Information processing device and method

The present technique relates to an information processing device and an information processing method that can realize new forms of communication tools.LEDs emit light in accordance with a light emission pattern specified by a combination of light emission parameters that represent light emission characteristics. A light emission control unit performs control to select a light emission pattern from among two or more preset light emission patterns, based on a change in physical quantity resulting from an action of a user, and cause a light-emitting unit to emit light in accordance with the selected light emission pattern. The present technique can be applied to information processing devices used as communication tools.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present technique relates to an information processing device and an information processing method, and more particularly, to an information processing device and an information processing method that can realize new forms of communication tools.

BACKGROUND ART

Since time immemorial, people have lived with others side by side. Thus, communication is indispensable for humankind. That is, it is no exaggeration to say that the history of humankind is the history of communication. Communication tools have been changing with the times.

Communication tools had previously been used in long-distance communication that cannot be made face-to-face. Specifically, in the distant past, beacons and the like were used as a communication tool. Thereafter, wire telephones and the like appeared. In recent years with technologies advanced, wireless cellular phones and the like have been used.

In addition, also in a short distance in which a face-to-face meeting is possible, in order to make communication other than verbal one, cellular phones with an infrared function have come to be used as a communication tool (see Patent Document 1, for example). That is, a user of a cellular phone performs infrared communication by bringing the cellular phone close to a cellular phone of another person, thereby being able to make communication with the other person such as exchanging information like e-mail addresses with the other person.

CITATION LIST

Patent Document

Patent Document 1: JP 2007-221355 A

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

However, in a conventional communication tool like a cellular phone described in Patent Document 1, communication is only aimed at exchanging information. On the other hand, when two or more persons communicate face-to-face without using communication tools, they have not only a purpose of exchanging information but also various purposes such as feeling a sense of unity with another person.

Thus, in recent years, there have been demands for the appearance of a new form of communication tool that allows communication not only for the purpose of exchanging information but also for various purposes such as feeling a sense of unity with another person.

Additionally, for a purpose such as feeling a sense of unity with another person, an unnecessarily difficult operation or a requirement for an operation unfit for the purpose prevents achieving the purpose. Therefore, there have been demands for the appearance of a new form of communication tool that allows communication for various purposes such as feeling a sense of unity with another person by a simple and intuitive operation.

The present technique has been made in view of this situation, and allows a new form of communication tool to be realized.

Solutions to Problems

An information processing device according to an aspect of the present technique includes: a light-emitting unit that emits light in accordance with a light emission pattern specified by a combination of light emission parameters that represent light emission characteristics; and a light emission control unit that performs control to select a light emission pattern from among two or more preset light emission patterns, based on a change in physical quantity resulting from an action of a user, and cause the light-emitting unit to emit light in accordance with the selected light emission pattern.

A communication control unit that controls wireless communication with another information processing device is further included. The light emission control unit can perform control to select a light emission pattern from among the two or more preset light emission patterns, based on the change in physical quantity and a signal received by the communication control unit.

A vibration unit that vibrates in accordance with a vibration pattern specified by a combination of vibration parameters that represent vibration characteristics, and a vibration control unit that performs control to select a light emission pattern from among two or more preset vibration patterns, based on the change in physical quantity, and cause the vibration unit to vibrate in accordance with the selected vibration pattern can be further provided.

A sensor unit that detects a change in physical quantity resulting from an action of a user is further included. The light emission control unit can estimate the kind of action taken by the user to communicate with another person, based on a change in physical quantity detected by the sensor unit, and select a light emission pattern in accordance with the estimated kind of action.

The sensor unit includes an acceleration sensor for detecting a change in acceleration resulting from an action of the user. The light emission control unit can estimate the kind of action taken by the user to communicate with another person, based on a change in acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor, and select a light emission pattern in accordance with the kind of action.

When the acceleration sensor detects acceleration greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold value, the light emission control unit can estimate that the kind of action taken by the user to communicate with another person is a first kind of action of colliding the information processing device, or a second kind of action of continuously shaking the information processing device, and select a light emission pattern in accordance with the first kind or the second kind estimated.

The light emission control unit, when having estimated the first kind while causing the light-emitting unit to emit light in a first emission color, can select a first light emission pattern specifying a change from the first emission color to a second emission color of the other information processing device and a return to the first emission color over a first period of time.

The light emission control unit, when having estimated the second kind while causing the light-emitting unit to emit light in the first emission color, can select a second light emission pattern specifying a change from the first emission color to the second emission color and a return to the first emission color over a second period of time that is longer than the first period of time.

When the acceleration sensor detects acceleration greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold value, the communication control unit can control wireless communication used for information exchange between another information processing device within a predetermined distance and the information processing device.

The information processing device has a ring-shaped part to be fitted on the user's arm, and the part can be provided with a connection for disconnecting or connecting a portion thereof.

The connection can have a magnet and a magnet-attracted metal sheet for connecting the portion of the part.

The connection can connect the portion of the part by elastic deformation of the material.

An information processing method according to an aspect of the present technique is a method corresponding to the information processing device according to the above-described aspect of the present technique.

In the information processing device and method according to an aspect of the present technique, light is emitted in accordance with a light emission pattern specified by a combination of light emission parameters representing light emission characteristics, and control is performed so that, based on a change in physical quantity resulting from an action of a user, a light emission pattern is selected from among two or more preset light emission patterns, and light is emitted in accordance with the selected light emission pattern.

Effects of the Invention

As above, according to the present technique, a new form of communication tool can be realized.

MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[Outline of the Present Technique]

First, in order to facilitate the understanding of the present technique, an outline of the present technique will be given.

An information processing device to which the present technique is applied is a ring-shaped device (hereinafter, abbreviated to ring) that includes various kinds of sensors, a wireless module, light-emitting elements, and a vibrator, and has a diameter suitable for wearing on a user's arm, such as a wristband or a bracelet, and is wore on a user's arm. The basic functions of the ring are light emission and vibration. The light emission and vibration have a large (virtually infinite) number of patterns, which can be selectively switched in accordance with various information such as information obtained by a built-in sensor, and information obtained in the form of communication from outside.

A user, just by wearing such a ring on his or her arm, can have new communication that has not existed in the past with another user wearing a ring of the same kind on his or her arm, through the light emission and vibration of the rings.

Specifically, for example, a user can have communication with another user, such as exchanging information on each other, Social Network Service (SNS) accounts, for example, by shaking hands, or a high five, slapping each other's palms at a position higher than their faces. That is, the ring can realize easy and intuitive exchange of information between users.

Further, for example, a user can have communication with another user, such as simultaneously feeling physically the light emission and vibration of the rings in a pattern synchronized with the rhythm of a given music or the rate of heartbeats of a particular person, for example. That is, the ring can realize effective performance to allow users to get a sense of unity.

Like this, a ring to which the present technique has been applied can realize an entirely new form of communication tool that has not existed in the past. Hereinafter, description will be made of an embodiment of an information processing system including, as a component, such a ring to which the present technique has been applied, that is, an information processing system to which the present technique is applied.

FIG. 1is a configuration diagram of an information processing system to which the present technique is applied.

An information processing system1includes a server11and rings12-1to12-N (N is any integer more than one). Hereinafter, when the rings12-1to12-N do not need to be individually identified, these are collectively referred to as the rings12.

The server11relays various information transferred between the rings12, and gives and receives various information to and from a given ring12.

The rings12have the basic functions of light emission and vibration, and selectively switch the pattern of light emission and vibration based on various conditions. For example, the rings12emit light and vibrate in a predetermined pattern on condition that a predetermined signal is received from the server11. Further, the rings12emit light and vibrate in a predetermined pattern on condition that a predetermined signal is exchanged with another ring12present within a predetermined range, for example, within a radius of 100 meters.

Moreover, the rings12have an information exchange function, and hold information to be exchanged, and send and receive such information to and from another ring12present within 30 centimeters, for example, by proximity communication.

Hereinafter, the configuration of this kind of ring12will be described with reference toFIGS. 2A to 6.

[General Configuration of the Ring]

FIGS. 2A and 2Bare diagrams showing the general configuration of the ring12as an embodiment of the information processing device to which the present technique is applied. The central drawing inFIG. 2Ais a front view of the ring12. Here, the front is the side of the ring12when fitted on an arm and viewed from the side of the fingertips of the hand. The upper drawing inFIG. 2Ais a top view of the ring12when the ring12is viewed in the direction of arrow a. The right drawing inFIG. 2Ais a right side view of the ring12when the ring12is viewed in the direction of arrow b. The lower drawing inFIG. 2Ais a bottom view of the ring12when the ring12is viewed in the direction of arrow c. The left drawing inFIG. 2Ais a left side view of the ring12when the ring12is viewed in the direction of arrow d.FIG. 2Bis a back view of the ring12.

As shown inFIGS. 2A and 2B, a board21is embedded in an inner peripheral portion12aof the ring12in a ring shape. Details will be described below with reference toFIG. 4. On the board21, various kinds of sensors, a wireless module, light-emitting elements, a vibration mechanism, and other components are mounted. A connection22is provided in a position opposite to the board21. Details will be described below. The connection22disconnects and connects the end portions of a circumferential portion constituting the side of the ring12. That is, by disconnecting the end portions at the connection22, a user can put his or her arm through or off the ring12, and by connecting the end portions at the connection22, can wear the ring12.

When viewed from the front or the back, an outer peripheral portion12bof the ring12is circular, while the inner peripheral portion12ais oval. The outer peripheral portion12bof the ring12is circular in order to uniformly guide light from the light emitting elements mounted on the board21. The inner peripheral portion12aof the ring12is oval in order to be in a shape conformed to the shape of a user's arm, thereby improving a feel of the ring12when fitted.

[Perspective View of the Ring]

FIGS. 3A and 3Bare perspective views of the ring12.FIG. 3Ais a perspective view of the ring12from the direction from which the board21is visible.FIG. 3Bis a perspective view of the ring12from the direction from which the connection22is visible.

[General Configuration of the Board]

FIGS. 4A to 4Care diagrams showing the general configuration of the board21mounted on the ring12. The central drawing inFIG. 4Ais a front view of the board21. Here, the front is the side on which various kinds of sensors, a wireless module, light-emitting elements, a vibration mechanism, and other components are mounted. The upper drawing inFIG. 4Ais a top view of the board21when the board21is viewed in the direction of arrow a. The right drawing inFIG. 4Ais a right side view of the board21when the board21is viewed in the direction of arrow b. The lower drawing inFIG. 4Ais a bottom view of the board21when the board21is viewed in the direction of arrow c. The left drawing inFIG. 4Ais a left side view of the board21when the board21is viewed in the direction of arrow d.FIG. 4Bis a back view of the board21.FIG. 4Cis a perspective view of the board21.

As shown inFIG. 4A, on the front side of the board21, a central processing unit (CPU)31, a wireless module32, a three-axis acceleration sensor33, and light-emitting diodes (LEDs)34are mounted.

The CPU31executes various kinds of processing in accordance with programs or the like recorded in a built-in memory (a storage unit86inFIG. 7described below). In the built-in memory, data and the like necessary for the CPU31to execute various kinds of processing are stored as appropriate.

The wireless module32gives and receives various kinds of information to and from the server11or another ring12by wireless communication.

The three-axis acceleration sensor33detects acceleration in three axis directions that are nearly orthogonal to each other, individually, and supplies sensor information showing the detection results to the CPU31. Specifically, the three-axis acceleration sensor33detects a change in physical quantity resulting from an action of a user, that is, acceleration.

The LEDs34emit light in more than one pattern in accordance with the control of the CPU31. A light emission pattern is specified by a combination of at least one kind of two or more kinds of light emission parameter. Here, light emission parameters refer to parameters representing characteristics of light emission. For example, there are various kinds thereof such as the intensity, the emission color, the light emission interval, and the light emission duration.

Not shown in the figures, the board21may be provided with a sensor for obtaining biological information such as a heartbeat sensor, a blood pressure sensor, or a body temperature sensor. Further, the board21may be provided with a sensor for obtaining environmental information such as a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a sound sensor, an image sensor, an ultraviolet sensor, or a radiation sensor.

As shown inFIG. 4B, on the back of the board21, a vibration mechanism35is mounted. The vibration mechanism35vibrates in more than one pattern in accordance with the control of the CPU31. A vibration pattern is specified by a combination of at least one kind of two or more kinds of vibration parameter. Here, vibration parameters refer to parameters representing characteristics of vibration. For example, there are various kinds thereof such as the number of times of vibration, the vibration interval, and the vibration duration.

The board21is made in a size to be able to be concealed behind a logo or a mark depicted on the surface of the ring12, so that aesthetic appearance is not spoiled even when the body of the ring12is transparent or translucent.

[Cross-Section of the Ring]

FIGS. 5A and 5Bare cross-sectional views of the ring12.FIG. 5Ais a cross-sectional view of the ring12along line m-m′ in the left drawing ofFIG. 2A.FIG. 5Bis a cross-sectional view of the ring12along line n-n′ in the left drawing ofFIG. 2A.

As shown inFIG. 5A, the body20of the ring12has a two-layer structure with an inside light-guiding layer41and outside reflection layers and diffusion layers42between which the light-guiding layer41is held.

The light-guiding layer41guides light emitted from the LEDs34on the board21throughout the ring12like a fiber-optic cable.

The reflection layers and diffusion layers42reflect and diffuse light from the board21guided by the light-guiding layer41throughout the ring12.

As shown inFIG. 5A, the LEDs34are arranged in axisymmetric positions without a shield. Light emitted from the LEDs34arranged like this is guided by the light-guiding layer41throughout the body20of the ring12, and diffused by the reflection layers and diffusion layers42throughout the ring12.

As shown inFIG. 5B, grooves20aare formed at the inner side of the connection22. At the bottoms of the grooves20a, magnet-attracted metal sheets43(four in the example ofFIGS. 5A and 5B) such as iron that is attracted to a magnet are provided. At the outer side of the connection22of the ring12, magnets44that are smaller in number (two in the example ofFIGS. 5A and 5B) than the magnet-attracted metal sheets43are provided in a size and a shape that fit in the grooves20aprovided at the inner side of the connection22. At the connection22, the magnets44are fitted into the grooves20aprovided with the magnet-attracted metal sheets43to be magnetically attached, thereby connecting the end portions of the circumferential portion of the ring12.

The structure of the connection22like this allows the ring12to be fitted on arms of various sizes from a thin arm to a thick arm. Further, the connection22is not provided with a fastener or the like, and thus has a good feel when fitted for a user, and is easy to put on and take off. In addition, light from the LEDs34is guided and diffused without being obstructed. Moreover, although light intensities at the end portions of the ring12are weak, the end portions are overlapped at the connection22, adding the light intensities, so that a user sees light uniformly guided at any point of the ring12. Thus aesthetic appearance is improved.

As shown inFIG. 5B, the vibration mechanism35provided to the board21is provided to protrude from the inner peripheral portion of the ring12. With this, the vibration mechanism35is brought into contact with a user's arm, so that vibration of the vibration mechanism35is easily transmitted to the user's arm.

As a material for the body20of the ring12, a synthetic resin such as a polyurethane elastomer (RU-842A-CLR), for example, can be used. The inner side and the outer side of the connection22are both transparent or translucent, and at the outer side, 5%, for example, of a diffusion material for diffusing light is contained.

As a material for the magnet-attracted metal sheets43, SUS430, for example, can be used. As a material for the magnets44, neodymium, for example, can be used.

Not shown in the figures, the board21can be covered by a cover. As a material for the cover in this case, aluminum, for example, can be used. In addition, not shown in the figures, a spacer can be fitted between the cover and the vibration mechanism35. As a material for the spacer, PET, for example, can be used.

[Different General Configuration of Ring]

FIG. 6is a diagram showing the general configuration of a ring51configured differently from the ring12.

The basic configuration of the ring51shown inFIG. 6is the same as that of the ring12. Thus, hereinafter, points of the ring51identical to those of the ring12will not be described, and only points of difference will be described.

While the ring12has the two-layer structure with the light-guiding layer41and the reflection layers and diffusion layers42, the ring51has a one-layer structure only with a light-guiding layer61.

While the connection22of the ring12is provided with the magnets44and the magnet-attracted metal sheets43, a connection62of the ring51is not provided with anything. At the connection62, an inside end portion60aand an outside end portion60bare processed to overlap in contact with each other when no force is applied to a body60of the ring51. When the ring51is fitted on an arm, the body60is elastically deformed to enlarge the diameter of a circle formed by the body60. When the body60is released from the force after the arm is put through the circle, the body60returns to the original position by its elastic force. As a material for the body51, a polyurethane elastomer identical to that for the body20can be used.

This structure of the connection62allows the ring51to be fitted on an arm of various sizes. Further, the connection62is not provided with a fastener or the like, and thus has a good feel for a user when fitted, and is easy to put on and take off. In addition, light from the LEDs34is guided without being obstructed. Moreover, although the light intensities at the end portions of the ring51are weak, the end portions are overlapped at the connection62, adding the light intensities, so that a user sees light uniformly guided at any point of the ring51. Thus aesthetic appearance is improved. Furthermore, since the connection62is not provided with magnet-attracted metal sheets43, magnets44, a fastener, or the like, manufacturing costs can be reduced.

The body60of the ring51may alternatively have a two-layer structure like the ring12. Likewise, the body20of the ring12described above may alternatively have a one-layer structure like the body60of the ring51.

[Functional Configuration Example of Board21]

FIG. 7is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of the board21inFIG. 4.

The board21is provided with the CPU31, the wireless module32, the three-axis acceleration sensor33, the LEDs34, and the vibration mechanism35.

The wireless module32, the three-axis acceleration sensor33, the LEDs34, and the vibration mechanism35have been described with reference toFIG. 4, and will not be described.

The CPU31functionally includes a communication control unit81, a sensor information acquisition unit82, a control signal generation unit83, a light emission control unit84, a vibration control unit85, and a storage unit86.

The communication control unit81executes predetermined authentication processing to authenticate a party (the server11or another ring12) at the other end of wireless communication by the wireless module32, and when authentication succeeds, controls wireless communication with the party. Also, the communication control unit81performs control as appropriate so that location information on the ring12is transmitted wirelessly from the wireless module32to the surroundings, and location information on another ring12within a predetermined distance is received by the wireless module32.

The sensor information acquisition unit82acquires sensor information outputted from the three-axis acceleration sensor33. Also, the sensor information acquisition unit82acquires sensor information outputted from various kinds of sensors not shown mounted on the board21.

Based on sensor information acquired by the sensor information acquisition unit82, the control signal generation unit83generates a control signal for controlling the light emission control unit84and the vibration control unit85. Specifically, based on sensor information acquired by the sensor information acquisition unit82, the control signal generation unit83estimates the kind of action taken by the user to communicate with another person, and generates a control signal in accordance with the estimated kind of action. Also, based on a signal received from the server11or another ring12through the control of the communication control unit81, the control signal generation unit83generates a control signal for controlling the light emission control unit84and the vibration control unit85. Control signals in this case correspond to various patterns of light emission and vibration. The various patterns are set in accordance with sensor information acquired or the kinds of signal received.

Based on a control signal generated by the control signal generation unit83, the light emission control unit84selects one from among two or more preset light emission patterns, and performs control so that the LEDs34emit light in accordance with the selected light emission pattern.

Based on a control signal generated by the control signal generation unit83, the vibration control unit85selects one from among two or more preset vibration patterns, and performs control so that the vibration mechanism35vibrates in accordance with the selected vibration pattern.

The storage unit86is constituted as a storage area provided within the CPU31, and stores various kinds of information. For example, the storage unit86stores information on an SNS account of a user of the ring12or51. Also, the storage unit86stores information on an SNS account of a user of another ring12or51received by proximity communication with the other ring12or51. A ring12and a ring51can communicate with each other.

Light emission and vibration in more than one pattern by the ring12with this configuration will be described with reference toFIGS. 8 to 14. The following is the description of the ring12, and is also applied to the ring51as a matter of course.

FIG. 8is a state transition diagram showing an example of the states of operations that the ring12can take when emitting light and vibrating.

InFIG. 8, each state is shown in a rounded rectangular box, and is identified by a reference numeral including “S” connected with a line to the box. A state transition from one state to another state (including the case of remaining in the same state) is performed when a predetermined condition (hereinafter, referred to as a state transition condition) is satisfied. The state transition conditions are represented by reference numerals including “C” attached to arrows that show transitions from one state to another state inFIG. 8.

Two axes shown in one box schematically show the states of light emission and vibration of the ring12, individually. Specifically, the upper axis schematically shows the state of light emission of the LEDs34, and the lower axis schematically shows the state of vibration of the vibration mechanism35.

In this embodiment, a state S1is a basic state, and is also referred to as an idling state S1. When the ring12is not fitted on the user's arm, or in a like situation, the three-axis acceleration sensor33does not detect an action. Also, when none of a signal B1, a signal B2, and a signal B3described below is received by the ring12, and no location information is received from another ring12within a predetermined distance, the idling state S1is maintained as the operation state of the ring12. In the idling state S1, as shown by the upper axis in the box, the light emission control unit84does not cause the LEDs34to emit light, and as shown by the lower axis in the box, the vibration control unit85does not cause the vibration mechanism35to vibrate.

When the user wears the ring12on his or her arm, for example, in the idling state S1, the three-axis acceleration sensor33detects the action. In such a case, the sensor information acquisition unit82acquires action detection information as sensor information, determines that detection of an action of a state transition condition C1has been satisfied, and causes a transition of the operation state of the ring12to a state S2.

When a transition to the state S2is made, in a pattern according to a control signal generated based on the sensor information, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light, and the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to vibrate. The light emission and vibration pattern in accordance with a control signal generated based on sensor information like this is a pattern simulating a person's heartbeat, and thus hereinafter referred to as “pattern A ‘heartbeat’.”

In the state S2, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light with a certain low intensity (that is, low brightness) as shown by a waveform on the upper axis in the box, and the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to vibrate in a certain rhythm as shown by a waveform on the lower axis in the box. Details of “pattern A ‘heartbeat’” in the state S2will be described with reference toFIG. 9.

[Details of Pattern A “Heartbeat”]

FIG. 9is a diagram showing details of “pattern A ‘heartbeat’” in the state S2. InFIG. 9, a horizontal axis represents time, and a vertical axis represents the level of a waveform.

A waveform on the upper axis inFIG. 9schematically shows, as indicated as “Lighting,” the state of light emission of the LEDs34. That is, the level of the waveform on the vertical axis represents the intensity of light. A waveform on the lower axis inFIG. 9schematically shows, as indicated by “vibration,” the state of vibration of the vibration mechanism35. That is, the level of the waveform on the vertical axis represents the intensity of vibration.

When a transition to the state S2is made, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light with the certain low intensity for a certain period from a start time t1to a stop time tx. The period from the start time t1to the stop time tx is five minutes, for example.

On the other hand, when a transition to the state S2is made, the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to vibrate in a pulse-like rhythm with a certain period. Hereinafter, the duration of a vibration is referred to as a vibration duration. The period of time from the start of a vibration to the start of the next vibration is referred to as a vibration interval.

Specifically, the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to continue to vibrate for a vibration duration T1from a time t2to a time t3. Next, at a time t4at which a vibration interval T2has elapsed since the time t2, the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to continue to vibrate for the vibration duration T1from the time t4to a time t5. At a time t6at which the vibration interval T2has elapsed since the time t4, the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to continue to vibrate for the vibration duration T1from the time t6to a time t7. In this manner, with the vibration interval T2as a period, the vibration mechanism35vibrates in a pulse-like rhythm with the vibration duration T1as a pulse width. The vibration duration T1is set at 0.5 second in this embodiment, but is not particularly limited. The vibration interval T2is set at one second in this embodiment, but is not particularly limited.

In the state S2, when the three-axis acceleration sensor33does not detect an action for a predetermined time or more, the sensor information acquisition unit82determines that a state transition condition C2of the lapse of the predetermined time has been satisfied, and causes a transition of the state of the ring12to the state S1. In this embodiment, as shown inFIG. 8, the predetermined time is set at three minutes.

When the wireless module32receives location information from another ring12within a predetermined distance with the state being the state S2, the communication control unit81determines that a state transition condition C11that the proximity distance is within a predetermined range has been satisfied, and causes a transition of the state of the ring12to a state S3. The state S3will be described below.

When the wireless module32receives any of the signal B1, the signal B2, and the signal B3described below with the state being the state S2, the communication control unit81determines that one of state transition conditions C31, C41, and C51that those signals have been received has been satisfied, and causes a transition of the state of the ring12to one of a state S5(for the signal B1), S6(for the signal B2), and S7(for the signal B3). The states S5, S6, and S7will be described below.

Not shown in the figure, also when the stop time tx of light emission of the LEDs34has elapsed in the state S2, the sensor information acquisition unit82causes a transition of the state of the ring12to the idling state S1. When a transition to the idling state S1is made, the ring12stops light emission and vibration.

When the wireless module32receives a signal from another ring12within the predetermined distance in the idling state S1, the communication control unit81determines that the state transition condition C11that the proximity distance is within the predetermined range has been satisfied, and causes a transition of the state of the ring12to the state S3. Another ring12within the predetermined distance means one of other rings12on which the above-described authentication has succeeded and the distance operated based on location information exchanged with each other after the authentication is within the predetermined distance.

When a transition to the state S3is made, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light in a pattern in accordance with a control signal generated based on a signal from another ring12. The vibration control unit85does not cause the vibration mechanism of the vibration mechanism35to vibrate. At this time, the sensor information acquisition unit82starts detailed tracking of sensor information outputted form the three-axis acceleration sensor. Thus, the light emission and vibration pattern in the state S3in accordance with a control signal generated based on a signal from another ring12is a pattern showing a standby state before a transition to a state S4described below is made, and thus hereinafter is referred to as “pattern C ‘standby’.”

In the state S3, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light with a certain low intensity as shown by a waveform on the upper axis in the box, and the vibration control unit85does not cause the vibration mechanism of the vibration mechanism35to vibrate as shown by the lower axis in the box. Details of “pattern C ‘standby”’ in the state S3will be described with reference toFIGS. 10A and 10B.

[Details of Pattern C “Standby”]

FIGS. 10A and 10Bare diagrams showing details of “pattern C ‘standby’” in the state S3.

InFIGS. 10A and 10B, the states of light emission and vibration of a ring12(hereinafter, referred to as ring12-U1) and another ring12(hereinafter, referred to as ring12-U2) within the predetermined distance from the first ring12are schematically shown.

A waveform on an upper axis inFIG. 10Aschematically shows the state of light emission of the LEDs34of the ring12-U1as indicated as “Lightning U1.” A waveform on a lower axis inFIG. 10Aschematically shows the state of light emission of the LEDs34of the ring12-U2as indicated as “Lightning U2.” A waveform on an upper axis inFIG. 10Bschematically shows the state of vibration of the vibration mechanism35of the ring12-U1as indicated by “vibration U1.” A waveform on a lower axis inFIG. 10Bschematically shows the state of vibration of the vibration mechanism35of the ring12-U2as indicated by “vibration U2.”

When a transition to the state S3is made, as shown inFIG. 10A, the light emission control unit84of the ring12-U1causes the LEDs34to emit light with the certain low intensity for a certain period from a start time t11to a stop time tx. The light emission control unit84of the ring12-U1causes the LEDs34to emit light with the certain low intensity for a certain period from the start time t11to the stop time tx. InFIG. 10A, to facilitate explanation, the ring12-U1emits light in a light color, and the ring12-U2emits light in a deep color.

On the other hand, when a transition to the state S3is made, as shown inFIG. 10B, the vibration control units85of the ring12-U1and the ring12-U2both do not cause the vibration mechanisms of the vibration mechanisms35to vibrate.

In the state S3, when the three-axis acceleration sensor33outputs sensor information representing a sensor value, the sensor information acquisition unit82acquires the sensor information, and when detecting that the sensor value is greater than or equal to a threshold value, provides notification of the detection result as impact detection to the communication control unit81. The communication control unit81wirelessly transmits the impact detection in the notification to the other ring12from the wireless module32. This series of processing is executed in the other ring12in parallel at the same time. For example, when two users of the ring12-U1and the ring12-U2high-five each other, the impact is detected by the three-axis acceleration sensors33, individually. Therefore, impact detection is also wirelessly transmitted to one ring12from the other ring12. The communication control unit81causes the wireless module32to receive impact detection from the other ring12. The control signal generation unit83, when receiving impact detection from its own ring12acquired by the sensor information acquisition unit82and impact detection from the other ring12received through the control of the communication control unit81, determines that a state transition condition C21of impact detection has been satisfied, and causes a transition of the state of the ring12to the state S4.

When a transition to the state S4is made, in a pattern according to a control signal generated based on sensor information on impact detection, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light, and the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to vibrate. Further, immediately after the impact detection, the communication control unit81exchanges information with the other ring12by transmitting and receiving information on a user's SNS account to and from each other. Like this, the light emission and vibration pattern in accordance with a control signal generated based on sensor information is a pattern simulating an interchange by an information exchange between users, and thus is hereinafter referred to as “pattern C ‘interchange’.”

In the state S4, as shown by a waveform on the upper axis in the box, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34emitting light with the certain low intensity (in the state of the state S3) to emit light in a color of the ring12at the other end instantaneously at the detection of an impact, and then gradually return to the original color of the ring12over a predetermined period of time. As shown by a waveform on the lower axis in the box, the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to vibrate more than one time at the detection of an impact. Details of “pattern C ‘interchange’” in the state S4will be described with reference toFIGS. 11A and 11B.

[Details of Pattern C “Interchange”]

FIGS. 11A and 11Bare diagrams showing details of “pattern C ‘interchange’” in the state S4.

InFIGS. 11A and 11B, the states of light emission and vibration of the ring12-U1and the ring12-U2as the other ring12are schematically shown.

A waveform on an upper axis inFIG. 11Aschematically shows the state of light emission of the LEDs34of the ring12-U1as indicated as “Lightning U1.” A waveform on a lower axis inFIG. 11Aschematically shows the state of light emission of the LEDs34of the ring12-U2as indicated as “Lightning U2.” A waveform on an upper axis inFIG. 11Bschematically shows the state of vibration of the vibration mechanism35of the ring12-U1as indicated by “vibration U1.” A waveform on a lower axis inFIG. 11Bschematically shows the state of vibration of the vibration mechanism35of the ring12-U2as indicated by “vibration U2.”

As shown inFIG. 11A, the LEDs34of the ring12-U1emit light in the light color with the certain low intensity in the state of the state S3from a time t21to a time t22of impact detection. Likewise, the LEDs34of the ring12-U2emit light in the deep color with the certain low intensity in the state of the state S3from the time t21to the time t22of impact detection. Because of the black and white expressions in the figures, the ring12-U1and the ring12-U2are distinguished by using the light color and the deep color, but do not need to be classified into the light color and the deep color, and may be any colors different from each other.

Then, when an impact is detected, a transition to the state of the state S4is made, and the light emission control units84of the ring12-U1and the ring12-U2both cause the LEDs34to emit light in certain patterns of light intensities and colors. Hereinafter, a duration of light emission is referred to as a light emission duration.

Specifically, when an impact is detected at the time t22, the light emission control unit84of the ring12-U1causes the LEDs34to instantaneously change into a high intensity (that is, high brightness) to emit light in the emission color of the ring12-U2at the other end, that is, the deep color. Then, the light emission control unit84of the ring12-U1causes the LEDs34to emit light with the high intensity, gradually changing the emission color from the deep color to the light color as the emission color of the ring12-U1of its own during a light emission duration T21from the time t22to a time t25. Thereafter, during a period from the time t25to a stop time tx, the LEDs34are caused to emit light in the light color with the certain low intensity. The light emission duration T21is set at two seconds in this embodiment, but is not particularly limited.

Likewise, when an impact is detected at the time t22, the light emission control unit84of the ring12-U2causes the LEDs34to instantaneously change into a high intensity to emit light in the emission color of the ring12-U1at the other end, that is, the light color. Then, the light emission control unit84of the ring12-U2causes the LEDs34to emit light with the high intensity, gradually changing the emission color from the light color to the deep color as the emission color of the ring12-U2of its own during the light emission duration T21from the time t22to the time t25. Thereafter, during a period from the time t25to the stop time tx, the LEDs34are caused to emit light in the deep color with the certain low intensity.

Like this, when an impact by a high five is detected, the LEDs34of the ring12-U1and the ring12-U2instantaneously change the emission colors with each other, and thereafter emit light, gradually returning to the colors of the rings12of their own.

Meanwhile, as shown inFIG. 11B, the vibration mechanisms35of the ring12-U1and the ring12-U2both do not vibrate from the time t21to the time t22of impact detection, being in the state of the state S3. When an impact is detected, a transition to the state of the state S4is made, and the vibration control units85of the ring12-U1and the ring12-U2both cause the vibration mechanisms35to vibrate more than one time from the time t22.

Specifically, when an impact is detected at the time t22, the vibration control unit85of the ring12-U1causes the vibration mechanism35to continue to vibrate for a vibration duration T22from the time t22to a time t23. Then, the vibration control unit85of the ring12-U1causes the vibration mechanism35to continue to vibrate for the vibration duration T22from the time t23to a time t24. Thus, with the vibration duration T22as a pulse width, the vibration mechanism35vibrates two or more times continuously from the vibration detection time. The vibration duration T22is set at 0.2 second in this embodiment, but is not particularly limited. The number of vibrations is set at two in this embodiment, but is not particularly limited.

Likewise, when an impact is detected at the time t22, the vibration control unit85of the ring12-U2causes the vibration mechanism35to continue to vibrate for the vibration duration T22from the time t22to the time t23. Then, the vibration control unit85of the ring12-U2causes the vibration mechanism35to continue to vibrate for the vibration duration T22from the time t23to the time t24. Thus, with the vibration duration T22as a pulse width, the vibration mechanism35vibrates two or more times continuously from the vibration detection time.

In this manner, when an impact by a high five is detected, the vibration control units85of the ring12-U1and the ring12-U2both cause the vibration mechanisms35to vibrate more than one time continuously.

Further, when an impact is detected in the state S4, the communication control unit81of the ring12-U1reads information on the SNS account of the user of the ring12-U1stored in the storage unit86for transmission to the ring12-U2by proximity communication by the wireless module32. Then, since information on the SNS account of the user of the ring12-U2is transmitted from the ring12-U2, the communication control unit81of the ring12-U1receives the SNS account information by proximity communication by the wireless module32. The information on the SNS account of the user of the ring12-U2received in this manner is stored in the storage unit86.

Likewise, when an impact is detected in the state S4, the communication control unit81of the ring12-U2reads information on the SNS account of the user of the ring12-U2stored in the storage unit86for transmission to the ring12-U1by proximity communication by the wireless module32. Then, since information on the SNS account of the user of the ring12-U1is transmitted from the ring12-U1, the communication control unit81of the ring12-U2receives the SNS account information by proximity communication by the wireless module32. The information on the SNS account of the user of the ring12-U1received in this manner is stored in the storage unit86.

Thus, when an impact is detected in the state S4, the ring12-U1and the ring12-U2exchange information on the SNS accounts of the users with each other by proximity communication, and store the information.

SNS account information stored in the storage unit86of the ring12-U1can be stored in another information processing device not shown. Consequently, for example, by accessing the SNS using the SNS account information, the user of the ring12-U1can know information such as the name and the e-mail address of the user of the other ring12-U2.

Like this, by a simple method of high-fining the user of the other ring12-U2, the user of the ring12-U1can easily exchange each other's information. Further, at the time of a high five, the emission colors of the LEDs34of the ring12-U1and the ring12-U2are instantaneously interchanged so that the users can intuitively understand the exchange of each other's information.

Moreover, after the emission colors of the LEDs34of the ring12-U1and the ring12-U2are interchanged, the LEDs34emit light, gradually returning to the colors of the rings12of their own, so that the users can check the degree of progress of the processing from the exchange of the information to the storage in the rings12of their own. With this, the users can obtain a sense of relief that the information has certainly been exchanged.

Further, the gradual changes of the emission colors of the LEDs34allow the users to enjoy the afterglow of information exchange. Moreover, by seeing the process of the color mixing with the color of the other ring12, the user can get a sense of unity with the other user.

Although the light emission duration T21is set at two seconds in the above-described example, when information is exchanged with a large number of other rings12for a short period of time, the light emission duration T21may be further shortened.

In the above-described example, as a requirement for the exchange of information with each other between the rings12of the users, a requirement that the sensor values of the three-axis acceleration sensors33are made greater than or equal to a threshold value by an impact caused by an instantaneous collision between the rings12such as high-fining the rings12by the users is adopted, but this is not particularly limiting. For example, a requirement that the rings12repeat continuous shaking when the users shake hands with each other, thereby causing the sensor value of the three-axis acceleration sensors33to continuously become greater than or equal to the threshold value may alternatively be adopted.

When the sensor value of the three-axis acceleration sensor33becomes greater than or equal to the threshold value by an impact caused by a high five or the like, as a pattern of light emission and vibration of the ring12, a pattern corresponding to the action of a high five is adopted. Specifically, a pattern in which, in synchronization with the action of a high five, the emission color of the LEDs34of the ring12instantaneously changes to the emission color of the other ring12, and then gradually returns to the original emission color is adopted. Also, a pattern in which, in synchronization with the action of a high five, the vibration mechanism35of the ring12repeats short-time vibration a small number of times is adopted.

On the other hand, when the sensor value of the three-axis acceleration sensor33becomes greater than or equal to the threshold value by continuous shaking caused by shaking hands or the like, as a pattern of light emission and vibration of the ring12, a pattern corresponding to the action of shaking hands is adopted. For example, a pattern in which, in accordance with the action of shaking hands, the emission color of the LEDs34of the ring12gradually changes into the emission color of the other ring12, and then gradually returns to the original emission color over a certain period of time may alternatively be adopted. Also, a pattern in which, in accordance with the action of shaking hands, the vibration mechanism35of the ring12continues long-time vibration may alternatively be adopted.

Specifically, when the three-axis acceleration sensor33detects acceleration greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold, the control signal generation unit83estimates, from the change pattern, which one of the action of a high five and the action of shaking hands is the action taken by the user to communicate with another person, and generates a control signal in accordance with the estimated action.

Further, depending on the speed of shaking accompanying the action of shaking hands, the pattern of light emission and vibration of the ring12may be changed. For example, for a handshake accompanied by high-speed shaking, the time over which the emission color of the LEDs34of the ring12changes to the emission color of the other ring12is made a short time, and vibration of the vibration mechanism35is made to continue for a short time. On the other hand, for a handshake accompanied by low-speed shaking, the time during which the emission color of the LEDs34of the ring12changes to the emission color of the other ring12is made a long time, and vibration of the vibration mechanism35is made to continue for a long time.

Like this, the pattern of light emission and vibration of the ring12is a pattern corresponding to an action detected by the three-axis acceleration sensor33, so that users can more intuitively exchange information between the users.

In the state S4, when impact detection as sensor information has not been obtained for a predetermined period of time or more, the sensor information acquisition unit82determines that a state transition condition C22of a timeout has been satisfied, and causes a transition of the state of the ring12to the state S3.

In the state S3, when the wireless module32has not received impact detection from another ring12within the predetermined distance for a predetermined period of time or more, the communication control unit81determines that a state transition condition C12of a timeout has been satisfied, and causes a transition of the state of the ring12to the idling state S1. When a transition to the idling state S1is made, the ring12stops light emission and vibration.

When the wireless module32receives the signal B1from the server11in the idling state S1, the communication control unit81determines that a state transition condition C31of reception of the signal B1has been satisfied, and causes a transition of the state of the ring12to the state S5. When the wireless module32receives the signal B2from the server11in the idling state S1, the communication control unit81determines that a state transition condition C41of reception of the signal B2has been satisfied, and causes a transition of the state of the ring12to the state S6. When the wireless module32receives the signal B3from the server11in the idling state S1, the communication control unit81determines that a state transition condition C51of reception of the signal B3has been satisfied, and causes a transition of the state of the ring12to the state S7.

The signals B1, B2, and B3like these are individually transmitted from the server11and received by all the rings12. The signals B1, B2, and B3are, for example, signals for generating light emission and vibration patterns that are synchronized with the rhythm of a given music (for example, a fight song played in a stadium), the rate of heartbeats of a particular person (for example, a coach of a team they support), or others in the rings12individually. Alternatively, for example, the signals B1, B2, and B3are signals for generating patterns of light emission and vibration specific to given groups (supporters of supporting teams) in the rings12, separately. Patterns of light emission and vibration according to control signals generated based on the signals B1, B2, and B3are not limited to the patterns described above. There are a large number (virtually an infinite number) of patterns. Thus, any number of given patterns are prepared in advance, and the server11selectively switches the patterns for transmission to the rings12. In this embodiment, three patterns will be described.

[Details of Pattern B1“Peak”]

First, the state S5will be described. A transition to the state S5is made, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light in a pattern according to a control signal generated based on the signal B1, and the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to vibrate. Thus, the pattern of light emission and vibration according to the control signal generated base on the signal B1is a pattern with high-intensity light emission and strong vibration, and thus hereinafter referred to as “pattern B1‘peak’.”

In the state S5, as shown by a waveform on the upper axis in the box, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light with a certain high intensity, and as shown by a waveform on the lower axis in the box, the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to vibrate in a certain rhythm. Details of “pattern B1‘peak’” in the state S5will be described with reference toFIG. 12.

FIG. 12is a diagram showing details of “pattern B1‘peak’” in the state S5.

A waveform on an upper axis inFIG. 12schematically shows the state of light emission of the LEDs34as indicated as “Lighting.” A waveform on a lower axis inFIG. 12schematically shows the state of vibration of the vibration mechanism35as indicated by “vibration.”

When a transition to the state S5is made, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light with the certain high intensity for a certain period from a start time t31to a stop time tx. The period from the start time t31to the stop time tx corresponds to the length of a music or the like, for example.

Meanwhile, a transition to the state S5is made, the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to vibrate in a pulse-like rhythm with a certain period.

Specifically, the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to continue to vibrate for a vibration duration T31from a time t32to a time t33. Then, the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to continue to vibrate for the vibration duration T31from the time t33to a time t34. Next, at a time t35at which a vibration interval T32has elapsed since the time t32, the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to continue to vibrate for the vibration duration T31from the time t35to a time t36. Then, the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to continue to vibrate for the vibration duration T31from the time t36to a time t37. Next, at a time t38at which the vibration interval T32has elapsed since the time t35, the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to continue to vibrate for the vibration duration T31from the time t38to a time t39. Then, the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to continue to vibrate for the vibration duration T31from time t39to a time t40.

In this manner, with the vibration interval T32as a period, the vibration mechanism35vibrates in a pulse-like rhythm with the vibration duration T31as a pulse width. The vibration duration T31is set at 0.4 second in this embodiment, but is not particularly limited. The vibration interval T32is set at one second in this embodiment, but is not particularly limited. The vibration control unit85, which causes the vibration mechanism35to vibrate in a pulse-like rhythm with a certain period, may alternatively cause the vibration mechanism35to vibrate continuously.

In the state S5, when a stop signal is received, the communication control unit81determines that a state transition condition C32of reception of a stop signal has been satisfied, and causes a transition of the state of the ring12to the idling state S1. As a stop signal, a signal of a forced stop of an operation transmitted from the server11, or an error signal for the case where the signal B1has a defect, or the like is used in this embodiment. When a transition to the idling state S1is made, the ring12stops light emission and vibration.

[Details of Pattern B2“Wave”]

Next, the state S6will be described. A transition to the state S6is made, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs to emit light in a pattern according to a control signal generated based on the signal B2, and the vibration control unit85does not cause the vibration mechanism35to vibrate. Like this, the light emission and vibration pattern in accordance with a control signal generated based on the signal B2is a pattern simulating a wave with light emission in a pulse-like rhythm with a certain period and without vibration, and thus is hereinafter referred to as “pattern B2‘wave’.”

In the state S6, as shown by a waveform on the upper axis in the box, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light with a strong intensity in a pulse-like rhythm with a certain period, and as shown by the lower axis in the box, the vibration control unit85does not cause the vibration mechanism35to vibrate. Details of “pattern B2‘wave’” in the state S6will be described with reference toFIG. 13.

FIG. 13is a diagram showing details of “pattern B2‘wave’” in the state S6.

A waveform on an upper axis inFIG. 13schematically shows the state of light emission of the LEDs34, as indicated as “Lighting.” A waveform on a lower axis inFIG. 13schematically shows the state of vibration of the vibration mechanism35, as indicated by “vibration.”

When a transition to the state S6is made, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light in a pulse-like rhythm with a certain period from a start time t51to a stop time tx. A period from the start time t51to the stop time tx corresponds to the length of a music or the like, for example. Hereinafter, the period of time from the start of light emission to the start of the next light emission is referred to as a light emission interval. The period of time in which the intensity of the LEDs34increases from a low intensity to a high intensity is referred to as an emission rise time. The period of time in which the intensity of the LEDs34decreases from a high intensity to a low intensity is referred to as an emission fall time.

Specifically, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light with a certain low intensity from the start time t51to a time t52. Then, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light, gradually increasing the intensity to a certain high intensity for the duration of an emission rise time T51from the time t52to a time t53. Then, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light with the certain high intensity from the time t53to a time t54. Then, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light, gradually decreasing the intensity to the certain low intensity for the duration of an emission fall time T52from the time t54to a time t55. Thus, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light, changing the intensity in a certain pattern during a light emission duration T53from the time t52to the time t55. Then, from the time t55to a time t56, the LEDs34are caused to emit light with the certain low intensity. Next, at the time t56at which a light emission interval T54has elapsed since the time t52, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light for the light emission duration T53from the time t56to a time t57, changing the intensity in the same pattern as that from the time t52to the time t55.

On the other hand, when a transition to the state S6is made, the vibration control unit85does not cause the vibration mechanism35to vibrate.

In this manner, with the light emission interval T54as a period, the LEDs34emit light in a pulse-like rhythm with the light emission duration T53as a pulse width. The emission rise time T51and the emission fall time T52are set at 0.5 second in this embodiment, but are not particularly limited. The light emission duration T53is set at 1.5 seconds in this embodiment, but is not particularly limited. The light emission interval T54is set at ten seconds in this embodiment, but is not particularly limited. The vibration control unit85, which does not cause the vibration mechanism35to vibrate, may alternatively cause the vibration mechanism35to vibrate in a pattern associated with the light emission pattern of the LEDs34. Specifically, vibration of the vibration mechanism35may be gradually strengthened in association with an increase in the intensity of the LEDs34for the duration of the emission rise time T51of the LEDs34. Also, vibration of the vibration mechanism35may be gradually weakened in association with a decrease in the intensity of the LEDs34for the duration of the emission fall time T52of the LEDs34.

In the state S6, when a stop signal is received, the communication control unit81determines that a state transition condition C42of reception of a stop signal has been satisfied, and causes a transition of the state of the ring12to the idling state S1. As a stop signal, a signal of a forced stop of an operation transmitted from the server11, or an error signal for the case where the signal B2has a defect, or the like is used in this embodiment. When a transition to the idling state S1is made, the ring12stops light emission and vibration.

[Details of Pattern B3“Rhythm”]

Next, the state S7will be described. When a transition to the state S7is made, in a pattern according to a control signal generated based on the signal B3, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light, and the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to vibrate. Thus, the light emission and vibration pattern in accordance with a control signal generated based on the signal B3is a pattern with light emission in a pulse-like rhythm with a certain period and vibration in the same rhythm as that of light emission, and thus is hereinafter referred to as “pattern B3‘rhythm’.”

In the state S7, as shown by a waveform on the upper axis in the box, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light with a high intensity in a pulse-like rhythm with a certain period, and as shown by the lower axis in the box, the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to vibrate in the same rhythm as the rhythm in which the LEDs34emit light. Details of “pattern B3‘rhythm’” in the state S7will be described with reference toFIG. 14.

FIG. 14is a diagram showing details of “pattern B3‘rhythm’” in the state S7.

A waveform on an upper axis inFIG. 14schematically shows the state of light emission of LEDs34, as indicated as “Lighting.” A waveform on a lower axis inFIG. 14schematically shows the state of vibration of the vibration mechanism35, as indicated by “vibration.”

When a transition to the state S7is made, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light in a pulse-like rhythm with a certain period from a start time t71to a stop time tx. The period from the start time t71to the stop time tx corresponds to the length of a music or the like, for example.

Specifically, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light with a certain low intensity from the start time t71to a time t72. Then, for a light emission duration T71from the time t72to a time t73, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light with the intensity of a certain high intensity. Then, from the time t73to a time t74, the LEDs34are caused to emit light with the certain low intensity. Next, at the time t74at which a light emission interval T72has elapsed since the time t72, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light with the intensity of the certain high intensity for the light emission duration T71from the time t74to a time t75. Then, from the time t75to a time t76, the LEDs34are caused to emit light with the certain low intensity. Next, at a time t76at which the light emission interval T72has elapsed since the time t74, the light emission control unit84causes the LEDs34to emit light with the intensity of the certain high intensity for the light emission duration T71from the time t76to a time t77. Thus, with the light emission interval T72as a period, the LEDs34emit light in a pulse-like rhythm with the light emission duration T71as a pulse width. The light emission duration T71is set at 0.2 second in this embodiment, but is not particularly limited. The vibration interval T72is set at 0.5 second in this embodiment, but is not particularly limited.

Meanwhile, when a transition to the state S7is made, the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to vibrate in a pulse-like rhythm with a certain period identical to that of the light emission of the LEDs34from the start time t71to the stop time tx.

Specifically, the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to continue to vibrate for a vibration duration T71from the time t72to the time t73. Next, at the time t74at which a vibration interval T72has elapsed since the time t72, the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to continue to vibrate for the vibration duration T71from the time t74to the time t75. Next, at the time t76at which the vibration interval T72has elapsed since the time t74, the vibration control unit85causes the vibration mechanism35to continue to vibrate for the vibration duration T71from the time t76to the time t77. Thus, with the vibration interval T72as a period, the vibration mechanism35vibrates in a pulse-like rhythm with the vibration duration T71as a pulse width identical to that of the light emission of the LEDs34. The vibration duration T71is set at 0.2 second in this embodiment, but is not particularly limited. The vibration interval T72is set at 0.5 second in this embodiment, but is not particularly limited.

In the state S7, when a stop signal is received, the communication control unit81determines that a state transition condition C52of the reception of a stop signal has been satisfied, and causes a transition of the state of the ring12to the idling state S1. As a stop signal, a signal of a forced stop of an operation transmitted from the server11, or an error signal for the case where the signal B3has a defect, or the like is used in this embodiment. When a transition to the idling state S1is made, the ring12stops light emission and vibration.

As the generation source of the signals B1, B2, and B3, the server11is used in the above-described example, but this is not particularly limiting. For example, the generation source of the signals B1, B2, and B3may be sensor information of the three-axis acceleration sensor33of the ring12. That is, a signal generated based on the sensor information may be used as at least one of the signals B1, B2, and B3.

For example, the generation source of the signals B1, B2, and B3may be sensor information of a sensor obtaining an action, a heartbeat, a blood pressure, a body temperature, or the like of a user of the ring12(that is, biological information). That is, a signal generated based on the sensor information may be used as at least one of the signals B1, B2, and B3. In this case, for example, in response to a biological change in the user of the ring12who is taking exercise, the state of the ring12changes to the state S5, S6, or S7. Consequently, the user can intuitively perceive his or her physical condition, and can easily control his or her physical condition.

Alternatively, for example, the generation source of the signals B1, B2, and B3may be sensor information of a sensor obtaining a temperature, a humidity, a sound, an image, or the like around the ring12(that is, environmental information). That is, a signal generated based on the sensor information may be used as at least one of the signals B1, B2, and B3. In this case, for example, in response to the environment of the ring12, the state of the ring12changes to the state S5, S6, or S7. Consequently, the user can be intuitively aware of his or her environment, and can easily take various actions in response to the environment.

As a matter of course, two or more sensors may be combined, and a signal generated based on sensor information of each of the sensors may be used as at least one of the signals B1, B2, and B3.

When a signal generated based on sensor information of the ring12is used as the signals B1, B2, or B3, in the case where sensor information of various kinds of sensors cannot be obtained properly, or the like, a stop signal may be an error signal generated by the sensor information acquisition unit82, for example.

Alternatively, as the signal B1, B2, or B3, a signal transmitted from another ring12within a predetermined distance may be used, for example.

For example, a signal generated based on sensor information obtained by the three-axis acceleration sensor33of another ring12in the predetermined distance and transmitted from the other ring12may be used as at least one of the signals B1, B2, and B3. In this case, for example, only when action information on the ring12becomes identical to that on the other ring12, the state of the ring12changes to the state S5, S6, or S7. Alternatively, as action information on the ring12becomes similar to that on the other ring12, the light emission and vibration of the ring12in the state S5, S6, or S7become stronger. That is, the ring12emits light and vibrates only when the user acts the same as another user, or the light emission and vibration become stronger when the user's action is in agreement with that of another user. Consequently, for example, the user tries to take the same action as another user during a cheering dance or side by side running, and thus can get a sense of unity between the users.

[Applicability of the Present Technique]

As an information processing device to which the present technique is applied, the ring12has been described above, but an information processing device to which the present technique is applied is not particularly limited to the ring12, and can take various embodiments to have the following configuration and to be able to execute the following processing, for example. In other words, an example of an information processing device that has the following configuration and can execute the following processing is the above-described ring12.

Specifically, an information processing device to which the present technique is applied is configured to include a light-emitting unit, a sensor unit, a control signal generation unit, and an emission control unit. The light-emitting unit emits light in accordance with a light emission pattern specified by a combination of at least one kind of two or more kinds of light emission parameter such as the intensity, the emission color, the light emission interval, and the light emission duration. In the above-described ring12, the LEDs34correspond to the light emission unit. The sensor unit detects a change in predetermined physical quantity. In the above-described ring12, the three-axis acceleration sensor33corresponds to the sensor unit. The physical quantity detected by the sensor unit is not particularly limited to three-axis acceleration, and may be any kind of physical quantity that can be detected, and the number of kinds detected may be any. The control signal generation unit generates a control signal based on a detection result of the sensor unit. In the above-described ring12, the control signal generation unit83in the CPU31corresponds to the control signal generation unit. The light emission control unit selects one from among two or more preset light emission patterns, based on a control signal generated by the control signal generation unit, and performs control to cause the light-emitting unit to emit light in accordance with the selected light emission pattern. In the above-described ring12, the light emission control unit84in the CPU31corresponds to the light emission control unit.

Next, of the processes executed by the information processing device with this configuration, a process of controlling the pattern of light emission of the light-emitting unit (hereinafter, referred to as a light emission pattern control process) will be described.

FIG. 15is a flowchart illustrating the flow of the light emission pattern control process executed by the information processing device to which the present technique is applied.

In step S1, the sensor unit detects a change in the predetermined physical quantity.

In step S2, the control signal generation unit generates a control signal based on a detection result of the sensor unit.

In step S3, the light emission control unit selects one from among the two or more preset light emission patterns, based on a control signal generated by the control signal generation unit, and causes the light-emitting unit to emit light in accordance with the selected light emission pattern. With this, the light emission pattern control process is completed.

As an information processing device to which the present technique is applied, a mobile terminal capable of executing the processes described in this embodiment can be used. In this case, a form in which a user takes the mobile terminal in his or her hand to communicate is preferable.

[Application of the Present Technique to Program]

The above described series of processes can be performed by hardware, and can also be performed by software. When the series of processes are to be performed by software, the programs forming the software are installed into a computer. Here, the computer may be a computer incorporated into special-purpose hardware, or may be a general-purpose personal computer that can execute various kinds of functions as various kinds of programs are installed thereinto.

The programs to be executed by the computer (CPU31inFIG. 7) can be recorded in a removable medium not shown as a package medium or the like to be provided, for example. Alternatively, the programs can be provided via a wired or wireless transmission medium such as a local area network, the Internet, or digital satellite broadcasting. As a matter of course, the programs can be provided from the server11or another ring12.

In the computer, the programs, with the removable medium placed into a drive of the server11, can be received by the wireless module32through a wireless transmission medium, and installed in the storage unit86. Alternatively, the programs can be preinstalled in the storage unit86.

The programs to be executed by the computer may be programs for performing processes in chronological order in accordance with the sequence described in this specification, or may be programs for performing processes in parallel or performing a process when necessary, such as when there is a call.

It should be noted that embodiments of the present technique are not limited to the above described embodiment, and various modifications may be made to it without departing from the scope of the present technique.

For example, the present technique can be embodied in a cloud computing structure in which one function is shared among apparatuses via a network, and processing is performed by the apparatuses cooperating with one another.

In the above-described example, the information processing device (such as the ring12) itself performs effect expression such as light emission and vibration, but the way of effect expression is not particularly limited to the above-described example. Specifically, an object to perform effect expression may be an information processing device itself wore by a user as in the above-described example, or may be the other end with which the information processing device communicates, for example, an electric appliance such as a television, a video recorder, a game machine, a light, or an electric shade, or equipment in a facility such as a house, a store, a hall, or a stadium. The kinds of effect expression may be light emission and vibration as in the above-described example, or may be others, for example, an image and sound. When an information processing device is equipped with a soft actuator, a change in the strength of constricting an arm can be used as a kind of effect expression. Further, in this case, any two or more kinds may be combined.

In the above-described state transition diagram inFIG. 6, the states S1to S7only show examples, and a different state may be further provided, or at least one of the states S1to S7may be omitted. As for the state transition conditions,FIG. 6only shows examples, and various conditions can be used.

For example, as the state transition condition C1for a transition from the state S1to the state S2, when movement caused by wearing the information processing device can be detected, a state transition condition can be set based on the detection result. Likewise, in the information processing device equipped with a temperature sensor, detection of a temperature that can be judged to be a body temperature of a person, for example, 36 degrees can be used as a state transition condition. In the information processing device capable of detecting a heartbeat or a vein, personal authentication is performed based on a detection result of a heartbeat or a vein, and success in the authentication can be used as a state transition condition. As the state transition condition C2for a transition from the state S2to the state S1, the opposites of the above-described detection results, for example, detection of stopping of movement or a decrease in temperature can be used as a state transition condition for a transition from the state S2to the state S1.

As the above-described state transition condition C11, a condition that the proximity distance is within the predetermined range is used, but the state transition condition C11is not particularly limited to the above-described example. For example, a condition that a predetermined signal is received from the server11or another information processing device can be used. Alternatively, an action such as rapid shaking can be used as a condition.

As the state transition conditions for transitions to the states S5, S6, and S7, individually, the signals B1, B2, and B3from the server11are assigned, respectively, but these are not particularly limiting. For example, when an imitative sound of tapping the information processing device once is expressed as “tap,” tapping the information processing device three times “tap-tap-tap” may cause a transition of the state of the information processing device to the state S5. Also, for example, shaking twice and then tapping “tap-tap” the information processing device may cause a transition of the state of the information processing device to the state S6. Also, for example, taping twice “tap-tap” and then, after one second, further tapping twice “tap-tap” may cause a transition of the state of the information processing device to the state S7.

As for conditions assigned as the state transition conditions for transitions to other states, in exactly the same way, the conditions inFIG. 8are illustrated by example, and these are not particularly limiting. For example, as a condition for a state transition from the state S3to the state S4, a condition that the information processing device is grasped by another hand different from the hand on which the information processing device is wore may be assigned, for example.

Further, a condition assigned as a state transition condition for a transition to one state is not limited to one kind, and may be of more than one kind. For example, as a state transition condition for a transition to the state S5, two different kinds of condition of the signal B1inFIG. 8and the above-described tapping three times of the information processing device may be assigned. In this case, when the signal B1is inputted or the information processing device is tapped three times, the state of the information processing device is changed to the state S5.

When tapping of the information processing device is assigned as a state transition condition, the number of taps and the number of times of shaking are not particularly limited. However, if a too simple operation such as one “tap” is assigned to a state transition condition, unnecessary state transitions can occur, resulting in the possibility of a malfunction of the information processing device. Therefore, it is preferable to assign a somewhat unusual operation to a state transition condition. On the other hand, for the purpose of an intuitive operation, the assignment of a too complicated operation to a state transition condition is unsuitable. Thus, contradictory requests are made to a state transition condition. The above-described operation of a combination of two or more taps satisfies the requests to some extent, and thus is suitable to be assigned to a state transition condition.

In the above-described example, as a state transition condition for a forced return to the idling state S1, a signal of a forced stop of an operation transmitted from the server11, or an error signal for the case where the signal B3has a defect or the like is used in the above-described example, but the above-described example is not particularly limiting. For example, also when a stop signal has not been received or generated for a certain period of time or more, a state transition condition is considered to have been satisfied, and a return to the idling state S1can be made.

The respective steps described with reference to the above described flowchart can be carried out by one apparatus or can be shared among apparatuses.

In a case where more than one process is included in one step, the processes included in the step can be performed by one apparatus or can be shared among apparatuses.

The present technique may also be embodied in the structures described below.

An information processing device comprising:

a light-emitting unit that emits light in accordance with a light emission pattern specified by a combination of light emission parameters that represent light emission characteristics; and

a light emission control unit that performs control to select a light emission pattern from among two or more preset light emission patterns, based on a change in physical quantity resulting from an action of a user, and cause the light-emitting unit to emit light in accordance with the selected light emission pattern.

The information processing device according to (1), further including a communication control unit that controls wireless communication with another information processing device, wherein the light emission control unit performs control to select a light emission pattern from among the two or more preset light emission patterns, based on the change in physical quantity and a signal received by the communication control unit.

The information processing device according to (1) or (2), further including: a vibration unit that vibrates in accordance with a vibration pattern specified by a combination of vibration parameters that represent vibration characteristics; and a vibration control unit that performs control to select a light emission pattern from among two or more preset vibration patterns, based on the change in physical quantity, and cause the vibration unit to vibrate in accordance with the selected vibration pattern.

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (3), further including a sensor unit that detects a change in physical quantity resulting from an action of a user, wherein the light emission control unit estimates the kind of action taken by the user to communicate with another person, based on a change in physical quantity detected by the sensor unit, and selects a light emission pattern in accordance with the estimated kind of action.

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein the sensor unit includes an acceleration sensor for detecting a change in acceleration resulting from an action of the user, and the light emission control unit estimates the kind of action taken by the user to communicate with another person, based on a change in acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor, and selects a light emission pattern in accordance with the kind of action.

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein when the acceleration sensor detects acceleration greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold value, the light emission control unit estimates that the kind of action taken by the user to communicate with another person is a first kind of action of colliding the information processing device, or a second kind of action of continuously shaking the information processing device, and selects a light emission pattern in accordance with the first kind or the second kind estimated.

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the light emission control unit, when having estimated the first kind while causing the light-emitting unit to emit light in a first emission color, selects a first light emission pattern specifying a change from the first emission color to a second emission color of the other information processing device and a return to the first emission color over a first period of time.

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the light emission control unit, when having estimated the second kind while causing the light-emitting unit to emit light in the first emission color, selects a second light emission pattern specifying a change from the first emission color to the second emission color and a return to the first emission color over a second period of time that is longer than the first period of time.

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein when the acceleration sensor detects acceleration greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold value, the communication control unit controls wireless communication used for information exchange between another information processing device within a predetermined distance and the information processing device.

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein the information processing device has a ring-shaped part to be fitted on the user's arm, and the part is provided with a connection for disconnecting or connecting a portion thereof.

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (10), wherein the connection has a magnet and a magnet-attracted metal sheet for connecting the portion of the part.

The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (11), wherein the connection connects the portion of the part by elastic deformation of the material.

The present technique can be applied to information processing devices used as communication tools.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST