which item to function as the recognition word among items corresponding to the recognition word of the genre. When the user selects a desired item from this table, the control unit 18 sets the selected item as a page to be displayed on the display unit 5 as a button.

  An example of such a display screen will be described with reference to FIG. First, the display screen (1) is displayed on the left of the map screen while the control unit 18 displays the character 100 on the lower right of the map screen displayed on the display unit 5 in the same manner as in the above embodiment. In addition, a peripheral button B3 for selecting and searching the peripheral facility by genre is displayed.

  On this display screen (1), when the user touches the peripheral button B3 or utters “Rei” and “Shuhen” which are two words registered as recognition words for instructing voice recognition activation and peripheral search. The control unit 18 that has recognized this makes a transition to the one-shot genre selection screen shown in the display screen (2).

  Thus, the display screen (2) displayed by the two-word speech recognition activation displays a table composed of a plurality of items by arranging a plurality of buttons displaying genre names. When the user selects each button or utters a genre name, the control unit 18 searches for a facility of the genre as shown in the display screen (3). The searched facilities are displayed on the map with numbers assigned in the order from the current location 51.

  When the user touches the desired facility icon displayed on the display screen (3) or speaks the number displayed on the desired facility icon, the control unit 18 searches for a route from the current location to the selected facility. As shown in the display screen (4), the searched route 53 is displayed in different colors.

  At this time, the character 100 moves to an unobstructed position on the map according to the route guidance direction. That is, the character 100 is displayed at a position that does not block the searched route display including the current position on the map. Furthermore, when the user utters guidance start, as shown in the display screen (5), the control unit 18 starts route guidance. Even during the route guidance, the character 100 is displayed at a position on the map that does not block the display of the searched route 53 including the current position 51.

  At the bottom of the table of the display screen (2), three buttons “return”, “change”, and “current location” are displayed. Among these buttons, the “return” button is a button that the control unit 18 that recognizes when the user touches or utters “return” makes a transition to the previous screen. The “current location” button is a button that, when the user touches or utters “Genzaichi”, causes the control unit 18 that recognizes this to transition to a display screen that displays the current location 51. Here, the screen changes to the display screen (1) both when the “return” button is selected and when the “current location” button is selected.

  When the “change” button is touched by the user or the utterance “health” is made, the control unit 18 which has recognized this makes a transition to the one-shot genre change screen shown in the display screen (6). On this one-shot genre change screen, the genres currently registered as the one-shot genre selection screen are displayed in the same order. Here, when the user touches a button of any genre or speaks a genre name, the control unit 18 that recognizes this displays the large item display screens (7) to (10) to which each genre name belongs. Transition to one of the following.

  For example, when the user selects “station”, the display changes to the display screen (7) on which the genre name belonging to the large item “hotel / public facility / other” to which “station” belongs is displayed. On the display screen (7), genre names displayed on the display screen (2) are displayed in a specific dark color, and genre names not displayed on the display screen (2) are displayed in a lighter color. For example, “station” displayed on the display screen (2) is displayed in blue characters, and “parking lot” not displayed on the display screen (2) is displayed in gray characters.

  Here, when the user touches the genre name displayed on the display screen (7) or speaks the genre name, the control unit 18 that recognizes the genre name displays the selected genre name on the display screen (7). The genre name is not displayed. At this time, the genre name is changed to a light color display. For example, when the user selects “station”, the letters “station” are gray.

  For example, when the user touches the genre name displayed on the display screen (7) or speaks the genre name, the control unit 18 that recognizes the genre name displays the selected genre name on the display screen (2). The genre name to be used. At this time, the genre name is changed to a specific dark color display. For example, when the user selects “parking lot”, the letters “parking lot” are blue.

  When a genre name belonging to a hospital / clinic such as “general hospital” on the display screen (6) is selected, the display screen (8) is displayed. When a genre name belonging to shopping such as “convenience store” is selected, the display screen (9) is displayed. When a genre name belonging to a restaurant such as “Family Restaurant” is selected, the screen transitions to the display screen (10). On each display screen, the selection of the genre name to be displayed on the display screen (2) and the selection of the genre name not to be displayed are as described above.

  On the display screen (7), when the user selects the “▽” button to send a page, the screen transitions to the next display screen (8). When the “△” button for returning to the page is selected on the display screen (8), the screen transitions to the display screen (7). As described above, “「 ”and“ Δ ”function as buttons for switching pages between the display screens (7) to (10).

  As described above, after changing the genre name on each of the display screens (7) to (10), when the user touches the “return” button or speaks “return”, the display screen (6) is changed. The selected genre name to be displayed is displayed and the selected genre name not to be displayed is not displayed. When the user touches the “return” button or speaks “return”, the screen transitions to the display screen (2) reflecting the display of the changed display screen (6). In the above example, “parking lot” is displayed at the position of “station”, and “station” is not displayed.

  In order to return to the default display, on the display screen (6), when the user selects the “return to default” button or utters “return to touch”, the control unit recognizes this. 18 restores the default genre name and its placement. When the user touches the “return” button or speaks “return”, the display screen (2) returns to the default setting.

  As described above, on the display screen (6) and the display screen (2) on which this is reflected, the genre name can be selected for each position to be displayed. That is, when “station” in the upper left is selected on the display screen (6), the control unit 18 recognizes the display position on the display screen together with the selected genre name. Then, the control unit 18 can display any genre name selected on the display screens (7) to (10) at the display position, that is, the upper left position. For this reason, when it is desired to change the arrangement of genre names on the display screen (2), a genre name at a desired display position is selected on the display screen (6), and this is changed to a genre name to be displayed at the display position. It can be realized by changing. In this case, the same genre name can be selected to be displayed at different positions. For example, the genre name “station” can be displayed at the upper left, and the “station” can be displayed below the genre name. As described above, when the same genre name is displayed at a plurality of locations on the display screen (2) for a frequently used genre name, the genre name may be easily touched and selected.

  In the control unit 18, when the user touches and drags a desired genre name and releases it at a desired position on the display screen (6), the control unit 18 determines the display position of the genre name. If the display position can be changed, the display position may be easily changed.

  Further, the number of genre names that can be displayed on the display screen (2) is limited to a predetermined number. For example, 25 here. For this reason, when 25 genre names are already registered, the genre names to be displayed cannot be increased any more.

  As described above, if only the items frequently used by the user are selected from the displayed table of items, the recognition word is limited, so that erroneous recognition can be reduced. The selected recognition word is registered, for example, in a predetermined memory area by rewriting it from the default state, putting it in an empty area, or rearranging what has already been entered. In this way, a limited memory area can be used effectively.

  Such item setting by the user may be set for each of a plurality of pages to be displayed on the display unit 5 by selecting the item selected by the user as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 of the above embodiment. . For this reason, even if the items that can be displayed on one page of the display screen are limited, by bringing items that the user uses frequently to the top page, it is possible to save the trouble of switching pages in order to display the items you want to use. .

  A large item corresponding to a recognition word containing a plurality of concepts and a middle item corresponding to a recognition word corresponding to the plurality of concepts can be displayed on the same page, so the user can search for a middle item. It is not necessary to change the hierarchy or page, and a desired item can be directly selected.

  For example, a high-level conceptual large item including a large number of candidates such as “hospital” is a convenient item for a user who wants to search from as many candidates as possible. The middle items such as “internal medicine” and “pediatric” included in the concept of “hospital” are convenient for a user who wants to immediately obtain information on a desired facility from a small number of candidates.

  Information regarding the classification of facilities can be efficiently specified by classifying the information into categories such as large items and medium items. That is, one or more middle items belong to the large item.

  Examples of major items include “hotels / public facilities / others”, “hospitals / clinics”, shopping, “restaurants”, and the like. Examples of medium items belonging to “Hotels / Public Facilities / Others” are “Station”, “IC (Interchange) / JCT (Junction)”, “Post Office”, “Office”, “Toilet”, “Parking” , “Hotel”, “Bank Shinkin”, “School”, “Gas Station”, etc. Examples of medium items belonging to “Hospital / Clinic” include “General Hospital”, “Internal Medicine”, Pediatrics, “Surgery”, “Gynecology”, “Dental”, “Ophthalmology”, “Otolaryngology” There are “Orthopedics”, “Dermatology”, “Urology”, “Medical Medicine”, “Neurology”, “Anal”, “Animal Hospital”, etc. Examples of the middle items belonging to “shopping” include “convenience store”, “drug store”, “department store”, “shopping mall”, “supermarket”, “car supplies”, “home center”, “home appliance”, and the like. Examples of medium items belonging to “restaurants” include “family restaurant”, “fast food”, “Japanese food”, “Western food”, “Chinese food”, “ramen”, “yaki”, “sushi”, “tonkatsu” "Udon", "Curry", "Gyudon" etc.

  Note that one or more small items may belong to each middle item. Efficient designation can be performed from a large number of items by classifying them in stages / hierarchies such as large items, medium items, and small items. Note that if only one item belongs, it is actually the same as no item in that hierarchy. That is, when there is only one middle item belonging to the large item, it may be up to the large item, and there may be no middle item and small item. Further, if there is only one small item belonging to the middle item, it may be up to the middle item and no small item. When a large item is specified, all the middle items belonging to it are specified. When a certain middle item is specified, all small items belonging to that medium item are specified. As a result, the control unit 18 processes.

  In addition, although it is related to the phrase displayed as an item as a recognition word, the phrase which is not displayed as an item may be registered. For example, even if the recognition word itself displayed on the item is not spoken, it is only necessary to say a phrase related to the recognition word, so the user's memory of the item name may be ambiguous or the user may be unfamiliar with the operation. But you can search.

  For example, even if the phrase displayed as an item is a large item “Hospital” and the middle items “Internal Medicine” and “Pediatrics” are not displayed, “Internal Medicine” and “Pediatrics” You may register as a recognition word in which speech recognition is possible. In this way, even if the middle item is not displayed, if the more specific middle items “internal medicine” and “pediatrics” associated with the large item “hospital” are mentioned, the middle items are searched. You can quickly get information about the facilities you need.

  An item of a recognition word that may be confusedly recognized may be set to be displayed on another page by the user setting or the default setting as described above. For example, a phrase including a similar sound, a phrase that is highly likely to be confused when actually recognized, and the like are not placed on the same page as candidates for recognition at the same time, so that misrecognition can be reduced. Examples of phrases that include similar sounds include the same sound of 50 sounds and the same kanji, such as “family restaurant” and “fast food”, “hospital” and “beauty salon”, “Western food” and “Japanese food”. Contain words.

  In this way, a recognition phrase having a sound that is confusing even from characters is not displayed on the same page, and the user inputs either one, thereby reducing misrecognition. The words that are highly likely to be confused when actually recognized are different words that are recognized for the same utterance based on the record of past recognition results, for example. In this way, it can be excluded that the combination in which erroneous recognition has actually occurred becomes the same page.

《Character display》
Various modes are also possible for displaying characters. In the display screens (4) and (5) in FIG. 26 described above, the control unit 18 moves the character 100 to the left and right so that the character 100 displayed on the screen does not overlap the current position and the searched route 53. ing. For example, the character 100 and the searched route 53 may be displayed on opposite sides of the display screen. In this way, since the user can feel as if the character 100 is caring for the route search service, it may be possible to have a better feeling.

  The movement of the character 100 may disappear once and appear at the destination, or may be moved while the display is continued. If the movement is frequent, the user may feel annoyed. However, the character 100 can appeal to the user and the user who wants to continue to see the character 100 can enjoy the movement of the moving character 100. it can.

  The control unit 18 may display on the display unit 5 whether or not the voice recognition is activated and received. In this way, it is possible to visually recognize whether or not the user can perform voice operations. Whether or not speech recognition is accepted is displayed by changing the color of the display screen. In this way, for example, the state of voice recognition can be immediately felt through the user's vision. In particular, when voice recognition is accepted, the normal color is used. When voice recognition is not accepted, the gray scale is selected. In this way, the user can intuitively know whether or not voice recognition is accepted.

  The control unit 18 may display on the character whether or not voice recognition is accepted. In this way, since the user can know whether or not the voice operation is possible by looking at the character, the user can easily notice.

  As a mode displayed on the character, for example, a mode in which the state of the character changes clearly is set. In this way, for example, the voice recognition state can be immediately felt. The manner in which the appearance of the character clearly changes includes, for example, adding an object to the character, changing the color or form of the character, causing a specific pose or gesture, or displaying a speech bubble. In this way, for example, if the user knows the state of the normal character, the change is immediately noticed by comparison with the normal state.

  As a mode of adding an object to a character, for example, equipment related to sound such as a headset, headphones, earphones, and a microphone is attached to the character. In this way, the user is reminded of speech recognition, which is a function related to sound. As a mode of changing the color and form of the character, for example, it is assumed that the hairstyle, its color, and a different costume are changed. This makes it easier to understand the difference from the normal state. In particular, if the character's ears are enlarged, the figure shows that they are trying to listen to the sound well. Further, as a pose or gesture, for example, even if a gesture of placing a hand behind the ear is given, it shows that the user is trying to listen to the voice well.

<Use of Nickname>
The control unit 18 may insert the voice of the user name registered in the database 19 in advance into the response phrase that is the voice output by the character. That is, the control unit 18 causes the user's name to be expressed by a nickname expression in the dialogue with “Rei Kirishima”. For example, a character can be called such as “Ke-kun” or “Yu-kun”.

  For example, “Rei, Shugen” is registered as an activation word that activates voice recognition and peripheral search, and a user registered with the nickname “Yu-kun” on the map display screen searches for “rei Kirishima”. The following is an example of the dialogue when it is performed. The inside of “” is the flared spoken.

Yu-kun: “Rei, Periphery” → Voice recognition activation → Transition to the peripheral search genre screen Rei: “What? Yu-kun, I'm busy.”
Yu-kun: “Internal Medicine” → Transition to the map screen and display nearby medical icons Ray: “What's wrong? Are you okay? Where are you going?”
Yu-kun: "Ni" (number 2)
Rei: “Okay, No. 2” → Display the information of 2 medical clinics on the map Yu-kun: “Search” → Route search and display on the map Rei: “Wow, where are you going?”
Yu-kun: “I ask.”
Ray: "Okay, leave it to me."

In this way, the user can feel more familiar with the character by being called with his / her nickname in the conversation.
Also, since the nickname voice is inserted in the voice output at the start of the dialogue, the user will be called by his / her name, and the user's attention may be drawn.
Furthermore, when the voice including the name of the character is recognized, since the voice of the user's name is inserted in the output voice, the names are called each other, and the user gets a more intimate feeling. be able to.

Note that the frequency of inserting the user's call name into the voice output by the character may be reduced as the dialogue progresses. In this way, for example, although the call name was initially called but the frequency of the call is reduced thereafter, it is possible to produce a conversation between two people getting used to each other.
Further, voice data corresponding to the 50-sound table may be registered in the database 19 in advance, and the voice of the name selected by the user from the 50-sound table may be inserted during the conversation. In this way, for example, the memory capacity may be saved as compared with a case where a plurality of names are registered in advance.

《Posting》
When the user finds a control / inspection place, the control unit 18 transmits position information regarding the control place to the information collection server in response to the user's voice input corresponding to the recognition word registered in the database 19 in advance. By doing so, the function of posting can be executed. Further, the control unit 18 can display the posted location information regarding the control location together with the map on the display unit 5 upon receiving distribution from the information collection server. For this reason, the navigation apparatus includes a communication unit that is connected to the control unit 18 and transmits / receives information to / from the outside.

  This communication unit is connected wirelessly or by wire to a communication device in the vehicle having an Internet connection function. For example, the communication unit can be realized by connecting a Wi-Fi (registered trademark) connection, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) connection, or a USB connection to a mobile phone such as a smartphone having a tethering function or a wireless LAN router. Such a communication device may be incorporated in the navigation device.

First, post processing by touch operation is as follows.
1. 1. A user discovers a control / inspection place while driving. 2. Touch the button for setting the posting location on the display screen. 3. Set the current location on the map when the button is touched as the posting location, and display an icon at that location. 5. Touch the posting button on the standby screen while parked or stopped. 5. Display a list of multiple posting locations set according to 1-3. 6. Touch one of the places you want to post. Touch the post button for final confirmation. 8. Send information on the selected posting location to the server that collects the posting location. 9. The server collecting the posting location registers the received information as a control location. 10. A server that collects posting locations distributes registered information. Receive and display distributed information

  In addition, between 6 and 7, select whether the target is Orbis, N system, control, inspection, etc., selection of target direction such as driving lane, opposite lane, right direction, left direction, etc., selection of implementation period Etc. can also be performed.

  In the case of posting by such a button operation, a plurality of button operations are required because a plurality of hierarchical procedures are performed after finding a posting place during traveling.

  However, in this aspect, posting can be performed according to the user's voice input. That is, when the user utters a recognition word registered in the database 19 in advance, the control unit 18 recognizes this and notifies the communication unit of the current position at the time of the utterance to the server as a posting location via the communication device. Send it. The server registers the received information as a control location and distributes the registered information. The communication unit receives the distributed information via the communication device, and the control unit 18 displays the control location on the map based on the received information. For this reason, it does not require the trouble like button operation, and can be performed easily and quickly.

  As described above, the control location includes the Orbis and N systems, but it is particularly preferable to use a check location where the execution position and time change as in the control / inspection area. In this way, it is possible to collect information on a control place where it is difficult to register a position in advance by posting.

  The position information may be, for example, the current position or the center position coordinates of the map. In this way, it is possible to specify the enforcement location based on information obtained reliably and easily, and since voice recognition is used, there is little deviation from the actual enforcement position.

  As the recognition word, it is preferable that a phrase for starting speech recognition and a phrase for starting acceptance of a post are registered. In this way, the user can easily execute a multi-step operation of voice recognition and acceptance of a post by speaking a phrase that activates speech recognition and a phrase that starts accepting a post. .

  For example, a phrase that activates speech recognition and a phrase that starts accepting postings may be registered as separate phrases. In this way, for example, it may be possible to prevent a recognition error from occurring due to the start of acceptance of a post with the start of voice recognition. Moreover, as a phrase for starting speech recognition and a phrase for starting acceptance of a post, for example, a series of phrases may be set. If it does in this way, since acceptance of contribution can be started by one shot with the start of voice recognition, for example, it may be in the state where it can post immediately.

  If a word that activates speech recognition and a word that causes posting are registered as the recognition word, the user speaks the word that activates speech recognition and the word that causes posting, and voice recognition and posting The multi-step operation can be easily performed.

  As a phrase for starting speech recognition and a phrase for posting, for example, it may be registered as separate phrases. If it does in this way, it may be posted, for example with the start of voice recognition, and it may be prevented from being posted accidentally. Moreover, as a phrase for starting speech recognition and a phrase for posting, for example, a series of phrases may be set. In this way, for example, since the posting can be performed at once with the start of the voice recognition, the posting can be made immediately, and the deviation between the control place and the posting place can be reduced as much as possible.

  Note that the recognition word for posting may be shorter than other recognition words. In this way, for example, it may be possible to instruct in a short time about highly urgent posts.

  In addition, the recognition word for posting may be more redundant than other recognition words. In this way, for example, when normal speech recognition is used, there is less possibility of saying other recognition words and phrases, and it is possible to prevent postings by mistake. The term “redundant” means, for example, that there are a large number of characters and a plurality of characters. In this way, for example, it is possible to reduce the possibility that a user who does not intend to post utters by mistake.

  In addition, the recognition word for posting may be a phrase that the user is unlikely to say normally. In this way, for example, it is possible to prevent frequent misrecognition from being frequently caused by words that are frequently used by the user in the vehicle, and to prevent posting that the user does not intend.

  When the recognition word for posting is recognized, the control unit 18 may output the voice of a character registered in advance, thereby realizing the interactive function as in the above embodiment. In this case, the voice of the character in the dialogue for posting may be shorter than the voice in other dialogues. In this way, for example, the dialogue time can be shortened and posted quickly.

《Response phrase variations》
The character response phrases registered in advance in the database 19 can be in various forms as follows.
When outputting the sound of the character prompting the selection of the found facility with the contents that match the displayed icon, it is a voice inquiring what number is better if it is a number, and what is better in the alphabet if it is an alphabet If it is a shape, it may be a voice that asks what the shape is, and if it is a color, it may be a voice that asks what the color is. In this way, for example, the user can easily know what to speak and select a facility.

  In addition, for example, it is preferable to use a voice indicating the range of candidates to be selected as the content that matches the displayed icon. Thus, for example, if the sound is output from what number to what number, the user may be able to grasp the content to be uttered and the range to be selected.

  You may insert the audio | voice of the content which shows the condition of a character as the audio | voice of the character registered beforehand. In this way, the user can listen to the situation of the character. For example, if the character is in a negative situation, it can cause the user to feel concerned about the character, and if the character is in a positive situation. In this case, it is possible to make the user feel sympathetic with the character.

  As a comment indicating the character's situation, for example, “I'm busy”, it is good to know whether you are in a positive state or a negative state. In this way, the system does not follow the user's instructions unconditionally, but it can create a feeling of caring and empathy for the user, so that it feels like a conversation with an actual person. You can get it.

  A plurality of lists may be set, and there may be a list in which phrases different from other phrases are registered even in the same list of response phrases. In this way, for example, a different phrase is output as a response to the user's similar utterance, which can give the user an unexpected impression, change the impression of the character, and get bored. It is good because it can be prevented from coming. For example, as shown in Ray Response Phrase 3 in FIG. 9 (a), the different phrases include “Instruct me something”, “What should I do?”, “What do I do?”, “How do I change it?” It ’s a good idea to insert an ambiguous phrase, such as “Like me.”, In the active questioning phrase. Further, as shown in the ray response phrase 24 in FIG. 9B, in the phrases indicating redo such as “re-search”, “re-search”, “also once”, “re-do-do”. It ’s a good idea to insert a phrase that reads the user ’s psychology, such as “You ’re trying a lot.

  A phrase to be output when speech recognition is mistaken may be registered. In this way, for example, even if the recognition is wrong, by returning some phrase, the user can recognize that the dialogue with the character is continuing.

  It is preferable that a phrase to be an escape point in case there is an error in speech recognition is registered. In this way, for example, there is a possibility that an error may occur in voice recognition, but even if an error occurs, the user's frustration and anger can be eased by the escape of the character.

  As an escape point, for example, as shown in Ray Response Phrase 1 in Fig. 8 (a), "I will do my best speech recognition. I may not be able to recognize 100%". It is better to express that it is difficult to achieve. In this way, for example, it may be possible to generate a psychology that is allowed to the user with respect to misrecognition, rather than simply indicating that recognition is not possible.

  If the user's voice input points out that the content that the user wants to reply is different from the content of the character's voice output, the response phrase from the character should be registered . In this way, for example, if the user points out a mistake in the character, there is a response from the character, so that it is possible to enjoy natural exchange between people when there is a misunderstanding.

  A phrase that will be used as a promotional advertisement should be registered. In this way, for example, the user may be guided to a facility that is affiliated. For example, it may be a phrase to invite to a specific facility such as “How about a XX shop?”.

  A phrase about the cause of what is to be done at the facility the user is going to go to may be registered. If it does in this way, it will become easy for the user who goes to the said facility to listen by speaking about the cause which went to a certain facility. For example, the user's attention can be drawn when the cause of going to the destination is not preferable for the user or when it is preferable for the user.

  As a facility where the cause of going to the destination is not preferable for the user, for example, a facility related to the user's illness such as “hospital”, “dentist”, and “pharmacy” may be used. As a facility that is preferable for the user to go to the destination, for example, “department store”, “sushi”, “unagi”, and the like, it may be a facility with a slightly higher hurdle than a facility that is frequently used daily.

  As a phrase that causes the character to cause various emotions to the user, for example, as shown in the response phrase 6-8 in FIG. 9C, “Hospital? Something is wrong? It ’s a good phrase to make the character feel attached by thinking about the user ’s condition. Further, for example, as shown in a response phrase 6-29 in FIG. 9D, a phrase that causes the user to regret, such as “Do you brush your teeth properly?” Is preferable.

  A phrase that serves as a positive or negative advice about what to do at the facility that the user is going to visit may be registered. In this way, for example, what the user should or should not do at the destination may be determined by the advice of the character. As a positive advice, for example, as shown in the response phrase 6-29 in FIG. 9 (d), if it is a phrase that recommends something like "It is better to get plaque once in a while." Good. As negative advice, for example, as shown in a response phrase 6-23 in FIG. 9 (e), “Don't look painful. Don't put up with a cool face.” A phrase that prohibits something is good.

  It is preferable that a phrase that is a one-sided impression of the character about what to do at the facility where the user goes is registered. In this way, for example, the impression of the character can be obtained, so that the user may be able to refer to the action at the destination.

  As the one-sided impression of the character, for example, as shown in the response phrase 6-14 in FIG. 9 (f), “black pig char shoe that melts in your mouth. Impressions are good. In this way, the user may want to take the same action at the facility. In addition, for example, it may be a negative impression such as “go to the restaurant alone? Are you not lonely? In this way, the user may be encouraged to change the destination. Furthermore, for example, as shown in the response phrase 6-21 in FIG. 9 (g), positive impressions and negative impressions such as “Looking around shopping malls may seem fun but tired.” Impressions may be mixed. In this way, the user can be prepared in advance about the situation at the destination.

  Phrases reminiscent of the fact that the character actually exists may be registered. In this way, for example, the user may obtain a feeling that the character actually exists.

  As a phrase reminiscent of actually existing, for example, as shown in the response phrase 6-24 in FIG. 9 (h), “I am glad to take me on business trips.” As shown in the response phrase 6-25 of 9 (i), it may be a phrase reminiscent of being accompanied, such as “Where do we stay?” In this way, for example, the user may be able to obtain a feeling of being always with the character.

  It is preferable that voice data output by the character is registered when voice other than words set in advance as recognition words is input. In this way, for example, even if it is not a recognized phrase, there is always a character's reaction, so the dialogue is interrupted or the user is reminded that the exchange is with the system by notifying as an error etc. It is good because you can maintain the feeling of continuing dialogue with the character. As a phrase when a voice other than the set word is input, it is possible to use an unrecognizable phrase as shown in the ray response phrase 50 in FIG. Note that the response phrase is not limited to a mode in which a plurality of response phrases are output randomly. If the output order is decided from among multiple, the order is output in that order, and the response phrase of the last rank is output. By returning to the response phrase of the first rank, the same response is repeated. The phrase can be prevented from being output. Furthermore, the corresponding response phrase may be determined on a one-to-one basis for each recognized word / phrase. In this way, the amount of information stored can be saved. Even in such a case, the same effect can be obtained if a response phrase having the contents as described above is set.

<< Timing of voice output and voice recognition >>
Various settings can be made for the timing of voice output and voice recognition as follows.
While the character's voice is being output, the control unit 18 may stop the voice recognition until the voice has been output. In this way, for example, when a voice is input from the user in the middle of the character's voice, it may be possible to prevent other processing from being executed due to voice recognition. As another process, for example, a process with low urgency may be used, such as volume, brightness, scale, and peripheral search. In this way, it is not necessary to execute the voice recognition even if it is not necessarily executed immediately.

  The control unit 18 may accept voice recognition while the character's voice is being output. In this way, for example, when a voice is input from the user in the middle of the character's voice, other processes than the voice recognition may not be interrupted. As another process, for example, a process with high urgency may be used, such as a process of transmitting position information related to the control location to the information collection server. In this way, the process that the user wants to execute immediately does not have to be interrupted.

  The control unit 18 may stop outputting the character's voice when the voice is input from the user while the voice of the character is being output. In this way, for example, the user's voice can give an impression that the character's speech is blocked. For example, if the voice of the stopped character is not output again, the same utterance may be repeated from the beginning without giving an unnatural impression. Further, if the output of the voice of the stopped character is started, for example, from the point where it is stopped, it may be possible to give the impression that the character has been waiting for the user to speak.

  The control unit 18 may stop the voice of the character when a predetermined input operation is performed while the voice of the character is being output. In this way, for example, when it is not desired that a dialogue with the character be heard by a third party, the voice of the character may be stopped by a predetermined input operation. The predetermined input operation may be a physical key operation, for example. In this way, since it is only necessary to operate a fixed location at all times, a quick operation is easy.

《Voice recognition activation timing》
Various modes are possible for the timing of voice recognition activation as follows.
The control unit 18 may start a predetermined process for outputting information that the user wants to know in response to the dialogue by inputting a voice from the user corresponding to the predetermined recognition word. In this way, for example, since the predetermined process is started upon input of a voice from the user, the system does not have to start and execute the process.

  The control unit 18 performs a predetermined process for outputting information that the user wants to know in response to the dialogue, in response to a voice input from a user corresponding to a predetermined recognition word / phrase in response to a voice output of a predetermined character. You can start. In this way, for example, the output of the character's voice is an opportunity for the user to determine whether or not to start a predetermined process, so that the opportunity to use the system can be increased.

  For example, the character voice may be output as an inquiry about whether or not a specific process is started. In this way, for example, the user may be prompted to use the process. For example, if the character voice is output periodically, the frequency at which the process is used may be increased. If the timing satisfies a predetermined condition, the user may be prompted to use at a timing suitable for the use of the process.

<Others>
As an aspect in which icons indicating surrounding facilities are relatively highlighted as compared with the map, it is preferable to display the location of the facility clearly. For example, if at least one of the brightness, saturation, and hue of the icon and the map is changed, the contrast between the two may stand out.

  In the case where the icons indicating the surrounding facilities are displayed so that the order according to the predetermined standard can be distinguished, the predetermined standard may be, for example, in the order of importance to the user. In this way, the facility that the user wants to know most is preferentially displayed. The degree of importance for the user may be, for example, a thing that has been done in the past, a frequency that has been done in the past, or a preference of the user. In this way, the user can quickly know the facility he wants to go to. Also, for example, those that have been performed in the past but do not want to go again, such as those that are less important to the user, may be excluded. In this way, for example, it may be possible to display only what the user may go to.

  The display that can distinguish the order may be, for example, information that visually indicates the order, such as a shape such as ○, ◯, Δ, or x, or a stepwise change according to lightness, saturation, or hue. In this way, for example, the order may be intuitively grasped visually.

  When recognizing the voice of the user who selects one of the facilities with the content that matches the displayed icon, for example, the alphabet of the desired facility icon if it is an alphabet, and the shape of the desired facility icon if it is a shape If it is a color, it may be the icon color of the desired facility. Even in this case, the facility can be selected with a language that is easier to remember than the facility name.

  In the display area of the button-displayed item, the portion where the background image can be seen may be a transparent portion, for example. In this way, for example, the background image can be better viewed while ensuring the visibility of the item display.

  The recognition words registered in advance for recognizing the user's voice may be displayed on the display screen or not displayed on the display screen. In this way, for example, even if the user utters a phrase that is not displayed on the display screen, if the recognition phrase is set in advance, some reaction from the character can be obtained. It becomes a surprise for the user and can give the user a pleasure of discovery.

  For example, "Onryo-san", "Kidoni", and "Sky Nikiro" can be used as the instruction word corresponding to the quantitatively changing function as the recognition word and the numerical value indicating the quantitative level. The name and the quantitative level may be combined into one recognition word / phrase. In this way, only one utterance is required.

  The button for displaying the instruction word corresponding to the function may be a button for executing the function without changing to another display screen. In this way, for example, the function can be executed by interaction without transitioning to another display screen to execute the function, so that the current screen display does not have to be disturbed.

  In the present embodiment, the navigation device has been described as an example, but it can be implemented as a function of various electronic devices. For example, you may incorporate as a function of a radar detector, a drive recorder, and a car audio. Further, the value of the quantitative level described in the present embodiment, the screen size of the display unit 5, various time settings, and the like can be arbitrarily set within a range where the effects of the present invention are exhibited. Further, the control unit 18 is provided with a function of setting the priority order of each function and alarm based on an instruction from the user from the remote controller 17 or the like, and the control unit 18 performs processing in this set priority order. It may be configured.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the apparatus includes the database 19 that stores various types of information, and the control unit 18 accesses the database 19 to read out necessary information and performs various types of processing. It is not limited to. For example, part or all of the information registered in the database 19 is registered in the server. The navigation device, radar detector, and other electronic devices / devices have a function of communicating with the server, and the control unit 18 may access the server as appropriate, acquire necessary information, and execute a process. Good. Furthermore, at least a part of the function of the control unit 18 may be placed on a server, the function may be executed on the server, and an electronic device owned by the user may acquire the execution result.

  The functions as the control system of the above-described embodiment are configured as a program for causing a computer included in the control unit 18 to realize the function. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the program is distributed and distributed to a plurality of computers. Also good.

2 device main body 3 cradle 4 case main body 5 display unit 6 cradle main body 7 pedestal unit 8 touch panel 10 alarm lamp 11 microwave receiver 12 GPS receiver 13 wireless receiver 18 control unit 19 database 20 speaker 21 SD memory card slot 22 SD Memory card 51 Current location 52 Destination 53 Route

Claims (17)

  Necessary for the passenger of the vehicle in response to a dialogue between the recognition information based on the result of recognizing the voice of the user who is the passenger of the vehicle and the output of the voice of a predetermined character indicating that the user's voice is recognized A system characterized by performing a function.   The system according to claim 1, wherein recognition words / phrases registered in advance for recognizing a user's voice are displayed as items.   The recognition words that are registered in advance for recognizing the user's voice include the recognition words that can be recognized in common regardless of the display screen, and the recognition words that are recognized on the display screen. The system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the above.   The recognition words / phrases registered in advance for recognizing the user's voice include those displayed on the display screen and those not displayed on the display screen. The system according to item 1.   The system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the state of the function that changes quantitatively is directly set to a desired quantitative level by voice recognition.   6. A recognition word corresponding to a quantitatively changing function and a number indicating a quantitative level are set as recognition words / phrases registered in advance for recognizing a user's voice. The system according to any one of the above.   The system according to claim 1, wherein whether or not speech recognition is accepted is displayed on a display unit.   The system according to claim 1, wherein whether or not speech recognition is accepted is displayed on a display unit together with a character.   The system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein voice recognition is stopped while the voice of the character is output until the voice is completely output.   The posting for transmitting the positional information on the control location to the information collecting server is performed in response to the input of the user's voice corresponding to the recognition phrase registered in advance to recognize the user's voice. 10. The system according to any one of items 9.   The system according to claim 10, wherein a phrase that activates speech recognition and a phrase that starts accepting postings are registered as the recognition phrase.   The system according to claim 10, wherein a phrase for starting speech recognition and a phrase for posting are registered as the recognition phrase.   The system according to claim 1, wherein the dialogue is started by inputting a voice from a user corresponding to a predetermined recognition word / phrase.   13. The dialogue according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the dialogue is started upon input of voice from a user corresponding to a predetermined recognition word / phrase with respect to output of voice of a predetermined character. system.   The process is terminated when a predetermined time elapses without any voice input from the user from the start of execution of a function required by a passenger of the vehicle. The system described in the section.   16. The character according to claim 1, wherein the character outputs a voice prompting the user to input a voice during a predetermined time after the execution of the function required by the passenger of the vehicle. The system according to any one of the above.   The program for making a computer implement | achieve the function as a system of any one of Claims 1-16.